This website is informational and cannot diagnose or treat illness or disease. Medical marijuana should be used under the direction of a licensed healthcare provider. This site contains advertisements. If you click a link and make a purchase, MarijuanaMommy.com may receive a commission.
Understanding The Real Effects of THC
Introduction
Marijuana, ganja, the chronic, bud, pot, grass, and reefer, as well as many other names, are all designators for the same the same thing; the cannabis plant. Few plants are, or probably ever have been, as controversial as the cannabis plant.
In some places, simply possessing any part of this plant, can land you in prison. In other locales, possession can lead to being sentenced to death or life in a work internment camp.
Still, in some parts of the world, cannabis is understood and appreciated as a medication. It’s embraced for its natural medicinal qualities. Other places are even more lenient, allowing legal recreational use by adults.
The laws regarding cannabis vary greatly depending on one’s location.
Despite the trend of cannabis being legalized, there is still a lack of research. Misconceptions about the effects of cannabis abound.
Components of Cannabis
As scientific research becomes more readily available, we’re beginning to understand much more about this plant and the chemical components that form it.
Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are the chemical components in marijuana. Cannabinoids include THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, THCV, and more
But cannabinoids are not exclusive to marijuana. Cannabinoids are present in all plants, and they are even produced naturally within our own bodies.
The Endocannabinoid System
There’s an entire physiological regulation system, that manages and maintains our natural cannabinoids. That’s system is called the Endocannabinoid System (ECS).
The ECS regulates many things in our bodies, but mainly plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis, or critical balance within our cells and body.
The Most Famous Cannabinoid
THC is the best known and most common cannabinoid
Today we will be exploring the effects of THC, how it works, and some of the misconceptions surrounding it; so join us and let’s get started!
What Is TCH?
THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol is one of many naturally occurring cannabinoids in cannabis.
It’s also the most active cannabinoid. THC is the chemical responsible for the feeling of euphoria, happiness, and so many other feelings. It is what makes us feel high.
How Does THC Work?
THC possesses many medical properties.
Side-Effects Of THC Are Temporary
THC naturally interacts with the ECS, producing a variety of physical and mental effects, but all of these effects are temporary. When the drug leaves your system, both the health benefits and the unpleasant effects will wear off.
Benefits of THC
THC offers a variety of medical and wellness benefits. It’s also used recreationally to induce feelings of euphoria.
- Euphoria
- Stress Relief
- Seizure Control
- May slow the progression of Alzheimer’s
- Decreases Anxiety
- Treats PTSD
- Pain Relief
- Muscle Spasm Relief
- May boost the immune system
- Helps alleviate inflammation
- Nausea & Vomiting Relief
- Appetite stimulant/Balances metabolic function
- Enhances Sleep
Is THC Dangerous?
It’s important to note no one has ever died from a cannabis overdose.
Still, that does not make cannabis completely benign. Marijuana is a drug and needs to be used responsibly.
It’s also important to remember, side effects vary greatly according to the strain you’re using, the method of consumption, and the tolerance of the user.
Every person can react differently to the same strain. For example, Sour Diesel might make me anxious, but make you feel relaxed.
Negative Side Effects of THC
Cannabis can cause some unpleasant side effects, especially if an individual overconsumes cannabis (which is very easy to do, especially with edibles). Negative side effects of THC include:
- Dry, Red Eyes
- Dry Mouth
- Paranoia & Anxiety (this is often related to overconsumption or strain sensitivity)
- Negative effects on short-term memory
- Difficulty with timing and problem solving
- Changes in body temperature
- Changes in mood
- Increased heart rate
- Mental impairment
- Possible effects on the development of the brain in youths who consume cannabis
(Read: The Most Important Thing To Tell Your Kid About Cannabis) - May increase the risk of psychosis in high-risk patients.
(See 5 Other Normal Things That Increase the Risk of Psychosis More Than Cannabis)
Dangerous Effects:
Some extremely limited studies have shown THC use may temporarily weaken the heart muscle. Users with a history of cardiac issues should use cannabis under the guidance of a licensed healthcare provider.
Cannabis should not be used by anyone in liver failure.
When it comes to potentially dangerous side effects of THC, the biggest risk is often a simpler allergy. Cannabis and THC allergies do exist.
A cannabis allergy manifests the same as any other allergy. Potentially, a person can go into anaphylactic shock. Anaphylactic shock can be deadly without proper medical treatment.
A Note About Mental Impairment
Cannabis can cause mental impairment. Overuse is discouraged. Cannabis should be used responsibly.
DO NOT DRIVE while intoxicated on cannabis, or any other substance. Do not operate machinery while intoxicated.
Also, keep in mind that mental impairment can increase the risk of falls or disorientation in the elderly.
Long-Term Side Effects of THC
The long-term side effects of THC are not completely understood due to the lack of reliable long-term research.
One specific study showed periodontal disease was the only notable long-term side effect of cannabis use, but research has not yet been conducted to reliably determine the long-term health effects.
Conclusion
The effects of THC can be wide and varied, new users should always start small as dosage and strain can dramatically impact side effects.
In the end, the effects you experience are going to depend on many factors. How long you feel high also depends also on the dosage, method of consumption, and tolerance of the user.
It is challenging to predict how an individual will react, they might experience common side effects like dry eyes, or they may experience anxiety.
If you do experience anxiety, you can take comfort in the fact that there has never been a case of a cannabis overdose.
About the author:
MMJ Canada has provided cannabis and cannabis alternatives to eligible patients in a safe, professional, and upscale environment for over 4 years. Offering free education from our friendly consultants, as well as complimentary consultations with medical professionals who have dedicated their time to educating patients on what will work best.Trending Now
