Cannabis Sativa is a hemp plant that has many uses and produces THC which is found in marijuana and hashish. THC stands for Delta-9, Tetra-hydro-cannabinol. The brain contains cannabinoid receptors which produce an effect similar to that of taking cannabis only naturally. When these receptors are activated there are pleasant feelings that are associated so when a person is using marijuana they are potentiating the pleasant feelings. THC is only one of many chemicals that are found in marijuana.
Marijuana has short term affects such as feeling hungry, laughing uncontrollably, and possibly paranoia. There is a behavioral affect called A motivational syndrome. This is when a person has the lack of motivation and oftentimes long term users will have this syndrome and will fail to complete treatment.
THC does have medical benefits. Synthetic THC is useful in treating glaucoma because THC reduces the pressure behind the eyes. So by reducing the pressure behind the eyes, a person who is suffering from this can have a more comfortable way of living. THC also acts like an antiemetic which lessens the feelings of nausea and reduces vomiting. THC also increases appetite. This is the reason it is useful for cancer patients, especially the ones undergoing chemotherapy, to use marijuana. It is important for cancer patients to be able to keep their nutrients when they eat so by increasing their appetite and eliminating or reducing the nausea and vomiting, cancer patients have an easier time undergoing chemotherapy. Typically people who are using medical marijuana smoke it so they can get the maximum effects as opposed to taking a pill which can delay the effects.
