What exactly is THC? You may have heard that THC is the main thing that makes people feel high on weed. What does it do, though?
How does it work, though? We’ll tell you everything you need to know about this interesting natural chemical, whether you’ve used it before or are curious.
Define THC
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main part of weed that makes you feel high. One of more than a hundred substances called cannabinoids discovered in the cannabis plant is responsible for the “high” experienced by users.
Effects from ingesting THC in the form of edibles or oils may persist longer than those from smoking the drug.
When ingested, THC travels via the circulation to the brain and body, where it binds to cannabinoid receptors and produces a wide range of effects.
When consumed or inhaled, THC is known to cause sensations of euphoria, relaxation, increased hunger, and altered senses. The same dose will affect different persons due to individual variances in metabolism, body mass index (BMI), genetics, and other health concerns.
THC, in contrast to substances like alcohol or opioids, binds directly to receptors in the central nervous system, most abundantly in regions like the brainstem (which regulates breathing) and the hippocampus (which governs learning and memory).
Because of this process, the physiological consequences of consuming or inhaling THC are varied and can last for varying durations.
THC Usage Methods
The method of ingestion for THC depends on the user’s preference and the desired effect. Here are a few of the most popular ways to take in THC.
Vaping/Dabbing
To “vape” means to inhale vaporised THC vape juice from a vape pen or vaporizer. Dabbing is heating cannabis concentrates on a hot surface before inhaling the vapours.
More seasoned consumers prefer non-combustible alternatives like vaping or dabbing due to the enhanced effects and reduced health hazards.
Smoking
The most rapid and widespread method of ingesting THC is by smoking. Any joint, blunt, or pipe will do the trick. Smoking THC can produce a strong initial high that quickly wears off, making it a popular choice among heavy users.
Edibles
Cannabidiol (CBD) edibles include beverages and food items. Both homemade and commercial varieties are available. Although the effects of edibles take longer to set in than those of smoking or vaping, they typically stay much longer.
For this reason, edibles may be more appealing to consumers seeking a mellower high. Remember that edibles usually have higher THC concentrations than other forms of consumption, so new users should start slowly and with low doses.
Sublingual/Tinctures
Liquid THC cannabis is found in sublingual, inserted under the tongue, and tinctures, and added to meals or drinks.
They have a shorter onset time than smoking or vaping and pose less health hazards. Sublingual and tinctures are two methods of ingesting cannabis that some users prefer since they are more covert and convenient for dosing.
Capsules/Pills
Capsules or tablets containing THC are another common method of administration. When taken orally and absorbed through the digestive system, they produce the same results as smoking cannabis but without unpleasant side effects.
Capsules are a convenient and discrete delivery system for measured amounts of cannabis. They have dual medical and recreational applications.
Topicals
Products with local effects, such as analgesics and anti-inflammatories, are known as “topicals.” Gels, lotions, salves, patches, and sprays are some of the many forms they might take.
Unlike their psychotropic counterparts, topical medications have no additional physiological or psychological effects. They can relieve specific symptoms without the high or the hazards of smoked or vaporised THC cannabis.
THC’s Health Benefits
THC is helpful for a wide range of medical issues related to health and fitness. Below are some of the most essential.
Pain
Evidence suggests that THC has an analgesic effect, reducing the intensity of physical discomfort. When relieving neuropathic (nerve) pain, THC has a reputation for being very effective.
Nausea and vomiting
It has been known that THC can help with nausea and vomiting. Many people think THC is a promising complement to standard treatments for cancer patients who suffer from nausea and vomiting.
Tumours
Data from recent studies suggest that THC can decrease tumour growth. It accomplishes this in two ways by eliminating preexisting tumour cells and by retarding the development of new tumours.
Sleep disruptions
This is a nuanced issue, as THC may only alleviate insomnia in specific circumstances. For some who find THC calming, it may help them get a more restful night’s sleep. Moreover, THC may alleviate underlying conditions, such as chronic pain or stress, allowing users to sleep more soundly.
Tense muscles
THC has shown promise in treating MS symptoms, including spasticity and a need to urinate frequently.
Regarding your eyes
There’s a good chance that marijuana can help your eyes stay healthy. Intraocular pressure is a hallmark of glaucoma, and THC appears to lower it.
Anxiety
THC may help with anxiety when used in smaller dosages. Because of this, it’s likely that many people who suffer from social anxiety disorder also use it.
Reduced hunger, and unintended weight loss
Studies and user testimonials show that THC helps stimulate appetite and reduces cachexia symptoms. People with cancer, receiving chemotherapy, or living with HIV/AIDS often experience these symptoms.
Relaxing generally
THC is a sedative that may result in a pleasant sense of tranquillity. This calming effect might help calm your “monkey mind” while giving you a boost of energy.
For how long does THC last in your body?
The time that THC stays in your system depends on how often you consume it. The detection window for THC is one to three days for occasional users and 30 days or longer for chronic users.
The way you consume things is also important. Unlike when using a vaporizer or smoking a joint, the effects of ingesting THC take longer to wear off after eating it.
Conclusion
In the end, if you’re thinking of using THC for medical purposes, it’s crucial that you learn as much as possible about its history and current studies and that you consult a doctor first.
Understanding its potential uses could help more people access life-changing therapies.