Marijuana: Health Benefits vs Risks | What You Need to Know

A Brief Overview of Marijuana

Marijuana, also known as cannabis, has been at the center of controversy, policy shifts, and medical breakthroughs for decades. Derived from the Cannabis plant, this psychoactive drug has been used for centuries for both recreational and medicinal purposes. While society once viewed marijuana predominantly as an illicit drug, the global narrative is rapidly shifting. Today, discussions around marijuana are more nuanced, with a growing focus on its therapeutic potential as well as the health hazards it might pose.

Despite being hailed as a “miracle herb” by some and a “gateway drug” by others, marijuana isn’t a black-and-white issue. It contains over 100 cannabinoids, each interacting differently with the human body. The two most widely studied components—THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol)—have opened up both new treatment possibilities and ethical debates in medicine.

Understanding the balance between its benefits and risks isn’t just about personal preference—it’s crucial for public health, medical advancement, and responsible usage. Whether you’re a patient considering medical marijuana or just curious about its long-term effects, this article will break down the most important aspects of the marijuana debate.

Why This Debate Matters

Why is it so important to dissect the pros and cons of marijuana use? Simply put, millions of people are impacted. Marijuana is used by over 200 million people globally—legally and illegally. Its increasing availability through dispensaries and legalization efforts means more people are making decisions about their health without comprehensive guidance. This debate isn’t just academic; it’s practical.

From teenagers experimenting for the first time to cancer patients seeking relief, and veterans struggling with PTSD, understanding marijuana’s effects can significantly affect lives. The rise in both medical prescriptions and recreational use also demands that we carefully examine the consequences of long-term exposure. Moreover, as laws evolve and social attitudes shift, we must keep the science front and center to make informed choices.

So, let’s dive into the heart of the issue: what marijuana is, how it works, and what science has to say about its benefits and drawbacks.

Understanding Marijuana

What Is Marijuana?

Marijuana refers to the dried leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds of the Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica plant. It’s most commonly consumed by smoking, but it can also be vaped, ingested in edibles, or applied topically in oils and creams. The experience of using marijuana can vary significantly depending on the strain, the method of consumption, and the individual user’s biology.

It’s often misunderstood as a single substance, but marijuana is actually a cocktail of chemical compounds, with each affecting the body and brain differently. The psychoactive effects—the “high”—are primarily attributed to THC. Meanwhile, other compounds like CBD offer non-intoxicating effects that are increasingly being harnessed for therapeutic use.

Understanding the nuances of marijuana’s composition helps demystify why it can be both healing and harmful. What works wonders for one individual might lead to complications for another.

The Active Compounds: THC and CBD

Let’s break it down. The two primary cannabinoids—THC and CBD—play drastically different roles in how marijuana affects your body and brain.

THC – The High Maker

Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the main psychoactive component of marijuana. It binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, particularly in areas associated with memory, pleasure, and time perception. This is what gives users that euphoric “high.”

But it’s not all fun and games. THC can also trigger paranoia, anxiety, and impaired motor skills, especially in high doses. It’s the reason you may hear about someone “greening out” or becoming temporarily incapacitated after consuming too much. Despite these side effects, THC has shown promise in pain relief, appetite stimulation (especially for cancer or HIV/AIDS patients), and reducing nausea.

CBD – The Calmer Companion

Cannabidiol (CBD) doesn’t get you high. Instead, it works in the background, interacting with different receptors in the body. It’s anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and potentially anti-anxiety. CBD is the shining star in the medical marijuana community because it offers benefits without intoxication.

CBD is often extracted and sold as oils, tinctures, gummies, or capsules. Unlike THC, CBD is more widely accepted and even legal in many countries, provided it contains less than 0.3% THC. It’s being used to treat conditions ranging from epilepsy to anxiety to chronic pain, though more research is needed to establish consistent findings.

Understanding the dynamic between THC and CBD is crucial to evaluating marijuana’s overall impact. These cannabinoids can complement or contradict each other, and their ratios determine much of marijuana’s therapeutic or harmful effects.

Medical Benefits of Marijuana

Pain Management

One of marijuana’s most lauded uses is for pain relief. Chronic pain affects millions worldwide, leading to reduced quality of life, decreased productivity, and dependency on pharmaceuticals like opioids. Enter marijuana—a natural alternative that’s gaining popularity among those seeking to manage pain without heavy sedation or the risk of overdose.

Cannabis works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating pain and inflammation. Studies have shown that both THC and CBD can modulate pain perception, especially in conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain.

In fact, marijuana is often prescribed to cancer patients to alleviate the intense pain caused by tumors or chemotherapy. It doesn’t just dull the pain—it can also lift the mood, which is vital when dealing with chronic illness.

Moreover, patients who use marijuana for pain often report reduced reliance on opioids, which is a significant public health benefit given the current opioid crisis. However, it’s worth noting that marijuana doesn’t work equally well for everyone. Some may develop tolerance over time, requiring higher doses, while others may experience side effects that outweigh the benefits.

Still, the potential of marijuana as a pain-relief agent can’t be ignored, especially when conventional medications fail or cause serious side effects.

Reducing Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is at the root of many modern health issues—from autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis to cardiovascular disorders and even cancer. Marijuana, particularly its non-psychoactive compound CBD, has shown remarkable anti-inflammatory properties that are garnering attention in the medical community.

So, how does marijuana help reduce inflammation? It all ties back to the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates immune responses, among other functions. Cannabinoids like CBD interact with ECS receptors, helping to modulate the body’s immune reactions. This can lead to a reduction in cytokine production—those pesky molecules that drive inflammation.

Patients suffering from inflammatory conditions often report relief after using cannabis-based treatments. For example, people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis have noted improvements in symptoms such as abdominal pain, reduced appetite, and diarrhea. While marijuana doesn’t cure these conditions, it helps manage flare-ups and enhance quality of life.

Athletes, too, are turning to CBD for muscle recovery and inflammation control. It’s being used post-workout to reduce soreness and accelerate healing, offering a plant-based alternative to NSAIDs like ibuprofen, which can be harmful to the stomach and kidneys over time.

However, the dose and method of delivery matter greatly. Smoking cannabis may worsen inflammation in the lungs, while CBD oils or capsules tend to have more systemic and safer effects. Topical creams with cannabinoids are also being developed for localized joint or muscle pain.

Despite its promising anti-inflammatory potential, marijuana isn’t a one-size-fits-all remedy. People with certain immune system disorders or sensitivities may react differently. Still, the ability of cannabis to calm overactive immune responses positions it as a valuable therapeutic tool in modern medicine.

Mental Health Support

Anxiety and PTSD

Mental health is a complex arena, and marijuana’s role in treating disorders like anxiety and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) is still a hot topic. Interestingly, many users report a sense of calm and relaxation after consuming cannabis, particularly strains that are high in CBD and lower in THC. But here’s where it gets tricky—while marijuana can ease anxiety in low doses, it might intensify it at higher ones.

CBD has emerged as a potential anxiety-reducing agent without the mind-altering effects of THC. It works by influencing serotonin receptors in the brain, similar to how traditional SSRIs (like Prozac) operate. Studies have shown that people with social anxiety experience significantly lower anxiety levels after taking a single dose of CBD before public speaking.

For veterans and trauma survivors with PTSD, marijuana is often considered a lifeline. It helps reduce nightmares, manage flashbacks, and improve sleep quality. Several U.S. states have even approved marijuana specifically for PTSD treatment, recognizing its ability to calm the overactive amygdala—the brain’s fear center.

However, not all mental health professionals are on board. Some argue that frequent use, especially of high-THC strains, could mask symptoms rather than treat root causes. In certain individuals, especially those with a predisposition to mental illness, marijuana may exacerbate anxiety or trigger panic attacks.

Therefore, using marijuana for anxiety or PTSD should be done cautiously and ideally under medical supervision. Finding the right strain, dose, and balance between THC and CBD is essential to get relief without side effects.

Depression and Sleep Disorders

Marijuana and mood disorders have a complicated relationship. While some users report feeling uplifted and more relaxed after using cannabis, others may find their depressive symptoms worsening. The duality often lies in the strain used, the person’s neurochemistry, and the frequency of consumption.

CBD has shown potential as a mood stabilizer. It can help regulate serotonin levels, which majorly affect mood and emotional balance. Some studies have even found that CBD may be as effective as antidepressants, but without the common side effects like weight gain or sexual dysfunction.

When it comes to sleep, marijuana has become a go-to remedy for people with insomnia or erratic sleep patterns. THC can shorten the time it takes to fall asleep and increase deep sleep stages. However, it may reduce REM sleep, which is essential for memory consolidation and emotional processing. That’s why frequent THC users often report fewer dreams.

CBD, on the other hand, may improve sleep by reducing anxiety and physical discomfort. It doesn’t interfere with sleep cycles as drastically as THC. In fact, a combination of low-dose THC and higher CBD is being explored as a long-term solution for sleep disorders without the grogginess or dependency associated with sleeping pills.

Yet, there’s a caveat. Over time, tolerance to THC can build up, and withdrawal can lead to sleep disturbances, especially in habitual users. That’s why moderation and tailored medical use are key when using marijuana for depression or sleep issues.

Neurological Disorders

Epilepsy and Seizures

Perhaps one of the most scientifically supported uses of marijuana, specifically CBD, is in the treatment of epilepsy. In fact, it was this very application that led to the development and FDA approval of Epidiolex, a CBD-based medication designed for rare forms of childhood epilepsy such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.

For years, families with epileptic children turned to medical cannabis after exhausting all conventional treatments. What they found was remarkable: in many cases, seizures were reduced by more than 50%. Unlike traditional anti-epileptic drugs, CBD didn’t cause severe sedation or cognitive dulling.

CBD works by stabilizing neural activity in the brain. It does so by regulating calcium and potassium ion channels and reducing excitatory neurotransmitter release, which plays a role in seizure genesis. What makes it even more compelling is that CBD has little to no psychoactive properties, making it safe even for young children when administered correctly.

While most research centers on treatment-resistant epilepsy, CBD is now being explored for other seizure-related conditions, as well as tremors and spasms seen in disorders like Parkinson’s disease.

Still, dosing is critical. Overuse or improper administration can lead to side effects like gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, or interactions with other medications. But overall, the breakthrough success in seizure management is one of medical marijuana’s most celebrated victories.

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a degenerative neurological condition marked by muscle spasms, pain, and mobility challenges. Here, marijuana—especially combinations of THC and CBD—has shown promise in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Several clinical trials have reported that cannabis-based medicines can reduce muscle stiffness and spasms in MS patients. Some users also report improved bladder control and better sleep. One such product, Sativex, is already approved in several countries and is specifically formulated for MS treatment.

Marijuana’s anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties are believed to help slow down the disease’s progression. Moreover, the mood-lifting and pain-relieving effects help MS patients manage the emotional toll of chronic illness.

But once again, balance is everything. High THC levels might lead to cognitive side effects like memory fog or decreased focus, both of which can be problematic for MS patients already dealing with neurological issues.

Hence, the growing consensus is that cannabis, when used in controlled and medically guided ways, can be an effective complementary treatment for MS. It’s not a cure. Still, it can dramatically enhance comfort and mobility for those living with this debilitating condition.

Potential Health Risks of Marijuana

Mental Health Concerns

Marijuana’s impact on mental health is one of the most hotly debated aspects of its use. While some individuals find relief from anxiety, depression, or PTSD with cannabis, others experience heightened mental health issues. These conflicting effects are largely due to how marijuana interacts with individual brain chemistry and the compound’s THC concentration.

One of the most concerning associations is between marijuana and psychosis. Several studies have linked high-THC marijuana use to an increased risk of psychotic disorders, especially in adolescents and people with a genetic predisposition to mental illness. Psychosis involves losing touch with reality—hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking—which can be terrifying and disabling. The risk appears to grow with frequent use, high potency, and early age of first exposure.

Moreover, marijuana can worsen symptoms of existing mental illnesses. For individuals with bipolar disorder, cannabis might trigger manic episodes. People with severe depression may experience worsened mood or increased apathy, especially with long-term use. Anxiety, too, can be aggravated by high-THC strains, leading to racing thoughts, paranoia, or panic attacks.

Chronic use may also blunt emotional responsiveness and motivation—a phenomenon often referred to as “amotivational syndrome.” While not a medically recognized disorder, it’s commonly reported among heavy users who struggle with maintaining focus, ambition, or emotional regulation.

That said, not all effects are negative. CBD, the non-psychoactive cannabinoid, shows potential for mood regulation, anxiety reduction, and even antipsychotic properties. However, the problem arises when users self-medicate with marijuana without knowing the cannabinoid ratios or understanding the mental health implications.

So while marijuana might offer temporary relief, it’s essential to weigh the long-term consequences. Mental health effects can be subtle and cumulative, making it vital for users, especially teenagers and those with family histories of mental illness, to approach cannabis with caution.

Psychosis and Schizophrenia

There’s mounting evidence that marijuana, especially when high in THC, may trigger psychotic episodes in susceptible individuals. Psychosis refers to a break from reality, and symptoms include hallucinations, delusional thinking, and paranoia. In some cases, these episodes are temporary; in others, they may evolve into chronic psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia.

The connection between marijuana and schizophrenia is especially concerning. Studies have shown that early and heavy marijuana use may double the risk of developing schizophrenia in people who are genetically predisposed. The risk increases dramatically when cannabis use starts in adolescence, right when the brain is still developing and most vulnerable.

What’s particularly tricky is that marijuana can both mimic and mask the symptoms of early psychosis. This makes diagnosis and treatment more complicated. Some people might think marijuana is helping them “relax” or “focus” when, in reality, it may be contributing to their psychological decline.

It’s also worth noting that not all marijuana is created equal. Modern strains tend to be significantly higher in THC than they were just a few decades ago, sometimes containing more than 20% THC content. This high potency greatly increases the risk of adverse psychological effects.

On the flip side, there’s ongoing research into CBD’s potential antipsychotic properties. Preliminary studies suggest that CBD might help stabilize mood and reduce the frequency or severity of psychotic episodes. It may even counteract some of the negative effects of THC when used in combination.

Still, for those with personal or family histories of schizophrenia or psychosis, marijuana—especially high-THC varieties—should be approached with extreme caution or avoided altogether. The stakes are high, and the potential for long-term damage to mental health is very real.

Marijuana and Teen Brain Development

Teenagers’ brains are still under construction, particularly in areas like decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation. This makes marijuana use during adolescence particularly concerning. Numerous studies have shown that frequent marijuana use before the age of 25 can interfere with brain development and lead to long-term cognitive issues.

THC affects the prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain responsible for critical thinking, planning, and judgment. When teens use marijuana, especially in high doses, it can disrupt neural connections and impair memory, learning, and concentration. These effects might not be immediately noticeable, but they accumulate over time.

Research suggests that early cannabis use is associated with lower IQ scores and poorer academic outcomes. Adolescents who use marijuana regularly are also more likely to drop out of school, struggle with attention disorders, and face difficulties in social or occupational settings later in life.

But the concerns aren’t just academic. The teen years are also when the risk for mental illnesses like depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia begins to rise. Introducing marijuana into this already fragile period can amplify emotional instability and may increase the likelihood of substance use disorders in adulthood.

What makes matters worse is that teenagers often use marijuana without fully understanding its potency. Vapes, edibles, and high-THC concentrates can deliver much stronger doses than expected, increasing the risk of adverse reactions.

Parents and educators play a critical role here. Open, honest conversations about marijuana’s real risks—not scare tactics—can help teens make informed choices. While some teens may argue that cannabis is “natural” or “harmless,” the science paints a different picture, especially for developing brains.

In short, marijuana during the teen years is not just a phase—it can have lifelong consequences on brain function and mental health.

Physical Health Risks

Lung Health and Smoking Risks

Just because marijuana is a plant doesn’t mean it’s harmless when smoked. Inhaling any kind of smoke into your lungs comes with risks, and marijuana smoke contains many of the same harmful toxins and carcinogens as tobacco smoke.

Frequent marijuana smoking has been associated with chronic bronchitis, cough, and increased mucus production. Although marijuana smokers generally inhale less frequently than cigarette smokers, they tend to take deeper puffs and hold the smoke in their lungs longer, potentially exposing their lung tissue to more damage.

There’s also concern about lung infections. Smoking marijuana can damage the cilia—the tiny hair-like structures that line the airways and help filter out bacteria and pollutants. This can leave users more vulnerable to infections, especially if the cannabis is contaminated with mold or pesticides.

That said, marijuana doesn’t seem to carry the same strong link to lung cancer as tobacco, at least based on current evidence. Some researchers speculate that cannabinoids like THC and CBD may have anti-tumor effects, potentially offsetting some of the carcinogenic risks. However, more research is needed.

For those concerned about lung health, alternative delivery methods like vaporizers, edibles, tinctures, or topicals are much safer options. These methods allow users to benefit from cannabinoids without subjecting their lungs to harmful smoke.

Bottom line: if you’re using marijuana for medical purposes, smoking it is likely the least safe route. Protecting your lungs while still gaining therapeutic benefits is possible—you just have to be smart about how you consume it.

Cardiovascular Effects

Many people are unaware that marijuana can have effects on the heart and circulatory system. While it’s often marketed as a natural and safe remedy, the reality is more complex, especially for those with preexisting heart conditions or at risk for cardiovascular disease.

One of marijuana’s immediate effects is an increase in heart rate. Within minutes of smoking or consuming cannabis, heart rate can jump by 20 to 50 beats per minute. For most healthy adults, this isn’t a major concern. But for older adults or individuals with hypertension, arrhythmia, or other heart problems, it could potentially lead to complications such as palpitations, chest pain, or even heart attacks.

THC also causes blood vessels to dilate, which might sound good, but can lead to a drop in blood pressure. This drop can result in dizziness or fainting, particularly when standing up suddenly. It’s a phenomenon known as orthostatic hypotension and is especially dangerous for older individuals.

In rare cases, marijuana has been linked to serious cardiovascular events like strokes or sudden cardiac arrest, particularly in young people using high-potency strains or synthetic cannabis products. These synthetic alternatives, often marketed under names like "Spice" or "K2," are much riskier and have unpredictable effects on the heart and brain.

For those already taking medication for heart conditions, cannabis can interfere with drug metabolism. It may amplify or weaken the effects of beta-blockers, blood thinners, and cholesterol medications, leading to dangerous fluctuations in heart health.

As marijuana use becomes more mainstream, especially among older populations seeking relief from chronic conditions, understanding its cardiovascular effects becomes increasingly important. If you have any form of heart disease or risk factors like obesity and high cholesterol, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider before using cannabis in any form.

Social and Behavioral Impacts

Dependency and Addiction

Contrary to popular belief, marijuana is not completely non-addictive. While it's less addictive than substances like opioids or nicotine, it still carries the potential for dependency, especially with long-term, heavy use.

Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) is a recognized condition in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), and it affects nearly 1 in 10 marijuana users. Among those who start using in their teens, the risk of addiction increases to about 1 in 6.

So, what does marijuana addiction look like? It often starts subtly—maybe with daily use to “take the edge off” or sleep better. Over time, the user might find it difficult to function normally without it. They may experience withdrawal symptoms like irritability, mood swings, insomnia, decreased appetite, and even anxiety or depression when trying to stop.

Tolerance is another red flag. As users consume more to achieve the same effect, the risk of physical and psychological dependency increases. This can interfere with work, school, relationships, and even mental health recovery.

Though many argue that marijuana is “safer” than alcohol or harder drugs, addiction can still erode a person’s quality of life. The good news is that behavioral therapies, counseling, and support groups can help users regain control. Medical professionals are also developing pharmacological aids, though they’re still in the experimental stage.

Recognizing and respecting marijuana’s addictive potential doesn’t mean demonizing the plant—it means using it responsibly and with awareness. Like with any substance, moderation and mindfulness are key to preventing dependency.

Cognitive Impairment and Productivity

Marijuana can affect cognitive functions, especially when used frequently or in high doses. While occasional use might have minimal impact, chronic use has been linked to problems with memory, attention span, and executive function.

This is especially relevant for students and working professionals. Long-term cannabis users often report difficulty focusing, reduced motivation, and slower reaction times. These issues may not be immediately noticeable but can accumulate over time, affecting academic performance, workplace productivity, and even social interactions.

One of the most consistent findings in cannabis research is its impact on short-term memory. THC interferes with the brain’s hippocampus, which plays a critical role in forming new memories. This explains why people often forget conversations, tasks, or even the reason they walked into a room while under the influence.

Decision-making and problem-solving abilities are also affected. Chronic users might struggle with abstract thinking, planning ahead, or multitasking. While some claim that cannabis boosts creativity—and in some cases it may—the tradeoff can be a decline in analytical thinking and sustained attention.

Teens and young adults are particularly vulnerable. Since their brains are still developing, the effects of marijuana on cognition can be more pronounced and potentially irreversible. Even in adults, the brain doesn't fully "bounce back" immediately after quitting; cognitive recovery can take weeks or even months.

In essence, if you're using marijuana regularly and notice you're not as sharp as you used to be, it might not be your imagination. The best way to protect your brain power is to use cannabis sparingly and avoid starting at a young age.

Impaired Driving and Safety Concerns

Driving under the influence of marijuana is not safe, and it’s definitely not legal in most places. Yet, a common misconception persists that cannabis is less impairing than alcohol. While it’s true that marijuana affects the body differently, that doesn’t make it harmless when it comes to operating a vehicle.

THC impacts motor coordination, reaction time, and spatial awareness—all crucial for safe driving. Even small amounts can impair judgment and slow reflexes, increasing the likelihood of accidents. In fact, several studies have found that marijuana users are more likely to be involved in car crashes, especially when combined with alcohol.

What’s more concerning is that many users are unaware of how long THC stays in their system. While the “high” might wear off in a few hours, THC can be detected in the blood for much longer, making it difficult to determine exactly when it’s safe to drive.

Law enforcement faces challenges here, too. Unlike alcohol, there’s no universally accepted roadside test for marijuana impairment. This means some impaired drivers may go undetected, while others are wrongfully accused based on outdated testing methods.

The safest approach? Don’t drive high. If you’ve consumed marijuana—especially in edible form, which can take longer to affect you—wait several hours or arrange for a ride. Your safety and the safety of others on the road depend on it.

As marijuana becomes more widely available, education on responsible use must include clear guidance on driving. Just like drinking and driving, “getting high and driving” should be seen as socially and legally unacceptable.

Conclusion

The conversation around marijuana is anything but simple. It's a substance with two faces—one that can heal and one that can harm. As we've explored in this deep dive, marijuana offers legitimate medical benefits: it helps manage chronic pain, reduces inflammation, supports mental health, and even treats neurological disorders like epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. These aren’t just anecdotes; they’re backed by growing scientific evidence.

But marijuana isn't without its risks. From mental health issues and impaired cognition to respiratory problems and addiction, cannabis can be harmful, especially when used irresponsibly or by vulnerable populations like teens or individuals with psychiatric conditions.

The key takeaway? Marijuana is a powerful plant, not a magic bullet. Like any substance that alters brain chemistry, it should be approached with knowledge, caution, and respect. Legalization is making marijuana more accessible, but with that comes the responsibility to educate ourselves and others on both its upsides and downsides.

Whether you're considering marijuana for medical use or recreational enjoyment, make informed decisions. Talk to your doctor, understand the laws in your region, and be mindful of dosage and delivery methods. When used wisely, marijuana can offer relief and even joy. But when misused, it can create problems that outweigh the benefits.

FAQs

1. Can marijuana be used safely every day?

Daily use of marijuana, especially high-THC strains, can lead to tolerance, dependency, and cognitive impairment. Occasional, moderate use is safer, especially under medical supervision.

2. Is marijuana a gateway drug?

The idea of marijuana as a gateway drug is debated. While many users try cannabis before other substances, the majority don’t go on to use harder drugs. Environment and genetics play a bigger role in substance use progression.

3. What’s the safest method of marijuana consumption?

Non-inhalation methods like edibles, tinctures, and topicals are generally safer for the lungs. However, dosage control is more difficult with edibles, so start slow and monitor effects.

4. Can CBD be used without any side effects?

CBD is generally well-tolerated, but side effects like fatigue, dry mouth, and interactions with other medications can occur. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting.

5. Does marijuana use affect memory long-term?

Yes, especially with heavy or early-age use. THC impairs short-term memory and may reduce long-term cognitive performance with prolonged exposure.