Marijuana has gotten a bad rap for its psychoactive effects. But what some uneducated people don’t know is that cannabis has helped a lot of people combat mental health issues.
Others also claim that the psychoactive compound in marijuana called THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) changes the hippocampus’s activities in the brain. The hippocampus is responsible for processing and maintaining short- and long-term memory.
Although this study is done on rats, the effects of marijuana on real people show otherwise. Many have commended the positive benefits of cannabis on brain functionality.
In fact, right after the legalization of marijuana in canada weed dispensary companies have sprouted left and right to cater to eligible Canadians.
So if you were struggling with mental health conditions, would you be willing to try this high-caliber healing herb? Maybe these five ways on how marijuana affects the mind will persuade you to try.
- Boosts creativity
For people who aren’t well-informed, cannabis is comprised of different strains. The three most common types are:
- Indica
- Sativa
- Hybrid
These strains contain THC and CBD just the same. But the only difference is the THC and CBD content which means, some strains may have high THC and CBD content, and some may have low THC and CBD content.
In addition, all strains also have different terpene profiles. Due to these compositions, different strains have various effects on a person. And it has been said the those who smoke marijuana regularly are more creative because of the various terpene and cannabinoid composition.
In fact, a study involving 412 chronic users and 309 nonusers showed a tremendous difference in both groups’ creativity levels.
- Increased reaction to a rewarding stimulus
Our brain contains receptors responsible for feelings of pleasure. It also plays a vital role in our reactions when exposed to any rewarding stimulus.
When this happens, the chemical called dopamine increases. In turn, we feel happier and satisfied.
Experts and chronic users say they react more positively to certain reward stimuli. That means people who smoke marijuana are more appreciative of the little things.
- Gives you the munchies
I know what you’re thinking, what’s the connection between munchies and the brain? Marijuana users ingest cannabinoids that impact several brain neurons.
Some of these neurons are responsible for curbing appetite. And this is mainly the reason why people who smoke feel extreme hunger. Hence, the munchies.
- Reduces anxiety or depression
People who experience anxiety and depression have self-medicated with marijuana. They claim that cannabis has gravely helped them every time they feel anxious.
In fact, a study proved how depression decreased by 50 percent, and anxiety decreased by 58 percent even after two puffs of marijuana.
However, it’s important to never go beyond what your mind can handle. If you are a newbie in marijuana use, always start with a low dosage. There have also been reports that some people make their anxiety and depression worse with marijuana use.
That said, always stick within your limits and see how cannabis smoking makes you feel at first.
- Relieves stress
Indica strains are good as sleep enhancers. They provide an overall calming effect on the mind and body, allowing you to sleep better at night and relieves stressors the entire day.
I, myself, use marijuana to help combat insomnia, and I find that it helps me sleep soundly without interruptions the entire night.
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