Tetrahydrocannabinol (AKA: THC) is the dominant active ingredient in marijuana⁠—a derivative of the cannabis sativa plant⁠. It has been found invaluable as a plant-based remedy for a range of different medical conditions and symptoms. It’s typically consumed in the form of oils, sprays, tinctures, droppers or soft-gel capsules and can help with:

 

• Chronic pain

• Insomnia

• Anxiety 

• Glaucoma 

• PTSD

• Low appetite

• Muscle spasm (in multiple sclerosis patients, for example)

 

Unlike CBD, which you may be familiar with, THC has a distinct psychoactive effect. It works by binding to the cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors in the brain, stimulating the release of dopamine (the feel-good hormone) while hindering the functioning of regions of the brain such as the hippocampus and orbitofrontal cortex. Stimulating the release of dopamine is incredibly important; it means more than just getting ‘high’. Lack of dopamine is a significant reason for symptoms like anxiety, low appetite and insomnia. Stimulating dopamine release, therefore, is a natural way to ease those symptoms.

 

Of course, with THC affecting other regions of the brain too, such as the hippocampus and the cerebellum, it’s worth paying close attention to the side effects. That way, you can use the herbal medicine safely and responsibly. THC can reduce your reaction times, coordination and ability to carry out complex mental tasks. We therefore advise against consuming it before working, driving or operating heavy machinery. 

 

Modern medicine doesn’t yet know the full potential of THC. Governments and scientists have only recently recognized it as a genuinely effective holistic solution to chronic mental and physical ailments. Thankfully, they are now currently conducting research which aims to test the medical limits of the substance. Needless to say, the future is bright for THC, and for those who are given new leases on life by it.