Greening out is a term which is used to describe the condition in which a person gets sick or unwell when they consume cannabis, particularly when they have taken a lot of it or within a short time. This can be quite confusing for many people especially the first time users or when one has taken a higher potency than they can handle. But what the devil is going on when some one is ‘greening out’? In this article let us delve into the details of this rather common occurrence.
Origins and Context: What is ‘Greening Out’ and where does it come from?
The term ‘greening out’ sounds rather odd and may make a person imagine someone turning into the well-known comic character but, in fact, it comes from a more real-life term. The ‘green’ part is because of the cannabis plant being green in color whereas, ‘out’ is akin to phrases like ‘pass out’ or ‘black out.’ In short, greening out is the adverse effect of cannabis that present as dizziness, nausea, and vertigo.
Did You Know? Green color has been historically associated with nausea or illness – did you ever hear the phrase “look green around the gills”?
Symptoms and Sensations: What goes on when one is experiencing a greening out episode?
Greening out can be as a mild discomfort to as severe as being uncomfortable. Most individuals feel dizzy, lightheaded or sick to their stomach. It is also common for a person to have cold sweats or to have the intense need to lay down. Some may even get a feeling of spinning as if they are drunk which is also called crossfading if alcohol is also taken.
- Dizziness: This is usually followed by a feeling as if the room is whirling around.
- Nausea: Nausea can occasionally progress to vomiting though it is not very often.
- Disorientation: A general loss of direction or balance.
- Anxiety: Panic or worry feelings are also common and may be accompanied by physical symptoms.
Quick Tip: Some of the ways through which one can minimize the effects of greening out include: Drinking plenty of water, deep breathing and lying or sitting in a relaxed position.
Exploring the Causes: What leads to the experience of greening out?
There is no one cause of green out; it is normally a combination of the two. The active component of cannabis is THC and if too much of it is taken or if it is of high potency, then it can affect the endocannabinoid system of the body. Besides, there are other factors that may influence the tolerance level, the method of consuming cannabis whether it is edible, smoking, or vaping and even the state of mind of an individual.
Interesting Fact: This is because edibles are often the cause of greening out because they take longer to digest and metabolize therefore people end up consuming more of it than required.
The Psychological Side: Anxiety and Cannabinoids
Cannabis and the brain, what a complicated relationship they have. THC, the principal psychoactive compound of cannabis can act as a sedative and a mood enhancer but too much of it can result to anxiety or stress response in some people. Basically, it all depends on the personality of a person and his or her psychological state at the time of using cannabis. Do you really think that it is all chemical? Let me remind you that emotions and thoughts are also an important factor here.
Demystifying the Biological Mechanics: THC and the Body
Cannabis’ effect in the body is mainly through THC which acts upon cannabinoid receptors in the brain and other organs. When these receptors are overloaded, side effects such as those described in greening out may develop. While these episodes are not usually damaging in the long run, they can be very uncomfortable while they last.
Fun Fact: The human body’s endocannabinoid system is still an emerging field of research and was discovered only in the ‘90s.
Prevention Strategies: How to Reduce Chances of Getting a Stoned Feeling
To this end, it is imperative that anyone who is new to the concept or is an experienced user of cannabis knows how to avoid getting a case of greening out. One of the most well-known strategies is the so-called ‘start low – go slow.’ This means using a small amount and then waiting to see how the body will react to it before using more. But it’s not just about being careful; there is also a number of reasonable approaches that can be applied: avoiding THC-rich strains or opting for the so-called balanced strains that have more CBD to balance out THC.
Practical Advice: Consuming food prior to consuming cannabis as well as drinking water can also help to reduce discomfort.
Table: Cannabis Consumption Methods and Their Potential Effects
| Method | Onset Time | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smoking | Minutes | 2-3 hours | Fast acting, it is also easy to control the amount of cannabis that one takes |
| Vaping | Minutes | 2-3 hours | Less irritating on the throat, more discreet. |
| Edibles | 30 minutes to 2 hours | 4-6 hours | It is very easy to take more of it than is required because of the delayed action |
| Tinctures | 15-45 minutes | 2-4 hours | More accurate and measured way of administration which is often less intense |
Handling It with Grace: Counselling on How to Cope Up with a Greening Out Episode
If you find yourself in the midst of a greening out episode, it is okay to hyperventilate. Relax, this too shall pass and there is a way to reduce discomfort. The most important thing is to remain as cool as a cucumber and find a good place to be. Having people around especially friends or a trusted friend around can be comforting while being in a known and a safe place also works to reduce anxiety.
- Ensure that you do not over act or get nervous: This is because when one is nervous the symptoms in question may be compounded.
- Find a comfortable place: This is because sitting or lying down can also help in controlling the feelings which are not steady.
- Consider herbal teas: Ginger or peppermint teas might soothe an up set stomach.
FAQ: Some Frequently Asked Issue Regarding Greening Out
Can greening out cause long-term harm? In most cases, no. Thus, even though it is uncomfortable, there are usually no consequences once the THC has been excreted.
What is the most effective method of avoiding a unpleasant experience similar to greening out? Understanding one’s personal thresholds and taking things easy is very important.
Are there particular strains which are more often associated with the ‘greening out’ experience? Such strains that contain high levels of THC or low levels of CBD tend to raise the risks.
If my friend is ‘greening out’ what can I do to help him or her? Offer support and reassurance in a non haste manner, assist him or her to find a comfortable position and take fluids.
Final Thoughts: On the Green Out Experience
Learning about the phenomenon of greening out and its many facets can help one have a better and safer experience with cannabis. This is because through the principles of Stewardship and informed decision making, people can safely use cannabis and enjoy the numerous advantages that it has while at the same time avoiding the disadvantages. Let me remind you that it is not a competition; slow and steady wins the race. Thanks for your time; we hope to see you here again soon and always feel free to check out more articles on this great website.
