Hemp, a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant, has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal and industrial properties.
However, its association with marijuana and the misconception that it can get you “high” has led to confusion about its effects on the body.
One of the most common questions people ask is whether or not hemp is addictive.
In this blog post, we will explore the research and evidence surrounding this topic and dispel some of the myths and misconceptions about hemp and addiction.
Understanding Addiction
Addiction is a chronic brain disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful consequences.
It is considered a brain disease because drugs change the brain's structure and function, leading to long-lasting and harmful effects.
Addiction is also characterized by a strong craving or desire to use drugs, loss of control over drug use, and continued drug use despite negative consequences.
Addiction can take many forms, and it's not limited to drugs or substances.
Behavioral addiction, also known as process addiction, involves compulsive behaviors that are not related to substance use, such as gambling, shopping, or gaming.
While the exact causes and mechanisms of behavioral addiction are not fully understood, it is believed that they activate the same reward and pleasure centers in the brain as drugs and substances.
Addiction is a complex disease that is influenced by many factors, including genetics, environment, and individual experiences.
People who have a family history of addiction are more likely to develop addiction themselves, suggesting that there is a genetic component to the disease.
Environmental factors, such as stress, trauma, and peer pressure, can also contribute to addiction.
Individual experiences, such as childhood trauma or exposure to drugs at an early age, can also increase the risk of addiction.
It's important to note that addiction is not a moral failing or a lack of willpower, but rather a complex disease that requires treatment and support.
Hemp and Addiction
Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant that contains low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound that gives marijuana its “high.”
Instead, hemp contains high levels of cannabidiol (CBD), which has been shown to have a variety of potential health benefits, such as reducing anxiety and pain.
Hemp interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which is involved in regulating a variety of functions, such as mood, appetite, and sleep.
Compared to other substances, such as alcohol, tobacco, and opioids, hemp has a lower potential for addiction and dependence.
According to a 2017 report by the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, there is substantial evidence that cannabis use increases the risk of developing a substance use disorder for substances such as alcohol, tobacco, and other illicit drugs.
However, the report also notes that the addictive potential of cannabis, including hemp, is lower than that of opioids and other drugs.
Misconceptions About Hemp
Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant that has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal and industrial properties.
However, it is often associated with marijuana and the misconception that it can get you “high.”
In this section, we will explore some of the common myths and misconceptions about hemp and addiction and dispel them with research and evidence.
Common myths about hemp and addiction
- Hemp is the same as marijuana and has the same addictive potential.
Hemp and marijuana are different varieties of the Cannabis sativa plant and have different properties. Hemp contains low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound that gives marijuana its “high.” While both hemp and marijuana contain cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound that has been shown to have potential health benefits, such as reducing anxiety and pain, the levels of THC in hemp are not sufficient to cause a “high” or lead to addiction or dependence.
- Using hemp will lead to using harder drugs.
There is no evidence to support the idea that using hemp leads to using harder drugs. In fact, a 2018 study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that cannabis use was not significantly associated with the initiation of other illicit drug use. While some people who use hemp may go on to use other substances, such as alcohol or tobacco, this is not necessarily due to the use of hemp itself.
- Hemp is a gateway drug that leads to addiction.
The idea that hemp is a gateway drug that leads to addiction is not supported by research. A 2015 study published in the Journal of School Health found that the gateway hypothesis was not supported by the data and that the relationship between early drug use and later drug use was not causal but rather a result of shared risk factors, such as genetics, family, and environment.
- You can get high from using hemp.
Hemp contains low levels of THC and is unlikely to cause a “high” or lead to addiction or dependence. While some hemp products may contain higher levels of THC than others, such as full-spectrum hemp oil, it is still unlikely to cause a “high” or lead to addiction or dependence when used responsibly.
Dispelling myths with research and evidence
These myths have been debunked by research and evidence.
Hemp and marijuana are different varieties of the Cannabis sativa plant, and hemp contains low levels of THC, the psychoactive compound that gives marijuana its “high.”
Using hemp has not been shown to lead to using harder drugs, and there is no evidence to support the idea that hemp is a gateway drug.
Finally, because hemp contains low levels of THC, it is unlikely to cause a “high” or lead to addiction or dependence.
It's important to separate fact from fiction when it comes to hemp and addiction.
While hemp has a lower potential for addiction and dependence than other substances, it's still important to use it responsibly and be aware of the potential risks and side effects.
By dispelling myths and educating ourselves about the true effects of hemp on the body, we can make informed decisions about its use.
With responsible use and awareness, hemp can be a safe and effective way to promote health and wellness.
Hemp Use and Harm Reduction
Hemp has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal and industrial properties.
While it has a lower potential for addiction and dependence than other substances, it's still important to use it responsibly and be aware of the potential risks and side effects.
In this section, we will explore some of the harm reduction strategies for using hemp, examples of responsible hemp use, and tips for reducing the risk of addiction.
Harm reduction strategies for using hemp
Harm reduction strategies for using hemp can help minimize the potential risks and side effects of its use.
One of the most important harm reduction strategies is to start with a low dose of hemp.
This allows you to gauge your tolerance and minimize the risk of side effects.
It's also important to use hemp in a safe environment, such as your home, where you can minimize the risk of accidents or injuries.
If you have a history of addiction, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider before using hemp and to consider alternative therapies.
It's also important to be aware of potential side effects, such as dry mouth, dizziness, and fatigue, so you can manage them more effectively.
Another important harm reduction strategy is to use high-quality hemp products from reputable sources.
This ensures that you are getting a product that is safe and effective.
You should also be aware of the different types of hemp products available, such as full-spectrum hemp oil, broad-spectrum hemp oil, and CBD isolate.
Each type of product has different properties and may be more suitable for different uses.
Examples of responsible hemp use
Responsible hemp use involves using hemp in a safe and mindful way.
Some examples of responsible hemp use include using hemp for a specific purpose, such as pain relief or anxiety reduction, and not just for recreation.
Using high-quality hemp products from reputable sources is also an important part of responsible hemp use. You should be aware of your personal limits and use hemp in moderation.
This means not using it more frequently or at higher doses than recommended.
You should also avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while under the influence of hemp.
It's also important to be mindful of the potential risks and side effects of hemp use.
While hemp has a lower potential for addiction and dependence than other substances, it can still cause side effects, such as dry mouth, dizziness, and fatigue.
Being aware of these side effects can help you manage them more effectively and make informed decisions about your hemp use.
Tips for reducing the risk of addiction
While hemp has a lower potential for addiction and dependence than other substances, there are still steps you can take to reduce the risk of addiction.
One important tip is to use hemp for a specific purpose, such as pain relief or anxiety reduction, and not just for recreation.
This means using it as part of a larger treatment plan, rather than as a standalone therapy.
It's also important to use hemp in moderation and be aware of your personal limits.
This means not using it more frequently or at higher doses than recommended.
Taking breaks from using hemp can also help prevent tolerance and dependence.
If you have a history of addiction or are concerned about the potential for addiction, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider.
They can provide guidance on the best ways to use hemp safely and responsibly and help you develop a personalized harm reduction plan.
By taking these steps, you can enjoy the potential benefits of hemp while minimizing the potential risks and side effects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while hemp has a lower potential for addiction and dependence than other substances, it's still important to use it responsibly and be aware of the potential risks and side effects.
By understanding the effects of hemp on the body, dispelling myths and misconceptions, and using harm reduction strategies, we can enjoy the potential benefits of hemp while minimizing the potential risks and side effects.
With responsible use and awareness, hemp can be a safe and effective way to promote health and wellness.
It's important to continue to research and understand the effects of hemp on the body and to use it in a safe and mindful way.