Whether you are planning on smoking marijuana or not, you should be aware of the effects it has on your brain. This article will discuss the long-term and short-term effects that marijuana can have on the brain. It will also cover topics such as working memory, psychomotor function, and the effects of anandamide on the brain’s processes.

Cannabis Affects The Hippocampus

Using marijuana for long periods of time may have negative effects on the hippocampus, affecting memory and learning. These effects are mediated by the endogenous cannabinoid system, which plays an important role in synaptic pruning. During abstinence, the endocannabinoid system may resume its normal functions, though this is not clear.

THC binds to cannabinoid receptors located in the hippocampus, a key brain region for memory formation. A decrease in hippocampal neurons has been found in studies of both recreational and chronic cannabis use. Similarly, alcohol addiction has been shown to cause atrophy.

These alterations are thought to be due to the toxic effect of THC on the brain, leading to the pruning of synaptic connections. However, the long-term effect of cannabis on the hippocampus is not yet known.

Anandamide Disrupts The Operation of The Brain

Besides its role in regulating mood, cognition, and arousal, anandamide may have a big impact on the brain. As the name implies, it is an endogenous molecule that binds to cannabinoid receptors. While it does not appear to be a cause of schizophrenia, it does play a role in the regulation of pain, appetite, and cognition.

The endocannabinoid system comprises a multitude of molecules, including anandamide, which is the most well-studied of the bunch. Its main metabolite, fatty acid amidohydrolase, maybe a key mechanism in the formation of this substance. Among other functions, it has been shown to regulate the secretion of endocannabinoids in the brain.

Working Memory

Whether marijuana has a negative impact on the working memory of its users is an open question. Several studies have explored this issue, and the results vary. Some show a positive correlation between THC and better memory, while others find little or no effect.

It may not be surprising that working memory is compromised when using cannabis, especially since the drug is known to affect the endocannabinoid system in the brain. The system is intricately linked to the memory parts of the brain.

Fortunately, a good Mediterranean diet and regular exercise can help protect the brain. Moreover, the effects of marijuana are dose-dependent.

Psychomotor Function

Several studies have shown that using cannabis has negative effects on cognitive performance. For example, laboratory studies have shown that marijuana intoxication produces significant reductions in inhibitory control. In addition, a few laboratory studies have shown that cannabis affects verbal memory.

In the present study, we explored the effect of extended abstinence on psychomotor performance in chronic daily cannabis smokers. Specifically, we tested whether or not abstinence from marijuana would improve reaction time and other psychomotor skills. We hypothesized that if marijuana were to decrease psychomotor speed, the effect would be more pronounced during extended abstinence.

In our study, we measured reaction time and the DSST (distraction-specific sat-a-task) to see how much of a difference marijuana use makes. Reaction time was significantly influenced by the amount of context surrounding the task. Similarly, the DSST was associated with the number of correct responses.

Long-Term Problems

Using marijuana for long periods can have a negative effect on your brain. It may also affect your immune system. THC, the chemical in marijuana, can damage your memory and energy. It can also interfere with your learning and cause psychological symptoms.

Scientists are trying to understand how cannabis affects the brain. They are interested in the impact of long-term use. This is especially important as cannabis is associated with an increased risk for chronic psychiatric disease.

One study found that adolescents who smoked marijuana regularly had a lower IQ than non-users. Researchers believe that frequent marijuana use during adolescence reduces the growth of neural fibers in the brain.