The effects of marijuana on your brain

Originally Posted on Emerald Media via UWIRE

You’re sinking farther and farther into the couch. Adventure Time is speaking to you on a deep level. Never in your life have you tasted Cheetos so delicious. Obviously, you’ve ingested some form of marijuana in the last few hours, but what exactly is going on chemically to create this current feeling?

Cannabinoids are the primary active ingredients in cannabis. The main cannabinoid is tetrahydrocannabinol. According to Jeremy Sackett, co-founder and chief science officer of Cascadia Labs, there are up to 50-60 more cannabinoids that induce psychiatric effects. THC has the ability to treat pain, influence appetite and effect sex hormones. Terpenes are what give the cannabis plant its unique scent.

Cannabis has over 200 phytochemicals, according to Sackett. Within the nervous system lies the endocannabinoid system. This system within the brain is involved in appetite, memory, pain and mood. There are two types of cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2.

According to Sackett, cannabinoid receptors have been found in some of the first nervous systems found from around 200 million years ago. Over the years, cannabis plants have evolved along with the cannabinoid system according to Sackett. “It’s really exciting research to be a part of,” Sackett said.

According to Sackett, the previous 20-30 years of cannabis research have prompted “new research and new understanding.”

Some say that the marijuana available today is stronger than what was around in years past.

“I do believe there is some truth to that,” Sackett said. “Though it is purely anecdotal.”

According to Sackett, research has not been focused on the strength of cannabis plants until the last 10 years.

Read more here: http://dailyemerald.com/2014/04/17/marijuana-and-your-brain/
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