Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

Updated on November 16th, 2018

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is one of many compounds that is secreted by glands of the marijuana plant. THC is the active chemical in cannabis.

The human body actually has Cannabinoid receptors and they are concentrated in certain areas of the brain associated with thinking, memory, pleasure, coordination and time perception. THC works by attaching itself to these receptors and activating them to release dopamine. This is what causes the euphoric feeling. A person’s memory, pleasure, movements, thinking, concentration, coordination, and sensory and time perception can all be affected by THC.

THC can also cause hallucinations, change thinking and cause delusions. All of these effects can last about two hours, and begin 10 to 30 minutes after ingestion. Psychomotor impairment may continue even after the high-feeling has stopped, however.

In some cases, THC can cause side effects that are even less pleasant. These can include elation, anxiety, tachycardia, short-term memory recall issues, sedation, relaxation, pain relief and many more.