Surviving the Green Out: Guide to Managing Overindulgence

In the expanding world of cannabis consumption, both novice and seasoned users can encounter a range of experiences, from the profoundly enjoyable to the unexpectedly overwhelming. The “more is better” mantra, especially among new cannabis users, may sometimes lead to the uncomfortable reality of greening out, perhaps with some weed shakes thrown in for a extra memorable experience.

Trust me, I’ve been there more times than I’d like to admit, and while cannabis is relatively safe, overdoing it can send you on an express trip to nauseaville. Greening out stands out as a phenomenon that, while unsettling, is entirely manageable with the right knowledge and strategies. This guide aims to demystify greening out, providing essential tips and tricks to navigate this experience with ease and safety.

Just recently, I overestimated my tolerance again—yes, even us seasoned stoners can fall into that trap. I found myself in the throes of a green out by over indulging in more than one strain of premium BC Bud. It was an experience I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. It’s that dreadful moment when you’re too high, anxiety is through the roof, and you’re praying to the porcelain gods. So, I’m here to share a no-BS guide on how to survive a green out, because I’ve lived it and come out the other side.

What is ‘Greening Out’?

Greening out refers to a state where a cannabis user feels uncomfortable physical and psychological effects after consuming too much cannabis. Symptoms can include nausea, dizziness, sweating, feeling overly paranoid or anxious, and in some cases, vomiting. It’s a temporary condition but knowing how to handle it can make all the difference in your cannabis journey.

Understanding how THC from cannabis impacts us is crucial for both medical and recreational users. A comprehensive review in The British Journal of Psychiatry looks into the pharmacology and effects of cannabis, shedding light on the varied reactions individuals may experience. This research elucidates the reasons behind common symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and anxiety following cannabis use, offering insights into the phenomenon known as ‘greening out.’ Such reactions are attributed to THC’s complex interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system, highlighting the importance of dosage and individual sensitivity.

Green Out Symptoms

Recognizing the early signs of greening out is crucial for timely intervention. Symptoms such as feeling lightheaded, experiencing heightened anxiety, and nausea are not just anecdotal; they are grounded in the pharmacological impact of THC on the body.

• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy: An abrupt drop in blood pressure often causes these symptoms after cannabis use.
• Experiencing heightened anxiety or paranoia: While cannabis is known for its relaxing effects, too much can lead to overwhelming feelings of anxiety.
• Nausea and vomiting: Overindulgence can upset the stomach, leading to discomfort.
• Sweating and pallor: Cold sweats and a pale appearance are telltale signs that your body is not reacting well to the amount of cannabis consumed.

Prevention: The First Line of Defense

The best strategy to manage greening out is prevention. Here are some proactive steps to avoid overconsumption:

Start Low and Go Slow

Especially for those new to cannabis or trying a new product such as high in THC concentrates, it’s vital to begin with a low dose and gradually increase it. Find your sweet spot and stick to it, especially with edibles.

• Try to pay attention to how much cannabis you are consuming each session and how that dosage makes you feel. Remember, sometimes less is more.
• Especially with cannabis edibles, it’s important to never bite off more than you can chew. Unlike smoking, edibles remain in your system for a much longer period of time and can catch you off guard if you’re not expecting it.
• If you’re using edibles for the first time, start off with half or even a quarter of the recommended amount and waiting an hour to 2 hours for them to kick in before dosing again.

TIP: Remember to give yourself a tolerance break every once a while. A tolerance break helps to purge your body of any foreign THC and rejuvenate the effects of cannabis. A three-week tolerance break is usually enough for a full reset.

Know Your Limit; Play Within It

Individual tolerance levels vary widely, so what works for one person may be too much for another. Listen to your body: Pay attention to how you feel after consuming cannabis and adjust your habits accordingly.

Stay Hydrated and Fed

Consuming cannabis on an empty stomach or while dehydrated can intensify its effects. Always ensure you’re well-fed and have plenty of water.

Choose Your Strain Wisely

Different strains produce different effects. Some may be more potent or induce anxiety in susceptible individuals. Educate yourself about different strains and understand the potency and effects of various cannabis products.

Avoid Mixing Alcohol and Cannabis

With alcohol and cannabis now being so easily readily available, you would be hard-pressed to find yourself in a situation where these two didn’t mingle. If you are new to the world of weed, you may not know that cross-fading, or mixing alcohol with weed greatly increases the absorption of THC. This will undoubtedly result in an exponentially stronger high and can get you on the fast track to greening out.

WARNING: It is highly recommended to avoid cross-fading if you are unaware of your personal tolerance level. The intensity of the high will sneak up on you and hit you over the head with overwhelming strength.

Cultivate a Supportive Community

Sharing experiences with friends or online communities can provide valuable insights and support.

Immediate Steps to Take if You’re Greening Out

If you or someone you’re with starts to green out, follow these steps to help alleviate the symptoms:

1) Get Some CBD in Your System
CBD is your best friend when THC turns on you. It can dial back the anxiety and reduce inflammation without adding to your high. During my latest green out, I reached for a CBD oil tincture, and it was a game-changer in softening the THC’s blow and helping to alleviate anxiety and nausea.

For those interested in exploring the scientific basis behind CBD’s effectiveness, a comprehensive study offers in-depth insights into its interaction with THC and the resulting benefits.

2) Find a Comfortable, Safe Space, Rest, and Breathe
Reducing external stimuli can help calm the mind and body. Sometimes, the best remedy is simply lying down in a quiet, dark room and closing your eyes. Controlled breathing techniques can reduce anxiety and help regain a sense of control.

3) Stay Hydrated
Drinking water or electrolyte-rich beverages can combat dehydration and help flush the system. Lemons contain limonene, a terpene that combats anxiety and can ease the discomfort of a green out. Plus, considering how dehydrating cannabis can be, hydrating with lemon water kills two birds with one stone.

4) Take a Cold Shower
Nothing snaps you back to reality like a cold shower. It stimulates deep breathing and improves circulation, helping you sober up and clear your head.

5) Chew on Black Peppercorn
This might sound odd, but black pepper has beta-caryophyllene, a terpene that helps reduce anxiety. Chewing on a few peppercorns can offer a surprising amount of relief.

How Long Does Greening Out Last?

Symptoms of greening out can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 6 hours depending on several factors, mainly the method of consumption and the type of cannabis product consumed. Expect the green out period to last the same duration of time as your typical high. If cannabis was the only substance ingested, medical care is usually not required as symptoms will subside on their own. However, if used in tandem with alcohol or other illicit substances, medical attention may be recommended.

WARNING: Mixing cannabis with other substances is usually never a good idea. Please exercise caution.

The Day After

Ah, the dreaded weed hangover. It’s real, and it’s as fun as a sandpaper hug. To combat it, hydrate like your life depends on it and consider more CBD to ease any lingering discomfort.

Each time you’re consuming cannabis, your body’s cannabinoid receptors are subject to being overstimulated. As a result, your body tries its best to counteract that by rendering these receptors as inactive. The problem here is that it is not just the external THC consumed that is blocked, but also your body’s naturally occurring endocannabinoids.

In moderate doses, there is no real issue as the body can sort things out naturally. However, overuse could have you waking up in a state of cannabinoid withdrawal, leaving you with a feeling of deep dehydration and a lack of mental clarity. With that being said, your first priority should be to rehydrate as soon as possible and reach for some CBD to ease any discomfort from the withdrawal.

Final Thoughts

While greening out is an intense and scary experience, it’s a temporary and manageable condition. If you’re experiencing green out symptoms often, it’s best to reconsider your dosage amounts and change your smoking habits to better accommodate your tolerance levels.

If you find yourself greening out and just want an end to the rough experience, the easiest and best thing to do would be to drink some water, lie down and take a nap. You might still wake up a bit stoned, but the worse of the experience will be over and you’ll be feeling a lot better.

Remember, the key to a positive cannabis experience lies in moderation, knowledge, and self-awareness.

Stay safe and happy toking!

Cheers,
Anna Gray

REFERENCES

Bhattacharyya, S., Morrison, P. D., Fusar-Poli, P., Martin-Santos, R., Borgwardt, S., Winton-Brown, T., … & McGuire, P. K. (2010). Opposite effects of Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol on human brain function and psychopathology. Neuropsychopharmacology, 35(3), 764-774

Hudson, R., Renard, J., Norris, C., Rushlow, W. J., & Laviolette, S. R. (2019). Cannabidiol Counteracts the Psychotropic Side-Effects of Δ-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol in the Ventral Hippocampus through Bidirectional Control of ERK1-2 Phosphorylation. The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience, 39(44), 8762–8777. https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.0708-19.2019

Zuurman, L., Ippel, A. E., Moin, E., & van Gerven, J. M. (2009). Biomarkers for the effects of cannabis and THC in healthy volunteers. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 67(1), 5-21