The Effects and Benefits of THC, Explained
Delta9-Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC for short, is one of the most abundant cannabinoids found naturally in the crystals and resin of female cannabis plants. THC is responsible for producing the psychotropic highs most commonly associated with cannabis use. But the compound also has therapeutic uses and has been proven to be an effective anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antispasmodic agent.
The discovery of THC
The study of THC began in 1964 when Israeli chemist Raphael Mechoulam successfully isolated the cannabinoid from Lebanese hashish. In the process, Mechoulam discovered how cannabinoids bind to certain neuroreceptors.
Mechoulam’s discovery has prompted decades worth of cannabis research, much of which is still going on today. Many of these studies have confirmed THC’s efficacy in treating ailments like arthritis, insomnia, anorexia, sleep apnea and glaucoma, and new discoveries about the cannabinoid continue to be made every year.
How does THC work?
THC binds with many of the cannabinoid receptors in our brains and central nervous systems to produce its euphoric and psychedelic effects. Its effects are known to vary by strain and by method of consumption.
THC content can differ from strain to strain. Certain strains have upwards of 30 per cent THC content, while others contain no THC whatsoever. Some more potent cannabis extracts, like shatter and wax, can have upwards of 90 per cent THC concentration. However, these products are not yet legally available on the Canadian market.
Is THC safe?
THC is considered to be safe for human consumption, although over-ingestion can lead to paranoia, anxiety, nausea, delusions and even hallucinations. Despite these more uncomfortable side effects, no one has ever died from consuming THC. That is because it is practically impossible to overdose on the cannabinoid. According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, one would need to ingest 20,000 times the amount of THC in an average joint (or to smoke roughly the equivalent of 1,500 pounds in a 15-minute span) to fatally overdose!
Therapeutic applications
As mentioned above, THC is a promising anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antispasmodic agent. It has also been proven to have antibacterial properties.
Recent research has shown that THC can aid many conditions and illnesses, including:
It’s worth noting that cannabis strains consisting of THC and other cannabinoids have been shown to be effective in treating a much broader range of conditions than those listed above, which are specific to the THC molecule.
Promisingly, some studies have shown that THC can stop the spread of – and in some instances, even kill – human cancer cells in Petri dishes. These results show promise for THC as a potential cancer treatment. However, research and studies on this subject are still in their earliest stages, and more clinical trials are needed.
Looking for more cannabis information and advice? Book your free consultation with a medical cannabis prescriber, or call 1-888-671-8022 with questions.
