I have had many requests to write an article about the effects of marijuana on the body, and have always been hesitant on this subject as THC and its related compounds affect each person in a different way. This has as much to do with a person's psychological state, as it has to do with the physical make-up. Those who tend to think of them selves as small or insignificant have an enhanced sense of being when smoking pot. Per say, it brings out a sense of self confidence often ignored by the conscious mind. Conversely, those who are full of themselves and think they are superior to everyone else tend to get paranoia and feel uncomfortable while high. In addition, a veteran smoker will have a confident and assured mindset going into the high, while a first time smoker may feel paranoia due to the belief that the drug may harm them.
The creative types get the psychological benefits the strongest. THC increases sensory input without changing the overall perspective of what is happening (like hallucinogens would). For example, THC increases one's appetite, and also enhances the taste of food at the same time, creating the "munchies" phenomenon. While high, one is in a relaxed state, almost of meditation, and very in touch with the subconscious part of the mind. Outside distractions are ignored and one is free to focus or "get in the zone" for whatever one may set their mind to do. However, short-term memory is not as strong while high, so a free flow of ideas is ideal, not complicated tasks that require a set thought process.
On the physiological side, there are several things going on. First, cannabis will cause a swelling of the minor conjunctival blood vessels around the eye, resulting in bloodshot eyes. Another unpleasant side effect is the reduction of saliva production (dry mouth). On a lighter note, it has been reported in a de-classified military study that Cannabis can have hypnotic, anesthetic, anti-convulsant, anti-hypertensive and temperature-reducing effects with some medical value.
The high is still going to different for every person and new studies will come out every year saying one thing or another. You need to find out how THC affects your body in a safe and controlled environment. Don't let someone pressure you into smoking - you WILL have a bad experience. I can't stress this enough, I have seen many cases of first time smokers who have been pressured into smoking have a horrible time because they believe the drug is horrible and they feel they have let themselves down. As I said before, weed will bring out your inner feelings about your life for a few hours; make sure you're happy with yourself first.
Erowid.org list of effects (part humor):POSITIVE
mood lift, euphoria
laughter
relaxation, stress reduction
creative, philosophical or deep thinking : ideas flow more easily
increased appreciation of music. More aware of, deeper connection to music.
increased awareness of senses. (eating, drinking, smell)
change in experience of muscle fatigue. Pleasant body feel. Increase in body/mind connection.
pain relief (headaches, cramps)
reduced nausea, increased appetite (used medically for this)
boring tasks or entertainment can become more interesting or funny
NEUTRAL
general change in consciousness (as with many psychoactives)
increased appetite, snacky-ness
slowness (slow driving, talking)
change in vision such as sharpened colors or lights
closed-eye visuals (somewhat uncommon)
tiredness, sleepiness, lethargy
stimulation, inability to sleep (less common)
blood shot eyes (more common with certain varieties of cannabis and inexperienced users)
mouth dryness, sticky-mouth (varies with strain)
interrupts linear memory. Difficulty following a train of thought.
cheek, jaw, facial tension / numbness (less commonly reported)
racing thoughts (especially at high doses)
increased emotional impact of music
Time sense altered: cars seem like they are moving too fast, time dilation and compression are common at higher doses
NEGATIVE
nausea, especially in combination with alcohol, some pharmaceuticals, or other psychoactives
coughing, asthma, upper respiratory problems
difficulty with short term memory during effects and during periods of frequent use (Ranganathan M, D'Souza DC, Psychopharmacology, 2006)
racing heart, agitation, feeling tense
mild to severe anxiety
panic attacks in sensitive users or with very high doses (oral use increases risk of getting too much)
headaches
dizziness, confusion
lightheadedness or fainting (in cases of lowered blood pressure)
paranoid & anxious thoughts more frequent
possible psychological dependence on cannabis
clumsiness, loss of coordination at high doses
can precipitate or exacerbate latent or existing mental disorders
WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS
mild to moderate, non life-threatening withdrawal symptoms occur after daily use in some users. These may last for 1-6 weeks after cessation of use and can include anxiety, anhedonia (reduced experience of pleasure), headaches, general unease/discomfort, difficulty sleeping, and a desire to smoke pot. Severity of symptoms is related to frequency of use and individual sensitivity.
slight loss of appetite
finding non-stoned life a bit dull, increased boredom
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