The Effects of Cannabis (Marijuana) on the Brain & Body | Huberman Lab Podcast #92

Cannabis (Marijuana) can impact thinking, memory systems, and creativity. The effects of cannabis vary depending on dosage, frequency of use, profession, genetic predisposition, sex differences, hormone effects, and age. Different strains of cannabis have different effects. Medicinal applications of cannabis are explored, as well as potential health hazards. Cannabis can be used to treat ailments and impact anxiety and depression. Sex differences in response to cannabis are examined. Cannabis can influence creativity and different modes of thinking. THC is the most powerful psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for mood and bodily changes, while CBD is used for pain and anxiety management. Sativa strains have a stimulating effect, while indica strains lead to relaxation. Hybrid strains combine the effects of both sativa and indica. Cannabis use can have negative effects on hormones, fertility, and mental health. Smoking or vaping cannabis has negative health consequences. Cannabis use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is strongly advised against. Cannabis use during adolescence and young adulthood increases the risk of mental health disorders. Cannabis has diverse effects on pain management and the body. Various ways to support the Huberman Lab Podcast are mentioned.

Cannabis (Marijuana)

Cannabis affects the brain and body, with compounds like THC and CBD playing a role.
Different strains of cannabis have different effects.
Medicinal applications of cannabis are explored.
Potential health hazards of cannabis use are discussed.
Understanding the legality of cannabis in different locations is important.
Cannabis can be used to treat ailments and impact anxiety and depression.
Sex differences in response to cannabis are examined.
Cannabis can influence creativity and different modes of thinking.

This video provides a comprehensive understanding of cannabis, including its effects on the brain and body. It explores the potential benefits and hazards of cannabis use, helping viewers determine if it is suitable for themselves and others.

New Huberman Lab Premium Membership

The Huberman Lab has launched a premium membership that offers regular Ask Me Anything (AMA) sessions with Andrew Huberman. Here are the key points:

The premium membership requires a monthly fee of $10 or an upfront payment of $100 for the entire year.
Funds raised from the premium membership will support the Huberman Lab Podcast and research on human beings, specifically focused on developing protocols for mental health, physical health, and performance.
The premium membership offers a dollar-for-dollar match on all funds raised for research, courtesy of the Tiny Foundation.
Subscribers will have access to AMAs, the opportunity to ask questions and receive answers, and access to premium content such as transcripts of the AMAs and various protocols.
The Huberman Lab Podcast is introducing the premium membership to offer exclusive access to podcast episodes and support research.

Tool: Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR), Sleep & Anxiety

Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR) is a behavioral practice that allows individuals to enter a state of deep relaxation and access their brain and body systems for self-teaching and recovery. It has neurochemical, physical, and psychological benefits. NSDR is recommended for those with sleep issues, anxiety, or self-regulation problems. It is also beneficial for focused work. A zero-cost NSDR script is available on YouTube, similar to yoga nidra but without mystical components.

Key points:

NSDR is a practice for deep relaxation and self-teaching.
It has neurochemical, physical, and psychological benefits.
Recommended for sleep issues, anxiety, and self-regulation problems.
Also beneficial for focused work.
A free NSDR script is available on YouTube, similar to yoga nidra.

Cannabis Strains, Psychoactive Compounds: THC & CBD

The most profound aspect of the topic is the distinction between THC and CBD in cannabis strains and their effects on the brain and body.

THC is the most powerful psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for mood and bodily changes.
CBD is another compound in cannabis used for pain and anxiety management.
CBN is less discussed but relevant to the topic.
Cannabis plants come in different genetic strains, including sativa, indica, ruderalis, and hybrids.
THC is commonly associated with the "high" sensation, while CBD and CBN have profound effects without altering perception or mood.
The cannabis plant contains over 70 psychoactive compounds, many of which have not been extensively studied.
The plant also has over 400 biologically active compounds with various properties.
Further exploration is needed to understand the mysteries surrounding THC and CBD.

Sativa vs. Indica, Stimulant vs. Relaxation Effects

The distinction between sativa and indica strains of cannabis is important as it affects how cannabis affects the brain and body. Sativa plants are taller with longer leaves, while indica plants are shorter and stout. Understanding these differences can provide insights into how cannabis works and how it may impact mood, appetite, and other bodily functions.

Key Points:

Sativa and indica are different strains of cannabis plants that interact with each other to bring out different psychoactive compounds.
Sativa has a stimulating effect, making people feel invigorated and alert. It may also enhance focus and creativity.
Indica leads to full-body relaxation and a sedative effect. It is often used for sleep and anxiety relief.
Sativa is associated with an elevated mood and head high, while indica is more relaxing.
Hybrid strains combine the effects of both sativa and indica.

Hybrid Cannabis Strains, Type 1, 2 & 3 Strains

Hybrid cannabis strains can be categorized into three types: type one, type two, and type three.

Type one strains have a high THC to CBD ratio and are associated with psychoactive effects. They provide a mood-elevating and creative experience.
Type two strains have equal ratios of THC and CBD.
Type three strains are high in CBD and low in THC.

Understanding these categorizations is crucial for predicting the effects of cannabis.

Naturally Occurring Receptors: Nicotinic & Cannabinoid Receptors (CB1)

Our brains and bodies have cannabinoid receptors (CB1), which naturally bind to chemicals found in cannabis like THC and CBD.
Endogenous cannabinoids, chemicals we naturally produce, also bind to these receptors and affect mood, appetite, and other functions.
Cannabis compounds have a stronger effect on mood and perception compared to our natural cannabinoids.
The presence of cannabinoid receptors does not imply that ingesting cannabis is safe or appropriate.
Synthetic or plant-derived compounds can have potentially dangerous effects on receptors.
Understanding that the presence of receptors does not imply a purposeful interaction with plant compounds is important.

THC, CBD vs. Endogenous Cannabinoids, Dependence

THC and CBD bind to endogenous cannabinoid receptors, affecting mood, energy, creativity, and relaxation. They outcompete natural cannabinoids, leading to dependence and withdrawal symptoms. Cannabis has medicinal and recreational uses, but understanding its effects is crucial.

THC and CBD interact with endogenous cannabinoid receptors in the brain and body
Effects of THC and CBD include mood alteration, increased energy, creativity, and relaxation
THC and CBD can outcompete the body's natural cannabinoids, leading to dependence
Dependence on cannabis can result in withdrawal symptoms when not ingested
Cannabis has both medicinal and recreational uses, but informed choices are important.

Endogenous Cannabinoids, Cannabinoid Receptors & Nervous System Function

Endogenous cannabinoids, such as anandamide and arachidonoyl-glycerol, are naturally produced by the body and play a role in neurotransmission. They can either increase or decrease the probability of neuronal activation, affecting mood, behavior, and bodily functions. These effects are mediated by CB1 and CB2 receptors, with CB1 receptors primarily found in the nervous system and CB2 receptors mainly located in the body's tissues. Cannabis, containing THC and CBD, binds to these receptors and has strong effects. However, the use of external sources of cannabinoids can disrupt the endogenous cannabinoid system.

Biological Effects of Cannabis

Cannabis, specifically THC and CBD, enters the bloodstream and affects the brain and body within seconds. The effects peak after 30-60 minutes and can last for several hours. THC and CBD have an affinity for fatty tissues and can pass through cell membranes, including those of neurons. They can remain in cells for an extended period of time. The duration and intensity of the effects vary depending on metabolism and familiarity with the compounds. Cannabis can stay in fatty tissues for up to 80 days after ingestion. Smoking or ingesting cannabis quickly affects neurons and other cells by binding to cannabinoid receptors and altering signaling between neurons.

Cannabis Sativa & Subjective Effects: Mood, Stress, Alertness, Paranoia

Cannabis Sativa, specifically the sativa varieties, can have subjective effects on mood, alertness, and stress. It tends to elevate mood, increase energy, and promote a head high. However, some individuals may experience stress and paranoia when consuming sativa varieties or other forms of cannabis. The effects of cannabis on mood, stress, alertness, and paranoia are not predictable and vary from person to person. THC and CBD potentiate the effects of different systems in the brain and body. People tend to have consistent reactions to specific strains or varieties of cannabis.

Cannabis Indica & Subjective Effects, Memory, Dosage

Cannabis Indica has different effects on the brain and body compared to Cannabis Sativa. It improves sleep transition time and suppresses threat detection centers, but also impairs memory due to hippocampus shutdown. The effects are mediated through CB1 receptors and depend on the strain consumed. Predicting individual responses to different strains is challenging. Dosing THC and CBD is easier with edibles, but difficult with smokeable forms. The commercialization of THC and CBD products has brought some clarity, but many still consume cannabis without knowing the exact dosage. There are no specific safe or unsafe amounts of cannabis consumption, and predicting effects based on dosage alone is challenging. THC and CBD have varying effects on individuals, making it difficult to predict the overall effects of Cannabis Indica.

Brain Areas Affected by THC & CBD, Side Effects

When cannabis is consumed, THC and CBD impact various brain areas, leading to different effects. The hippocampus is affected, resulting in reduced memory, particularly short-term memory. Sativa varieties activate the prefrontal cortex, enhancing thinking and focus, while indica varieties suppress prefrontal cortex activity, promoting relaxation and sleep. Both sativa and indica varieties, regardless of THC to CBD ratio, suppress neural circuits in the basal ganglia and cerebellum, affecting action planning and mobility. Common side effects include red eyes and dry mouth, caused by reduced saliva secretion. THC and CBD have various effects on the brain and body, including appetite stimulation and potential pain relief.

Creativity: Convergent vs. Divergent Thinking & Dopamine

The most profound aspect of the topic is the role of dopamine in both convergent and divergent thinking in the creative process.

Key points:

Creativity involves both convergent and divergent thinking.
Convergent thinking involves synthesizing and organizing ideas into a specific outcome, while divergent thinking involves generating multiple ideas.
Dopamine plays a significant role in both types of thinking.
Elevated dopamine levels increase the likelihood of divergent thinking, while low dopamine levels promote convergent thinking.
Diseases that affect dopamine levels can impact creativity.
The creative process involves a balance of divergent and convergent thinking, and dopamine levels influence these thinking patterns.

Does Cannabis Increase Creativity?

Cannabis indirectly increases creativity by changing personality traits such as openness to new experiences and reducing anxiety. It enhances divergent thinking and promotes openness, but does not directly impact the neural circuits responsible for creativity. The effects of cannabis on creativity vary depending on the individual's response to the drug.

Chronic Cannabis Use & Changes in Speech Patterns

Chronic cannabis use can lead to changes in speech patterns, including a slowing of speech, alterations in language use, and a lack of inflection. These changes can occur both when under the influence of cannabis and when not under its influence for chronic users. THC, the active compound in cannabis, alters speech production by disrupting motor circuitry in the brain. This results in specific alterations in the way chronic users speak, such as reduced vocal effort and intensity, changes in verbal timing, and reduced enunciation and accenting of certain words. Cannabis use can also lead to a slower pace of speech, less lilting and accenting, and a distinct laugh known as the "stoner laugh." Neuroscientists can even predict regular cannabis users based on their speech patterns and neuronal activity. While not all regular cannabis users experience speech difficulties, there is evidence suggesting a correlation between cannabis use and changes in speech patterns.

Cannabis & Libido, Dopamine & Prolactin

Cannabis and Libido, Dopamine and Prolactin: A Summary

Cannabis has the potential to increase sexual activity, desire, and function, making it a possible treatment for hypoactive sexual desire disorder. However, its effects on sexual desire and ability can vary among individuals.

Cannabis can have divergent effects on sexual arousal, with some individuals experiencing increased arousal and others experiencing decreased arousal.
Dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens is central to sexual desire and behavior, and cannabis can modulate the response of the nucleus accumbens to erotic stimuli.
Prolactin levels play a crucial role in determining the effects of cannabis on sexual arousal. Individuals with elevated prolactin levels may not experience sexual arousal even when exposed to erotic stimuli, while those with stable or low prolactin levels may experience increased sexual arousal.
Changes in cortisol levels, a stress hormone, and prolactin levels have been observed in individuals who experience sexual arousal from cannabis.
The ultimate indicator of the effects of cannabis on sexual arousal is the actual change experienced by individuals, as there is no reliable measure to predict these effects.

Cannabis & Hormones: Prolactin, Testosterone, Estrogen & Fertility

Summary: Cannabis use can have negative effects on hormones, particularly prolactin, testosterone, estrogen, and fertility. Smoking marijuana increases prolactin levels and reduces dopamine and testosterone levels. It can also elevate aromatase enzymes that convert testosterone into estrogen. Chronic use of high doses of THC can affect sperm motility and health in males. In females, smoking marijuana can increase estrogen and prolactin levels. Cannabis use reduces levels of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), which in turn decreases testosterone and sperm production in males, and affects egg health, ovulation, and menstrual function in females. Overall, cannabis use can impact hormone balance and fertility.

Smoking/Vaping Tobacco or Cannabis & Negative Health Consequences

Smoking and vaping tobacco or cannabis have negative health consequences on the lungs and endothelial cells
This impairs cognitive capacity and increases the risk of strokes
It also impacts lung function and can lead to peripheral neuropathies and sexual dysfunction
Smoking and vaping have independent negative health consequences regardless of the substances being smoked or vaped
Vaping was once thought to be healthier than smoking, but it is now known to have its own set of negative health effects
Both smoking and vaping, whether it's tobacco or cannabis, have clear and severe negative health consequences
This applies to both nicotine and THC, as well as combinations of THC and CBD.

Avoiding Cannabis During Pregnancy/Breastfeeding, Fetal Neural Development

Cannabis use during pregnancy and breastfeeding has significant implications for fetal neural development. The CB1 and CB2 receptors, targeted by THC and CBD, play a critical role in neural development. Endogenous cannabinoids and the activation of these receptors are integral to neural development. However, statistics show that 15% of pregnant mothers in the US use cannabis, which is concerning considering the importance of CB1 receptor activation. Cannabis compounds easily pass through the blood brain barrier and the blood placental barrier, reaching the fetal brain. It is strongly advised to avoid cannabis in any form during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Negative Health Consequences of Cannabis, Anxiety & Depression, Tolerance

The negative health consequences of cannabis, specifically THC, have been well-documented in peer-reviewed studies. The legalization of cannabis does not automatically make it safe for everyone. There are clear data indicating negative health effects of cannabis and THC use, particularly when smoked, vaped, or consumed in edible form. Chronic cannabis use increases levels of anxiety over time and can lead to an increase in anxiety. Repeated use of THC leads to a decrease in the positive effects of cannabis, such as decreased anxiety and increased focus and creativity. Anxiety and depression also increase over time with prolonged cannabis use. Cannabis use increases the likelihood of developing chronic major depression.

Cannabis Use & Adolescence/Young Adulthood, Predisposition to Psychosis

Cannabis use during adolescence and young adulthood, particularly between the ages of 16 to 24, is associated with an increased risk of developing major depression, severe anxiety, and psychosis later in life. The probability of chronic cannabis use is strongly correlated with age, with the highest rates among individuals 16 to 24 years old. Being a student or working doubles the likelihood of regular cannabis use. Approximately 20% of individuals in the 16 to 24 age bracket are using cannabis daily. The ingestion of THC and/or CBD during this developmental stage affects the signaling within cannabinoid receptors, leading to a higher likelihood of mental health disorders.

Key points:

Cannabis use during adolescence and young adulthood increases the risk of developing major depression, severe anxiety, and psychosis later in life.
The highest rates of chronic cannabis use are among individuals aged 16 to 24, with approximately 20% using cannabis daily.
Being a student or working doubles the likelihood of regular cannabis use.
Ingesting THC and/or CBD during this developmental stage affects cannabinoid receptor signaling, increasing the risk of mental health disorders.

Cannabis use in adolescence and young adulthood increases the likelihood of developing psychosis later in life, particularly schizophrenic or schizophrenic-like episodes. The use of cannabis in young populations leads to a thinning of gray matter in the brain, affecting electrical signal transmission.

Key points:

Cannabis use in adolescence and young adulthood increases the risk of developing psychosis later in life, particularly schizophrenic or schizophrenic-like episodes.
Cannabis use in young populations leads to a thinning of gray matter in the brain, affecting electrical signal transmission.

Adolescent cannabis use accelerates the thinning of the prefrontal cortex and gray matter in the brain, impairing functions such as planning, emotional control, reflexes, and organizing one's life. The rate of prefrontal cortical thinning is directly linked to the amount of cannabis use.

Key points:

Adolescent cannabis use accelerates the thinning of the prefrontal cortex and gray matter in the brain.
Thinning occurs at a much greater rate compared to normal development, regardless of the mode of cannabis delivery.
Heavier cannabis use leads to faster and more extreme thinning.
Thinning of the prefrontal cortex impairs functions such as planning, emotional control, reflexes, and organizing one's life.

Cannabis use during adolescence and young adulthood can have detrimental effects on the brain, particularly the prefrontal cortex. Even small amounts of cannabis use are associated with cortical thinning, negatively impacting cognitive processes. However, recovery of brain function is possible through behaviors that promote overall health, such as quitting cannabis, engaging in cardiovascular exercise, maintaining adequate nutrition, and avoiding nicotine.

Key points:

Cannabis use during adolescence and young adulthood has detrimental effects on the brain, particularly the prefrontal cortex.
Even small amounts of cannabis use are associated with cortical thinning and negative impacts on cognitive processes.
Recovery of brain function is possible through behaviors that promote overall health, such as quitting cannabis, engaging in cardiovascular exercise, maintaining adequate nutrition, and avoiding nicotine.

It is important for individuals in the 14 to 25 year old age bracket who use cannabis to be cautious and concerned about the potential long-term effects.

Key point:

Individuals aged 14 to 25 who use cannabis should be cautious and concerned about the potential long-term effects.

Adolescent Cannabis Use: Brain Development & Mental Health Disorders

Adolescent cannabis use is influenced by the perception of its danger, but there is a lack of discussion about its negative effects. It is important to differentiate between the safety of cannabis for adults and its impact on the developing brain and body of individuals aged 14 to 25. The brain continues to develop until at least age 25, and many systems related to mood regulation and executive function rely on the fine tuning of neural circuitry.

Key points:

Heavy cannabis use during adolescence increases the risk of mental health disorders, including psychosis, schizophrenia, and bipolar-like episodes later in life.
There is a strong genetic component to these disorders, with a higher likelihood of developing them if a first-degree relative has them.
Cannabis use during adolescence and up until age 25 increases the risk of psychosis for individuals with a predisposition to bipolar disorder and/or schizophrenia.
Higher THC concentration in cannabis is associated with an increased risk of developing psychosis, major depressive episodes, and major anxiety disorders later in life.
The availability of cannabis strains with higher potency has led to a rise in the risk of psychosis, especially among adolescents and young adults.
Many young people are unaware of the serious health consequences associated with cannabis use due to misconceptions perpetuated by the media and public figures.
Reducing the frequency and potency of cannabis use, particularly among individuals aged 25 or younger, is crucial to mitigate these risks.

Cannabis & Pain Management, Divergent Effects of Cannabis

Cannabis has diverse effects on pain management and the body, but its impact on creativity, sexual arousal, and other aspects varies among individuals. However, it is crucial to recognize the risks of cannabis use during pregnancy and for the developing brain. Key points include:

Cannabis effectively reduces pain, especially in chemotherapy and cancer patients.
It can also lower intraocular pressure and treat various psychological and bodily ailments.
Cannabis has significant effects on the brain during fetal, baby, adolescent, and young adult stages.
Its use can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and the development of psychiatric disorders later in life.

Zero-Cost Support, YouTube Feedback, Spotify & Apple Reviews, Sponsors, Premium Channel, Momentous Supplements, Neural Network Newsletter, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn

The most profound aspect of the topic is the various ways to support the Huberman Lab Podcast, including subscribing to their YouTube channel, leaving reviews on Spotify and Apple, and checking out their sponsors.

Subscribing to the Huberman Lab Podcast YouTube channel
Leaving reviews on Spotify and Apple
Checking out their sponsors
Accessing monthly AMAs and supporting research through their premium channel
Partnering with Momentous supplements
Promoting the Neural Network Newsletter for show note summaries and actionable tools
Utilizing social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.