Everything You Need to Know About THC

If you’re an adult, chances are you’ve heard of THC. It’s the main psychoactive compound in marijuana, and it’s what gets users high. THC has a variety of medical uses, including reducing pain and inflammation, stimulating appetite, and reducing nausea. However, it’s also associated with some risks, such as anxiety and impaired judgment. This article will give you everything you need to know about THC, including its medical benefits and potential risks.

What Is THC?

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is one of many cannabinoids–a type of chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. Cannabinoids are compounds that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates a variety of functions, including pain, mood, appetite, and memory.

THC is the main psychoactive compound in marijuana, meaning it’s what gets users high. It binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and produces various effects, including relaxation, euphoria, and increased appetite.

The Two Forms of THC

THC exists in two main forms: delta-8 THC and delta-9 THC. Delta-9 THC is the most abundant form of THC in cannabis, while delta-8 THC is found in much smaller quantities. Delta-8 THC is legal to sell in some places, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, which federally legalized hemp. However, it’s important to check your state’s laws before buying or consuming delta-Eight THC, as it’s not legal everywhere.

Both compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system but have different effects. Delta-9 THC is more potent and produces stronger psychoactive effects. It is also the form of THC that is most likely to result in adverse side effects, such as anxiety and paranoia.

On the other hand, Delta-8 THC is less potent and produces more mellow effects. It is also less likely to cause adverse side effects. For these reasons, Delta-8 THC is sometimes referred to as ‘the safer form of THC.’ However, both forms of THC can be harmful if used excessively. It is important to use caution regardless of the form you use.

How Is Marijuana Consumed?

There are several ways that marijuana is consumed, including smoking, vaporizing, eating, and drinking. Smoking is the most common way to consume marijuana. This can be done by rolling it into a joint or using a pipe or bong. Vaping is another popular method of consuming marijuana. This involves heating the cannabis plant material or oil until it turns into a vapor, which is then inhaled.

Eating and drinking are also ways to consume marijuana. Cannabis can be added to food and drinks or taken as a capsule. It is popular to consume edible cannabis in the form of brownies, THC gummies, or THC-infused drinks.

The effects of marijuana vary depending on how it is consumed. Smoking and vaporizing marijuana produce the strongest effects, while eating and drinking usually have slightly lesser effects (unless consumed in higher amounts).

Smoking or vaping allows THC to enter the bloodstream more quickly while eating or drinking delays its absorption. It also produces different compounds when you ingest cannabinoids through your digestive system instead of your lungs. Since your liver processes THC when consumed orally, these products are more potent and have longer-lasting effects.

Potential Benefits of Using Medicinal Cannabis

While marijuana is legal for recreational use in 19 states, it was legalized for medicinal purposes long before that. In fact, the first state to legalize marijuana for medicinal purposes was California in 1996. Since then, a growing body of research has shown that THC and other cannabinoids can have various therapeutic effects. Here are some of the potential benefits of using medicinal cannabis:

• Reducing pain and inflammation
• Stimulating appetite
• Reducing nausea
• Improving sleep
• Reducing anxiety

More research is needed to confirm these potential benefits. However, the findings of existing studies are promising.

Potential Risks of Using Medicinal Cannabis

Like any other mind-altering substance, THC can have side effects. The most common side effects of THC include:

• Anxiety
• Dizziness
• Paranoia
• Impaired judgment
• Slow reaction time
• Dry mouth
• Red eyes
• Increased appetite

These side effects are usually mild and temporary effects of the high that THC produces. However, they can be more severe in some people, especially those new to using THC or those who are sensitive to the substance.

It is important to remember that everyone reacts to marijuana differently. The effects of THC can vary depending on factors such as age, weight, metabolism, and tolerance. Start with a low dose and increase gradually to avoid unwanted side effects. It is also important to consume marijuana safely where you feel comfortable and are not impaired while operating machinery or driving.

Endnote

THC is the main psychoactive compound in marijuana. It is responsible for the ‘high’ that people experience when they consume cannabis. If you’re interested in consuming marijuana recreationally or seeing its medicinal effects, try The Hemp Doctors Delta-9 THC today!