Marijuana, also called cannabis, is a plant that people use for both medical and recreational purposes, including for Toronto Weed Delivery. Some believe it has health benefits, such as reducing pain, helping with anxiety, and easing nausea. Others warn about its risks, including addiction, lung problems, and mental health effects. This article explains the possible benefits and risks of marijuana in simple terms to help you understand if it is right for you, whether you’re considering it for delivery or other uses.

What is marijuana?

Marijuana contains chemicals called cannabinoids, including cbd (cannabidiol) and thc (tetrahydrocannabinol). CBD does not make you feel “high”, but THC does. Some marijuana products contain high levels of THc, while others focus on CBD for medical use. People use marijuana in different ways, such as smoking, vaping, eating, or applying it to the skin.

Many places have legalised marijuana for medical and recreational use. But its effects vary for each person, and laws are different in every location. It is always best to talk to a healthcare provider before using marijuana for medical reasons.

Benefits of marijuana

Some people use medical marijuana to treat health conditions like epilepsy, multiple sclerosis (MS), chronic pain, and anxiety. Here are five possible benefits of marijuana.

1. Helps with anxiety. Many marijuana users say it helps them relax and reduce stress. Some studies suggest that a small dose of THC can help lower anxiety. But using too much THC may have the opposite effect and cause panic or paranoia. People who want to use marijuana for anxiety should consult a doctor first.
2. Relieves chronic pain. Marijuana may help people with long-term pain, such as those with arthritis or nerve pain. Some strains with high CBD levels can improve sleep by reducing pain. Marijuana may also help relax muscles in people with MS, a disease that affects the nervous system.
3. Helps in treating epilepsy. CBD has been shown to reduce seizures in people with epilepsy, especially children with a severe form of the disease called dravet syndrome. In 2018, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a CBD-based medicine called epidiolex for epilepsy treatment.
4. Safer than opioids. Some research suggests that marijuana could be an alternative to opioids, which are strong painkillers that can be highly addictive. In states where medical marijuana is legal, doctors have prescribed fewer opioid medications. But more research is needed to confirm how effective marijuana is for pain relief compared to opioids.
5. May have anti-cancer properties. Studies suggest that some compounds in marijuana, like thc and cbd, may slow the growth of certain cancer cells. However, these studies have mostly been done in labs, not on people. More research is needed to understand if marijuana can be an effective cancer treatment.

Risks and side-effects of marijuana

Although marijuana has potential benefits, it also carries risks. Here are eight possible dangers of marijuana use.

1. May worsen anxiety. Not everyone experiences relaxation from marijuana. Some people may feel anxious, paranoid, or even experience panic attacks. High doses of thc can increase the risk of acute psychosis, which may include symptoms like confusion, paranoia, and trouble thinking clearly.
2. Risky for pregnant women. Using marijuana while pregnant may harm the baby. Studies suggest that THC exposure can lead to developmental problems, low birth weight, and an increased risk of stillbirth. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers are advised to avoid marijuana.
3. Can increase heart attack risk. Marijuana can raise heart rate and blood pressure, which may increase the risk of heart attacks, especially in older adults or people with heart disease. Some studies show that the risk of a heart attack is five times higher in the first hour after smoking marijuana.
4. Impairs driving ability. Marijuana affects coordination, reaction time, and judgment, making driving dangerous. Studies show that it is one of the most commonly detected substances in drivers involved in car accidents, including fatal ones. It is illegal in many places to drive under the influence of marijuana.
5. Can harm the lungs. Smoking marijuana can irritate the lungs, leading to problems like chronic cough and bronchitis. Vaping marijuana has also been linked to severe lung injuries. Some studies suggest that marijuana smoke contains harmful chemicals similar to tobacco smoke, which may increase the risk of lung disease.
6. May affect brain development in teenagers. Regular marijuana use in teens and young adults may harm brain development. It can affect memory, attention, and learning. Teens who use marijuana frequently may struggle in school and have lower academic performance.
7. Can cause cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS). CHS is a condition that causes severe nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain in heavy marijuana users. People with chs may experience these symptoms repeatedly and find relief only after stopping marijuana use.
8. May lead to addiction. Although many people believe marijuana is not addictive, some users develop dependence. Around 9–30% of people who use marijuana may develop a condition called cannabis use disorder. People with this disorder may have trouble quitting marijuana, experience withdrawal symptoms, and continue using it despite negative consequences.

Are some forms of marijuana riskier than others? 

There are different ways to use marijuana, and some may be riskier than others:

• Smoking. Can irritate the lungs and increase the risk of lung disease.
• Vaping. May cause lung injuries and severe health problems.
• Edibles. Take longer to work, leading some people to consume too much and experience negative effects.
• Dabbing. Uses highly concentrated THC, which can cause extreme highs and health risks.

People who want to use marijuana should choose a method that suits their health condition and lifestyle. Speaking with a healthcare provider can help determine the safest option.

Why you should consult a healthcare provider

Marijuana affects each person differently. Some may benefit from its medical use, while others may experience negative side effects. A healthcare provider can help determine if marijuana is safe for you, suggest the right dosage, and explain potential interactions with other medications.

Some people use marijuana to reduce anxiety, while others find it increases their anxiety. Similarly, marijuana may help some individuals recover from substance use disorders but can lead to addiction in others. Consulting a doctor is essential before using marijuana, especially for medical reasons.

Takeaway

Marijuana has potential benefits, such as pain relief, reducing anxiety, and helping with epilepsy. However, it also carries risks like addiction, lung problems, and impaired driving. Before using marijuana, it is important to understand both its benefits and dangers. If you are considering medical marijuana, speak with a healthcare provider to make an informed decision. Laws about marijuana use vary, so always check your local regulations before using it.

Ellen Diamond, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.