The Effects of THC on the Body
The drug marijuana goes by many names, such as weed, pot, dope, and grass. The cannabis plant is the source of various substances with different names. It might be smoked, vaped, drunk, or eaten. Marijuana is, most often, used for pleasure and enjoyment. However, it is increasingly being given by doctors to patients for particular medical issues and symptoms.
Some people say they use it to help with:
- anxiety;
- depression;
- PTSD;
- insomnia;
- chronic pain;
- muscle spasms.
About THC
Marijuana contains a chemical called THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). It’s this substance that gives users a “high.” But THC also has some therapeutic effects. For example, you can use Delta 8 THC gummies for pain cure and stress relief. Moreover, it can:
- reduce anxiety;
- relieve pain;
- promote sleep.
In addition, THC appears to have some anti-cancer properties. Much research still needs to be conducted in this area.
How THC Affects the Body
Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain. These are special sites that respond to chemicals in the cannabis plant. When THC attaches to these receptors, it activates them and causes changes in the brain. Cannabinoid receptors can also be found in other parts of the body, including the immune and digestive systems. THC binds to receptors too, which may explain why it has a wide range of effects on the body.
THC affects different people in different ways. The drug can make some people feel relaxed and happy. Others may feel confused, anxious, or paranoid. Some people may also experience:
- euphoria;
- enhanced senses;
- increased appetite;
- fatigue;
- dry mouth;
- red eyes;
- paranoia;
- anxiety;
- psychosis.
The effects of THC depend on how much you use, your level of tolerance, and how you take it. Smoking or vaping generally produces the fastest and strongest results. Edibles can take up to 2 hours to take effect.
How Does THC Affect Your Brain?
THC affects your brain by binding to cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are located throughout your body, but they’re most concentrated in certain areas. The highest density of cannabinoid receptors is found in the brain and spinal cord. These areas are responsible for pain, emotion, thinking, and pleasure. THC binds to these receptors and alters their functioning, and this can lead to changes in mood, perception, and behavior.
Cannabis Can Also Have Therapeutic Effects
Cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. In recent years, more and more people are using it to treat various conditions and symptoms. The benefits of cannabis are currently being studied for their potential to:
- reduce inflammation;
- stimulate appetite;
- protect the brain from damage;
- slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
THC and CBD
The two main chemicals in cannabis are THC and CBD. They have different effects on the body. THC is the substance that gets you high. CBD does not make you high but has been shown to have various therapeutic effects.
Different strains of cannabis have different ratios of THC and CBD. Some of them have more THC and less CBD, while others have more CBD and less THC.
The effects of cannabis also depend on the ratio of THC to CBD. Cannabis with a higher ratio of THC to CBD is more likely to have psychoactive effects. Cannabis with a higher ratio of CBD to THC is more likely to have therapeutic effects.
CBD is thought to:
- reduce anxiety;
- relieve pain;
- promote sleep;
- treat cancer pains;
- treat seizures.
How Long Does THC Stay in Your Body?
THC can be detected in:
- Urine: Up to 30 days;
- Blood: Up to 7 days;
- Saliva: Up to 72 hours;
- Hair: Up to 90 days.
The amount of time THC stays in your system depends on how often you use it. The same scheme is also applicable here — the longer you use it, the longer it will stay in your body.
Ways to Use Marijuana
There are many ways to use marijuana. The most common way is to smoke it in the form of a joint (a cigarette made with cannabis) or in a pipe. You can also vape it, inhaling the vapor from the plant material or oil.
Another way to use marijuana is to eat it. It is called “edibles.” Edibles are foods that contain cannabis. They can be cookies, brownies, candy, or other food items.
You can also drink it in the form of tea or coffee. These are called “cannabis-infused” drinks.
Cannabis oil is another way to use marijuana. Cannabis oil is made by extracting THC from the plant material. This form is gaining popularity in the last few years due to its properties and effectiveness. It can be used in many different ways, including:
- ingesting it;
- applying it to the skin;
- inhaling it.
Marijuana and Your Health
Marijuana use can have both short- and long-term effects on your health. The short-term effects of marijuana may be different depending on how you take it. Smoking or vaping marijuana can have different short-term effects than eating it.
Short-Term Effects
The short-term effects of marijuana include:
- euphoria;
- relaxation;
- increased appetite;
- dry mouth;
- red eyes;
- slowed reaction time;
- anxiety or paranoia.
Long-Term Effects
The long-term effects of marijuana include:
- cognitive impairment;
- addiction;
- increased risk of lung cancer;
- decreased motivation;
- anxiety and depression.
The short-term effects of marijuana are usually not serious. However, they can be dangerous if you are driving or operating machinery. The long-term effects of marijuana may not be as obvious but can lead to serious health problems.
Final Words
Marijuana is a complex and controversial substance. It has the potential to help people with certain medical conditions and can be used in different ways. Although it has many benefits, it also comes with potential risks. If you are considering using marijuana, ensure to do your research and talk to your healthcare provider first.
Always start with smaller doses and quality products to reduce the risk of any adverse effects. If you do experience any adverse effects, stop using marijuana and talk to your healthcare provider. Carefully check all the information about the product of your choice and be aware of possible side effects.
