Many effects of cannabis are short-term, meaning that they last for only a short period. Other effects are long-term and may not show up immediately.
There is not much research into the effects of secondhand cannabis smoke. It is possible that secondhand smoke exposure may be enough to cause some of the temporary effects, as well as some of the long-term effects, in some people. More research is necessary to examine the effects of secondhand cannabis smoke.
Often, a person will smoke cannabis to feel its effects. However, a person could also:
- vape it
- cook it into food
- use it as part of an oil
- brew it with teas
- use other topical or oral cannabis products
The following article discusses some of the potential benefits and side effects that cannabis has on the body.
How cannabis affects physical health
Cannabis is only potentially safe for use by adults.
Children and teenagers are susceptible to potential ill effects. When a mother uses cannabis while pregnant, the baby may develop memory and concentration issues as they grow.
Breastfeeding mothers who also use cannabis may be exposing their baby to its potentially harmful effects. Women should avoid using cannabis while pregnant and breastfeeding.
How cannabis affects younger people
Cannabis may affect the brain development of older children and teenagers. This can lead to memory loss, concentration issues, and impaired problem-solving skills.
ResearchTrusted Source strongly suggests that for those under 25 years of age, cannabis use can impair memory and learning ability.
Long-term effects of cannabis
Long-term effects depend on several factors, including:
- how a person uses cannabis
- how often they use it
- the age of the person using it
- how much a person uses at any given time
Some of the potential long-term effects include the following:
- memory loss
- concentration and memory issues from exposure while in the womb
- lung irritation
- possibly lung cancer, although research does not fully support this
- development of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndromeTrusted Source, which causes nausea and vomiting
Takeaway
Cannabis has many potential short- and long-term effects on the body. Although many proponents believe that cannabis is a modern day cure-all, others believe that its negative effects outweigh its potential medicinal benefits.
People have used cannabis recreationally for many years. As of 2019, 34 states in the United States have some form of legal cannabis. A few states have also legalized its recreational use.
In states where recreational use is still not legal, people should consider other approaches and speak to their healthcare provider about what is best for them.
Summary
Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica have different botanical properties.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that sativa is more energizing and indica is more relaxing, but the scientific reality is far more complicated. In fact, many different chemical compounds are involved in creating the medical and recreational effects of cannabis.