What is Greening Out? Effects and Top Remedies 2025
Cannabis is often celebrated for its relaxing effects, creative stimulation, and mood-enhancing properties. However, for some, consuming too much can lead to an experience known as “greening out.” Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis user or a beginner, understanding what greening out is, its symptoms, and how to avoid it is crucial for a positive experience.
Let’s explore the phenomenon of greening out, why it happens, and practical tips on how to prevent it.
Table of Contents
What is Greening Out?
The term “greening out” is derived from the idea that the individual may feel nauseous or faint, and sometimes the color green is associated with feeling unwell or vomiting. While not life-threatening, greening out can be an unpleasant and uncomfortable experience for those who are unprepared or have overindulged.
The primary cause of greening out is the overconsumption of cannabis, particularly varieties high in THC. A psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for the majority of its effects, including euphoria, altered perception, and increased appetite. However, when consumed in excess, it can lead to adverse reactions like dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and anxiety.
Understanding Greening Out
Also known as “whitening” or “green fever,” refers to an unpleasant experience that some individuals may have after consuming cannabis. It’s characterized by a sudden onset of symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to intense distress. While greening out can happen to anyone, it’s more common among novice users or those who consume cannabis in high doses.
Symptoms of Greening Out
What exactly happens when someone greens out? Let’s lookSymptoms of Greening Out
When someone greens out, the experience can vary depending on the individual’s tolerance level, the strain of cannabis consumed, and the method of consumption. Common symptoms of greening out include:
1. Nausea and Vomiting
One of the most common symptoms of greening out is nausea. This can be accompanied by vomiting, especially if a person has consumed too much THC at once. The feeling of being overwhelmed by the intensity of the high may trigger these physical responses.
2. Dizziness and Lightheadedness
A person who greens out may experience dizziness, feeling as though the room is spinning or that they are about to faint. This can be particularly unsettling if the individual is standing or moving around when it occurs.
3. Increased Heart Rate and Anxiety
Anxiety is another common symptom, especially for those who are new to cannabis or who have a lower tolerance. This anxiety can manifest in the form of a racing heart, panic, or paranoia, which may feel more intense when combined with the disorientation caused by THC.
4. Sweating and Shivering
In some cases, individuals may experience sweating or shivering as their body reacts to the overwhelming effects of cannabis. This can add to the sense of unease or discomfort during a greening out episode.
5. Confusion and Impaired Coordination
Greening out can lead to mental confusion or difficulty concentrating. Coordination may also be impaired, making it hard to perform simple tasks or even walk steadily. This can be frustrating for those who are not used to these physical effects.
6. Feeling Faint or Light-headed
Greening out can make individuals feel like they are about to faint, which can make the experience feel even worse. This is especially true for those who are sensitive to cannabis and may experience this feeling after consuming too much THC.
People with these symptoms may experience varying degrees of severity. It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience severe symptoms or are distressed.
Causes of Greening Out
There are several factors that can contribute to someone greening out. These include:
1. High THC Content
One of the main reasons people green out is because the cannabis they consume contains high levels of THC. Different strains of cannabis have varying levels of THC, with some having THC concentrations upwards of 30%. For people with a low tolerance or those who have never consumed cannabis, this can result in an overwhelming experience.
2. Overconsumption
Consuming too much cannabis, especially in a short period of time, increases the likelihood of greening out. This can happen when people smoke, vape, or ingest a large amount of cannabis without considering their tolerance or experience level. It’s also common for edibles to cause greening out since their effects take longer to kick in, leading some to consume more than intended.
3. Inexperience
New cannabis users are more susceptible to greening out because they may not know how much they can handle. They may be unfamiliar with how cannabis affects them or have a lower tolerance to THC, which increases the chances of having a bad experience.
4. Empty Stomach or Dehydration
Consuming cannabis on an empty stomach or when dehydrated can heighten its effects. Without food or hydration, the body may absorb THC more quickly, which could lead to an intense high and the possibility of greening out.
5. Body Chemistry and Tolerance
Everyone’s body responds differently to cannabis. Some individuals have a higher tolerance, while others are more sensitive to THC. Genetics, metabolism, and previous experiences with cannabis all play a role in how someone will react to cannabis consumption.
Remedies for Greening Out
Getting greened out isn’t a problem! Several remedies can relieve the symptoms and help you feel more relaxed. I suggest the following:
1. Relax : Staying a calm and comfortable environment. Move to a place where you can feel relaxed and secure. Additionally, dim the lights and play soothing music to create a calming atmosphere.
2. Stay Hydrated : Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water to soothe discomfort associated with greening up.
3. Actively Breathe: Be sure to practice deep breathing exercises to regulate your breathing and relax.
4. Get your mind off : Drive the unpleasant symptoms by engaging in distracting activities. Engaging in a hobby, watching a favorite show, or listening to music can help shift your focus.
5. Consume CBD: CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis, may provide a calming effect and counteract THC’s effects.
6. Obtain support: Don’t be afraid to talk to a trusted friend or family member if you feel overwhelmed.
Symptoms associated with Green Fever typically subside with time, and the experience is usually temporary. For future prevention, cannabis consumption should be approached moderately and with awareness of limits.
How to Prevent Greening Out
While greening out can be an unpleasant experience, there are several ways to reduce the risk and avoid it altogether. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Start Low and Go Slow
For beginners or those with low tolerance, it’s important to start with a small dose of cannabis and gradually increase it as needed. If you’re smoking or vaping, take a few puffs, wait a while to gauge the effects, and then decide if you want to consume more. When consuming edibles, start with a low dose (5-10mg of THC) and wait at least 1-2 hours before consuming more.
2. Know Your Limits
If you have a higher tolerance, be mindful of how much you consume. Avoid the temptation to overindulge, as even seasoned cannabis users can green out if they push their limits too far.
3. Hydrate and Eat Beforehand
Drinking water and eating a meal before consuming cannabis can help mitigate some of the adverse effects. When your body is well-hydrated and nourished, the THC will be absorbed more slowly, leading to a more manageable high.
4. Choose the Right Strain
Opt for strains with moderate THC levels and consider choosing those that are known for being more relaxing and less likely to induce anxiety. CBD-rich strains are also a good option as they can help counteract some of the psychoactive effects of THC.
5. Stay Calm and Relax
If you begin to feel the symptoms of greening out, try to stay calm and find a comfortable place to sit or lie down. Focus on your breathing and take slow, deep breaths. Drinking water, eating a snack, or even consuming some CBD may help you feel more at ease.
6. Avoid Mixing Cannabis with Alcohol or Other Substances
Combining cannabis with alcohol or other substances can intensify the effects of both and increase the risk of greening out. Stick to one substance at a time to avoid an overwhelming experience.
FAQs
What is the duration of a greening out episode?
The duration of a greening out episode can vary depending on the individual and the amount and potency of cannabis consumed. Typically, the symptoms subside within a few hours, but it may take longer for some individuals.
Can greening out be prevented?
While it cannot be entirely prevented, you can minimize the risk by starting with low doses of cannabis and gradually increasing as you become more comfortable and experienced.
Is greening out dangerous?
Greening out is generally not dangerous and is more unpleasant than life-threatening. However, if you experience severe symptoms or have any concerns, it’s always best to seek medical advice.
Can cannabis strains with lower THC levels reduce the chances of greening out?
Yes, opting for cannabis strains with lower THC levels can decrease the likelihood of greening out. Strains with higher CBD content or balanced THC/CBD ratios are often considered less likely to cause intense psychoactive effects.
Are there any long-term effects of greening out?
No, It does not have any known long-term effects on physical or mental health. However, it’s essential to use cannabis responsibly and be aware of your limits to avoid potential negative experiences.
Should I avoid cannabis altogether if I’ve had a greening out experience?
Experiencing green fever or whitening out doesn’t necessarily mean you should avoid cannabis altogether. It’s a personal choice, and if you decide to continue using cannabis, you can adjust your consumption habits to reduce the risk of it.
What should I do if I feel like I’m about to green out?
Stay calm, hydrate, eat a snack, and rest in a comfortable space. The effects will eventually wear off.
Conclusion
If you do happen to green out, the best approach is to remain calm, hydrate, and allow your body to recover. By understanding what greening out is and how to avoid it, you can ensure a more enjoyable experience with cannabis.
Now that you have a clearer understanding of what greening out is, its causes, symptoms, and potential remedies, you’re better equipped to navigate your cannabis experiences. Remember, responsible cannabis use, moderation, and awareness of your body’s limits are key to avoiding greening out and enjoying a positive experience. Stay informed, take care of yourself, and have a happy and safe cannabis journey!
