What Are the Effects of Cannabis on the Body?

Posted by paul walker on August 29th, 2022

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, is a psychoactive plant native to Central and South Asia. It has been used for centuries for entheogenic and recreational purposes and in various traditional medicines. Read on to learn more about cannabis and its uses. You may be surprised to find out that marijuana is legal in many states. Cannabis is not for everyone, so make sure you know what to expect before trying it for the first time.

Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids in cannabis are chemical compounds that affect the body in a variety of ways. Their effects occur when they interact with receptors on cells and alter the release of several chemicals in the brain. These changes are thought to regulate the body's functions, including mood, appetite, and pain sensitivity.

Marijuana

Marijuana and cannabis can have various effects on the body. These effects can depend on the strength of the cannabis, the setting in which it is consumed, and the experience of the individual. In most cases, marijuana will cause a sense of euphoria and relaxation, though some users may experience visual hallucinations or self-harm. Acute marijuana intoxication can also cause increased risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. The drug can also impair driving abilities.

Hashish

Cannabis hashish is a cannabis product with psychoactive effects similar to those of marijuana. It is consumed in a variety of ways, including hot knifed, vaporized, and in bubblers. It can also be added to foods. However, it is illegal to sell or buy hashish in most countries, including the United States.

Vape

When cannabis is vaporized, it releases a variety of cannabinoids including Delta9-THC. These compounds are found in higher concentrations than in the liquid, but at lower levels than the active cannabinoid CBD. The vapor also contains minor cannabinoids such as CBT and CBN, which are formed from the compound Delta9-THC.

THC

THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is a primary cannabinoid found in cannabis. It is responsible for the intoxication and "high" that many people associate with marijuana. While THC has many therapeutic benefits, it also has several harmful side effects. In fact, some studies suggest that the higher THC concentrations in cannabis can actually increase those side effects. To determine how much THC is in a given cannabis flower, you can look for the THC potency in the label. Many strains can be up to 30% THC.

CBD

CBD cannabis is a form of medical marijuana that has many beneficial effects. It is thought to help with anxiety, insomnia, and stress. Users find it very relaxing. However, it is important to note that not all marijuana strains contain the same level of CBD, which makes it important to choose the right one for your needs.

Long-term effects

There are a variety of long-term effects associated with cannabis use. Among the most commonly reported side effects are changes in the hippocampus/parahippocampal complex, changes in the amygdala, and changes in executive and affective processing. Researchers are still exploring the long-term effects of cannabis and their possible causes.

Precautions

Whether you're a medical marijuana patient or an adult recreational user, it is important to take precautions when using cannabis. The combustion of cannabis releases a variety of contaminants and fumes that can irritate mucous membranes and the respiratory tract. To avoid these effects, never smoke cannabis, or hold it in your mouth or lungs. Exposure to marijuana smoke may also harm non-smokers, so avoid smoking around children or people who have respiratory diseases.