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Greening Out: The Growing Risks Of Cannabis Use

September 27, 2024
"Greening out" is a new saying referencing a state of feeling sick or experiencing unpleasant effects after consuming too much cannabis, specifically when the THC content is high. As cannabis plants have become stronger, this phenomenon has become more prevalent. Greening out usually features symptoms like nausea, vomiting, dizziness, anxiety, sweating, and even panic attacks.
We’ll investigate what greening out can feel like, how to circumvent it, and the hazards of marijuana use. Understanding the possible threats and knowing how to take cannabis sensibly is vital.

What Are The Potential Risks Of Cannabis Use?

Even though marijuana can offer benefits under medical guidance, its potential to manifest into a substance use disorder is significant. Some dangers connected to cannabis include:
  • Impacted cognitive function and memory: Regular marijuana use can make it challenging to retain information, learn, and concentrate.
  • Heightened risk of psychiatric illness: Cannabis use, specifically in high doses, has been connected to anxiety, depression, and even psychosis in vulnerable individuals.
  • Dependency and addiction: Although considered not as habit-forming as other substances, cannabis may still result in dependency, where a person feels unable to function without it.
  • Respiratory difficulties: Cannabis use through smoking might cause lung irritation and other respiratory problems, similar to the impact of smoking tobacco.
Being aware of these risks is crucial, especially for individuals predisposed to substance use or mental health conditions.

What Is Greening Out?

Greening out, also known as "whiteying," refers to the physical effects of taking too much cannabis in a limited time. Whiteying is how the cannabis-using subculture looks at, and occasionally mocks, the visible greening consequences. Users might feel uncomfortable, extremely sleepy, and unable to enjoy the high they sought.
In lower doses, cannabis is able to induce relaxation and heighten senses. Medium doses might lead to new mindsets and the infamous "munchies." However, sizeable quantities increase the risk of greening out, prompting a variety of distressing symptoms.

What Are The Symptoms Of Greening Out?

Greening out generally presents with a combination of these symptoms:
  • Stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting: Too much THC may cause stomach trouble. While this often passes, in some situations, it might lead to vomiting, specifically if the user has consumed a large amount of cannabis.
  • Distinct paleness, sweating, and shaking: Muscle shakes and quivers, specifically in the legs, are normal after taking excessive THC. Sweating and a loss of color in the face are also typical symptoms.

When Is Greening Out Most Likely To Take Place?

Greening out can arise with any cannabis user, regardless of experience. However, eager beginners are more likely to experience it. Here is when greening out is likely:
  • Novice users: People new to cannabis are still learning how it affects their bodies. This may cause excess consumption, specifically when individuals want to experience the full force of the drug.
  • Empty stomach: Smoking without eating earlier can elevate the risk as there is no food to help absorb the substance.
  • More powerful products: Veteran smokers searching for new highs may experiment with dabs or high-potency edibles, which can cause greening out.
  • Edibles: Edibles are notorious for causing greening out. Dissimilar to smoking, which generates a quick high, edibles take longer to kick in but last much longer—frequently up to 8 hours. The potent, enduring effects may cause the experience to be overpowering.

What To Do If A Person Is Greening Out

Despite the fact it’s fleeting, greening out isn’t pleasant. If you've endured it, you might have asked yourself, "Could I possibly die from this?" The good news is that, while it may feel terrible, it’s not life-threatening. However, there are steps to help yourself or a friend feel better:
  • Stop using: If you or another person is greening out, quit takingcannabis right away.
  • Get some air: Stepping outdoors for a bit of air might decrease feelings of dizziness and nausea.
  • Breathe and relax: Breathe deeply and make an effort to stay calm. Panicking will only worsen the situation.
  • Get comfortable: Find a comfortable place to recline and let the effects pass. Resting can help your body overcome the sensation.
  • Remain calm: Don’t forget that the uncomfortable sensations will end. Don’t let panic set in and speak with a friend for help.

Get Help For Cannabis Use Near Philadelphia

Are you frequently greening out? Do you feel like you are unable to quit taking cannabis despite the unpleasant ramifications? If you would like to halt this downward spiral, Sunrise Detox Cherry Hill is ready to help. Call 856-333-3783 day or night, and we’ll find the care you require, no matter if that’s outpatient treatment, inpatient rehab, or detox.