Cannabis Facts

Jason T
4 days ago
5 min read

Medical cannabis dispensary designed like a healthcare setting, used to represent evidence-based cannabis education covering THC, CBD, and health effects by Saving Grace Medical Academy. — **Cannabis Facts: Evidence-Based Information on THC, CBD, and Health Effects**

Cannabis Facts: What Is It & What Does It Do to the Human Body?

Cannabis is one of the most discussed—and misunderstood—plants in modern healthcare. Information online ranges from well-researched science to outright fiction. This guide is designed to help you understand what cannabis is, how it affects the body, and what current medical research actually supports.

Cannabis (Marijuana) | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

Common questions we’ll address include:

Can cannabis cure cancer?
Does it help with seizures?
Can you overdose?
How does it affect the brain?
Is cannabis safe during pregnancy?
What are the short- and long-term effects on the body?

What Is Cannabis?

Cannabis comes from the Cannabis plant genus, most commonly:

Cannabis sativa
Cannabis indica
Cannabis ruderalis

These plants grow in a wide range of climates and are now commonly cultivated indoors using controlled hydroponic systems.

Cannabis vs Hemp

Cannabis and hemp belong to the same plant family but are legally and chemically distinct.

Cannabis contains significant levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound.
Hemp contains ≤0.3% THC and does not produce intoxication.

Hemp is primarily used for:

Industrial fibers
Food products
Non-intoxicating CBD extracts

Three potted cannabis plants labeled Sativa, Indica, and Ruderalis, illustrating the main types of cannabis explained in an educational guide by Saving Grace Medical Academy. — **Types of Cannabis: Understanding Sativa, Indica, and Ruderalis**

Key Active Compounds in Cannabis

THC (Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol)

Cannabis Facts :THC is the primary psychoactive compound responsible for the “high.” It alters perception, mood, reaction time, and cognition by interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the brain.

Potency varies widely depending on:

Plant strain
Method of cultivation
Method of consumption
Concentration (especially in oils and concentrates)

CBD (Cannabidiol)

CBD is non-psychoactive and does not produce intoxication. It interacts differently with the nervous system and does not impair cognition or motor skills.

CBD is commonly used for symptom management and is being actively studied for multiple medical applications.

Understanding Cannabinoids: THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, and Beyond

Cannabis contains over 100 naturally occurring cannabinoids, each interacting differently with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive compound responsible for intoxication and impairment, while CBD (cannabidiol) is non-psychoactive and is commonly studied for symptom management such as seizures, inflammation, anxiety, and pain. CBG (cannabigerol) is often referred to as the “mother cannabinoid,” as it is the precursor from which THC and CBD are formed; early research suggests potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, though clinical evidence is still limited. CBN (cannabinol) is a mildly psychoactive compound that forms as THC degrades over time and is often associated with sedative effects, though claims around sleep support remain under investigation. Other cannabinoids, such as CBC (cannabichromene) and THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin), are being studied for possible roles in mood regulation, inflammation, and appetite modulation. While research is ongoing, it’s important to understand that not all cannabinoids have the same effects, risks, or medical evidence, and individual responses can vary significantly.

Common Forms of Cannabis

Cannabis products vary greatly in potency and onset time:

Dried flower (marijuana): Smoked or vaporized; lower potency
Edibles: Delayed onset, higher overdose risk due to dosing errors
Hashish: Concentrated resin
Hash oil / concentrates: Extremely high THC levels
Medical-grade oils: Often administered sublingually for controlled dosing

⚠️ Important: Edibles and concentrates are the most common cause of accidental overconsumption.

Why Do People Use Cannabis?

Historically, cannabis has been used for:

Mild euphoria
Relaxation
Altered sensory perception

Medically, interest has shifted toward symptom control, not cures.

Young woman refusing a cannabis joint from a friend while approaching a vehicle, demonstrating the dangers of cannabis-impaired driving and promoting public safety education by Saving Grace Medical Academy. — **Stay Alive. Don’t Use and Drive — Cannabis Impairment Saves No Time**

Short-Term Effects of THC

Short-term effects may include:

Euphoria or relaxation
Altered perception of time and sound
Increased appetite
Drowsiness
Impaired coordination and reaction time
Dry mouth and eyes
Increased heart rate
Anxiety or paranoia (especially at higher doses)
Exacerbation of psychosis in vulnerable individuals

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

The endocannabinoid system regulates:

Mood
Pain
Appetite
Memory
Immune response

Cannabinoids interact with CB1 receptors (brain) and CB2 receptors (immune system), which explains both therapeutic effects and side effects.

Evidence-Based Medical Uses

CBD – Supported or Emerging Uses

Research supports or suggests benefit for:

Certain seizure disorders (e.g., Dravet syndrome)
Chronic pain (adjunctive use)
Inflammation
Anxiety (dose-dependent)
Nausea
Migraines
Inflammatory bowel disease (symptom relief)

CBD is generally well tolerated. Side effects, when present, are usually related to drug–drug interactions.

Doctor discussing medical cannabis options with an elderly patient while holding a cannabis-labeled prescription bottle, emphasizing the importance of consulting a healthcare professional before cannabis use, by Saving Grace Medical Academy. — **Consult Your Doctor: Is Cannabis Right for You?**

THC – Medical Applications

THC may help with:

Chemotherapy-related nausea
Appetite stimulation
Muscle spasticity (e.g., multiple sclerosis)
Certain pain syndromes
Sleep initiation (short term)
Anxiety
Migraines
Chronic Pain and inflammation "CBD"

⚠️ Benefits must be weighed against cognitive and psychological risks.

Side Effects and Risks

THC Risks

Impaired memory and judgment
Slowed reaction time
Increased anxiety or paranoia
Psychosis risk (especially with family history)
Cardiovascular strain (tachycardia)
Impaired driving ability
Brain development interference in adolescents
Cannabis use disorder (addiction risk ~9–30%)

Pregnancy and Cannabis Use

THC should not be used during pregnancy.

Evidence shows:

THC crosses the placental barrier
Reduced fetal oxygen delivery
Potential impacts on brain development
Increased risk of low birth weight
Increased SIDS risk when smoked

Health Canada and the Canadian Medical Association advise complete avoidance of cannabis during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

CBD safety in pregnancy is not established, and use is not recommended without physician oversight.

Can You Overdose on Cannabis?

Yes—particularly with high-THC edibles or concentrates.

Symptoms may include:

Severe nausea and vomiting
Panic or paranoia
Chest discomfort
Dizziness or fainting
Confusion
Shortness of breath

While fatal overdose is extremely rare "Green-out", medical intervention may be required, especially in children or older adults.

Cannabis and Driving (Canada / Alberta)

Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal in Canada.

THC impairs:

Reaction time
Distance judgment
Decision-making
Coordination

In Alberta:

THC-containing cannabis is prohibited in vehicles
Zero tolerance applies to impaired driving "Just don't do it"
Penalties mirror alcohol impairment laws

Stay alive. Don’t use and drive.

Final Thoughts

Cannabis is neither a miracle cure nor harmless. Like many substances, it carries potential benefits, real risks, and clear limitations.

Always:

Rely on medical evidence
Consult qualified healthcare professionals
Avoid misinformation and illegal products
Use responsibly and legally

Knowledge saves lives—and informed decisions protect both individuals and communities.

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