Marijuana is a substance that is widely used for many reasons. It can help with pain and anxiety, but it can also be a cause for addiction. In this article, we will examine some of the side effects and long-term effects that marijuana has on the brain.

THC

THC is a compound that makes people high. It acts on cannabinoid receptors located in the brain. These receptors send signals related to thinking and perception.

The amount of THC in marijuana has risen steadily in recent decades. However, scientists are still unclear about the long-term health consequences of increased potency.

Some people experience hallucinations or even psychosis when they consume marijuana at high doses. This is because THC quickly passes from the lungs into the bloodstream. In addition to its psychoactive effects, THC also has a long-lasting impact on the brain.

Scientists are investigating the role that CBD plays in treating neurodegenerative diseases. For instance, researchers believe that it may act as a blocking agent for opiate dependency.

Researchers also discovered that THC may enhance the pain-relieving effect of opiates. This is because, when ingested, it mimics a naturally occurring neurotransmitter called anandamide.

CBD

CBD is one of the main active cannabinoids in marijuana. It is a substance produced by the cannabis plant and is a non-psychoactive cousin of THC. Using CBD to treat a variety of health concerns is a growing trend, with the NIH calling for more clinical studies of the substance.

CBD is also found in hemp, which was made legal for cultivation in the United States in the recently passed Farm Bill. While hemp and marijuana are illegal federally, some states have legalized recreational and medicinal cannabis. In Nevada, for instance, you can legally purchase any kind of CBD product.

The jury is still out on how much CBD is in your average marijuana strain. You may find that the CBD in a hemp plant is less potent than the THC in the same plant. This makes it a better choice for someone looking for a full spectrum CBD.

Sativa vs sativa

Indica and sativa marijuana have different effects on users. This is due to the chemical composition and growth of the plants. A person's sensitivity to a particular strain will also have an impact on how it affects them.

The sativa plant typically has more THC and less CBD than the indica. Its leaves are thin and light green.

Sativas are known for producing an energizing and creative high. They are often recommended for people with depression or fatigue.

On the other hand, indicas produce a calming and relaxing effect. People with insomnia may prefer to use an indica at bedtime.

Despite the many differences in cannabis, both sativa and indica are considered to have medicinal benefits. Users report that sativa can help alleviate nausea, appetite loss and headaches.

Long-term effects on the brain

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, has been legalized in more and more states over the last two decades. Its effects on the brain continue to be a major topic of discussion, but much remains unknown.

Some studies have reported that chronic cannabis users have decreased gray matter volume in certain regions of the brain. Others have found no observable change. However, the effects of marijuana on the brain continue to be debated, as it is unclear whether the changes revert back to normal once abstinence takes place.

Researchers surveyed 48 marijuana users and 62 nonusing controls. The two groups were compared in a sample t test.

Compared with the controls, the marijuana group showed lower gray matter volume in several regions, including the orbitofrontal cortex and the left insula. These regions are rich in cannabinoid CB1 receptors.

Addiction

Marijuana addiction (or cannabis use disorder) is a condition where a person uses marijuana in a way that disrupts their life. It can also affect motivation, relationships, and decision-making. The disorder can also lead to health problems, such as heart disease, lung conditions, and mental illness. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available for this condition.

Although many people have a misconception about how to recognize and treat marijuana addiction, there are actually several treatment options available. These methods, largely focused on counseling and behavior change, are similar to those used for other drugs of abuse.

Behavioral therapy teaches marijuana users to cope with the problem, avoid using the substance, and develop skills to deal with the triggers that lead to relapse. This involves a combination of education, role-playing, and other interactive exercises.