Marijuana and the human brain

THC is a significantly potent psychoactive drug compared to other drugs. Researches are showing that just one milligram of THC can induce immense psychological and physiological effects on human body. After THC gets into the blood from the smoke inhaled into the lungs, THC will reach the brain in just a few seconds and begin to influence it.

The experience of marijuana smoking can be described as relaxing at first, uplifting and is followed by feeling of haziness. Users can see colors as more intensive because of effects marijuana has on eyes. Other senses can also seem different and improved. After some time unpleasant feelings like panic, excessive anxiety and fear can be felt. This feelings are produced by chemical interactions between THC and human brain. To get a better understanding of this processes lets first understand some basic facts about the brain.

Neurons are responsive cells in human brain which are processing chemical informations. Neurons are connected through chemicals also know as neurotransmitters. Those neurotransmitters are located in synapses between neurons and they bind to neuron receptors. This allows them to act in different functions which makes it possible for the brain and body to work as a connected system. There are different kind of neurons of which some have large numbers of chemical receptors which are specific for some neurotransmitters. Chemicals from outside can influence neurotransmitters and change the way in which they act. THC is one of such chemicals.

In every human brain various groups of so called cannabinoid receptors are located in different areas of the brain. Those receptors are affecting some physiological and mental capabilities like: memory, learning capabilities and coordination of the body.

Those cannabinoid receptors are using a receptor named anandamide ( a chemical which belongs to cannabinoid groups of chemicals). THC from marijuana is also a chemical belonging to that group. THC has similar properties like the neurotransmitter anandamide, so it has the possibility to bind with those cannabinoid receptors in the brain and activate neurons which will induce the well known effects marijuana has on mind and body of its users.

Cannabinoid receptors are mainly located in areas of brain such as basal ganglia, hippocampus and cerebellum. Basal ganglia is the main controller of unconscious muscle actions and this is the reason why marijuana users have worse motor coordination after smoking marijuana. THC also will affect coordination (center for it is in cerebellum) and memory (hippocampus).

Continue reading here: Outdoor Marijuana Seeds

Was this article helpful?

0 0