Auvrey Lavigne
Jul 21, 2017 · 3 min read

What Marijuana Does to Your Brain and Body

Pixabay.com

Marijuana is a combination of various parts of the Cannabis Sativa plant. It can be eaten, smoked, brewed, or even applied topically. However, most people prefer to smoke it. THC or tetrahydrocannabinol is the active chemical in marijuana that causes intoxication.

How to Consume Cannabis

Marijuana is typically smoked. The cannabis — also called weed, pot, grass — is spread on paper and formed into a cigarette. The THC is released when smoking the cigarette. The chemical goes into the blood stream through the lungs. Marijuana can also be smoked with the use of bongs, bubblers, and glass pipes.

People who are taking medical marijuana usually prefer ingesting it through food. Aside from the “pot brownie,” edible marijuana is also found in candy and ice cream. Cannabis is also available in liquid form. It is usually brewed as a tea or added to soda, milk, and alcohol. Oral sprays and tropical oils are also available for consumption.

Vaporization is a relatively new way of inhaling marijuana. It uses a device, such as an e-cigarette, to deliver the marijuana. This method is popularly called “vaping.” The cannabis is heated at a low temperature to release its oils or extracts.

How Marijuana Affects the Brain

The effects of marijuana on the brain depend on the quality and quantity consumed. The method of consumption also matters. A person who uses marijuana will have a feeling of euphoria — or high. Marijuana stimulates brain cells to release dopamine. When smoked or inhaled, the effect of marijuana is almost immediate. When ingested through food, it can take up to several hours for the chemical to signal the brain to release dopamine.

Mood changes may also occur, with many users reporting feeling relaxed after using marijuana. Some users experience an increase in sensory perception. Noises become louder and colors become more vivid. For some individuals, marijuana alters their perception of time and increases their appetite. The effect can vary from one person to another, depending on how often they use the drug and the strength of the drug.

Users may feel tired or depressed when coming down from a “high.” While the use of marijuana is known to produce a mellow experience, it can cause insomnia and irritability in some people.

How Marijuana Affects the Body

Marijuana smoke can cause the same respiratory issues experienced by those who smoke tobacco. Increased cough and phlegm production may occur, especially when there is an excessive intake of marijuana.

It was once believed that marijuana smoking could increase the risk of lung cancer. However, a study in 2013 by Dr. Tashkin of UCLA showed that even heavy marijuana users do not seem to be at a higher risk of developing lung cancer.

Marijuana can also increase the heart rate by 20 to 100 percent, and this effect can last for three hours. It is important to know the effects of marijuana to both the brain and body before giving it a try. This is the main reason why companies are making their workers go through a hair drug test. Having a clear understanding of what marijuana can do for you allow you to take full advantage of the benefits of this popular plant.

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