How does marijuana affect the human brain?

Marijuana is one of the most debated topics in the field of natural substances and its impact on the human body. While some consider it a natural miracle, others warn about its potential negative effects. Whether you belong to either group, one thing is certain: marijuana has specific effects on the human brain, which vary depending on the amount, frequency of use, and individual factors. Let’s take a look at what science says about it.

What does marijuana contain and how does it work?

Marijuana contains hundreds of chemical compounds, but the main "players" are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).

• THC is a psychoactive compound responsible for the feeling of euphoria, altered perception, and other typical "high" effects.
• CBD, on the other hand, does not have psychoactive effects but has calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

All of these compounds affect the endocannabinoid system in the brain, which is a network of receptors that regulate sleep, appetite, mood, memory, and pain. The main receptors are CB1 (mainly in the brain) and CB2 (throughout the rest of the body).

Short-term effects of marijuana on the brain

After consuming marijuana, THC quickly binds to CB1 receptors, causing changes in brain function. Typical short-term effects include:

1. Euphoria and relaxation: Many users describe a sense of happiness, calm, and relaxation.

2. Changes in the perception of time and space: Time may seem slower, and the senses may become more acute.

3. Impaired short-term memory: Studies show that THC temporarily impairs the ability to store new information.

4. Increased appetite: This effect is known as the "munchies" and is caused by the stimulation of receptors that affect hunger.

According to a 2016 study published in the Journal of Neuroscience, marijuana use increases activity in parts of the brain responsible for sensory perception and relaxation, explaining more intense experiences.

Long-term effects of marijuana on the brain

Long-term marijuana use can have various impacts, especially if started at a young age when the brain is still developing.

1. Memory and learning: Chronic marijuana use can impair learning ability and memory retention. Research from the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences in 2014 found that adolescents who regularly used marijuana showed changes in the hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for memory.

2. IQ and cognitive abilities: Some studies suggest that regular use may lead to a slight decrease in IQ, especially in young users. The decline in IQ due to marijuana use has not been confirmed, but other factors such as environment, education, and so on are speculated. Marijuana may influence behavior. However, it is important to note that marijuana does affect our brain, especially if a person is still developing and regularly uses marijuana at a young age.

3. Risk of addiction: Approximately 9% of marijuana users become dependent, with the risk being higher among those who started in adolescence (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2018).

4. Emotions and mental health: For some people, long-term use can increase the risk of anxiety, depression, or even psychotic disorders, especially if they have a genetic predisposition.

Is marijuana a medicine or a drug?

However, not everything is just black and white. Marijuana also has the potential to help in the treatment of certain neurological and psychological conditions:

1. Chronic pain: THC and CBD help alleviate pain, which is crucial for many patients with chronic conditions.

2. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Studies show that marijuana can help alleviate symptoms like nightmares and anxiety.

3. Epilepsy: Medicinal CBD-based products, such as Epidiolex, have proven effective in treating certain types of epilepsy.

4. Neuroprotection: CBD has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may protect brain cells from damage.

Marijuana is psychoactive and may have more side effects than CBD, which is non-psychoactive. CBD, on the other hand, has tremendous health potential and can improve your health in many ways.

Factors affecting the effects of marijuana on the brain

One of the key factors influencing marijuana’s effects on the brain is age. The brains of young people are simply more sensitive to THC since they are still developing, and it can be said that it is unwise to overuse marijuana at a young age. However, age is not the only factor that affects these effects. The dosage and frequency of use also play a role. Since higher doses of THC can cause stronger side effects, such as paranoia or anxiety. If you are a regular user, you have a higher probability of experiencing long-term negative effects from marijuana than those who use it occasionally.

What to take away from this? Marijuana has a complex effect on the brain, which can be both positive and negative. While short-term use can provide relaxation and altered perception, long-term use, especially in young people, can have lasting effects on memory, learning, and mental health.

Science shows us that marijuana is not just "good" or "bad". It depends on how, when, and why you use it. Whether you are interested in recreational or medicinal use, it is always important to approach it responsibly and be aware of all potential effects.

What do you think about marijuana and its impact on the brain? 🌿