There are several myths of marijuana and misconceptions surrounding marijuana, many of which can lead to misunderstandings about its effects, risks, and benefits. Here are some common myths associated with marijuana:
Reality: While marijuana has therapeutic benefits and is less harmful than some other substances, it is not entirely without risks. Heavy or long-term use can lead to dependence, cognitive impairment, and mental health issues, especially in young people.
Reality: Marijuana is not chemically addictive like some other substances. However, according to anecdotal evidence, those who use medical marijuana to control and manage symptoms of their condition state that it can create conditional behavior. Patients who use medical marijuana, find relief from their symptoms, so they are motivated to continue using it for that purpose. About 9% of users may develop a marijuana use disorder, with the risk increasing for those who start using at a young age or use it frequently.
Reality: The idea that marijuana use inevitably leads to the use of harder drugs is largely a myth. Most people who use marijuana do not go on to use more dangerous substances. The “gateway” concept is more related to the social and environmental factors associated with drug use.
Reality: This myth has been debunked by research. While heavy, long-term use of marijuana, especially during adolescence, can affect cognitive function and memory, it does not “kill” brain cells. The effects are often related to the alteration of brain development rather than direct damage.
Reality: You can’t overdose using marijuana but you can overconsume, leading to unwanted results. While it’s true that marijuana overdoses are not fatal in the same way as overdoses from opioids or alcohol, consuming too much marijuana can lead to severe discomfort, including anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, and extreme dizziness. This is especially true with edibles, which have delayed effects and can lead to accidental overconsumption — another good reason to use medical marijuana that has recommended doses.
Reality: Marijuana affects different people in different ways. Factors like genetics, overall health, the method of consumption, and the strain of marijuana all play a role in how someone might experience its effects. What is relaxing for one person could cause anxiety in another. That’s why medical marijuana patients are advised to “start low, and go slow” when starting. Start with a low dose and monitor your response for optimal results.
Reality: While the marijuana used in both contexts comes from the same plant, there are differences in the way they are cultivated, cured, and processed for consumption. Medical marijuana typically has stricter requirements and quality controls in place. Medical marijuana is also used under a doctor’s supervision for specific conditions, whereas recreational marijuana is used for personal enjoyment. In addition, CBD shops offer only consumable hemp, from the sativa strain, which is low in THC but high in CBD content.
Reality: While marijuana laws have been relaxed in many places, it is still illegal under federal law and in several states in the United States. Even in areas where it is legal, there are restrictions on its use, possession, and sale, depending on the state’s laws where it’s cultivated and sold.
Reality: Driving under the influence of marijuana is dangerous and illegal. Marijuana impairs reaction time, judgment, and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents. It is not a safer alternative to driving under the influence of alcohol. If a person feels their response is impaired for whatever reason, driving should always be avoided.
Reality: CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are both cannabinoids found in marijuana, but they have different effects. THC is psychoactive and responsible for the “high,” while CBD is non-psychoactive and is often used for its potential therapeutic benefits without altering one’s state of mind.
Reality: While being in an enclosed space with a lot of marijuana smoke could theoretically lead to mild intoxication, the chances of getting high from secondhand smoke in most situations are minimal.
Reality: This is perhaps the biggest myth of all. Extensive research has shown that marijuana can have significant medical benefits, particularly for chronic pain, nausea, muscle spasms, and certain neurological conditions like epilepsy. It’s not a cure-all but, for many patients, it provides relief when other treatments haven’t worked.
Understanding these myths helps in making informed decisions about marijuana use, whether for medical or recreational purposes. If you’re interested in getting started with medical marijuana, please visit our website for more information or click the button below.
