How Does Cannabis Interact With the Human Body?

Cannabis is one of the most widely used drugs in the world, with millions of people using it for recreational and medical purposes. While its effects on the body are well known, how does it interact with our bodies? In this article, we look at how cannabis interacts with our bodies and discuss its potential benefits and risks.

How Cannabis Affects the Human Brain

Cannabis interacts with the brain’s endocannabinoid system, regulating mood, appetite, pain, and various functions. When cannabis is consumed, the primary psychoactive ingredient, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), binds to these receptors and causes changes in the brain. The effects of cannabis on the brain can vary greatly depending on several factors. These factors include the potency of the THC, the method of consumption, and the individual’s tolerance, among others. Some common effects of cannabis on the brain include:

Alterations in the mood: Cannabis can induce feelings of relaxation, euphoria, and happiness, as well as anxiety, paranoia, and depression in some users.

Changes in perception: Cannabis can alter the user’s perception of time, space, and color and cause visual and auditory hallucinations.

Impairments in cognitive function: Cannabis impairs memory, attention, and cognitive functions, hindering learning and complex task performance.

Effects on motor function: Cannabis can impair motor coordination and reaction time, which can be dangerous when operating heavy machinery or driving a car.

How Cannabis Affects the Endocannabinoid System

The ECS is a vital cell-signaling system regulating diverse physiological processes in the human body. These include mood, appetite, sleep, pain sensation, and immune function.

When you consume cannabis, the active compounds in the plant, such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), interact with the ECS by binding to the cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2). This binding triggers various effects within the body, depending on activated receptors and the levels of THC and CBD in the cannabis product.

THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, produces the “high” associated with recreational marijuana use. When THC binds to the CB1 receptors, it stimulates the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which can result in altered perceptions, increased appetite, and reduced pain perception.

CBD, on the other hand, is non-psychoactive and is known for its potential therapeutic benefits, such as reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and reducing inflammation. CBD interacts with the ECS by indirectly affecting the levels of endocannabinoids, such as anandamide, produced and broken down by the body.

Cannabis-ECS interaction yields therapeutic and psychoactive effects based on consumption type and amount, influenced by individual biochemistry. However, excessive or prolonged use may disrupt ECS, causing adverse effects like memory impairment and reduced motivation.

The Benefits of Cannabis on Health and Wellbeing

Cannabis is a naturally occurring plant used for medicinal and recreational purposes for centuries. Here are some of the potential benefits of cannabis on health and well-being:

Pain relief: Cannabis provides effective pain relief, especially for chronic conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis.

Anxiety and depression relief: Some people use cannabis to manage symptoms of anxiety and depression. Research gaps persist, but some studies hint at cannabis compounds potentially alleviating mental health symptoms.

Nausea and vomiting relief: Cannabis has been used to treat symptoms of nausea and vomiting, especially in patients undergoing chemotherapy for cancer treatment.

Improved sleep: Some people report that cannabis helps them sleep better, particularly those who suffer from sleep disorders like insomnia.

Appetite stimulation: Cannabis, renowned for boosting appetite, proves invaluable for individuals facing challenges in maintaining a healthy weight, including those undergoing chemotherapy or dealing with eating disorders.

Potential Risks Associated with Cannabis Use

People have used Cannabis for medicinal and recreational purposes, but its use carries potential risks.

Impairment of cognitive and motor skills: Cannabis use can impair cognitive and motor skills, making activities such as driving, operating heavy machinery, and even simple tasks like texting or cooking dangerous.

Addiction: Cannabis use can lead to the development of problem use, known as a cannabis use disorder, which takes the form of addiction in severe cases.

Mental health: Cannabis use has been linked to an increased risk of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and psychotic disorders.

Respiratory problems: Cannabis smoke contains many of the same toxins, irritants, and carcinogens as tobacco smoke, which can lead to respiratory problems.

Interaction with other substances: Cannabis use can interact with other substances, such as prescription medications and alcohol, potentially leading to adverse side effects or dangerous interactions.

Harm to the developing fetus: Cannabis use during pregnancy has been linked to a range of adverse outcomes for the developing fetus, including decreased birth weight, increased risk of behavioral and cognitive problems, and impaired brain development.

Legal consequences: Cannabis is illegal federally in many countries, with potential criminal charges and imprisonment for its use, possession, and sale.

Strategies for Safe and Responsible Consumption

Safe and responsible consumption entails informed choices about what, how, and the impact of consumption on oneself and the environment. Here are some strategies for safe and responsible consumption:

Reduce waste: Minimize the amount of waste you produce by purchasing only what you need and reducing packaging. Choose products with minimal packaging or packaging that is recyclable.

Choose sustainable products: Seek products crafted from sustainable or recycled materials with minimal environmental impact.

Support ethical brands: Choose brands with a proven track record of ethical and responsible practices, such as fair labor practices, environmentally sustainable manufacturing processes, and transparent supply chains.

Educate yourself: Take the time to learn about the products you buy and the companies that make them. Read labels, research products online, and ask questions to make informed purchasing decisions.

Buy locally: When possible, purchase products that are made locally. This helps to support local economies and reduce the carbon footprint of transportation.

Limit single-use items: Reduce your use of single-use items, such as disposable plastics, by opting for reusable alternatives.

Eat a balanced diet: Eating a healthy, balanced diet is essential for both physical and environmental health. Choose fresh, locally sourced, seasonal foods, and limit processed and packaged foods.

Make conscious choices: Be mindful of your consumption habits and their impact. Consider the necessity and opt for eco-friendly products before making a purchase.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cannabis interacts with the human body through its main active ingredient, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which binds to specific receptors in the brain and central nervous system called cannabinoid receptors. This interaction results in various effects on the body, including altered perceptions, increased appetite, decreased nausea and pain, and changes in mood and cognition. Furthermore, experts believe that cannabidiol (CBD), another primary compound in cannabis, possesses therapeutic effects without inducing the “high” linked to THC. The specific effects of cannabis can vary based on the potency and method of use, as well as individual factors such as tolerance, body weight, and metabolism.