Maybe you’ve heard about someone who feels sick from taking too much weed and “greening out.” You may even be wondering if what you’ve experienced is considered greening out. If you’re reading this, you’re probably curious about what this experience is.
This blog will answer some of the most common questions about greening out. We’ll explain what it means, what causes it, and the signs to watch for. Plus, if you or someone you know struggles with substance use, we’ll share where to find help.
What Does Greening Out Mean?
Greening out happens when someone consumes too much cannabis. This includes Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, the psychoactive compound responsible for marijuana’s “high.” When the body can’t handle the amount of THC taken in, it triggers a range of unpleasant symptoms. The name comes from the way people might look pale (or “green”) and unwell during the experience.
While cannabis may already be legal in several US states, remember that everyone’s tolerance level is different. For beginners or people with lower tolerance, even a small amount of THC can cause negative symptoms. On the other hand, experienced users might green out after consuming higher doses through strong edibles or concentrates.
While greening out isn’t life threatening, it can feel overwhelming. The physical and mental symptoms all add up to a very unpleasant experience.
What Are the Causes of Greening Out?
Several factors can lead to greening out. Understanding these triggers is key to preventing greening out.
Here’s why it might happen:
- Consuming too much cannabis – This is the most common cause. High THC levels in edibles or smoking too much can overwhelm your body.
- Using cannabis on an empty stomach – Without food in your system, your blood sugar can drop, increasing the risk of nausea or dizziness.
- Combining cannabis with alcohol – Mixing substances can amplify their effects, making greening out feel worse and harder to manage.
- Health conditions or medications – Certain mental health disorders or ongoing medical conditions may interact poorly with cannabis.
What Are the Signs of Greening Out?
The symptoms of greening out vary from person to person. Here are the most common ones to look out for:
Physical Symptoms:
- Pale or flushed skin
- Sweating or chills
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Feeling faint or weak
Psychological Symptoms:
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Paranoia or racing thoughts
- Intense fear it won’t end
- Mental confusion
If you or someone around you notices these symptoms of greening, staying calm and hydrated can often help until the effects pass.
How Long Does Greening Out Last?
How long greening out lasts depends on factors like how much cannabis you used and your tolerance. Mild cases may last 30 minutes to an hour, while more severe ones can linger all day.
Since edibles take longer to digest and process, their effects may last even longer. Remember, everyone is different, so how long greening out feels will vary from person to person.
The good news is that it will pass. Relax by taking deep breaths, staying hydrated, and resting in a calm environment. Doing these can help ease the experience until it’s over.
Best Treatment for Substance Abuse in Lake Forest, CA
Greening out may not be life threatening, but it’s a sign that your cannabis use might need reevaluating. While some may argue that weed isn’t addictive, repeated episodes of greening out could point to an underlying substance use disorder. If you or a loved one frequently consumes too much cannabis, it’s time to seek help. Substance abuse issues can worsen long term mental and physical health and prevent you from living a full, productive life..
At Zoe Behavioral Health, we offer compassionate, evidence-based support for those in Lake Forest, CA. Whether you’re seeking outpatient treatment or simply want to learn more about your options, our team is here to guide you toward recovery.
