Marijuana is a plant with the scientific name Cannabis sativa. People who take marijuana consume the seeds, leaves and stems so that they can feel intoxicated.
Marijuana comprises several compounds, but the compound that has one of the most powerful intoxicating effects is THC also known as Tetrahydrocannabinol.
Globally, marijuana is one of the most abused substances. And the number of people who have a marijuana-related health disorder is increasing at a steady rate.
The different methods of taking marijuana gives various effects to your body. For instance, if you inhale marijuana, the smoke goes to your lungs, and the drug is promptly flown to your bloodstream, finding it way to organs like the brain.
On the other hand, the effects of marijuana would be felt at a slower rate if you either eat or drink it.
Marijuana smoke comprises some toxic chemicals that are not great for the body. Some of these chemicals are hydrogen cyanide and ammonia. These chemicals can irritate your lungs and bronchial passages.
For someone who smokes regularly, there is a tendency for the person to always cough, wheeze or give off phlegm. In addition, the person is at risk of lung infections and bronchitis. Furthermore, marijuana makes existing respiratory illnesses worse, such as cystic fibrosis and asthma.
Also, marijuana smoke comprises carcinogens which may increase the risk of lung cancer. However, based on recent research, the evidence to this is not conclusive.
When Tetrahydrocannabinol is taken into the body, it moves from the lungs to the bloodstream and round the entire body. Within few minutes, the heart rate increases quite drastically, and it can continue for up to about three hours.
For someone who has a heart infection, this could increase the chances of having a heart attack.
People who started using marijuana at a young age, are more likely to have problems with brain development. Such people would have issues learning, memorizing and thinking properly.
If a nursing mother is an ardent smoker of marijuana, there is a big chance that the fetus will not develop properly.
