From: hubermanlab
Cannabis, often referred to as marijuana, contains numerous compounds that have significant impacts on the brain and body. While many are familiar with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive component, cannabis also contains CBD (cannabidiol) and CBN (cannabinol), which have their own effects. The various strains of cannabis—sativa, indica, and hybrids—along with type-specific strains (type 1, type 2, and type 3), have varying ratios of THC to CBD, influencing their effects on users effects_of_cannabis_on_the_brain_and_body [00:00:25].
Potential Health Hazards
Mental Health Risks
One of the most concerning aspects of cannabis use is its potential to increase anxiety and depression over time. Chronic use—defined as usage more than twice a week—has been linked to increased levels of anxiety and depression. Moreover, these effects become more pronounced over the course of long-term use, even leading to the development of new mental health disorders in users who weren’t previously experiencing such conditions impact_of_lifestyle_and_diet_on_mental_health [02:20:22].
Psychosis
Cannabis use, particularly during adolescence (ages 14 to 25), is associated with an increased risk of developing psychosis-related conditions later in life. This includes schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, especially in individuals with a genetic predisposition to these disorders genetic_predispositions_to_alcoholism. The risk is notably higher with the use of potent THC strains and frequent use cannabis_use_and_its_potential_link_to_psychosis [02:25:38].
Cognitive and Developmental Concerns
Cannabis significantly impacts brain development, which continues until around age 25. Adolescents who use cannabis regularly show accelerated thinning of the prefrontal cortex, an area critical for planning, decision-making, and behavioral regulation understanding_adolescence_and_brain_development. This thinning is correlated with impaired cognitive function and executive ability impact_of_adolescence_on_brain_development [02:30:14].
Neurological and Physiological Effects
Cannabis affects neurotransmitter systems extensively. THC can lower the efficiency of neural signaling by outcompeting endogenous cannabinoids, thus altering mood and perception beyond normal functional ranges. Over time, habitual use can lead to reduced cannabinoid receptor sensitivity, similar to how tolerance develops with other substances the_impact_of_dopamine_on_addiction_and_craving [02:22:30].
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Issues
Inhalation of cannabis via smoking or vaping has clear negative effects on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. It damages endothelial cells, which line the blood vessels throughout the body, increasing the risk of vascular diseases. These issues are independent of the active components like THC or CBD but are a result of the smoke and the method of consumption itself risks_and_health_impacts_of_vaping_and_ecigarettes [02:08:02].
Hormonal Imbalances
Cannabis use elevates prolactin levels and can suppress testosterone, impacting libido and reproductive health hormonal_influences_on_aggression_including_testosterone_and_estrogen. The conversion of testosterone to estrogen is also increased, leading to potential reproductive and hormonal imbalances in both men and women cannabis_influence_on_creativity_and_cognition [01:59:02].
Usage During Pregnancy
Shockingly, about 15% of pregnant women report using cannabis, typically in the form of edibles. This poses serious risks to fetal development, as the cannabinoids in cannabis interfere with endogenous cannabinoid systems crucial for neural development impact_of_neurotransmitters_on_fetal_development [02:14:21]. The full implications of prenatal cannabis exposure are yet to be fully understood, but the preliminary data are alarming cannabis_effects_on_stress_feeding_and_development.
Conclusion
While cannabis and its derivatives like CBD have therapeutic applications, particularly in pain management and anxiety relief, its usage is not without significant risk. The adverse effects on mental health, cognitive function, and overall physical health necessitate a cautious approach to its consumption, especially among adolescents and pregnant women cannabis_anxiety_and_the_endocannabinoid_system. Cannabis use should be informed by a comprehensive understanding of its risks and should be approached with consideration of individual predispositions and lifestyle factors cannabis_use_and_legal_considerations.