“Greening out” describes a state of acute cannabis intoxication resulting in physical sickness and psychological distress. This experience is a reaction to the overconsumption of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It is characterized by a sudden, intense onset of adverse effects that overwhelm the user. Although highly distressing and sometimes prompting individuals to seek medical attention, the experience is temporary and not life-threatening.
Defining the Experience
The symptoms of greening out combine physical effects and intense psychological reactions. Physically, individuals often report significant gastrointestinal distress, most commonly severe nausea that can lead to vomiting. Other involuntary physical signs include excessive sweating, dizziness, paleness of the skin, and a rapid heart rate, known as tachycardia.
These physical symptoms are compounded by severe psychological distress. The mental experience involves intense anxiety and paranoia, where feelings of unease or fear become disproportionate to the environment. Some people may experience disorientation, a feeling of being detached from reality, or a full-blown panic attack. The severity of these symptoms relates directly to the amount of THC consumed and the individual’s tolerance level.
Underlying Causes and Mechanisms
The mechanism behind greening out is the overwhelming activation of the body’s endocannabinoid system by excessive THC. THC acts as a partial agonist, binding strongly to the Cannabinoid Receptor Type 1 (CB1) receptors, which are highly concentrated in the brain and central nervous system. When too much THC floods the system, it overstimulates these receptors, disrupting normal regulatory functions related to mood, memory, and motor control.
The method of consumption plays a significant role in the risk and intensity of this reaction. Ingesting edibles presents a much higher risk because the liver metabolizes THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent and longer-lasting compound. This process delays the onset of effects, often by one to two hours, which can lead users to mistakenly consume a second dose before the first has peaked. Conversely, inhaled cannabis has a faster onset, typically within minutes, allowing the user to gauge effects and stop consumption sooner.
Other physiological and environmental factors also contribute to the risk. Consuming cannabis on an empty stomach can increase the speed and intensity of THC absorption. Having a low individual tolerance or combining cannabis with other substances, particularly alcohol, can amplify the effects. The concentration of THC in modern cannabis products is also much higher, making it easier to consume an overwhelming dose.
Immediate Management Strategies
If a greening out episode occurs, the primary management strategy is supportive care focused on reducing anxiety and promoting comfort until the effects subside. A change of environment is crucial, such as moving to a quiet, safe, and familiar location where external stimulation is minimized. Dimming lights or reducing loud noise can help calm the overstimulated nervous system.
Focusing on simple physical actions can help ground the person experiencing anxiety or panic. Deep, slow breathing exercises help regulate the heart rate and distract from intense psychological symptoms. Reassurance is also important, as reminding the person that the feeling is temporary mitigates fear and paranoia.
Physical symptoms like dizziness and nausea can be addressed with gentle interventions. Sipping water helps with hydration and dry mouth, while consuming a small, light snack or a sugary drink, such as fruit juice, may help stabilize blood sugar levels. However, if vomiting is occurring, forcing food or water should be avoided to prevent further distress.
Preventing Future Episodes
Preventing future episodes of greening out relies on mindful consumption practices and an understanding of product potency. The most widely accepted rule is to “start low and go slow,” particularly when using new products or edibles. For edibles, this means consuming a small initial dose (2.5 to 5 milligrams of THC) and waiting a minimum of two hours before considering any additional amount.
Several preventative measures can reduce the risk of greening out:
- Check the THC percentage of any product, as modern strains and concentrates often contain significantly higher concentrations.
- Know your own tolerance level.
- Avoid consuming cannabis on an empty stomach.
- Avoid the simultaneous use of alcohol or other psychoactive substances, as these combinations can unpredictably magnify intoxication effects.