Before we dive into the scientific stuff, let’s clarify what it means to feel high. For the purposes of this post, we’ll use a very common set of observable sensations that a person may experience while they view themselves as being “high” on THC. A person that considers themselves to be high on THC may be experiencing one of the following sensations: they may feel euphoric, relaxed, amused, giggly, creative, hungry or generally in a jovial state. Many of the readers of this post will know exactly what I mean by this informal definition. Now onto the scientific stuff…
The way THC affects people depends on an internal system built into our very own extremely complex genetic profiles. That’s right, you, the reader, are a beautiful human being made up of 37.2 TRILLION cells! The human body is truly a miraculous wonder, and within the human body is a dynamic and fascinating system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This is a complex signaling system in the body that plays a key role in regulating a variety of physiological and cognitive processes, including pain sensation, mood, appetite, and memory. The ECS consists of three main components: endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes that break down endocannabinoids.
Endocannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds in the body that are similar in structure to the cannabinoids found in marijuana, including THC. Cannabinoid receptors are found throughout the body, but are particularly abundant in the brain, where they are concentrated in areas involved in cognition, emotion, and movement. When THC is consumed, it enters the bloodstream and travels to the brain, where it binds to cannabinoid receptors, primarily to a subtype called CB1 receptors. When THC binds to CB1 receptors, it disrupts normal neurotransmitter signaling in the brain, leading to changes in perception, mood, and cognitive function.
To be more specific, THC mimics the effects of the endocannabinoid anandamide. In more simple terms, the Endocannabinoid anandamide is a natural neurotransmitter than binds to CB1 receptors. CB1 receptors are present in very high levels among several brain regions, and are also present, but at lower concentration levels across the body. THC binds more tightly to CB1 receptors than anandamide, leading to more pronounced effects on the brain. To quote the late Bradley Nowell, “Hard work good and hard work fine, but first take care of head.”
Much to my chagrin, the exact mechanisms by which THC produces its psychoactive effects are not fully understood. But there has been enough research and analysis done to give us a pretty good idea. Research suggests that THC alters the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which are involved in regulating mood and behavior. THC also affects the activity of other neurotransmitter systems, such as the opioid and glutamate systems, which can contribute to its effects on pain and memory.
Overall, THC produces its psychoactive effects by interacting with the endocannabinoid system in the brain, primarily by binding to CB1 receptors and disrupting normal neurotransmitter signaling. This leads to changes in perception, mood, and cognitive function, and is responsible for the high associated with marijuana use.
So, in a nutshell, we feel high after consuming THC because the compounds in THC enter our bloodstream and travel to our brains where it binds to cannabinoid receptors and directly sends or disrupts signals to the rest of the body. Depending on the consumer’s ECS, this results in a variety of experiences ranging from pure bliss and relaxation, to creative genius and sometimes added anxiety or paranoia.
My recommendation to any new or undecided cannabis users is to always start slow with small doses, and take your time with experimenting. Be well, and please be kind to each other.
- C.B, Swift
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