Education
What Marijuana (Cannabis) Can Do for Your Health and Wellness
Is Marijuana Addictive? Using marijuana can, in certain circumstances, lead to dependency. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), about 9 percent of marijuana users may become addicted, and this rate increases to 17 percent among those who begin using marijuana as teenagers. (28) In comparison, dependency rates for substances like tobacco and heroin are higher, with tobacco at 32 percent and heroin at 17 percent. (29) For customers concerned about the risk of addiction, there are strategies to consider. Choosing products with lower THC concentrations, using cannabis products responsibly, and exploring non-smoking methods like edibles or tinctures may help reduce the potential for dependency.
How Else Will Marijuana Affect My Brain? Marijuana use can affect the brain depending on factors such as age, dosage, and frequency of use. Young individuals, in particular, may experience more pronounced effects as their brains are still developing. Research suggests that THC exposure during adolescence can impact decision-making, problem-solving, and memory. For instance, studies show that early users (ages 14-22) who stopped by 22 had cognitive difficulties compared to non-users. (30) Another study highlights verbal fluency and memory impairments in adults who began using marijuana before age 17. (31) If you are concerned about potential long-term effects on cognitive health, consider opting for products with balanced THC and CBD levels or exploring non-psychoactive options such as CBD oils.
How Will Smoking Weed Affect My Lungs? Long-term smoking of marijuana may have negative effects on respiratory health, similar to those seen with tobacco. Regular users might experience symptoms such as chronic bronchitis, coughing, and wheezing. (8) To mitigate these risks, consider alternative consumption methods such as edibles, tinctures, or vaporizers, which do not involve combustion. Vaporizers, for example, heat cannabis to release active compounds without producing harmful tar or carcinogens.
Will I Get Lung Cancer From Smoking Pot? Studies suggest only a weak association between smoking marijuana and lung cancer. A 2015 analysis found no significant difference in lung cancer risk between habitual marijuana smokers and non-users. (34) For those worried about the potential risks, transitioning to non-smoking alternatives like gummies, beverages, or capsules can be a viable choice.
How Will Marijuana Affect My Heart? Marijuana use can temporarily increase heart rate by 20 to 100 percent, which could last up to three hours. (35) This effect might make users more susceptible to cardiovascular issues, though research is inconclusive. (37) If you have a pre-existing heart condition, consult with a healthcare provider and consider lower-dose products or methods such as edibles, which may have less immediate impact on heart rate.
How Long Does Marijuana Stay in Your System? THC, the active compound in marijuana, can remain in your system long after its effects wear off. A single use can be detected in urine tests up to three days later, while chronic use may extend this period to 30 days. (40) Consumers concerned about detection timelines might explore options like CBD-only products, which typically do not contain detectable THC levels.
Can I Use Marijuana While Pregnant? Marijuana use during pregnancy is discouraged by medical professionals due to potential risks to fetal development. THC can pass through the placenta and potentially affect cognitive functions such as attention and memory in children. (42) For expectant mothers seeking relief from nausea or anxiety, non-cannabis alternatives or consulting a healthcare provider for safe remedies is recommended. Edibles or other products should be used cautiously, if at all, to minimize exposure to THC. Additionally, keep cannabis products in child-proof containers and out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion by children.
Marijuana-Related Warnings Like alcohol, marijuana use can impair driving, operating machinery, or performing activities requiring alertness. For safer consumption, consider lower-THC products or delay activities requiring focus after use. In states like Colorado, reports link increased marijuana potency to fatal car accidents. (46) Consumers are advised to use responsibly and ensure edibles or other products are stored securely to prevent accidental ingestion by children.