Marijuana is known as the most commonly used drug in all of America. While many feel the use of marijuana is not dangerous, what they do not realize are the numerous effects it has on the body with its long term use and abuse.
To understand marijuana’s effects is to first understand what types of chemicals are in the drug. The largest most mind altering drug within marijuana is THC. THC is a strong chemical that rapidly passes from the smoker’s lungs into their bloodstream, from which is then transferred to the brain and organs.
Scientists have dug even deeper to see how THC affects the brain and body. What they have discovered is that the brain has cannabinoid receptors which are triggered when THC enters the bloodstream. Some people have more cannabinoid receptors than others. What do these cannabinoid receptors do? Because a large majority of these receptors are located in the pleasure center of the brain as well as the part of the brain important for memory, thinking, concentrating, sensory and coordination, THC thus affects these parts of a person’s life. This means that an abusive smoker can begin losing their memory, have distorted perception or difficulty thinking. The biggest threat is on one’s memory as scientists have discovered it can impact how one can learn or what they can remember for weeks at a time. Continue reading ‘The Effects of Marijuana Abuse’ »