The health benefits of CBD, at this point, are pretty well known. In fact, we wrote about them not too long ago. In case you missed it, you can [[[[[find it here.]]]]] Link to Health benefits of CBD. But did you know tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has its own health benefits? That’s right, THC is mostly known for its psychoactive effects, but there’s much more to it than that.
- Protects Brain Cells
Yes, THC is responsible for the high associated with marijuana. But, unlike other drugs which are neurotoxic, THC actually protects your brain cells from damage.
Fun Fact: A 2014 study found those who had THC in their systems were 80 percent less likely to die from traumatic head injuries than those who didn’t have any.
2) Stimulates Brain Growth
So cool, right? Not only does THC protect your brain, but it promotes brain growth, too! See, there’s something called “CB1 receptors in our brains which THC activates. When this happens, it stimulates a process called “long-term potentiation,” which helps our brain learn.
Scientists have been wondering how various drugs effect the hippocampus. Unlike other areas of our brains, the hippocampus can grow new neurons throughout life. Drugs like heroine, alcohol, and cocaine hinder new cell growth in the area, which is one reason scientists are so interested in that weed has the opposite effect.
3) THC is an Antioxidant
Cannabis plants boost its THC production when it senses UVB light, which creates a powerful antioxidant. UVB light is responsible for creating signs of aging along with other skin diseases on both cellular and DNA levels, also known as oxidative stress.
But since THC is an antioxidant, it protects cells from damage due to stress. No wonder, cannabis is promoted to be a tool to fight against aging.
4) Helps Lung Health
A study dating back to 1975 found the first signs that cannabinoids may actually ease asthma attacks. We know, it sounds crazy. Lung health probably isn’t what you think of when it comes to the benefits THC has to offer, but we can’t ignore the evidence.
THC acts as something called a bronchodilator, which dilates the bronchi in your lungs. In turn, this decreases the resistance of respiratory airflow allowing you to breath easier.
5) Helps Manage Symptoms of PTSD
During any given year, an estimated eight million Americans suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). And 70% of U.S. adults experience at least one traumatic event in their life.
Those who suffer from PTSD may suffer from depression, flashbacks, insomnia, loneliness, and nightmares, all of which THC helps. Which means THC can actually help those with PTSD finally get some much-needed sleep.
6) Boost Your Senses
People claim THC is “dangerous” because of the psychoactive effects, but it’s actually something that makes cannabis so special. It’s been used during spiritual ceremonies for thousands of years for this very reason! Not to mention, it’s impossible to overdose on marijuana, so if you enjoy the psychoactive component of THC, and you use it with the right intentions, you may just experience some life-changing revelations, discover deeper personal insights, or even [[[[increase your creativity]]]]
7) Pain Relief
This is one that THC shares with CBD. Both works great to relieve pain, not just in your muscles, but also vomiting and nausea. It was long thought that CBD was the only option for medicinal pain relief, but an FDA approved 2013 trial, confirmed otherwise.
The trial showed individuals who [[[microdosed]]] THC had a 30 percent reduction in pain intensity compared to those who took the placebo.
Final Thoughts
Unfortunately, most research being done on THC is with the intent of proving how bad it is. Yet, study after study is showing the opposite. If you ask us, we’re just beginning to scratch the surface of all the benefits of this magic plant.
Come by our marijuana dispensary near University Park in north Portland to try our high-quality cannabis. We’d love to answer any questions you might have, or help you find the best method for you.
