What are the effects of Cannabis use in cognitive function?
Cannabis has revolutionized the medical industry by bringing to light the numerous benefits to treat ailments with its consumption. And with its legalization increasing in more and more countries, studies are coming to light to raise awareness about the true effects of ingesting this substance.
Speaking of the cognitive effects, there are studies that claim that it can help concentration and reduce anxiety, while there are others that say that it affects memory, among others. We share our knowledge in the medical marijuana field so that you know for sure what you face when consuming cannabis.
The distinction between THC and CBD
Before we begin, we want to emphasize that CBD and THC are not the same thing. Even if they can be found in the same plant, the difference is that they don’t have the same chemical arrangement, and the body receives them as different compounds. If you want to know more about this, we leave you this blog that might interest you: THC vs CBD: What is the real difference?
What studies say about the effects of THC on cognitive function
The last studies made by researchers at Université de Montréal (2022) analyzed six different areas of cognitive function, finding that cannabis intoxication affects all of these areas to different degrees.
With a total of 43,761 participants, the deficit in cognitive domains during intoxication was mainly verbal learning and memory, and executive function.
The medical marijuana research revealed that THC is a fat-soluble compound that stores in body fat, getting realeased gradually into the bloodstream for months and causing these effects.
Factors to consider in this study
The reason medical marijuana studies can never be absolute is that there is high variability in the quality of marijuana among regions, and even users. Also, the way of consuming marijuana also affects the main effects in cognitive functions.
Michele Ross, with a PhD in neuroscience and studies for the National Institute on Drug Abuse, says that cannabis edibles and tinctures don’t have the same effect as smoking, and that only THC or only CBD is different than THC and CBD. And it’s true, even if you take medical marijuana or use it for pleasure, the effects on cognitive function vary widely depending on the situation.
Having already talked about THC effects in cognitive functions and knowing the exceptions of this study, check out what the research says about CBD in cognitive functions.
Effects of CBD on cognitive function
On contrary to THC, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) of the body which regulates the emotions, immune system, and nervous system. This makes the human body come to a normal state, a state of calm, focus, and peace.
Many scientists have discovered that CBD can reduce symptoms of health conditions and be beneficial for brainpower. For example, if you struggle with anxiety, after taking CBD oil you will feel more relaxed and level-headed. You will also sleep better at night and focus more during the day.
So this medicinal substance (CBD) is much better for the body in terms of effects on cognitive function compared to TCH.
To sum up
It is impossible to deny that cannabis has effects on the cognitive functions of the body. But as mentioned in the article, it depends a lot on the type of substance, the way of ingesting it, and the dose; as well as the body of each individual.
The important thing is to investigate all the options and consult with professionals when consuming the products, in this way you guarantee that it will benefit you, and help you more than harm you depending on what you’re looking for.
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