Heard of “greening out” but not sure what it means? At Mango Cannabis, we believe in educating our customers on what greening out is, what triggers it, and how to prevent it, so they can have enjoyable and safe experiences with cannabis. Greening Out is a term used to describe uncomfortable symptoms that some people can experience if they consume too much cannabis. The experience is temporary but even so, it can be distressing, especially for those who are unfamiliar with it.
What Is Greening Out & What Triggers It?
As briefly mentioned above, Greening Out is a term used in the cannabis community to describe the body’s adverse reaction to an excessive amount of cannabis. This usually happens when someone consumes more cannabis than their body can handle. This can happen from smoking, vaping, or edibles. There are a few factors that can trigger greening out, including someone’s tolerance level, the potency of the product, and even how they consume the product. Strains that are known for their high THC levels, like the wedding cake strain, may contribute to greening out, especially for new users or those with lower tolerance.
Other triggers can include foods or personal health factors. For some, cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome trigger foods may contribute to nausea or discomfort when combined with cannabis use, but this is rare and not directly related to greening out.
Symptoms of Greening Out
Symptoms of greening out vary, but can include dizziness, nausea, sweating and vomiting. People mentioned also feeling disoriented or overly fatigued. Common complaints have included feeling “green sick” or overwhelmed by a heavy, sluggish sensation. More severe cases have led to people throwing up weed because the body is trying to process the excess cannabinoids. Understanding and recognizing these symptoms can help users take steps to reduce discomfort if they ever find themselves in this situation.
Is Greening Out Similar to Overdosing?
While greening out is uncomfortable, it is not an overdose. Unlike substances that can be life-threatening in large doses, cannabis has no known lethal dose. However, greening out can feel intense and mimic symptoms of an overdose, such as nausea and dizziness. Cannabis will affect everyone differently, and so the sensation of greening out will also vary depending on factors like personal tolerance, metabolism, and the type of strain consumed. The experience is temporary, and symptoms generally subside on their own within a few hours.
Duration and After-Effects of Greening Out
Most people experience relief from greening out symptoms within a few hours, although obviously this will vary based on the method of consumption. Inhaling cannabis, through smoking or vaping, typically will result in a faster onset but shorter duration compared to edibles, which can take longer to kick in and may have longer-lasting effects. Some people have mentioned greening out after effects, which included mild fatigue or grogginess for the rest of the day. These after-effects are usually short-lived and do not typically result in long-term discomfort.
What Happens When You Experience a Green Out?
When experiencing a green out, your body’s reaction to the excess cannabinoids can include a range of physical and mental symptoms. Common responses include sweating, dizziness, and nausea, disorientation and feeling anxious. The body processes these cannabinoids naturally, and symptoms gradually decrease as the cannabinoids are metabolized. Consuming too much cannabis can be intense and overwhelming but these effects will typically pass with time and rest.
Helping Someone During a Green Out Episode
If you’re with someone who is experiencing a green out, you can try a few things to help them feel better. Encourage them to sit or lie down in a comfortable, quiet space. Hydration can also be beneficial; offer them some water or a non-caffeinated drink but they should avoid alcohol or caffeine, as these can sometimes worsen symptoms. In some cases, eating a small snack can help stabilize blood sugar levels, although this isn’t a guaranteed solution.
At Mango Cannabis, our team can answer questions about greening out and offer guidance on ways to have a safe cannabis experience. Whether you’re in one of our Oklahoma dispensaries or our Michigan dispensaries, our goal is to help each individual understand their limits to avoid greening out. If you’re consuming cannabis with others, being aware of potential symptoms and ways to alleviate discomfort can be beneficial.
Effective Ways to Prevent Greening Out
Below are a few tips to help prevent greening out:
1. Start with a Low Dose: Especially for new users, starting with a small dose and gradually increasing is the best way to find the right amount for your body without overdoing it. This is particularly important with edibles, which take longer to kick in.
2. Stay Hydrated and Well-Fed: Greening out symptoms can often be worse if you’re dehydrated or haven’t eaten for a while.Having a balanced meal and staying hydrated can make a difference.
3. Choose Strains Wisely: Some strains, like the wedding cake strain, have higher THC levels, which may be overwhelming for new or low-tolerance users. Choosing a strain that has lower THC levels or choosing indica over sativa may offer a more relaxed experience.
4. Set and Setting: Consuming cannabis in a comfortable, familiar place can help reduce the chances of greening out. A calm environment can also make the experience more enjoyable, minimizing potential anxiety.
5. Know When to Stop: Cannabis affects everyone differently, and knowing your personal limits is key. If you feel yourself reaching your threshold, take a break rather than consuming more.
Choosing the Right Cannabis Products to Avoid Greening Out
Product choice can make a significant difference in your cannabis experience. For example, the decision between a blunt vs joint can affect how much cannabis you consume, as blunts typically hold more cannabis and could lead to greening out for anyone who is unaccustomed to higher doses. Pre-rolls could be helpful for controlled consumption, as you’ll know the exact amount of cannabis you’re using.
At Mango Cannabis, our team is always available to provide information on product choices, whether you’re interested in lower-THC strains or specific types of consumption methods. If you’re new to cannabis or want to avoid greening out, choosing the right product for your needs is essential, and our knowledgeable staff can help you make an informed decision.
