“Greening out” describes an adverse reaction after consuming too much cannabis. It occurs when the body and mind react negatively to an overwhelming amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This unpleasant and often distressing state is not a desired effect. While typically not life-threatening, greening out can be intense and disorienting.
Physical Indicators
When greening out, several physical signs appear. Nausea is common, often with vomiting. Individuals may experience dizziness or lightheadedness, and skin tone can change, becoming pale or ashen.
Profuse sweating, sometimes cold sweats or hot flashes, is frequent. Heart rate can significantly increase, leading to palpitations. Some report physical immobility or muscle tremors.
Mental and Emotional Experience
Beyond physical symptoms, greening out profoundly affects mental and emotional states. Intense anxiety is common, escalating into panic attacks. Disorientation and confusion are frequently reported, making it difficult to think clearly.
Individuals may feel a loss of control. Altered sensory perceptions or a sense of detachment from reality can occur. Extreme paranoia is another significant psychological symptom.
Providing Immediate Care
If someone is greening out, immediate steps can help alleviate discomfort and ensure safety. Guide the person to a safe, quiet, comfortable space away from excessive stimuli like loud noises or bright lights. Offer sips of water or an electrolyte drink to combat dehydration, especially if nausea or vomiting is present. Encourage deep, slow breathing exercises to regulate heart rate and reduce panic.
Reassurance is important; let the person know the experience is temporary and will pass to calm anxiety. A light snack, particularly one high in carbohydrates, may help stabilize blood sugar. Stay with the person, offering calm support until acute effects subside.
Prevention and Knowing When to Get Help
Preventing greening out involves careful cannabis consumption. Start with a low dose, especially with new products or unknown tolerance. Consume cannabis slowly, particularly edibles, to gauge effects before taking more. Being in a comfortable environment can reduce negative experiences. Avoid combining cannabis with alcohol or other substances, as this intensifies effects and increases risk.
While greening out is generally not life-threatening, know when medical attention is necessary. Seek emergency medical help if symptoms are severe, worsening, or include chest pain, severe difficulty breathing, or prolonged, extreme paranoia or hallucinations. Loss of consciousness or unresponsiveness warrants immediate medical evaluation. Contact Poison Control or emergency services for any concerning or persistent symptoms.