How Does THC Affect the Body?

Tertrahyrdocannabinol (THC) is the most recognized ingredient in marijuana. One of over 400 chemical compounds found in cannabis, THC is classified as a cannabinoid. When ingested into the system via smoking, eating or even applying it as a topical cream, the THC contents of marijuana will attach themselves to a built in receptor system found in the human body: The endocannabinoid system.  These cannabinoid receptors are responsible for sending chemical messages between nerve cells which affect regions of the brain that impact pleasure sensory, memory, concentration and coordination among other things.

Why do you feel “high”?

Cannabinoid receptors also have access to the brain’s reward system, and THC’s interaction with these regions of the brain cause them to release dopamine, a neurotransmitter that the body activates when something good happens unexpectedly- such as the sudden availability of food.  This interaction is responsible for the “high” that users experience upon ingesting products containing THC.

Everybody has a unique level of tolerance. As such, it is recommended that users first consult with a healthcare practitioner. Cannabinoids such as THC and CBD have quickly gained mainstream traction in the medical industry as being a safe alternative to both over the counter and prescription medications for a variety of symptoms and conditions.

Patients without previous exposure to THC may experience the effects of cannabis more acutely than those who have been predisposed to the medicine. Smoking marijuana results in a much more immediate experience of its effects, whilst edibles may take up to three hours for peak results. Effects can last several hours, depending on the method of delivery. Generally speaking, the high from smoking marijuana dissipates quicker than the high from edibles, which delivers both a ‘mental and physical’ high.

Edibles can come in the form of treats such as baked goods, gummy bears and even lollipops—all delivering the same therapeutic effects from THC. Edibles, when correctly acquired are a controlled dose and patients can decide whether to consume small or high doses. For those that are still seeking the effects of THC but prefer a different route, capsules are also available for medicating with the same controlled doses.

There are currently hundreds of medical applications for cannabis; from providing an alternative to pharmaceutical pain relievers to treating patients with mental disorders and severe disease states, cannabis has made an impact on the medical industry.