Is Marijuana Really Safe or Are We Overlooking the Risks?

Marijuana, also known as cannabis, has been used for centuries in medicine, spirituality, and recreation. Today, its use is increasing worldwide, with many people viewing it as a natural and harmless substance. Some countries have even legalised it for medical and recreational purposes.

In India, marijuana holds a unique place. It is linked to religious traditions, particularly through bhang, a drink made from cannabis leaves, often consumed during festivals like Holi and Shivaratri. At the same time, the law strictly prohibits the possession and sale of most cannabis products. Despite this, recreational use is common, especially among young people and marginalised communities.

While some believe marijuana has health benefits, others warn about its risks. Studies suggest it can help with pain relief, epilepsy, and anxiety, but research also links long-term use to mental health issues, addiction, and cognitive decline. Many people assume marijuana is completely safe, but are we ignoring its potential dangers?

This blog explores marijuana’s use in India, its risks, and how we can reduce harm. Is marijuana truly safe, or are we overlooking important health concerns? Let’s find out.

Marijuana Use in India: Who is Consuming It and Why?

Marijuana, known locally as ganja, has a multifaceted history in India, intertwining with cultural, religious, and social practices. Despite legal restrictions, its consumption persists across various demographics, each with distinct motivations.

Religious and Cultural Use

Cannabis has been integral to Hindu rituals for centuries. According to the Atharva Veda (circa 2000–1400 BCE), cannabis is one of the “five sacred plants… which release us from anxiety,” and is referred to as a “source of happiness,” “joy-giver,” and “liberator.” During festivals like Maha Shivaratri, devotees consume bhang, a cannabis-infused preparation, as part of their religious observances.

Recreational Users

Urban areas have witnessed a rise in recreational marijuana use, especially among college students and young professionals. This trend is influenced by global cultural shifts and the perception of cannabis as a safer alternative to alcohol.

Medical and Therapeutic Users

While India’s legal framework around medical marijuana remains stringent, some individuals turn to cannabis for pain relief, anxiety reduction, and insomnia. However, comprehensive research on its efficacy and safety in the Indian context is limited.

Demographic Insights

According to the “Magnitude of Substance Use in India 2019” survey by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, approximately 2.8% of Indians aged 10–75 years (around 31 million individuals) reported using cannabis products in the previous year. Notably, 5% of males reported usage, compared to 0.6% of females, highlighting a significant gender disparity.

Regional Variations

Cannabis use varies across states. The 2019 survey found that Sikkim reported the highest prevalence at 7.3%, followed by Nagaland at 4.7%, and Odisha at 4.5%. These variations reflect cultural, social, and possibly economic factors influencing cannabis consumption.

What Gives Marijuana Its Effects?

Marijuana contains over 100 different chemical compounds, known as cannabinoids, which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. The two most well-known and studied cannabinoids are:

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)

This is the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana. It produces the “high” by interacting with brain receptors that affect mood, perception, and memory.

High THC levels are linked to euphoria, altered senses, increased appetite, and relaxation, but also anxiety, paranoia, and impaired coordination in some individuals. Strains with higher THC concentrations can have stronger effects and a greater risk of side effects.

CBD (Cannabidiol)

Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive and does not produce a “high.”

It is studied for its potential medicinal benefits, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, anti-inflammatory properties, and seizure control (e.g., for epilepsy treatment).

CBD may counteract some of the negative effects of THC, such as paranoia and anxiety.

Other Cannabinoids

• CBN (Cannabinol): Formed when THC degrades, known for its sedative effects.
• CBG (Cannabigerol): Thought to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.
• THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin): May have appetite-suppressing and anti-epileptic effects.

How Harmful Is Marijuana? Examining the Risks

Marijuana is often seen as a natural and safe substance, but research suggests that it can have short-term and long-term risks, especially with frequent or heavy use. While some people tolerate it well, others may experience negative physical and mental health effects. Let’s explore the potential harms.

Short-Term Effects

Marijuana affects the brain quickly, and its immediate effects can vary based on dosage, strain, and individual tolerance. Some of the short-term risks include:

• Impaired memory and concentration: Studies show that marijuana can affect short-term memory and learning abilities, making it harder to retain information. (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2021)
• Slowed reaction time and coordination: This can increase the risk of accidents and injuries, especially when driving.
• Increased heart rate: Marijuana can raise heart rate by 20–50 beats per minute, which may increase the risk of heart issues, particularly in individuals with preexisting conditions. (American Heart Association, 2020)
• Anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations: Some users experience panic attacks, paranoia, or hallucinations, especially with high-THC strains.

Long-Term Health Risks

Regular marijuana use can have lasting effects on brain function, mental health, and overall well-being.

Effects on Brain Development

Studies suggest that heavy marijuana use, especially before the age of 25, may lead to reduced IQ, memory problems, and difficulty with attention and problem-solving. (The Lancet Psychiatry, 2019)

Mental Health Concerns

Frequent use is linked to an increased risk of anxiety, depression, and psychosis, particularly in people with a family history of mental illness (National Academies of Sciences, 2017). Heavy marijuana use, especially in adolescents, has been associated with a higher risk of developing schizophrenia.

Respiratory Issues

Smoking marijuana can damage the lungs, leading to chronic cough, increased mucus production, and lung infections. Long-term use may cause similar lung problems as tobacco smoking, though more research is needed to confirm the full extent of the damage.

Addiction and Dependence

About 9% of marijuana users develop Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD), with higher rates among teenagers (17%) and daily users (25–30%) (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2021). Withdrawal symptoms include irritability, sleep problems, mood swings, and cravings, making it difficult for some users to quit.

Social and Behavioral Risks

• Impact on academic and work performance: Regular marijuana use can lead to decreased motivation, lower grades, and poorer job performance.
• Legal and financial consequences: In India, possession and distribution of marijuana remain illegal under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, leading to potential arrests and penalties.
• Risk of using stronger substances: Some research suggests that marijuana use can increase the likelihood of trying other substances, though this remains debated.

Does Marijuana Have Any Health Benefits?

Marijuana is widely debated for its potential medical benefits, with some studies suggesting it can help with certain health conditions. However, its effectiveness varies, and more research is needed to fully understand its risks and benefits.

1. Pain Relief

Marijuana is used to manage chronic pain in conditions like arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and nerve damage. Studies suggest THC and CBD can help reduce pain by affecting pain-signalling pathways in the brain.

2. Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders

CBD-based medications, like Epidiolex, have been approved for treating severe epilepsy (e.g., Dravet syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome). Research shows CBD can reduce seizure frequency in some patients.

3. Anxiety and PTSD

Some individuals use marijuana to manage stress, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms.

Low doses of CBD may help with anxiety, but high doses of THC can worsen it.

4. Nausea and Appetite Stimulation

Medical marijuana is prescribed for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to reduce nausea and vomiting. It is also used to stimulate appetite in conditions like HIV/AIDS and eating disorders.

5. Potential Neuroprotective Effects

Some research suggests marijuana may help with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis by reducing inflammation and slowing disease progression.

Limitations and Risks

Many health claims need more clinical trials to confirm effectiveness.

Side effects like impaired memory, addiction potential, and mental health risks must be considered.

Marijuana Addiction: Can You Get Hooked on Weed?

Many people believe that marijuana is not addictive, but research shows that regular and heavy use can lead to Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD). While it may not cause the same level of dependence as alcohol or opioids, some users struggle with addiction and withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), about 9% of people who use marijuana develop an addiction. The risk increases for teenagers (17%) and those who use marijuana daily (25–30%). Addiction happens when the brain becomes dependent on THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, leading to cravings and compulsive use.

Signs of Marijuana Dependence

• Increased tolerance (needing more marijuana to get the same effect).
• Difficulty stopping or reducing use, even if it causes problems.
• Withdrawal symptoms when not using, such as:
  • Irritability and mood swings
  • Sleep disturbances (insomnia, vivid dreams)
  • Loss of appetite
  • Restlessness and anxiety
  • Strong cravings for marijuana
• Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or in personal life due to frequent use.

Who Is at Risk?

• Teenagers and young adults (since their brains are still developing).
• People with a family history of substance abuse.
• Individuals with mental health conditions (anxiety, depression, PTSD).
• Daily or long-term users who rely on marijuana for stress relief.

How Can Marijuana Addiction Be Treated?

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify triggers and develop healthier coping strategies.
• Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET): Focuses on building motivation to quit or reduce use.
• Support Groups: Programs like Marijuana Anonymous (MA) provide peer support and guidance.
• Lifestyle Changes: Exercise, mindfulness, and therapy can help manage withdrawal and cravings.
• Rehabilitation Centers (Rehabs): Rehabilitation Centers (Rehabs): For those struggling with severe dependence, inpatient or outpatient rehab programs offer structured therapy, medical supervision, and counselling to support recovery. In India, government and private rehab centres provide addiction treatment, though stigma and accessibility remain challenges.

The Legal Landscape of Marijuana in India

Marijuana is regulated under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, which criminalises the cultivation, sale, and possession of cannabis flowers (ganja) and resin (charas).

Bhang, a traditional cannabis preparation made from leaves, is exempt from the NDPS Act, making its consumption legal in some states and available through government-licensed shops.

Small quantities (for personal use) can result in up to one year of imprisonment or a fine. Larger amounts (intended for sale) carry stricter penalties, including up to 20 years in prison.

Despite the laws, marijuana use remains common, particularly in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Varanasi.

How India Compares to Other Countries

• Canada, Thailand, and Uruguay have fully legalised marijuana.
• The U.S. has a mixed approach, with some states legalising it while others enforce strict bans.
• Nepal and Bhutan, India’s neighbours, also have significant cannabis use but maintain strict laws.

How Can We Reduce the Risks of Marijuana Use?

Reducing the risks of marijuana use requires education, responsible consumption, and policy reforms. Users should be informed about safe dosages, potential side effects, and the dangers of high-THC strains or synthetic cannabis. Safer consumption methods, such as edibles or vaporisers, can help reduce lung damage compared to smoking. High-risk groups, including teenagers and individuals with mental health conditions, should avoid use, as marijuana can impact brain development and worsen psychiatric disorders.

Recognising signs of dependency—such as cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and neglect of responsibilities—can help individuals seek timely support through therapy, rehabilitation, or support groups. Governments should focus on public awareness, harm reduction policies, and further research to ensure marijuana use is regulated and safer for those who consume it.

Conclusion

While marijuana may seem harmless to some, it is not without risks, especially for young users, heavy consumers, and individuals with mental health conditions. Regular use can lead to dependency, cognitive impairment, and emotional instability, affecting daily life and well-being.

If you or someone you know is struggling with excessive use, withdrawal symptoms, or a loss of control, seeking professional help, counselling, or support groups can make a difference.