While the legalization of marijuana has been sweeping across the United States, with 33 states permitting medical use and 11 allowing recreational use, questions still hover about its safety and effectiveness. This paradox, where widespread public use contrasts with limited medical understanding, was highlighted by Alvin Powell, a Harvard Staff Writer.
The key to safe cannabis use lies in the method of consumption. Harvard Health advises against smoking cannabis, which can inflame the lungs. Alternatives like under-the-tongue tinctures, edibles, topical products, or dry herb vaporizers are recommended. If smoking is the only option, it’s advised not to hold the smoke in the lungs for more than a second or two, as this doesn’t enhance the effect but only irritates the lungs. Furthermore, users are cautioned not to drive for at least four hours after consumption.
There are recognized risks, especially in mental health. There’s strong evidence linking early adolescent cannabis use, particularly in those with a family history of psychosis or schizophrenia, to potential mental health issues. Cannabis can trigger psychotic symptoms and potentially cause longer-lasting problems with psychosis and schizophrenia.
The intersection of cannabis use and athletics is an area of growing interest. Athletes like Mashhoodi are increasingly combining marijuana with workouts, though the impact of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) on physical activity remains unclear due to a lack of research. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) prohibits substances that can enhance performance, pose a risk to athletes, or violate the spirit of sport. This policy raises the question of whether marijuana falls into these categories.
Marijuana is commonly used for treating pain, yet the effectiveness of cannabinoids in pain relief is subject to debate. A Harvard Correspondent, Clea Simon, notes that while medical and recreational use is growing, neuroscientist Yasmin Hurd urges caution, indicating that legalization does not equate to safety.
Despite its increasing legality, the safe and effective use of cannabis, particularly in sports, remains a complex and debated issue. As research continues to evolve, so will our understanding of this widely used yet still somewhat enigmatic substance.
For more detailed insights, explore the original sources: Harvard Gazette, Harvard Health, Johns Hopkins, University of Colorado Boulder, and others.
