What is THC?
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC, is the main psychoactive compound found in cannabis. It interacts with the brain to create the sensation of being “high.” It plays a significant role in both recreational and medicinal uses of cannabis.
What is THC?
Medical Use
Doctors often use it to help cancer patients manage chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. It also stimulates appetite, especially in people with conditions like cancer or HIV/AIDS. Many patients rely on it to increase their food intake when other treatments fail to work.
Beyond chemotherapy, THC offers relief for chronic pain, insomnia, and anxiety. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, helping to regulate mood, sleep, and pain perception. As a result, it has become a popular alternative to traditional painkillers and sleep aids.
Effects of THC
- It activates the brain’s reward system and releases dopamine, creating feelings of euphoria.
- It affects mood, memory, and perception of time, often leading to altered experiences.
- It enhances relaxation and boosts creativity for many recreational users.
- It heightens sensory experiences, making music, art, and social interactions more enjoyable.
- Higher doses of it may cause negative side effects like paranoia, anxiety, or impaired judgment.
- Users may feel disconnected from reality or experience overwhelming anxiety with excessive consumption.
- Recreational users commonly consume it for personal relaxation and in social settings.
- Despite its benefits, users must control dosage to prevent unwanted effects.
- Medical patients use it to manage chronic pain, reduce nausea, and stimulate appetite.
- Both recreational and medical users need to understand their limits to avoid side effects.
Relation to Other Cannabinoids
THC stands out among the 113 known cannabinoids for its powerful psychoactive effects. While CBD offers therapeutic benefits without intoxication, THC provides both medicinal relief and recreational enjoyment. Scientists continue to study it to uncover more potential uses and understand its full impact on the body.
