Cannabinoids and Their Effects

Cannabis refers to the dried leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds of the Cannabis sativa L plant. It contains various cannabinoids, including THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound.

A type of cannabis product made from the dried buds and leaves of the cannabis plant. It contains a moderate amount of THC.

Hashish, often shortened to 'hash', is a concentrated form of cannabis made from the resin of the buds of the cannabis plant. It's compacted into a sticky brown substance with a higher concentration of THC compared to marijuana.

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. It's responsible for the intoxicating effects.

Trichomes are microscopic hair-like structures found on cannabis plants. They contain the resin (sticky substance) which is used to make hashish.

Hemp refers to the Cannabis sativa L plant used for industrial purposes, such as producing fiber and oil. It's a low-THC variety.

Cannabis can temporarily alter a person's mood, thoughts, and perceptions. These effects are due to the presence of THC.

Hashish is typically stronger than marijuana due to its higher THC concentration. This makes it more potent and can produce more intense effects.

A chemical compound found in cannabis, known for its psychoactive effects. It's the main component responsible for 'getting high'.

Another compound found in cannabis, but unlike THC, it doesn't produce a 'high'. It's often marketed for various benefits, like relaxation and pain relief.

A specific form of THC that's also psychoactive but is different from the common Delta-9 THC. It's gaining popularity for its potential therapeutic benefits.

A prescription medication containing CBD, available in pill form. It's used to treat specific medical conditions.

The plant species that produces both THC and CBD. It's commonly known as marijuana or cannabis.

A type of Cannabis sativa L plant with very low levels of THC. It's primarily used for its fibers and seeds.

A general term for the cannabis plant and its various preparations, including marijuana, hashish, and weed.

The group of chemicals found in cannabis, each with different properties. THC and CBD are two examples.

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a compound found in cannabis plants. It's known for its potential medicinal benefits without causing a 'high'. It's often used to treat various conditions like loss of appetite, chronic pain, and anxiety.

Marinol is a prescription drug containing THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis. It's used to treat specific medical conditions like loss of appetite and nausea caused by chemotherapy.

Vaporizers are devices that heat cannabis, releasing vapor instead of smoke. This method offers a smoother and potentially safer experience, but some vaporizer designs mimic electronic cigarettes and are popular among teens. These devices are often disguised as pens, making them covert and less detectable.

THC interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the brain, impacting areas responsible for pleasure, memory, thinking, and perception. This interaction leads to the 'high' experienced when using cannabis, as these brain functions are overstimulated.

Cannabis can be consumed in various ways, including smoking, vaporizing, and oral ingestion through oils, capsules, edibles, tinctures, and lozenges. Topical applications and suppositories also exist for different purposes.

The effects of being high can involve memory problems, difficulty processing information, altered perception of time and senses, and impaired concentration and coordination.

Even after the immediate effects of marijuana wear off, some people may experience lasting impairment, making it difficult to perform complex tasks, learn new skills, maintain alertness and focus, recall information, and make sound decisions.

CB1 receptors are found throughout the nervous system, while CB2 receptors are primarily found in the immune system.

THC is an agonist of CB1 receptors, which means it binds to and activates them. This activation can lead to the psychoactive effects of marijuana.

Activation of CB1 receptors in the hippocampus and cortex may be responsible for the perceptual and cognitive effects of marijuana, such as altered perception and memory problems. Activation of CB1 receptors in the basal ganglia and cerebellum may contribute to sedation and movement difficulties. Activation of CB1 receptors in the spinal cord and brainstem may contribute to the analgesic (pain-relieving) effects of marijuana.

CBD acts as a negative allosteric modulator at CB1 receptors. This means it prevents THC (and other agonists) from binding to and activating these receptors.

Synthetic cannabinoids are lab-made substances chemically similar to compounds found in cannabis. They can have higher concentrations of THC than natural cannabis and can produce more potent and dangerous effects.

Use of synthetic cannabinoids is associated with serious adverse effects, including potential life-threatening complications.

Short-term effects of cannabis use can include feelings of euphoria, relaxation, altered time perception, impaired thinking and memory, and physical side effects like increased appetite and red eyes.

Long-term cannabis use can lead to respiratory problems like chronic bronchitis, and potentially increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and heart rhythm issues.

Cannabis can cause memory loss, impaired motor coordination, and altered perception, making it difficult to perform tasks requiring concentration and coordination.

Long-term cannabis smoking is associated with lung issues like inflammation, increased resistance to airflow, and chronic bronchitis.

Cannabis use can increase heart rate, potentially leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems such as stroke and heart attack.

Cannabis can create feelings of paranoia, anxiety, and fear, especially when used in large amounts or by those with little experience.

While cannabis can increase appetite, long-term use may lead to weight gain and associated health issues.

Cannabis can cause dry mouth, red eyes, and a sense of altered perception, affecting senses like sight, sound, and touch.

A serious condition caused by long-term, heavy cannabis use, characterized by nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

An extract produced by dissolving the cannabinoids from cannabis using a solvent.

A category of drugs with a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use in the United States.

The psychoactive component of cannabis, responsible for the 'high' effect.

A condition marked by inflammation of the pancreas, often associated with excessive alcohol consumption or heavy cannabis use.

A disorder characterized by sores in the lining of the stomach or duodenum, commonly caused by bacteria.

A condition where stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing heartburn and discomfort.