If you tried cannabis before, you must know the aftereffects, but have you ever wondered how cannabis affects your body and creates such illusional effects? If you don’t know, just wait we will unveil the behind-the-science of cannabis effects in this blog.
We all know that cannabis, known as marijuana, has been used for centuries for its medicinal, recreational, and therapeutic properties. But then, people didn’t know how it worked. But in recent times, research has been going on how it truly affects the human mind & body and how we can use it for only our benefit.
The good part is that it is going to have positive results in this sector, and we hope for more discoveries regarding cannabis for our medical industry. This blog dives into the fascinating science of cannabis—how its key compounds interact with our body’s own systems, the benefits they may offer, and the potential risks involved. Let’s jump to a quick discussion!
What is Cannabis?
Cannabis is basically a plant that contains that has been used for centuries for its therapeutic and psychoactive effects. It contains more than 100 natural compounds, including THC and CBD. THC is responsible for the “high” effect, while CBD is non-intoxicating and used for medicinal purposes.
People use cannabis for medical reasons (pain relief, anxiety, epilepsy), recreational use (relaxation, euphoria), and industrial purposes (hemp for textiles, paper, and biofuel). You can take cannabis in different forms, like smoking, vaping, edibles, oils, and tinctures.
Key Compounds in Cannabis
Cannabis contains hundreds of chemical compounds, but two stand out for their profound effects:
- THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) – The primary psychoactive component responsible for the “high.” It binds to brain receptors, altering perception, mood, and pain sensation.
- CBD (Cannabidiol) – Non-intoxicating and known for its calming, anti-inflammatory, and anti-seizure properties.
- Other Cannabinoids & Terpenes – Compounds like CBG (cannabigerol) and CBN (cannabinol) play supporting roles, while terpenes (like myrcene and limonene) influence aroma and may enhance effects through the “entourage effect.”
THC vs CBD: The Key Difference
What is the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)?
The human body has a complex regulatory system known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis. It’s a complex cell-signaling network that helps regulate your mood & stress, pain perception, appetite & digestion, memory & learning, and immune response.
How the ECS Works:
- CB1 Receptors – It works mostly in the brain and nervous system; THC binds here, causing psychoactive effects.
- CB2 Receptors – It found in immune cells, influencing inflammation and pain relief.
- Endocannabinoids – Naturally occurring molecules (like anandamide) that act similarly to cannabis compounds.
- Enzymes – Responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids once they’ve fulfilled their role.
How THC Affects the Brain
THC binds primarily to CB1 receptors in the brain, altering neurotransmitter release and affecting cognitive functions. The most common effects of THC include:
- Euphoria – Increased dopamine levels lead to a sense of pleasure and relaxation.
- Altered Perception – Changes in sensory perception, such as enhanced colors and sounds.
- Memory Impairment – Temporary disruption in short-term memory processing.
- Increased Appetite – Often referred to as the “munchies,” due to THC’s effect on appetite regulation. However, excessive THC consumption can lead to adverse effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and impaired coordination.
How CBD Affects the Body
Unlike THC, CBD does not bind directly to CB1 or CB2 receptors but interacts with other receptors, including serotonin and vanilloid receptors, to influence pain, inflammation, and mood regulation. Potential benefits of CBD include:
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects – Helps reduce chronic inflammation in conditions like arthritis.
- Pain Relief – Interacts with pain receptors to alleviate discomfort.
- Anxiety and Stress Reduction – Influences serotonin levels, which play a role in mood regulation.
- Neuroprotective Properties – Studied for its potential to support brain health and reduce neurodegenerative conditions.
Why Do Cannabis Effects Vary in Different People
Well, it’s common that cannabis effects vary in different people, because each people has different endocannabinoid system. Also, some other factors can influence the cannabis effects in each person. Let’s discuss what are the factors:
- Genetics – Some people naturally produce more endocannabinoids than others.
- Metabolism – The speed at which your body processes cannabinoids can impact how long the effects last.
- Dosage & Consuming Method – The way cannabis is taken (inhalation, oils, capsules) affects onset time and duration.
- Tolerance & Sensitivity – Those new to medicinal cannabis may respond differently than long-term patients.
Medical Benefits of Cannabis
Cannabis has been studied for its potential medical benefits, including:
- Pain Management – Used to treat chronic pain, migraines, and neuropathic pain.
- Mental Health Treatment – Can help with anxiety, PTSD, and depression.
- Cancer Symptom Relief – Helps with nausea, vomiting, and appetite stimulation in chemotherapy patients.
- Epilepsy and Seizures – CBD-based medications have been approved for certain forms of epilepsy. While research continues, cannabis is being increasingly recognized for its therapeutic potential.
Some Risks & Side Effects of Cannabis
While cannabis has benefits, it also has some mild side effects that you have to consider:
- Short-term effects: Dizziness, impaired coordination, increased heart rate.
- Long-term effects: Possible cognitive effects in heavy users (especially if use begins in adolescence).
- Mental Health: High-THC strains may worsen anxiety or trigger psychosis in susceptible individuals.
To avoid complications, always consult a doctor or cannabis expert before starting to take cannabis doses.
Cannabis and Its Effects: Insights from Research & Studies
Recent studies explore how cannabis impacts the brain, body, and metabolism through the Endocannabinoid System (ECS).
- Brain Function – Harvard Medical School explains how THC affects memory, while CBD may protect the brain and reduce anxiety. Read more.
- THC & CBD in the Body – Research shows both compounds bind to ECS receptors, influencing metabolism, appetite, and energy use. Study here.
- Metabolism & Weight – Nature reports that cannabis may impact fat breakdown and energy storage. Learn more.
These findings suggest cannabis has complex effects on health, depending on dosage, strain, and individual biology.
Endnote
So, we have reached our conclusion, and we can say that to understand cannabis’s benefits, you must first understand the endocannabinoid system and how it works. Plus, you may now get the fact that how cannabis influences mood, pain, and overall health. As the research about cannabis continues, our understanding of cannabis will only deepen, unlocking new possibilities for its safe and effective use.
If you’re looking to access medical marijuana legally, getting a medical marijuana card is the first step. With MedCardNow, you can get a medical marijuana card online quickly and hassle-free. Enjoy the benefits of cannabis for pain relief, anxiety management, and overall wellness with the confidence of legal access.
Apply today and take control of your health with medical cannabis!
