Next to alcohol and tobacco, marijuana is the third most common drug used in the United States. On March 31, 2021, New York legalized weed, making it the 16th state in the nation to do so. Because there are already a lot of other states that have fully legalized the use of marijuana, the number of people using it is expected to increase. For that reason, we are going to discuss some of the common marijuana myths.
Myth #1: Marijuana is a gateway drug
You have probably heard many people saying that marijuana is a gateway drug. They say that once you start using it, you will surely be addicted to other drugs as well. However, there is not enough evidence to support that claim.
Marijuana being a gateway drug is a myth. While it is true that most people who use other illegal drugs started with marijuana, there is no proof that marijuana is the exact cause of their inclination to use other drugs.
Myth #2: Marijuana use is harmless
Many people say that marijuana is a lot safer than other drugs and even alcohol. The excessive use of marijuana can be dangerous, especially for people who have existing health issues.
The use of marijuana is not advisable for people with heart problems. Though it can help bring relaxation after medication, it can cause severe side effects when abused. The marijuana heart attack myth is valid to a certain extent, but it only happens when you use marijuana excessively.
As much as marijuana affects the heart, the claim that marijuana kills brain cells remains a myth. Research and studies have not proven it yet.
To avoid the health problems listed above, it is recommended to use marijuana in moderation. As cliché as it may sound, too much of anything is bad.
Myth #3: Marijuana is not addictive
Another myth about marijuana use says that it is not addictive. The truth behind that is that all drugs can be addictive, but it largely depends on the user.
Long-term use of marijuana has been proven to cause addiction. However, addiction only occurs to those who are considered heavy users. In addition, research has proven that only 9% of marijuana users become dependent on it.
Myth #4: Marijuana overdose is impossible
There are myths about marijuana use that say it is not possible to overdose on marijuana. Overdosing on something means that you have taken or consumed more than what is recommended. Once you use more than the recommended amount, a marijuana overdose can happen. When continued for a long period, the effects can be severe.
It is important to note though, that everyone reacts differently to marijuana. Some people might have a lower tolerance which makes them more susceptible to a marijuana overdose.
Myth #5: Marijuana today is as strong as it was before
Your uncle, your grandpa, and your dad might have said once that they used marijuana before, and it was just fine, but the truth is that marijuana is more potent nowadays than it was during their teenage years.
So, the myths about marijuana use saying that the marijuana before is still the same as today are not true. Because of technology and other innovations, the breeding of Cannabis plants has evolved, and it has led to different products that contain higher THC.
The good thing about this is that more people are aware that marijuana today is stronger than those produced before. This gives more reasons for people to control the use of marijuana.
Marijuana or Cannabis myths and facts are widely spread now. Be sure that what you know is true in order to avoid health complications in the future. At Altitude Organic Cannabis, we want to educate as many people as possible to promote safer ways of using it.
We care about you, your family, and your friends, which is why we are here to educate and give only high-quality marijuana products. You can visit us at our dispensary near Frisco, CO.
