According to the WHO, around 147 million people or 2.5% of the world population consume cannabis. As more and more countries join the club on legalizing medical marijuana usage, one cannot ignore the controversial debates that surround this action. Are there truly health benefits to the consumption of cannabis? What about mental health benefits? Are there any acute or chronic health effects to this consumption?
Cannabis is a common term for a variety of psychoactive preparations of the Cannabis sativa plant. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the psychoactive component of cannabis that produces the “high” sensation associated with marijuana. The way that this functions is that THC attaches to cannabinoid receptor molecules found within brain areas and activates them. These brain areas influence pleasure, memory, thinking, concentration, movement, coordination, and sensory and time perception which is what causes the variety of feelings encountered in the “high” of cannabis.
One of the main reasons used to demonstrate the good side of marijuana consumption is chronic relief pain. Because of their chemical composition, cannabinoids have been linked to providing relief from chronic pain. For patients suffering from multiple sclerosis, when taking marijuana, they have seen a reduction in the pain born from strong muscle contractions. Additionally it has been found that cannabis also aids with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. THC has been shown to improve immune response while also interacting with cells that are essential for gut health. Cannabis aids in the blocking of bacteria and other compounds that induce gastrointestinal inflammation. With their pain reduced, there is a higher sense of morale and a less sense of nihilism.
Not only has marijuana proven to have aided physically, it has also shown promising results with more neurological and mental disorders. In a study involving PTSD, individuals have been shown to help control the fight or flight response, preventing it from going into overdrive. With others battling depression, many have seen their periodical moods ease with endocannabinoid compounds found in cannabis. Those suffering from anxiety have experienced alleviation and a more calm nature when taking in a monitored dose. Lastly individuals with ADHD and ADD who tend to have cognitive and concentration problems have seen promising results with cannabis as intaking it has helped them focus. Some scientists have also found this as a safer alternative to the more common drug: Adderall and Ritalin.
Naturally with positives, there are negatives to the consumption of marijuana. As mentioned before, THC interacts with certain parts of the brain. A sector of the brain that THC interacts with is the hippocampus and the orbitofrontal cortex which are the areas that correspond to memory and attention. Because of this, when one is under the influence of marijuana, the individual may experience impaired thinking, learning and performance of complicated tasks. Another area of the brain also affected would be the cerebellum and basal ganglia which are the areas that correspond to balance, coordination, and reaction time. This may be the reason why individuals who take marijuna are unable to drive safely and find trouble engaging in physical activities. In some occasions, cannabis has also been found to exacerbate schizophrenia in affected individuals.
Just like smoking any type of substance, one’s lungs take a massive hit. Smoking cannabis is no different. According to the WHO, those who frequently smoke cannabis can end up with an epithelial injury of the trachea and major bronchi. Long term smokers have also been found with airway injury, lung inflammation, and impaired pulmonary defence against infection. Lastly, heavy cannabis use is related to a higher incidence of chronic bronchitis symptoms and a higher rate of acute bronchitis than the non-smoking population.
With many countries jumping in line to legalize marijuana, one cannot help to research the pros and cons to this action. Even though there have been many proven benefits, a lot of these results are found through small research samples and others are still undergoing research. One should always question if the benefits outweigh the consequences. Are we even equipped to battle on these consequences?
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