Marijuana has been used for thousands of years, so it's not a new trend. However, in recent decades, the conversation about its effects has intensified, especially with the growing number of countries legalizing it for medical and recreational use.
Cannabis in Barcelona:
Here in Barcelona, we have a growing and vibrant cannabis scene, with a quality of marijuana that is considered one of the best in the world, thanks to our climate. The decriminalization of marijuana in Spain has led to the possibility of having many government approved dispensaries, weed clubs and cannabis associations where people can buy high quality products and find trained staff to help with dosages and method of consumption.
Health concerns:
But the battle for legality is not over, as carrying marijuana and smoking in public places is still not legal, and the stigma surrounding marijuana has not completely disappeared. Health concerns are one of the main reasons cannabis has not been declared legal, as there is still much to learn about the effects it can have on people. Therefore, the conversation about the proper use of cannabis is important, because learning about it means having better control of the effects and means healthier consumers, which could lead to an even greater relaxation of the laws surrounding marijuana use.
Short-term effects of cannabis use:
The short-term effects of cannabis use can vary depending on factors such as the amount consumed, the potency of the product and the method of consumption. When consumed in smaller doses, it can cause feelings of relaxation and euphoria, increased sociability and heightened sensory perception. However, when consumed in larger doses, it can cause more intense effects such as impaired coordination, confusion, anxiety and even paranoia.
One of the most common short-term effects of cannabis use is increased heart rate, which can be dangerous for people with pre-existing heart conditions. In addition, it can cause dry mouth, red eyes and increased appetite, also known as "the gluttony" or "comedown".
Long-term effects of cannabis use:
The long-term effects of cannabis use are not yet fully understood and require further research. However, some studies suggest that long-term cannabis use can have adverse health effects, especially when it comes to respiratory health. Smoking cannabis can cause lung irritation and lead to chronic bronchitis, especially in long-term and regular users. Therefore, it is recommended to use other methods of consumption, such as vaporizers, edibles or oils.
Another potential long-term effect of cannabis use is the development of cannabis use disorder. As with other psychoactive substances, it is a condition characterized by difficulty in controlling cannabis use, which can lead to negative consequences in the person's life, such as psychological dependence on the substance, financial difficulties, relationship problems or physical dependence.
However, it is important to note that these long-term effects are not universal and may not occur in all users. Many factors can contribute to the development of these conditions, such as genetics, frequency of use and dosage.
Benefits of cannabis use:
Cannabis has been used medicinally for centuries, and studies have shown its effectiveness in the treatment of various conditions such as chronic pain, epilepsy, anxiety and insomnia. In addition, some studies suggest that cannabis may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer and improve brain function.
Conclusion:
The short- and long-term health effects of cannabis are not yet fully understood and require further research. However, it is clear that the benefits of cannabis use can outweigh the risks when used responsibly and under the guidance of medical professionals. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to evaluate the potential benefits and risks of cannabis use and make informed decisions.