THC

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__THC__
THC, also known as Tetrahydrocannabinol or Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol, is primarily recognized as the main psychoactive constituent in the cannabis plant. When cold, THC is a glassy solid, a white "crystal" coating the cannabis plant (figure 1.2). However when heated or warmed, it becomes highly viscous and sticky. THC has a high solubility in organic solvents such as lipids and alcohols, and a very low solubility in water.

Cannabinoid receptors are activated by a neurotransmitter called **anandamide**. Anandamide belongs to a group of chemicals called cannabinoids. THC is also a cannabinoid chemical. THC mimics the actions of anandamide, meaning that THC binds with **cannabinoid receptors** and activates neurons, which causes adverse effects on the mind and body.

figure 1.1 (left) figure 1.2 (below)

__Effects of THC__ Studies in THC's effects have resulted in many "side-effects" of the chemical, and they include: pain relief, relaxation, alteration of visual, auditory, and olfactory senses, fatigue, short-term memory loss, and appetite stimulation by overstimulation of the cannabinoids in the hypothalamus. Known amongst regulatory users as "the munchies." There has never been a documented human fatality from overdosing on THC or Cannabis in its natural form.

__Medicinal Uses__ THC has many medicinal purposes for the human race. It provides cancer and Aids patients with medical benefits by increasing appetite and reducing nausea. It also reduces pressure within the eyes, which is beneficial to patients suffering from glaucoma. Due to its analgestic effects (pain relief) it is used amongst a wide number of multiple scelrosis patients to alleviate pains. Medical uses of Cannabis and THC are under current debate on a national scale over who should be allowed to use it medically, and if at all.

An example that one could find THC other than marijuana would be found in assortment of hemp plants.