10 Cannabis Myths For Beginners Debunked

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Cannabis suffers from undeserved stigma. Due to plenty of misinformation, marijuana has been made to seem like a drug that makes people violent. This misinformation plays a significant role in creating myths about cannabis.  

Although these myths are often considered precautions, they can confuse a beginner. So, debunking these myths is an excellent way of creating awareness about cannabis. This product will not turn you into a violent criminal, but excessive use may lead to severe health issues.

Beginners are advised to do their own research to bridge the information gap. You may also access cannabis educational resources such as Green Bee Life for instructional videos, blog posts, and comprehensive guides. This can help you understand the benefits of cannabis and how and which products work best. 

To help you get a clearer picture of cannabis, listed below are ten myths that you should not believe. Read on to find out.

Myth #1: Cannabis Is A Dangerous Drug

Studies have found cannabis less harmful than alcohol, tobacco, cocaine, and heroin. And unlike most drugs, marijuana overdose is unlikely. However, it doesn’t make them entirely harmless. 

When used in excess, cannabis can be dangerous. Heavy marijuana smokers are at risk for respiratory issues like chronic or acute bronchitis. Though the risks may be attributed to smoking, it isn’t the only way to consume marijuana. Also, it’s best not to drive after consuming cannabis as it can impair your judgment and coordination, distort your perception, and slow your reaction time. 

In addition, cannabis use can be dangerous during pregnancy. Like cigarette smoking or alcohol consumption, cannabis may affect a baby’s brain development. According to research, the use of cannabis during pregnancy may lead to stillbirth, preterm birth, or low birth weight. 

Moreover, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active ingredient in cannabis, builds up in breast milk. Drinking such milk can expose infants to unhealthy levels of THC. 

Myth #2: You Cannot Overdose On Cannabis

Overdosing on cannabis is possible but not likely to be fatal. However, it will cause unpleasant symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and chest pain. In rare cases, an overdose might lead to extreme anxiety, paranoia, and short-term psychosis. 

The effects of an overdose might take several hours to disappear. The time varies based on the method of consumption. If a user consumes homemade cannabis edibles, the risk of an overdose is higher than smoking. 

Myth #3: Cannabis Will Not Show In A Drug Test

A drug test will show if you use cannabis. Those who smoke thrice a week will have traces of marijuana in their urine for up to three days. One who smokes up to four times a week will leave traces of marijuana in their urine for five to seven days.

On the other hand, for a daily user, marijuana can be detected for up to ten to fifteen days. 

Myth #4: Cannabis Is Not Addictive

Cannabis can be addictive. According to research, roughly one in eleven users become dependent on marijuana. For users who begin smoking in their teenage years, the risk of addiction is two times greater.

Regular cannabis users who abruptly stop may experience withdrawal symptoms like cravings, disturbed sleep, mood changes, and anxiety. 

Myth #5: Synthetic Cannabis Is Safe

As its name suggests, synthetic cannabis is a manmade chemical that mimics the potent effects of THC. It can be significantly stronger than natural cannabis, making it unsafe. In addition, most synthetic marijuana contains highly toxic chemicals, but they’re marketed as safe. 

Many types of synthetic cannabis can induce psychosis. However, there’s an exception that makes them safe for use. Dronabinol, a manmade form of THC, is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It should be taken as prescribed for specific medical conditions.

Myth #6: Cannabis Potency Is Declining

Currently, cannabis is bred to have higher concentrations of THC. A study has found that cannabis potency has increased. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get a more intense euphoria. This is because potency is not the same as dosage.  

And as such, users can now smoke less marijuana and achieve the same uplifting effect. Nonetheless, it’s essential to remember that the key to enjoying cannabis is moderation. 

Myth #7: Cannabis Use Leads To Crime

Although some offenders were found to be using marijuana, it doesn’t mean it causes criminal behavior. Unlike drugs such as alcohol, cannabis doesn’t unleash aggression. However, it’s important to note that marijuana might be illegal in some states

Therefore, it’s unreasonable to claim that criminal activity is due to cannabis consumption. According to an analysis, there’s no direct link between cannabis and increased crimes.

Sativa vs Indica- cannabis edibles overdose

Myth #8: All Cannabis Products Produce The Same Kind Of High

Most cannabis enthusiasts are familiar with two species of cannabis: Indica and Sativa. Sativa is typically associated with alertness and enhanced energy, while Indica tends to cause relaxation. Also, hybrid strains have been created by combining both. 

Since everyone processes THC differently, one user might feel energized while the other feels sleepy. Thus, it can be challenging to determine the exact reaction for a specific strain. 

Myth #9: Cannabis Is A Gateway Drug

According to a review of scientific evidence by the Institute of Medicine, there’s no definitive proof that cannabis use leads to the subsequent abuse of illicit drugs like cocaine, heroin, and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). Therefore, cannabis is not a gateway drug as commonly presumed. 

Myth #10: Cannabis Use Causes Cancer

Although cigarette smoking is directly linked to lung cancer, there’s no conclusive causal connection between cannabis and this dreaded disease. In fact, cannabis is used to relieve cancer symptoms like pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Furthermore, several animal studies have shown the potential of cannabinoids in slowing the growth of some types of cancer, as reported by the American Cancer Society.   

Bottom Line

It’s time to set the record straight about cannabis so beginners can make an informed decision. Busting the ten most common myths perpetuated through the years is a good way to start. 

It’s also essential to remember to listen to your body when consuming cannabis. Maintain a healthy relationship with cannabis by indulging in it responsibly. 

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