Cannabis 101: THC Facts
22
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary cannabinoid found in cannabis. There are more than 100 cannabinoid compounds in cannabis, but THC and CBD are the main two that people are concerned with. CBD doesn’t produce mind-altering effects like THC, but it has powerful medicinal properties. High levels of THC are the hallmark of recreational cannabis, and it does far more than just get you high. Here are some THC Facts that might surprise you.
THC has been helping patients with cancer and HIV for years. The nausea-reducing, appetite-stimulating properties of THC greatly help combat negative effects of chemo and AIDS medication.
THC lowers fluid pressure in the eyes of glaucoma patients. Glaucoma was one of the first approved conditions for prescribing medical cannabis.
Your body already contains a molecule that’s similar to THC. Anandamide is a cannabinoid produced naturally by the body’s endocannabinoid system and regulates sleep, mood, memory, and appetite.
THC stimulates the release of dopamine which causes the user to feel a rush of euphoria. Dopamine is produced naturally in the body and regulates the reward and pleasure centers of the brain. It’s released during any gratifying activity, from playing Candy Crush to falling in love.
THC can help PTSD sufferers in a variety of ways. It creates temporary memory impairment which can be beneficial to those struggling with traumatic memories. It can also help with agitation and anxiety.
THC can treat insomnia. THC has a number of benefits when it comes to sleep. It’s a pain reliever, improves breathing and temporary memory impairment puts a stop to obsessive and negative thinking. Some strains of cannabis act as bronchodilators, opening the airways. Promising research shows positive effects on both sleep apnea and asthma.