The truth of the matter is simple: human beings react to chemicals differently. For some people, chocolate is relaxing and pleasurable, while some people may be turned off by the potentially bitter taste. On another note, one person may enjoy eating raw tomatoes, while their friend is physically repulsed at the mention of eating the fruit. Marijuana is no different than chocolate, tomatoes, and a variety of substances that bring some people so much joy. In that light, a recent report confirms that people react differently to the cannabis plant. Some may love it, while others are naturally programmed to despise it. Here is a closer look.
Some Facts about the Cannabis Experience
For many people, THC-laced products or marijuana leaves provide a rush of enjoyable euphoria. Still, recent studies have shown that 22% of cannabis users suffered from anxiety or panic after consuming the drug. Marijuana aficionados argue that the first time is typically the catalyst for future use, and the same truth can be applied to other substances. Once you try it, you are either hooked or repulsed. In some cases, cannabis users who have been longtime consumers may find the drug disgusting after a while. What factors contribute to this?
Factors That Contribute to Repulsion
As part of a recent analysis, researchers only used cannabis with particularly rich THC content, excluding the presence of terpene oil and other cannabinoids. Overall, results revealed that three factors contribute to a person’s dislike for marijuana:
- Age: Despite undergoing a critical period of neurological development, adolescents have exhibited a higher tolerance for marijuana than adults. As part of the study, adult subjects experienced anxiety and panic more often than their younger counterparts. Nevertheless, marijuana can affect adolescents more severely than adults.
- Opioid receptors: The connections between the endocannabinoid system and the opioid receptors in the brain add to your reaction to marijuana. Once drugs enter your body, two types of opioid receptors are activated. Activating μ-opioid brings the sensation of happiness, while κ-opioid receptors induce the same side effects as prescription painkillers.
- CB1 receptors: As part of recent studies, scientists analyzed CB1 receptors (triggered by THC to induce a high) and focused on the ventral tegmental area (VTA), where dopamine originates. Likewise, scientists attempted to determine if the excitatory (area that increases communication) or inhibitory (area that reduces communication) regions would be affected by marijuana. In the end, the excitatory portion was confirmed to be the section of the brain that triggers an adverse reaction to THC. Basically, a person with strong excitatory receptors may have a preprogrammed disgust towards marijuana.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance abuse disorder or addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug addiction, alcoholism, or substance abuse troubles today.
