There has long been debate on if Cannabis is harmful to our bodies or not. The answer isn’t exactly as straightforward as you might think. Cannabis actually affects our bodies in multiple different ways. We are going to go over these different ways below.
THC triggers your brain to release large amounts of dopamine, a chemical that occurs naturally and makes you feel good. This can heighten your sensory perception and your perception of time. In the hippocampus, THC changes the way you process information, so your judgment may be impaired. The hippocampus is responsible for memory, so it may also be difficult to form new memories under the influence of Cannabis.
Changes also take place in the cerebellum and basal ganglia, areas of your brain that play roles in movement and balance, meaning your balance, coordination, and reflex responses can be altered.
Very large doses of Cannabis or high concentrations of THC can cause hallucinations.
THC moves from your lungs into your bloodstream and throughout your body. Within minutes, your heart rate can increase by 20 to 50 beats per minute. This can continue for up to three hours. If you have heart disease, this could increase your risk of a heart attack.
One of the telltale signs of recent Cannabis use is bloodshot eyes, and the reason for this is because Cannabis causes the blood vessels in the eyes to expand. THC can also lower pressure in the eyes, which can ease symptoms of glaucoma for a few hours.
In the long term, Cannabis has a possible positive effect on your circulatory system. Cannabis also effects the central nervous system. It can ease pain and inflammation and help control spasms and seizures.
When you come down from the high, you may feel tired or a bit depressed. In some people, Cannabis can cause anxiety. Symptoms of withdrawal can include irritability, insomnia, and loss of appetite.
In people younger than 25 years, whose brains have not yet fully developed, Cannabis can have a lasting impact on thinking and memory processes. Using Cannabis while pregnant can also affect the brain of your unborn baby. Your child may have trouble with memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills. Cannabis can cause digestive issues when taken orally.
For example, oral THC can cause nausea and vomiting because of the way it is processed in your liver, meaning it can also cause liver damage when taken this way. However, Cannabis can also be used to ease symptoms of nausea or upset stomach.
An increased appetite is normal when taking Cannabis in any form, leading to what many call “the munchies.”
This is considered a benefit for people being treated with chemotherapy for cancer. For others who are looking to lose weight, this effect could be considered a disadvantage. As you can see, there are numerous positive and negative effects that you can experience by using Cannabis.
We believe the best way to consume Cannabis is by vaporizing it, as you avoid the harmful effects that can come from smoking it.