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Even though more and more states are allowing people to use cannabis for medical or fun reasons, we still don’t know a lot about modern cannabis products and how they affect the body, especially the heart.
In the ongoing talk about whether cannabis is good or bad for health, one big question is how it affects blood pressure. This discussion often focuses on Delta-9 THC, the main thing in cannabis that makes you feel different. While many know THC for its mind-changing effects, scientists are also interested in how it affects things like blood pressure.
In this article, we’ll look at how THC might affect blood pressure by digging into the science behind it. Figuring out how THC interacts with the body to possibly lower blood pressure helps us understand both its potential benefits and the complications of using cannabis.
The cannabis sativa plant has different parts used for different things.
The flower of the cannabis sativa plant is what people usually use for a fun recreational experience, or for health reasons. The stalk or stem is used for making stuff like ropes or clothes. The seeds are used for food and other things like oil.
Delta-9 THC, short for delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. It’s what gives marijuana its mind-altering effects and has sparked both curiosity and controversy. But how exactly does THC interact with the human body?
To understand how THC works, we need to first grasp the concept of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Think of the ECS as a network of receptors and neurotransmitters spread throughout the body, regulating various functions like mood, appetite, pain sensation, and memory.
When THC enters the body, it mimics the actions of endocannabinoids, the natural neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors in the ECS. Specifically, THC interacts with two main cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2.
CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain and central nervous system. When THC binds to these receptors, it disrupts normal brain function, leading to the euphoric “high” associated with cannabis use. This activation of CB1 receptors also affects memory, coordination, and perception of time.
CB2 receptors, on the other hand, are mainly located in immune cells and peripheral tissues. While THC does bind to CB2 receptors, its effects on these receptors are less understood. However, research suggests that THC may play a role in modulating inflammation and immune response through CB2 receptor activation.
The effects of THC can vary widely depending on factors such as dosage, method of consumption, and individual tolerance, which we will discuss later.
Most people smoke or vape THC, but you can also put it in food, drinks, or other products like organic Delta-8 THC gummies.
The way you use cannabis can affect how it works in your body. If you breathe in cannabis smoke, the stuff in it goes straight into your blood and quickly gets to your brain and other parts of your body. You feel the effects fast, usually in just a few seconds or minutes.
But if you eat or drink something with cannabis in it, it has to go through your stomach and liver first before it gets into your blood. This can take a bit longer, sometimes minutes or even hours before you feel anything.
THC is a compound and a rather well known one. But have you ever thought that it could have its own isomers? Yeah, that;s right. Like a lot of other drugs and different chemical compounds, THC has its own isomers and we are going to discuss about them now so you don’t confuse one with the other.
So, most of us know that isomers refers to compounds that have the same molecular formula but are structurally a bit different. THC isomers are just different versions of THC. They have the same basic ingredients but are put together in slightly different ways. In the world of cannabis, a THC isomer is a type of THC that manufacturers have tweaked to make it stronger.
So basically, THC is present as different isomers, mainly delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, delta-10-tetrahydrocannabinol, and delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol.
Delta-9 THC is the most well-known and abundant THC isomer in cannabis. It’s responsible for the classic “high” associated with cannabis use. When you consume cannabis, whether by smoking, vaping, or ingesting edibles, it’s Delta-9 THC that primarily binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and body, leading to its psychoactive effects.
Delta-8 THC is similar to Delta-9 THC but with some notable differences. Chemically, Delta-8 THC has a double bond on the eighth carbon chain, whereas Delta-9 THC has it on the ninth carbon chain. This slight variation in molecular structure results in differences in potency and effects.
Delta-8 THC is reported to produce a milder high compared to Delta-9 THC, with fewer adverse effects such as anxiety and paranoia. Some users describe it as offering a clearer, more clean high, making it potentially suitable for daytime use.
Experts naturally extract delta-10 THC from cannabis plants, mainly the hemp plant, and it’s similar to Delta-9 THC but doesn’t bind as strongly to certain receptors. So it’s not as strong as Delta-9 or Delta-8 in making you feel “high.” However, it still brings about mild feelings of being “high”.
People who use delta-10 THC often feel more uplifted and energetic, especially during the day. They say it helps them relax, feel calmer, and gives them a boost of energy and motivation.
If you’re looking for a gentle feeling of being “high” or if you struggle with feelings of anxiety or depression, or just enjoy a more sativa-like experience, Delta-10 THC might be a good choice for you.
The answer to the question, does THC help lower blood pressure? It’s not really a yes or no answer. In reality, it’s something in between.
Using cannabis or THC can cause changes in your cardiovascular system, especially in your heart and blood pressure, in the short term. Even if you don’t use it often, research shows it can possibly raise the chances of having a heart attack or stroke. When you consume THC, your heart rate and blood pressure can go up, depending on how much you use.
The immediate effects of using cannabis on blood pressure are clear: right after you use it, your blood pressure and heart rate go up. But what about the long-term cardiovascular effects? We don’t know as much about that. There haven’t been many long-term studies, partly because some studies have been done poorly and because results from testing on animals don’t always match up with what happens in humans.
After that initial rise in blood pressure, though, there’s often a drop, and your heart rate slows down. Many people say using cannabis helps keep their blood pressure in a healthy range, and some research supports this idea. This can be do to its naturally relaxing, anxiety reducing effects. With less stress, comes lower blood pressure. But more research needs to be done before any conclusion is reached.
Cannabinoid, or CBD, is the more beneficial member of the cannabis family. Unlike THC, CBD is non-intoxicating and is renowned for its potential therapeutic properties, such as reducing pain, inflammation, anxiety, and seizures.
But as we know, there are benefits to taking medical marijuana, so what happens if you combine both compounds? Does it increase the benefits or lessen it? Let’s find out.
Combining THC and CBD means getting the full potential of a full spectrum cannabis. It means when CBD and THC are combined, they may produce what’s known as the entourage effect. This phenomenon suggests that the combination of multiple cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds found in cannabis can enhance their individual effects and provide greater therapeutic benefits than when used alone. In other words, CBD and THC may work together synergistically to amplify their respective effects while mitigating potential side effects.
While research on the direct effects of combining CBD and THC on blood pressure is limited, individual studies have provided insights into their potential influences. THC has been shown to cause a dose-dependent increase in heart rate and blood pressure shortly after consumption. However, CBD’s vasodilatory effects, which promote relaxation of blood vessels, may counteract THC’s hypertensive effects. Additionally, the entourage effect—the synergistic interaction between multiple cannabinoids and terpenes—could further modulate cardiovascular responses.
A study also found that THC, whether used alone or with CBD, sometimes raised blood pressure and sometimes lowered it, especially in people with fluctuating blood pressure.
Also, remember that CBD or THC might interact with certain medications, like those for high blood pressure or serious cardiovascular disorders. So, before using CBD to help with high blood pressure, talk to your doctor.
Using medical cannabis to treat high blood pressure has been suggested, but there’s a lot of debate about it because research results conflict. Some studies say smoking cannabis products with components like cannabidiol (CBD) might help the heart, but recent research raises worries about the dangers of using cannabis, especially by smoking it.
Research in the Journal of the American Heart Association says that people who smoke cannabis products a lot could have a higher chance of having a heart attack or stroke. Another study from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute found that daily cannabis users had a cardiovascular risk with a 25% higher risk of heart attack and a 42% higher risk of stroke compared to alcohol users and to people who didn’t use it.
Even the occasional cannabis users might have a higher risk of heart problems, according to survey research from a study by the American Heart Association. And the more often someone uses it, the more the risk of cardiovascular disease goes up. These findings are important because lots of people use cannabis, and it’s important to understand the risks.
While some patients might feel better using medical cannabis for certain symptoms of chronic diseases, it’s also important to think about the possibility of the increasing risk of heart problems, like increased blood pressure. Doctors usually think about the risks of medical cannabis use along with the benefits for each person and give personalized advice. They also look at all cardiovascular risk factors and the options for treating increased blood pressure.
It’s still debatable and a topic of ongoing study whether THC is beneficial for cardiovascular diseases and high blood pressure, THC offers therapeutic potential for various medical conditions, such as:
While THC holds therapeutic potential, especially in the world of pain management, it’s crucial to use it responsibly and always consult your healthcare advisor first if you are already on medications.
As we have already discussed above, while some studies have reported a transient decrease in blood pressure after THC consumption, others have observed no significant changes in pulse or increased blood pressure in cannabis users, particularly with higher doses or in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
Some studies suggest that THC may have potential as a vasodilator and blood pressure-lowering agent, but there could be different cardiovascular consequences, and the risks associated with its use must be carefully considered.
In recent years, more and more people have been choosing to buy high-quality THC products online. It’s an easy way to get medical cannabis products without leaving home, giving you access to a bigger selection of items. But with lots of online stores selling these products, it’s tough to find one you can trust to sell good stuff safely and securely.
Make sure you get THC from trusted places. Don’t buy THC products from gas stations, smoke shops, or random websites. Read the reviews and make sure you trust your cannabis shop.
Usually, the THC products sold at pharmacies, licensed cannabis stores, and medical offices are checked to make sure they’re good quality. If you’re thinking of buying THC from supplement stores or manufacturer websites, you might need to do some extra checking to see if they’re okay.
Remember, THC products might not be for sale in some states. Each state has different rules about which THC products can be sold and where you can buy them. So, you can also look at your state government’s website to find out where you can get legal THC products if they’re available.
THC, the main component of psychoactive cannabis, can affect blood pressure in various ways. While some studies suggest that THC may initially cause a temporary decrease in blood pressure, especially shortly after consumption, it can also lead to increases in heart rate and blood pressure, particularly at higher doses or in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
Additionally, the long-term effects of THC on blood pressure regulation are not fully understood, and more research is needed to clarify its impact on both systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels. It’s essential for individuals considering THC use, especially those with existing cardiovascular issues, to consult with healthcare professionals and carefully weigh the potential risks and benefits before use.
Legal Disclaimer:
By reading this information presented, you agree to release the author of any liability that comes from using this data. This post contains no legal advice. Claims about cannabinoids have not yet been approved by the FDA. Read the full legal disclaimer here.
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References:
Deep breathing, relaxation techniques, and avoiding stressors can help lower blood pressure quickly. However, for a more immediate effect, medications prescribed by a healthcare professional may be necessary.
Edibles containing THC may temporarily cause vasodilation, which can increase blood flow rather than restrict it.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) may have varying effects on blood pressure, including both increases and decreases depending on dosage, individual response, and other factors.
While certain relaxation techniques and medications may provide rapid relief from high blood pressure, significant and sustained reductions often require lifestyle changes and ongoing management.
THC, like Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC, can also influence blood pressure, potentially causing fluctuations depending on various factors such as dose and individual response.
Yes, Delta-9-THC can have side effects, including cognitive impairment, dizziness, increased heart rate, dry mouth, and, in some cases, anxiety or paranoia.
It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before smoking cannabis or using any other substances, especially if you’re taking medication for high blood pressure. Certain medications may interact with self reported cannabis use, potentially affecting blood pressure or other aspects of cardiovascular health.
CBD (cannabidiol) may have various effects on the cardiovascular system, including potential benefits such as reducing blood pressure and inflammation. However, more research is needed to fully understand its impact on heart health and safety, especially in specific populations.
