How to Handle Greening Out

Greening out is a term commonly used in the cannabis community to describe the experience of consuming too much cannabis, leading to an overwhelming sense of anxiety, dizziness, nausea, and sometimes even fainting. It’s a state that many cannabis users have encountered, especially new consumers or those who unintentionally overindulge. While greening out can feel alarming, it’s important to remember that it is temporary and can be managed effectively. Here’s a guide on how to handle greening out and recover quickly from the experience.

Understanding Greening Out

When you “green out,” you are likely experiencing the effects of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) in your system at a level that is too high for your body to comfortably process. THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces the “high” feeling, and for some, the effects can be intense, especially when consumed in large quantities. Factors such as tolerance, the strain of cannabis, and individual body chemistry can influence how someone reacts to THC.

Common symptoms of greening out include dizziness, nausea, a racing heart, anxiety, paranoia, dry mouth, and sometimes even vomiting. While it can feel unsettling, the good news is that greening out is generally not dangerous and is only temporary. With the right approach, you can mitigate the effects and recover.

Steps to Handle Greening Out

1. Stay Calm and Breathe

The most important step when you feel yourself greening out is to stay calm. The anxiety and paranoia that can accompany overconsumption often worsen when we panic. Take deep, slow breaths and remind yourself that the experience is temporary. It can be helpful to close your eyes and focus on your breathing, which can ground you in the present moment and reduce the intensity of negative emotions.

2. Find a Comfortable Spot

If you feel lightheaded or nauseous, find a safe and comfortable space where you can relax. Lying down or sitting in a quiet place can help ease the discomfort. A calm environment with dim lighting can reduce overstimulation and help you feel more at ease.

3. Hydrate with Water

One of the most common symptoms of greening out is dry mouth, and dehydration can exacerbate the feeling of being overly high. Drinking water is essential to hydrate your body and flush out some of the THC in your system. Avoid alcohol or caffeinated beverages, as they may further dehydrate you and make you feel more anxious.

4. Eat Something Light

If you’re feeling nauseous, eating a light snack can help settle your stomach. Opt for something simple and easily digestible like crackers, fruit, or a piece of bread. While you may not feel like eating, consuming a small amount of food can help ease nausea and ground your experience.

5. Peppercorns or Black Pepper

An unexpected but effective remedy for greening out is black pepper. Many users report that smelling or chewing on black peppercorns can counteract the anxiety and paranoia associated with overconsumption of THC. Black pepper contains the compound beta-caryophyllene, which can have calming effects and may help alleviate symptoms like dizziness or confusion. It’s a simple and natural way to calm your mind and body.

6. Focus on Something Positive

Distracting yourself with something positive or calming can help shift your focus away from the discomfort. Listen to soothing music, watch a calming video, or talk to a friend. Sometimes, hearing a friendly voice or focusing on a pleasant activity can help you feel more in control and less overwhelmed by the high.

7. Wait It Out

The effects of greening out will naturally subside with time. THC can stay in your system for several hours, but the intensity of the symptoms will gradually decrease. It’s important to be patient and avoid trying to counteract the high with more cannabis or other substances, as this can worsen the situation.

Prevention Tips for the Future

The best way to handle greening out is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are some tips to avoid overconsumption:

• Know Your Limits: Start with a small dose, especially if you are new to cannabis. Over time, you can gradually increase the amount you consume, but always listen to your body.

• Choose Low-THC Strains: Some cannabis strains have higher THC content than others, which can intensify the effects. Opt for strains with lower THC levels if you're sensitive to its effects.

• Take Breaks: If you're smoking or vaping, take frequent breaks to gauge how you're feeling before consuming more.

• Avoid Mixing Substances: Combining cannabis with alcohol or other drugs can amplify the effects and make greening out more likely.

Conclusion

Greening out, while unpleasant, is not a cause for alarm. By staying calm, hydrating, eating lightly, and using natural remedies like black pepper, you can manage the symptoms and recover quickly. Understanding your limits and being mindful of how much cannabis you consume can help prevent greening out from occurring in the future. With the right approach, you can enjoy cannabis safely and responsibly.