“Greening out” describes an acute adverse reaction to overconsuming cannabis, leading to a range of unpleasant physical and psychological symptoms. This experience can be disorienting and uncomfortable, but it is typically not life-threatening. Understanding how to manage these effects and prevent future occurrences is crucial for individuals to navigate cannabis use more safely.
Recognizing the Signs
When someone “greens out,” they may exhibit various physical and psychological symptoms due to excessive THC. Common physical indicators include a rapid heart rate, dizziness, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. Other physical signs may include sweating, pale skin, or impaired coordination.
Psychologically, the experience can manifest as intense anxiety, paranoia, or even panic attacks. Individuals might feel overwhelmed, confused, or disconnected from reality. In more severe cases, there can be an altered perception of time and space, agitation, or even hallucinations and delusions. These symptoms vary in intensity from person to person and depend on factors like the amount of THC consumed and individual sensitivity.
Immediate Actions to Take
If you or someone you know is “greening out,” the first step is to move to a quiet, safe, and comfortable environment. Reducing external stimuli can help alleviate feelings of anxiety and panic. A calm setting allows the individual to focus on managing their internal experience.
Staying hydrated is beneficial; drinking water, juice, or other non-alcoholic beverages can help with physical symptoms like dry mouth and dehydration. Consuming a light snack can help stabilize blood sugar levels and may mitigate some physical discomfort.
Engaging in deep breathing exercises can help calm the nervous system and regulate heart rate. Techniques like box breathing, where you inhale for a count of four, hold for four, exhale for four, and hold for four, can be particularly effective. Focusing on the breath can redirect attention away from distressing thoughts. Distraction can also be a useful tool; listening to calming music, watching a lighthearted show, or talking to a trusted friend can help shift focus and reduce panic.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that chewing on black peppercorns or consuming citrus fruits like lemons may help alleviate some cannabis-induced discomfort. Black pepper contains beta-caryophyllene, a terpene that interacts with the body’s CB2 cannabinoid receptors, which may contribute to reducing anxiety. Similarly, citrus fruits contain limonene, a terpene found in cannabis that has been shown to reduce THC-induced anxiety and promote mood elevation. Reassuring the individual that the feelings are temporary and will pass is important to reduce panic.
When to Seek Professional Help
While “greening out” is typically not life-threatening, medical attention is necessary in specific situations. Seek professional help if symptoms include prolonged or extreme vomiting, especially if it points to Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, a condition characterized by severe, cyclical nausea and vomiting in long-term cannabis users. Severe chest pain or significant difficulty breathing warrant immediate medical evaluation.
Loss of consciousness, extreme disorientation, or persistent, severe panic and psychosis that do not subside with calming techniques require immediate medical attention. If there are concerns about interactions with other medications or pre-existing medical conditions, or if the product consumed is unknown, seek medical advice. For any severe or concerning symptoms, calling emergency services or the Poison Control Center can provide rapid assistance and guidance.
Preventing Future Occurrences
To prevent future “greening out” episodes, adopt responsible consumption practices. “Start low and go slow,” especially when trying new cannabis products or edibles. Edibles have a delayed onset of effects, often taking 30 minutes to two hours to be felt, which can lead to overconsumption if one takes more before feeling the initial effects.
Understanding the product is important, including its THC potency and whether it is an edible, concentrate, or flower. High-potency products can lead to more intense effects even with small doses. Mixing cannabis with other substances like alcohol, nicotine, or other drugs should be avoided, as this can intensify effects and increase the likelihood of adverse reactions.
Considering the “set and setting” for cannabis use can play a role in prevention. Consuming in a comfortable, familiar environment with trusted individuals can create a more positive experience and reduce anxiety. Staying hydrated and consuming cannabis on a full stomach can help mitigate some of the physical discomforts and potential for “greening out.”