#40: Clearing the Haze: Confronting Cannabis Health Myths

In the realm of mythology, tales are spun that often blur the lines between fact and fiction, creating narratives that can mislead as much as they entertain. Such is the case with cannabis, a plant that has been both venerated and vilified throughout history. But despite its growing popularity and acceptance over the nearly five years of cannabis legalization, a haze of misinformation and misconceptions still surrounds this versatile plant.

Cannabis, used both recreationally and medicinally, has long been subject to a host of misunderstandings and misconceptions. These myths, often rooted in outdated information or societal stigma, can create unnecessary fear and prevent individuals from making informed decisions about their health.

That's why debunking these myths is crucial. By challenging these misconceptions, we not only allow for a more nuanced conversation around cannabis use but also empower individuals to make decisions based on accurate information.

In this post, we'll dissect some of the most common myths about cannabis and health, providing you with evidence-based information to guide your understanding. Let's delve into the world of cannabis, leaving no leaf unturned, as we separate fact from fiction.

Myth 1: Cannabis is a gateway drug

One of the most enduring myths about cannabis is that it's a "gateway drug," a harmful substance that leads users to experiment with more dangerous and addictive drugs. This theory suggests that using cannabis opens the door to drug misuse, ultimately leading to substance abuse disorders.

However, the evidence to support this claim is lacking. According to the National Institute of Justice, the majority of people who use cannabis do not go on to use other "harder" substances. Moreover, evidence from the Drug Policy Alliance states that cannabis can even serve as a “terminus drug,” or a substance that can help individuals move away from more dangerous drugs such as opiates or alcohol by easing withdrawal symptoms.

Consider Portugal's decriminalization of all drugs in 2001. Instead of leading to an increase in drug use, Portugal reported a substantial reduction in drug-related deaths, HIV transmission, and other associated public health issues. With more focus on prevention, treatment, and harm reduction strategies instead of criminalizing people for their drug use, Portugal saw an improvement in the quality of life of its citizens.

In the U.S., states that have legalized cannabis have seen a similar outcome, further debunking the myth. These real-life examples highlight how societal and policy changes can have a more significant impact on drug use trends than the use of cannabis itself.

 

Myth 2: Cannabis kills brain cells

When Richard Nixon declared the War on Drugs in 1971, he based his decision on the false claim that cannabis killed brain cells. Proof of this alleged brain damage happened in a famous rhesus monkey experiment in 1974, which found that monkeys strapped to gas masks and exposed to cannabis smoke 3 times a day for 90 days suffered brain damage.

However, the results of this experiment were later debunked when it was discovered that carbon monoxide poisoning and asphyxiation, rather than cannabis exposure, were the cause of brain cell death. Since then, several other studies have been conducted that found no link between cannabis use and long-term cognitive deficits or damage to the brain.

Another longitudinal study conducted on twins reported that cannabis use didn't appear to affect IQ. In this study, one twin used cannabis while the other did not. Yet, they showed no significant difference in IQ change over time.

That said, research does suggest that cannabis may temporarily affect cognition and motor skills. High doses of cannabis have been linked to impaired short-term memory, learning capabilities, and coordination. But these effects are typically transient and diminish within hours after use.

 

Myth 3: Cannabis users are lazy

A pervasive myth about cannabis users is that they are inherently lazy, unmotivated, and unproductive. This stereotype is often depicted in media and popular culture, perpetuating a negative image of cannabis users as couch potatoes with little ambition or drive.

Contrary to this stereotype, scientific research does not support the idea that all cannabis users are lazy. A study published in the International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology examined the stereotype of the "lazy pothead" and found it to be largely unfounded. The study revealed that cannabis users, like any other group, vary widely in their behaviours and attitudes.

Moreover, anecdotal evidence from cannabis users suggests that the plant can serve as an aid to productivity. Professional athletes, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and other thriving professionals have said that cannabis helps them stay focused and motivated, allowing them to achieve greater success.

Clearly, the notion that all cannabis users are lazy is nothing more than a myth. People who consume cannabis vary in their behaviours, motivations, and lifestyle choices just like any other.

 

Myth 4: Cannabis has no medicinal value

The myth that cannabis has no medicinal value is a widely held belief, stemming from its classification as a Schedule I drug by the U.S. Federal government, which defines it as having no accepted medical use. This categorization has perpetuated the idea that cannabis is merely a recreational substance with no health benefits.

Contrary to this myth, a growing body of scientific research points to the therapeutic potential of cannabis. Cannabis contains over 100 chemical compounds called cannabinoids, the most well-known being THC and CBD (cannabidiol). These compounds interact with our bodies through the endocannabinoid system, influencing a variety of physiological processes like pain, mood, appetite, and sleep.

Take the case of Charlotte Figi, a young girl whose story brought global attention to the medicinal potential of cannabis. Charlotte suffered from Dravet Syndrome, a severe form of epilepsy. After trying countless treatments with little success, her parents turned to a low-THC, high-CBD cannabis extract. The results were astonishing — Charlotte's seizures dramatically reduced, improving her quality of life.

Or consider the many cancer patients who have found relief from debilitating chemotherapy side effects like nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite through cannabis use. Their stories highlight the significant potential of cannabis as a therapeutic agent, countering the myth that it holds no medicinal value.

While more research is needed to fully understand the medicinal potential of cannabis, it's clear that the plant is more than just a recreational substance. It's a promising area of medicine that could bring relief to millions of patients worldwide.

 

Myth 5: Cannabis is a cure-all

The medical potential of cannabis has led to a new myth that the plant can be used as a “cure-all” for any and all ailments. While there is growing evidence of its therapeutic effects, these claims are largely unfounded and based on anecdotal evidence rather than scientific research.

Cannabis may have beneficial effects in certain cases, but this does not mean it's a miracle cure. While cannabis may reduce symptoms associated with a wide variety of conditions, it's important to remember that it's not a one-size-fits-all answer.

It's also important to recognize that different cannabis products have varying levels of potency, which can have an effect on how they interact with the body. High CBD products are generally recommended for medical purposes, as they have less intoxicating effects and are more therapeutic in nature.

Given the complexity of cannabis' pharmacological action, it's important to consult with a medical professional before using it therapeutically. Though cannabis may be an effective form of treatment for some individuals, it's not a miracle cure and should not be thought of as such.

 

Myth 6: Legal cannabis increases crime rates

The myth that legal cannabis leads to increased crime rates is a common one, but it's simply not true. The idea is that by making cannabis legal, it would spur criminal activity, from an increase in driving under the influence to a rise in theft and violent crimes.

However, statistical evidence paints a different picture. Since Canada legalized recreational cannabis 2018, crime rates have remained stable, and in some cases, decreased. In fact, a recent study found that crime rates generally followed the national average after cannabis was legalized, debunking the myth that legalization leads to a surge in crime.

A report from NORML states that cannabis legalization is not linked with increased crime rates. On the contrary, it suggests that legalizing cannabis can reduce crime by displacing the organized crime markets associated with cannabis production and distribution.

In summary, the myth that legal cannabis leads to increased crime rates has been debunked by a variety of studies. Legalization does not appear to have any direct or indirect effect on criminal activity. This is further evidence that the war on drugs is outdated and ineffective in stopping people from consuming cannabis.

 

The final puff

In an era where misinformation can spread like wildfire, it's important to recognize and debunk the myths surrounding cannabis use. From the notion that all cannabis users are lazy, to the belief that cannabis is highly addictive, these pervasive myths mislead people and prevent them from making informed decisions about their health.

The truth is that research on cannabis is still in its infancy, and much more work needs to be done before we can answer many of the questions surrounding its effects. That said, the current evidence does suggest that cannabis use has therapeutic potential and is not as dangerous or detrimental to health as some believe.

By educating ourselves and others on the facts, we can take a step towards destigmatizing cannabis use and recognizing it as a potential source of relief for many people. So the next time you hear a cannabis myth, take it with a grain of salt and arm yourself with evidence-based facts. After all, knowledge is power!

 

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