The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is responsible for regulating one’s sleep, mood, memory, and appetite. AN indidivual’s reporduction and fertility can be affected and influecent by the ECS as well. Endocannabinoids include anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglyerol (2-AG). The two receptors associated with this system include CB1 and CB2 receptors (in the PNS). CB1 receptors are found in the central nervous system and is responsible for regualting serotnin, dopamine, and glutamate neurotransmitters. CB2 receptors are found in the peripheral nervous system and repsonsible for regulating immune and inflammatory pathways. (1)
When an individual is exposed to marijuana (Cannabis sativa) their CB1 and CB2 receptors are targeted by an ingredient called delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinoil (THC) and causes the system to become overwhelmed. The reward system is then activated and the individual will feel a sense of happiness and pleasure. Furthermore, the individual will experience short-term and long-term effects after becoming exposed to the drug. Such effects include:
Short-term effects:
- Decreased anxiety and then increased anxiety as the drug wears off
- Impaired memory
- Impaired judgment
- Attention and focus difficulty
- Fatigue
- Slow reaction time
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
Long-term effects:
- Impaired short-term recall
- Cognitive impairment
- Decrease of motivation
- Potential addiction
- Increased risk of mood, anxiety, and bipolar disorders
One’s mood after being exposed to marijuana can range widely as factors such as past exposure, experiences, illness, sensitivity, etc. The image below shows the normal function of different brain structures that contain CB receptors along with the effects of THC exposure.
(2, 3, 4)
Cannabidiol Treatment
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a chemical found within Cannabis sativa. CBD is used to help relieve pain, inflammation, chronic pain, and anxiety. It lacks THC which creates the feeling of being high . This chemical is legal for users if it is retrieved from hemp and contain less than 0.3% of THC. Cannabis derived CBD is illegal in most states.
And increase or loss in weight and appetite, diarrhea, and fatigue are some side effects of using this product. (5)
Resources
- https://www.healthline.com/health/endocannabinoid-system#functions
- http://headsup.scholastic.com/students/endocannabinoidÂ
- https://www.verywellmind.com/basic-facts-about-marijuana-67790
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6329464/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cbd-oil-benefits#bottom-line
