How THC Works in The Body: Explained
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Time: 5 min
Introduction
Stepping into the world of cannabis can feel like entering a new dimension, especially when you start learning about THC and its effects. Grasping how THC works in the body is vital for both recreational and medicinal users.
This knowledge empowers informed choices about strains, consumption methods, and potential benefits or drawbacks. We’ll explore what happens from the moment THC enters your system to its interaction with your brain.
THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. Understanding how THC works in the body is complex, primarily due to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
Table of Content
How THC Works In The Body: A Deep Dive
THC's Journey Through the Bloodstream
Inhaled, either throught smoke or vapor, THC travels swiftly from the lungs into the bloodstream. This only takes seconds. The heart pumps THC-rich blood throughout the body, including the brain.
With edibles, THC takes a different route. Absorbed through the digestive system, it’s processed by the liver before entering the bloodstream. This leads to a delayed onset compared to inhalation.
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) & THC
The ECS, a complex network of receptors, maintains homeostasis. It influences:
- Mood
- Sleep
- Appetite
- Pain perception
Key components include endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors (primarily CB1 and CB2), and enzymes.
THC mimics the body’s natural endocannabinoids, primarily anandamide. Binding to CB1 receptors, it disrupts the ECS balance, causing euphoria or altered sensory perception. While CB2 is mainly in the peripheral nervous system, disease or injury can increase its presence in the brain. Other cannabinoid receptors include GPR55 and GPR18, which play a role in how the body reacts to THC.
THC and the Brain: The "High"
The brain contains areas dense with CB1 receptors. One is the hippocampus, vital for memory. THC can alter short-term memory.
The basal ganglia and cerebellum, also rich in CB1 receptors, influence movement and coordination. THC's impact on these areas affects motor control. THC can also lead to mental health effects such as paranoia or anxiety.
Potential Benefits and Risks of THC
Potential Benefits |
Potential Risks |
Pain relief (especially for multiple sclerosis) |
Impaired alertness, learning, and memory |
Appetite stimulation (beneficial for some cancer patients undergoing cancer care) |
Increased heart rate |
Relief from nausea and vomiting related to chemotherapy |
Respiratory issues (similar to those caused by cigarette smoke, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchitis) |
THC may help with chronic pain and muscle spasms, especially in people with multiple sclerosis. Cannabis' calming properties can reduce pain signals by interacting with endocannabinoid receptors. These are just some examples of the wellness topics currently being studied related to THC use and other condition spotlights that will require further clinical testing.
THC can stimulate appetite in chemotherapy patients. It might also reduce treatment-related nausea and vomiting. However, it’s essential to consult a doctor before using cannabis products, as self-treating is not recommended.
This is an extremely important factor related to sexual health, sleep health, overall wellness, as well as digestive health, taming inflammation and men's and women's health. Many people want to understand what long-term effects might be from using Cannabis in relation to all the factors above.
THC’s "high" can decrease alertness, learning, and memory. Long-term use may severely impact memory. THC can temporarily increase heart rate and should be avoided by those with heart conditions.
Cannabis smoke contains toxins and irritants that can cause inflammation and conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Smoking cannabis flower carries additional health risks.
In Other Words: THC might help relieve pain, stimulate appetite, and reduce nausea, but it can also cause memory problems, increased heart rate, and respiratory issues. While it’s being studied for potential health benefits, long-term risks are still unclear. Always consult a doctor before using cannabis products for any condition.
Conclusion
Understanding how THC works in the body means tracing its journey from the lungs or digestive system to the bloodstream and brain. THC's interaction with the ECS affects perception, mood, and bodily functions. The effect of cannabis products and synthetic cannabinoids is different for each individual and is based on things such as their own unique physical makeup and tolerance to THC.
Individual reactions to THC vary widely due to several factors: tolerance, body chemistry, previous cannabis use, emotional state, genetics, family history, and more. These factors also include bipolar disorder, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, Alzheimer's disease, kidney disease and chronic kidney disease.
Responsible cannabis use requires informed decisions, which include understanding THC's effects to weigh the risks and benefits. Thorough research is vital. Taking the time to analyze the facts and consult medically reviewed research will lead to a greater understanding of how THC works in the body before considering cannabis use. This can improve weight management, skin care and address any other health effects people seek more than just general answers for and seek more in-depth explanations of potential effects on things such as eye health, heart health or even at-home testing and product reviews.
"The power of THC lies in its ability to connect mind and body, though it must be approached with mindfulness."
FAQs about How THC Works in The Body
How does THC affect the brain?
THC binds to receptors in the brain’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate mood, memory, and perception. This is what creates the “high” feeling that many people associate with cannabis. It also influences other areas of the brain, sometimes affecting emotions and coordination.
Why does THC make you feel hungry?
It interacts with parts of the brain that control appetite, making food seem more appealing and encouraging you to eat more. This effect, often called “the munchies,” can make even simple snacks taste better and more satisfying.
How long does THC stay in your body?
That depends on how often you use it and how much you consume. In occasional users, it can leave the system in a few days, but in regular users, it can take weeks. Factors like metabolism and body fat percentage also play a role in how quickly THC is eliminated.
Author: Edijs Eleksis
Growing up in a country where cannabis was stigmatized and even shamed, Edijs faced many roadblocks to get to enjoy the benefits of this plant. However, as more countries worldwide are opening up to the idea of cannabis-available society, Edijs is inspired to take on a mission: spreading awareness about cannabis and its industry in Europe through engaging, educational blog content. Because only with more information, humans as a collective, can make decisions that are better for all of us!
