Greening Out: The Growing Hazards Of Cannabis Use
September 27, 2024
"Greening out" is a street phrase referencing a state of feeling sick or experiencing adverse effects after consuming too much cannabis, specifically when the THC content is high. As cannabis strains have grown stronger, this phenomenon has become increasingly prevalent. Greening out typically involves symptoms like nausea, vomiting, dizziness, anxiety, sweating, and occasionally even panic attacks.
Below, we’ll explore what greening out can feel like, how to prevent it, and the perils of marijuana use. Being knowledgeable of the potential risks and knowing how to use cannabis sensibly is crucial.
What Are The Potential Hazards Of Marijuana Use?
While cannabis use can provide health benefits under medical direction, its potential to prompt a substance use disorder is considerable. Some risks linked to marijuana include:
- Impeded cognitive capabilities and memory: Regular cannabis use can make it difficult to learn, retain information, and concentrate.
- Increased danger of psychiatric illness: Cannabis use, particularly in higher doses, has been connected to anxiety, depression, and bouts of psychosis in vulnerable people.
- Dependency and addiction: Although deemed not as addictive as other substances, cannabis might still cause addiction, where someone feels unable to live without consuming it.
- Respiratory difficulties: Smoking marijuana may cause irritation of the lungs and other respiratory ailments, comparable to the impact of smoking tobacco.
Being aware of these risks is critical, particularly for people more vulnerable to addiction or mental illness.
What Does Greening Out Mean?
Greening out, also known as "whiteying," alludes to the physical side effects of consuming too much THC in a short time. Whiteying is the way the stoner subculture looks at, and sometimes mocks, the discernable greening consequences. Users could feel uncomfortable, very drowsy, and unable to enjoy the high they sought.
In small doses, cannabis may induce relaxation and heighten senses. Medium doses could bring new viewpoints and the notorious "munchies." On the other hand, larger amounts increase the threat of greening out, prompting various distressing symptoms.
How Does Greening Out Appear?
Greening out usually presents with an assortment of these symptoms:
- Upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting: Too much THC may upset the stomach. While this sensation often subsides, in some situations, it might prompt vomiting, particularly if someone has consumed a substantial quantity of cannabis.
- Distinct paleness, shaking, and sweating: Muscle shakes and quivers, especially in the legs, are common after ingesting a great deal of THC. Sweating and a loss of color in the face are also common symptoms.
When Will Greening Out Most Likely Happen?
Greening out can manifest with any marijuana user, no matter their experience. Even so, new users are much more at risk. Here is when greening out is most common:
- New users: Individuals new to cannabis are still learning how it influences their bodies. This can cause excess consumption, particularly when people are eager to get the full force of the drug.
- Empty stomach: Ingesting without eating beforehand can raise the likelihood as there is no food to help absorb the drug.
- Potent products: Long-time smokers searching for stronger highs might turn to dabs or high-powered edibles, which might result in greening out.
- Edibles: Edibles are noted for causing greening out. Different from smoking, which delivers a quick high, edibles start slower but last a good deal longer—frequently as long as 8 hours. The potent, long-lasting effects may make the experience overwhelming.
What Actions To Take If A Person Is Greening Out
Despite the fact it’s temporary, greening out is unpleasant. If you've endured it, you might have asked yourself, "Could I potentially die from this?" The good news is that, while it feels horrendous, it’s not life-threatening. Even so, there are a few things you might do to help yourself or a friend feel better:
- Quit using: If you or someone else is greening out, stop usingcannabis right away.
- Get outside: Going outside for fresh air can reduce feelings of dizziness and nausea.
- Relax and breathe: Take deep breaths and make an effort to relax. Going into a panic will only make things worse.
- Lie down: Find a comfy area to recline and permit the effects to go away. Resting can help your body recover.
- Keep calm: Know that the unpleasant feelings will end. Avoid letting panic take over and speak with a friend for help.
Request Support For Cannabis Use Near Millbury
Are you frequently greening out? Do you feel like you aren’t able to stop taking cannabis despite the negative effects? If you want to stop this downward spiral, The Counseling Center At Millbury is standing by to help. Dial 508-433-3866 night or day, and we’ll provide the care you require, whether that’s inpatient rehab, outpatient treatment, or detox.