She Strengthens

Debunking the Myths: The Truth About Cannabis

Cannabis has been shrouded in mystery and misconception for far too long. From Reefer Madness to fear-mongering PSAs, the stigma surrounding weed has led to a plethora of myths and misunderstandings. It’s time to set the record straight.

The Humble Cannabis Plant

With over 545 known chemical compounds, cannabis is a complex plant that has been misunderstood for far too long. The two main cannabinoids, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), work together to stimulate receptors in the brain, affecting the mind and body in different ways. THC is responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis, while CBD balances out its effects and may even have therapeutic benefits.

Myth-Busting 101

Let’s dive into the myths surrounding cannabis and uncover the truth.

• The Munchies Are Real: Cannabis does cause hunger pangs by hijacking the hypothalamus, the part of the brain responsible for regulating hunger and thirst.
• Potency Has Increased: Modern cannabis is more potent than ever before, with selectively bred plants containing higher levels of THC. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean users are getting higher than their parents did in the ’60s.
• All Weed Is Not Created Equal: The effects of cannabis vary depending on the strain, with Sativa and Indica producing different highs. However, there is no official research into the sativa vs. indica effects, and individual reactions can vary greatly.
• Synthetic Weed Is Not Safe: Synthetic weed, also known as spice or K2, is highly toxic and can be up to 100 times stronger than natural cannabis. It has been linked to hallucinations, stroke, vomiting, acute psychosis, and even death.
• D.A.R.E. Doesn’t Work: The Drug Abuse Resistance Education program has been ineffective in keeping kids away from drugs, and its just-say-no approach has been criticized for not teaching students how to communicate with their peers and discuss drugs openly.
• You Can Overdose on Weed: While it won’t kill you, taking too much cannabis can lead to anxiety, paranoia, dizziness, and loss of coordination. Symptoms can be severe and may require medical attention.
• You Can’t Cheat a Urine Test: Products claiming to flush drugs from your system are ineffective, and the only way to “cheat” a urine test is to substitute your pee with someone else’s.
• Weed Won’t Make You a Criminal: Despite the stereotype, taking cannabis won’t instantly turn you into a violent criminal. However, if it’s illegal where you live, possessing it can make you a criminal in the eyes of the law.
• Weed Is Addictive: Marijuana use disorder is a real condition, and around 30 percent of regular users may experience it. THC can be addictive, and withdrawal symptoms can occur when use is stopped suddenly.

The Bottom Line

Cannabis is a complex substance that deserves to be understood. By debunking the myths surrounding it, we can work towards a safer, more informed approach to its use. Remember, cannabis is not for everyone, and it’s essential to consider the laws in your area and your own personal health before using it. If you do choose to use cannabis, listen to your body, and don’t be afraid to seek help if you need it.