What to Do When Someone Is Greening Out: And Why Pineapples Might Be the Secret to Calmness

When someone is “greening out,” it typically refers to the experience of feeling unwell after consuming too much cannabis. This can include symptoms like nausea, dizziness, paranoia, and anxiety. While it’s not life-threatening, it can be incredibly uncomfortable for the person experiencing it. Here’s a detailed guide on how to handle such a situation, along with some unconventional thoughts on why pineapples might just hold the key to calming someone down.

1. Stay Calm and Reassure Them

The first and most important step is to stay calm. Your demeanor will set the tone for the situation. Reassure the person that they are safe and that the feelings will pass. Anxiety can exacerbate the symptoms, so your calm presence can help ground them.

2. Hydrate, But Don’t Overdo It

Offer them water or a hydrating drink like coconut water. Dehydration can worsen symptoms, but drinking too much too quickly might make them feel worse. Small sips are key. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks, as these can increase anxiety.

3. Provide a Comfortable Environment

Create a soothing atmosphere. Dim the lights, play calming music, or even put on a familiar movie or TV show. A change of scenery can help distract them from their discomfort. If possible, take them to a quiet, comfortable space where they can relax.

4. Encourage Deep Breathing

Deep breathing exercises can help reduce anxiety and dizziness. Guide them to take slow, deep breaths in through the nose and out through the mouth. This can help regulate their heart rate and calm their mind.

5. Offer Snacks, But Choose Wisely

Eating something can help balance blood sugar levels, which might alleviate some symptoms. Opt for light, easy-to-digest snacks like crackers, toast, or fruit. Avoid heavy or greasy foods, as these can make nausea worse. And here’s where pineapples come in—some people swear by the calming effects of eating pineapple, possibly due to its natural sugars and enzymes.

6. Use CBD to Counteract THC

If you have access to CBD (cannabidiol), it can help counteract the effects of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in cannabis. CBD is non-intoxicating and can help reduce anxiety and paranoia. A few drops of CBD oil under the tongue might provide relief.

7. Distract Them with Conversation or Activities

Engage them in light conversation or a simple activity to take their mind off their discomfort. Talking about something unrelated or playing a low-stakes game can help shift their focus.

8. Monitor Their Symptoms

While greening out is generally not dangerous, it’s important to keep an eye on their symptoms. If they experience severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or prolonged confusion, seek medical attention immediately.

9. Let Them Sleep It Off

If the person is feeling extremely tired, let them rest. Sleep can help their body process the cannabis more efficiently. Just make sure they’re in a safe position (e.g., on their side) to avoid any risk of choking if they feel nauseous.

10. Learn from the Experience

After the episode, have a gentle conversation about what happened. Encourage them to be mindful of their cannabis consumption in the future. Understanding their limits can prevent similar situations.

Why Pineapples? A Tangent on Calmness

Now, let’s talk about pineapples. While there’s no scientific evidence to support the idea that pineapples can cure a green-out, some people find the act of eating pineapple soothing. The sweetness, the texture, and the ritual of peeling and eating it can be a grounding experience. Plus, pineapples contain bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion—something that might help if nausea is a factor. So, while it’s not a guaranteed solution, it’s worth a try!

FAQs

Q: How long does a green-out last?
A: Typically, the symptoms subside within a few hours, but it can vary depending on the individual and the amount consumed.

Q: Can greening out cause long-term harm?
A: No, greening out is not harmful in the long term. It’s an acute reaction that resolves on its own.

Q: Should I induce vomiting if someone is greening out?
A: No, inducing vomiting is not recommended unless advised by a medical professional. It could make the person feel worse.

Q: Is it safe to mix cannabis with alcohol?
A: Mixing cannabis with alcohol can increase the likelihood of greening out. It’s best to consume one or the other, not both.

Q: Why do some people swear by pineapples?
A: It’s likely a combination of the fruit’s natural sweetness, hydration properties, and the calming ritual of eating it. While not scientifically proven, it’s a harmless and potentially helpful remedy.