Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, a Cannabinoid Chemical Compound found in cannabis. This particular cannabinoid interacts with the receptors in the brain and body, eliciting a variety of physical and mental effects. There may be as many as 100 cannabinoids that interact with our endocrine system! However, THC is the most well-known because of its presence in all cannabis strains.
The body actually creates its own “endocannabinoids.” These are naturally producing THC-like compounds, aiding stability in the body and mind. An example of such is anandamide, which is the chemical compound that produces the “runners high” euphoria when one is engaging in aerobic exercise.
The human body is receptive to cannabinoids, and therefore THC, because of the receptors created and utilized for its own endocannabinoids. THC binds to our cannabinoid receptors in the brain and Central Nervous System, eliciting psychoactive effects. The type of receptor THC binds with is important; binding to the CB1 receptor allows THC to generate psychoactive properties. Cannabidol, or CBD, is another cannabinoid chemical compound without psychoactive effects, as it does not bind to the CB1 receptor. CBD is typically used for pain, inflammation, and anxiety relief.
Common short-term psychoactive effects of THC are well documented. These include positive effects such as elation, relaxation, sedation, pain relief, energy, hunger, and laughter. Some less positive effects associated with THC are memory impairment, drowsiness, dry mouth, red eyes, and anxiety. One can experience the effects of THC that they desire by choosing the strain that works best for you. For more on this, see our previous article “Which strain is best for me?”
Long-term effects of THC intake are not as well documented as research on these effects is generally new. However, it is known that one can not overdose on THC – an overdose has never been recorded in human history. We also know that with steady and ongoing use, tolerance to THC will go up. This can be remedied by taking tolerance breaks every once in a while. We suggest taking a three-day tolerance break now and again to give your body the optimal physical and mental reaction to your cannabis use.
Possible other long term effects could include a quicker onset of psychotic conditions for those pre-disposed to such conditions. Cannabis use may also effect memory long-term. However, we often find memory strengthens when one utilizes tolerance breaks.
The Medicinal Effects of cannabis are well documented. Using cannabis can aid in PTSD (if someone does not have a predisposition to psychotic conditions), neuropathic and chronic pain, insomnia nausea, inflammation, arthritis, migraines, cancer, Crohn’s Disease, Fibromyalgia, Multiple Sclerosis, Glaucoma, ADHD, Sleep Apnea, and appetite loss. And this is only what has been solidly documented so far! As research in the medicinal effects of THC continues, we believe more and more positive medicinal effects will be found.
Until then, enjoy your condition-tailored and quality weed from us at Weed Courier!
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