Cannabis is legal for recreational and medical use in certain states. Some people might use marijuana to treat chronic pain. That said, there are risks to using cannabis that you should be aware of.
In today’s rapidly evolving cannabis landscape, greening out is an increasingly common and often misunderstood phenomenon. As access to high-potency strains expands and social acceptance grows, so too does the risk of excessive THC consumption, especially among novice users or those unfamiliar with modern cannabis potency.
Greening out is a term used to describe the intense and unpleasant physical and psychological symptoms that occur after consuming too much cannabis, especially products high in THC. It typically involves nausea, dizziness, anxiety, sweating, and a sense of detachment or panic. While not usually dangerous, the experience can be distressing and may require rest, hydration, and a calm environment to recover.
In this article, we’ll break down what greening out really means, what causes it, who is most at risk, and how to manage or prevent it.
Defining Greening Out
Greening out refers to the acute physical and psychological reaction someone may experience after consuming too much cannabis, especially strains with high THC concentration. It is often a temporary condition, but it can be deeply unpleasant and frightening—particularly for inexperienced users.
The term emerged organically from the cannabis using subculture, paralleling expressions like
“blacking out” from alcohol use. When someone is greening, they’re essentially experiencing cannabis-induced distress, which typically involves symptoms like:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness and sweating
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Impaired cognitive function
- Cannabis depersonalization (a sense of detachment from oneself)
- Muscle twitches and tremors
- Distinct paleness (visible greening effects)
These common symptoms usually manifest quickly and may eventually subside after a few hours—but not without significant distress.
Why Does Greening Out Happen?
Greening out is usually triggered by excess consumption of THC, the main psychoactive compound in marijuana. However, several contributing factors increase the risk of greening:
1. High Doses and Potent Cannabis Strains
Modern strains can contain upwards of 25-30% THC, compared to less than 5% just a few decades ago. Even slightly increased doses of these potent strains can overwhelm the body’s ability to metabolize THC.
It is also possible for certain terpenes to affect your experience. For example, Limonene can cause stress relief, while Pinene might lead to anxiety.
2. Empty Stomach or Dehydration
Cannabis on an empty stomach increases the likelihood of nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and anxiety. Without food or water to buffer absorption, unwanted symptoms appear more rapidly.
3. Mixing with Other Substances
Combining cannabis with alcohol, other drugs, or smoking tobacco can unpredictably amplify effects, raising the elevated threat of greening out.
4. Low Tolerance or Inexperience
Novice users, those who’ve taken a long break, or individuals unaware of modern THC levels are particularly at risk.
5. Underlying Psychiatric Disorders
People with anxiety, mood, or psychotic disorders are more sensitive to psychological distress, making them prone to panic attacks and cannabis depersonalization under the influence.
The Modern Risks of Cannabis Use
With cannabis use near all-time highs, the modern risks of cannabis are evolving beyond traditional narratives.
Here are some statistics that explain the risks of marijuana use:[1,2,3]
- In 2022, approximately 52 million Americans aged 12 or older reported using marijuana in the past year.
- Emergency room visits related to cannabis-induced panic or psychosis increased by over 70% between 2010 and 2020.
- People who tried cannabis by age 18 were 2.4 times more likely to be diagnosed with schizophrenia than those who had not, and the risk of this diagnosis increased with the frequency of cannabis use.
While cannabis remains less physically addictive than other substances, the potential risks of high-dose, frequent use—especially in at-risk individuals—are very real.
Symptoms of Greening Out: A Closer Look
Let’s break down the typical symptoms and physical effects of greening out:
- Nausea and Vomiting- Starts suddenly and becomes intense. Often worsened by motion or loud environments.
- Dizziness- May experience difficulty standing, moving, or focusing visually due to dizziness.
- Anxiety and Panic- People experience racing thoughts, heart palpitations, and a fear of dying or losing control.
- Depersonalization- Depersonalization is a dissociative state where the individual feels detached from themselves and like they are in a dream state.
- Sweating and Chills- Sweating and chills are common on the palms, forehead, and spine.
- Trembling and Tremors- People experience involuntary and short-lived spasms or jittery hands.
- Paleness- People might become pale in the face and faint or pass out.
These various unwanted symptoms are the body’s alarm bells responding to excessive THC.
Immediate Steps: What to Do If Someone Is Greening Out
If someone is greening out, remain calm. The effects will eventually subside, and most cases don’t require hospitalization. However, knowing how to respond quickly and effectively can reduce suffering:
Break Outdoors for Fresh Air
A break outdoors can reduce anxiety and nausea, helping restore cognitive control and grounding the individual.
Hydrate and Rest
Sipping water and lying down in a safe, quiet space helps with stomach trouble and dizziness.
Avoid Bright Lights and Noise
Overstimulated environments amplify senses, worsening panic and unpleasant effects.
Avoid Inducing Vomiting
Unless medically advised, do not encourage vomiting—it can worsen symptoms or cause choking.
Do Not Mix More Substances
Adding other substances (like alcohol or stimulants) may increase unfavorable effects or trigger psychiatric disorders.
Long-Term Risks and When to Seek Medical Help
For most, greening out is a one-time scare. But repeated incidents could point to a larger issue, like substance use disorder or developing dependency.
Seek medical help if:
- Symptoms don’t subside after 4–6 hours
- Fainting or prolonged unconsciousness is present
- You experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or signs of respiratory problems
- You have a history of psychiatric conditions with severe anxiety
In these cases, a visit to a counseling center, outpatient recovery services, or even inpatient rehab might be necessary.
Treatment Options: Recovery From Greening Out and Cannabis Misuse
While one green-out event doesn’t guarantee chronic use, it can be a gateway moment. Those who experience noticeable greening effects frequently—or feel a lack of control over usage—should explore medical guidance and treatment paths.
1. Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient care is ideal for those who want help while maintaining daily responsibilities. You can get outpatient recovery services through a counseling center or community health provider. This may include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Group therapy
- Educational workshops
2. Inpatient Rehab
If usage has escalated into dependency or is accompanied by other psychiatric disorders, inpatient rehab may be necessary for detoxification and comprehensive support.
3. Early Intervention Counseling
Many counseling centers send assessments or screeners via phone or email, offering discreet entry points into the recovery process. Early action prevents escalation.
Prevention: How to Use Cannabis Sensibly
You don’t need to opt out of cannabis entirely to avoid greening out. Sensible use and awareness of modern potency can keep you safe.
Start with Small Doses
Especially with edibles or unfamiliar strains, sizable doses are risky even for experienced smokers.
Avoid Mixing
Combining cannabis with tobacco, alcohol, or other drugs increases risk exponentially.
Know Your Strain
Ask your dispensary about THC concentration, and choose CBD-dominant or low-THC strains if you’re prone to anxiety.
Wait Before Redosing
It can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to feel the full effects, particularly with edibles. Be patient.
Don’t Use Alone
Having someone with you increases safety in case of unexpected reactions.
Find Help for Cannabis Use Disorder
Greening out is real, unpleasant, and—most importantly—avoidable. Whether you’re a long-time smoker or a curious first-time user, understanding the modern risks of cannabis is key to avoiding negative consequences. If you or someone you know is experiencing frequent greening events, it’s time to explore support services, talk to a professional, and reconsider your approach to cannabis use.
If you or a loved one suffers from marijuana abuse, it’s time to seek professional help. Cannabis doesn’t always lead to addiction, but it is a potential risk. At Patricks Purpose, we can connect you with a top-rated cannabis rehab center if you need support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Greening Out
1. Is greening out dangerous or life-threatening?
Greening out is typically not life-threatening, but it can be highly distressing. The primary risk lies in accidental injury (e.g., falling or fainting) or exacerbation of pre-existing mental health conditions. However, in rare cases, especially when other substances are involved, more serious complications—such as respiratory distress or cardiac issues—may occur. When in doubt, seek medical attention.
2. Can edibles cause greening out more easily than smoking?
Yes. Edibles carry a higher risk of greening out because they are metabolized more slowly and unpredictably in the body. This often leads users to consume more before the effects kick in, resulting in delayed but intense highs. The liver converts THC in edibles into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent compound, which can amplify both physical and psychological effects.
3. Can greening out cause long-term mental health issues?
While a single greening episode typically doesn’t cause permanent damage, recurring incidents—especially in people with underlying psychiatric disorders—can act as triggers for long-term anxiety, depersonalization, or panic disorder. Chronic overuse of high-THC cannabis has also been linked to increased risk of psychosis, particularly in adolescents and genetically predisposed individuals.
4. Is greening out more common among teenagers?
Yes. Teenagers and young adults are at greater risk due to lower tolerance, ongoing brain development, and social pressure to experiment. Additionally, they may be less informed about THC dosages, particularly with modern cannabis products. Early and excessive cannabis use is also correlated with higher susceptibility to substance use disorders later in life.
5. Can CBD help counteract greening out symptoms?
Emerging evidence suggests that CBD may mitigate some of THC’s psychoactive effects, particularly anxiety and paranoia. While it’s not a guaranteed solution, some users report relief after taking CBD orally or vaping CBD-rich strains. That said, more research is needed, and it should never replace professional medical guidance when symptoms are severe.
6. How do I talk to a friend or family member who keeps greening out?
Approach the topic with compassion, not judgment. Ask open-ended questions like, “How have you been feeling after using?” or “Have you thought about cutting back or trying lower-strength products?” You can also suggest visiting a counseling center or accessing outpatient support. If they’re open to it, offer to help them find professional resources for managing usage.
References:
- The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States: Results from the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health
- Nature: Association between non-medical cannabis legalization and emergency department visits for cannabis-induced psychosis
- Wiley Online Library: Cannabis use and the risk of developing a psychotic disorder