Consuming marijuana has proven effects for treating a number of health issues
Like many other drugs, marijuana contains substances that resemble natural neurotransmitters. In this case, it is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which has the same effect on the brain as anandamide. In the short term, a feeling of well-being and amplification of pleasurable sensations, elevation of the pain threshold, and also some interference with memory formation and motor functions. Much research has shown that the plant has enough to be able to provide quite beneficial brain health.
Marijuana also contains another substance called cannabidiol (CBD), which, when it reaches the brain increases the levels of another endogenous neurotransmitter called 2-AG, which is involved in appetite regulation (hence the hunger that joints give you), and much more importantly, immune system and pain regulation. THC is psychotropic and is the part of cannabis that gives you the “recreational” effects. CBD does not produce these effects, but it does affect brain function and overall health, in many cases in a beneficial way.
Marijuana use in moderation induces feelings of relaxation, which makes anxiety and stress part of oblivion. THC is the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, and its space of influence in the brain is the endocannabinoid system, which is where there are receptors that respond to the chemical components of this leaf. These receptors have an important presence in the prefrontal and limbic areas of the brain, where reward and motivation mechanisms are modulated.
They regulate dopamine, gamma-aminobutyric acid, and glutamate signaling in the brain. It is well known that dopamine is involved in motivation, reward, and learning. While glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid have roles in cognitive processing, including memory and learning.