Marijuana: Fakes vs Facts
Marijuana has come a very long way since its prohibition days dating back to the 1970’s. Since then American views on marijuana have shifted rapidly. Thirty years ago, marijuana legalization seemed like a lost cause with only 1 out of 4 Americans approving the legalization. Now marijuana is the most commonly used psychoactive drug in the United States. On average 2/3 of Americans approve the legalization of marijuana, and 94 million people admit to using marijuana at least once. With this change in views has come a series of fallacies about the drug.
So what is marijuana? Marijuana refers to the dried flowers, buds, leaves, and stems that come from the plant Cannabis Sativa. The main psychoactive (mind-altering) chemical in marijuana, responsible for most of the intoxicating effects that people seek, is Tetra-Hydro-Cannabinol (THC). This chemical is found in the resin produced by the leaves and buds of the marijuana plant and contains no medical value. Marijuana also contains over 480 other chemicals, including over 66 that have been classified as cannabinoids.
Marijuana is no more dangerous than it was in the 70’s. The fact is THC levels have skyrocketed over recent years. During the 1970’s THC levels were 2-4% depending on strain and quality. Today THC levels are as high as 95% in some products, such as edibles. It is very difficult for medical professionals to predict the negative health effects that this drastic increase of THC levels can have on the human body.
Marijuana is harmless. The fact is using marijuana can cause irreversible damage to brain cells. The human brain is made up of cells surrounded by fat with spaces in between, these spaces allow for the transmission of messages throughout the brain. The THC found in marijuana blocks these spaces which in turn blocks the transmission of messages slowing down thinking and reaction times. This THC build up will cause areas of the brain to suffer from inactive brain cells causing the user to experience: distorted perception, slowed reaction time, and poor memory. Marijuana is especially harmful to the adolescent brain which is still developing. Marijuana use at a young age can impair thinking, memory, learning functions, and can affect how the brain builds connections between areas necessary for these functions.
Marijuana is safer than cigarettes. The fact is smoke is smoke. Whether you are inhaling smoke from a cigarette, marijuana, vape, or a fire, all smoke is harmful. Smoke from marijuana combustion has been shown to contain many of the same toxins, irritants and carcinogens as tobacco smoke. Marijuana users will experience respiratory problems similar to those who smoke tobacco. Marijuana use can also lead to greater exposure per breath to tar because smokers tend to inhale deeply and hold their breath longer than cigarette smokers. A loud hacking cough, accompanied by phlegm is very common for users to develop. People who use marijuana are also more prone to develop lung infections, acute bronchitis, or lung cancer.
Marijuana does not cause addiction. The fact is people can become addicted to marijuana. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, up to 30 percent of marijuana users develop a substance use disorder. Individuals who use marijuana at a young age (under 25) are four times more likely to develop a marijuana use disorder. Addiction is a very difficult hurdle to overcome, even with marijuana use. Individuals who attempt to quit will develop withdrawal symptoms. In some instances, marijuana use can lead to the use of other drugs, as the human body develops a tolerance to marijuana, resulting in stronger cravings and desires. These cravings can become so intense that marijuana is no longer sufficient, resulting in the use of other substances.
It is very important to stay educated and know the facts before experimenting with marijuana. Any questions or concerns can always be addressed by medical professionals or local substance use agencies. Marijuana may be legal in some states, but don’t be blinded by the smoke. Be alert, be informed, and be safe.
Written by:
Sergio Alcala
Prevention Educator at Mutual Ground
If someone you know is struggling with substance use, contact 630.897.1003 for support.