Delta 9 THC Positives and Detriments a Patient Must Know
Cannabis has been legal in California for over 20 years, and during that time, doctors have learned a great deal about its effects on patients. In this article, we will discuss the positives and negatives of Delta 9 THC, one of the main active ingredients in medical marijuana.
What is THC?
THC is a molecule that is found in the cannabis plant. THC works by binding to cannabinoid receptors in the brain. These receptors are responsible for the psychoactive effects of THC. When THC binds to these receptors, it causes changes in the brain that lead to the feeling of being high.
THC also has other effects on the body, including pain relief, relaxation, and increased appetite. While THC is the primary molecule responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, there are other molecules in the plant that also contribute to these effects, for example, CBD.
Forms of Delta 9 THC
Delta 9 THC is the main ingredient in cannabis and is responsible for the plant's psychoactive effects. It can be found in various forms, including:
- Edibles: Cannabis can be infused into various food and beverage products, such as brownies, cookies, or gummies.
- Topicals: These are cannabis-infused products applied to the skin and are said to provide relief from pain and other ailments.
- Sublingual administration: It is produced in the form of drops that are placed under the tongue and absorbed into the bloodstream.
- Oral ingestion: It is usually produced in the form of capsules, tinctures, edibles, and oils.
Positives of Delta 9 THC
Delta 9 THC is the main psychoactive component of cannabis. It is what gives the plant its unique properties and makes it so popular among users. There are several positive sides to Delta 9 THC that patients must be aware of.
- THC can help alleviate pain and improve life overall for those suffering from chronic pain conditions like arthritis, cancer, and multiple sclerosis. The correct dosage chosen by a doctor is also safe for long-term use.
- It can increase appetite and help those struggling with eating disorders or wasting syndrome due to cancer or other chronic illnesses. Delta 9 can also improve overall digestion and help the body absorb nutrients from food.
- THC can help reduce nausea and vomiting, making it a valuable tool for chemotherapy patients.
- Delta 9 can be used to manage anxiety and improve mood, making it helpful for those suffering from conditions like PTSD or depression. It can also help to improve focus and concentration.
- THC can help with sleep troubles. If you are suffering from insomnia, THC can help you sleep better. It can act as a sedative, reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and improving the quality of sleep.
- THC can have neuroprotective effects, potentially beneficial for those with degenerative neurological conditions like Parkinson's or Alzheimer's. In addition, it is an effective treatment for pain and inflammation, two symptoms often associated with degenerative neurological conditions.
- THC can be useful topically to help with pain relief or skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. Skin diseases like these are often very itchy and uncomfortable, and THC can help to ease the symptoms.
Detriments of Delta 9 THC
Delta 9 THC is among the most well-known cannabinoids. It is the main component of marijuana and is responsible for the plant's psychoactive effects. However, it is also associated with several negative side effects.
- Delta 9 can cause anxiety and paranoia. Some people report feeling paranoid and uncomfortable after smoking weed. That is more common with high-THC strains.
- THC can impair your memory and cognitive function. Short-term memory loss is among the most commonly reported unwanted effects of THC. This can make it difficult to remember things that have happened recently or to focus on tasks that require mental effort.
- Delta 9 THC increases your heart rate and blood pressure. These effects can be worse if you take it with other drugs that also increase your heart rate or blood pressure.
- Delta 9 can counteract the therapeutic effects of other cannabinoids, such as CBD. As a result, it can potentially reduce its therapeutic effects.
- THC can be addictive. Some people who use it can develop a tolerance to it quickly, needing more and more of the medical component to get the same effects. It may also develop a dependence on it, feeling that people cannot function without it.
Wrapping Up
Patients who are considering using Delta 9 THC to treat their ailments should be 100% aware of the pros and cons associated with its use. While it has been shown to provide some benefits, there are also potential risks that patients must be aware of. By understanding the positive and negative aspects of Delta 9 THC, patients can make a rational decision about whether or not it is right for them.