6 Short-Term Effects of Cannabis on the Brain

  • Those who are familiar with the effects of medical cannabis already know that the application of this herb has certain temporary, interesting effects on our perception and brain
  • Today we'll look at what science says about these short-term effects of "marijuana"

Medical cannabis is most likely the most famous, psychoactive plant on the planet.

When consuming by smoking, you can expect the effects of cannabis to occur within about 15 minutes. For edibles, it takes longer, from 30 minutes to 2 hours. (More in the article "4 differences between smoking and eating cannabis") In the case of concentrates or tinctures, it's possible that the effect will occur immediately.

Whatever your method of consumption, it is very likely that you will experience at least one of the following 6 short-term effects of medical cannabis.

1. Mood Elevation

Previous studies have observed that cannabis compounds are able to directly and indirectly affect brain neurotransmitters responsible for mood regulation.

Both psychoactive THC and non-psychoactive CBD affect serotonin levels in the brain, which is one of the neurotransmitters playing a significant role in how you feel. Moreover, cannabinoids demonstrably cause the release of dopamine, which works like an internal reward feeling. Increasing the level of this neurotransmitter in the brain results in feelings of happiness, joy, and for some, improved concentration and focus.

Lastly, it's worth mentioning the endocannabinoid anandamide, naturally produced by the human body, which (like THC) acts as a trigger for CB1 and CB2 receptors, responsible for feelings of physical and psychological rewards, namely feelings of happiness and euphoria. (More in the article "Runner's Intoxication, Sports and Cannabis")

2. Memory Changes

As you have probably already heard, cannabis consumption has certain effects on your memory function, mainly spatial and working memory.

Some users describe problems with concentration at work or inability to learn effectively. However, opinions on this vary.

Disruption of spatial memory can result in forgetting where you put your car keys or how you got to this establishment.

3. Changes in Concentration

Everything here, of course, depends on the total consumed dose. The effects of cannabis on the ability to concentrate are no exception. Some users praise the effects of specific strains that can surprisingly stimulate and enhance concentration when used in the right dose. ("5 Cannabis Strains for Energy and Concentration") However, if you overdo it with your favorite herb, you can most likely expect your attention to be temporarily gone.

A 2010 study investigating disruption of visual selection ability examined this issue with 26 people who were given either a placebo or a product with high THC content four days before testing. As a result, all individuals given real THC had worse visual selection test results. Moreover, it became apparent that the more THC a person consumed, the worse their results were.

High THC doses seem to be the problem. Some cannabis strains, for example those with high CBD content, disrupt concentration abilities less. Unofficial evidence from many internet discussions even suggests that at the right dose, cannabis may help patients suffering from ADHD - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.




4. Fatigue, Sleepiness, Haziness

There are many reasons why many experience sleepiness or mental fog after consuming medical cannabis. First, cannabis in higher doses primarily acts as a sedative. However, this effect might also be the basis for its proven antidepressant effects.

Many studies speak mainly about the anxiolytic effect of the cannabinoid CBD, which for currently unexplored reasons is able to calm sometimes overly active patient minds.

5. Inflammation Reduction, Antioxidant Effect

Those of you who read our previous article "The Effect of Medical Cannabis on Neurodegenerative Disorders" already know that cannabis has undeniable anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects.

Current research focuses on this effect of medical cannabis especially due to the urgent need for developing more effective therapy options for neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's, or multiple sclerosis.

6. Other "Marijuana" Effects on the Brain

Besides those five, cannabis has the following possible short-term effects:

  • Increased feelings of anxiety or paranoia
  • Increased sexual desire
  • Increased appetite
  • Headache
  • Pain reduction

Medical cannabis, of course, has many other interesting long-term and short-term effects related to both your body and psyche. Since medical cannabis is a highly individual medicine, we can expect various symptoms and effects that differ from patient to patient. The key to success is mainly finding the right strain, cannabinoid mix, and balanced dose. Learn more in the article "Cannabis for Beginners: A Start to Conscious Treatment"

Author: Delilah Butterfield

Translation: Filip Maral

Source: http://herb.co

Images: blogspot.com

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