Cannabis
Also known as: Marijuana, THC, CBD, Medical Cannabis, Hemp
Cannabis contains over 100 cannabinoids, with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) being the most studied. Unlike classical psychedelics, cannabis works through the endocannabinoid system rather than serotonin receptors. THC produces euphoria, relaxation, altered perception, and appetite...
Applications
9
Clinical Trials
3
Evidence Tier
strong
Duration
Inhalation: 1-3 hours; Oral: 4-8 hours; Effects vary by route, dose, and tolerance
Gabriel Brain Score
Moderate Evidence
Overview
Cannabis contains over 100 cannabinoids, with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) being the most studied. Unlike classical psychedelics, cannabis works through the endocannabinoid system rather than serotonin receptors. THC produces euphoria, relaxation, altered perception, and appetite stimulation, while CBD is non-intoxicating and provides anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. Medical cannabis is FDA-approved for specific conditions (Epidiolex for epilepsy, Marinol/Cesamet for chemotherapy nausea), and 38+ U.S. states plus D.C. have medical cannabis programs. Cannabis shows efficacy for chronic pain, nausea, muscle spasticity in MS, sleep disorders, PTSD, anxiety, and appetite stimulation in cancer and HIV/AIDS patients. The plant has been used medicinally for thousands of years across multiple cultures. Modern research explores various ratios of THC:CBD for different conditions, with lower THC/higher CBD ratios preferred for anxiety and inflammation, while balanced or THC-dominant strains help pain and sleep. Risks include potential for psychological dependence, cognitive impairment with heavy use, anxiety/paranoia in susceptible individuals, and respiratory issues with smoking. Cannabis interacts with many medications and should be used cautiously with medical supervision.
Traditional Use
Used medicinally in China, India, Middle East, and Africa for thousands of years. Documented in ancient texts for pain, inflammation, digestive issues, and spiritual practices.
Therapeutic Applications
Clinical Trials
Epidiolex (CBD) for Epilepsy
Completed - FDA Approved 2018Cannabis for PTSD
Multiple Studies OngoingCannabis for Chronic Pain
Multiple Studies Completed & OngoingDosing Guide
Therapeutic Dose
Highly variable by product, condition, and individual; typically start low (2.5-5mg THC) and titrate; CBD doses range 5-200mg+ depending on condition
* Dosing should be individualized. Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner.
Risks & Contraindications
Potential Risks
- •Potential for psychological dependence
- •Cognitive impairment with chronic heavy use
- •Anxiety or paranoia in susceptible individuals
- •Respiratory issues from smoking
- •Impaired driving
- •May trigger psychosis in vulnerable individuals
- •Drug interactions with blood thinners, seizure medications, others
Contraindications
- Personal or family history of psychotic disorders
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Severe cardiovascular disease
- History of cannabis use disorder
- Concurrent use of certain medications (check interactions)
Legal Status
United States
Schedule I federally, but 38+ states have medical programs and 24+ allow adult recreational use. FDA-approved cannabinoid medications exist.
International
Varies widely; legal medically in Canada, Germany, Israel, Netherlands, Uruguay, parts of Australia. Recreationally legal in Canada, Uruguay, parts of Mexico.
Key Researchers
Key Studies
- 1National Academies - The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids (2017)
- 2Multiple RCTs supporting Epidiolex for epilepsy (2018)
- 3VA studies on cannabis for chronic pain and PTSD (ongoing)