The debate on whether cannabis has the same effect as alcohol has been around for quite some time. An interesting fact is that the CDC reports that about 178,000 people die from excessive consumption of alcohol every year, whereas marijuana use is linked to fewer deaths.
Both weed smoking and alcohol consumption can have short and long-term effects on your body.
This article seeks to dispel the notion that cannabis is a substitute for alcohol. These are two distinct substances that affect the body differently. Keep reading.
A Reminder of What Cannabis is
- Cannabis refers to seeds, dried leaves, stems, and flowers of the cannabis plant.
- This plant contains numerous chemical components known as cannabinoids.
- The most common components of cannabis are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol.
Differences Between Cannabis and Alcohol
To better understand this topic, let’s look at the difference between weed and alcohol.
Chemical Composition
- Cannabis contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive substance that alters thought processes, perception, and mood.
- Alcohol contains ethanol, a depressant of the central nervous system that affects coordination, judgment, and motor skills.
Consumption Method
- Weed is commonly smoked, vaporized, or ingested as edibles. How fast it manifests depends on the method of consumption.
- Alcohol is usually taken orally and is absorbed slowly into the system.
Effects on Body and Brain
- Cannabis heightens sensory awareness, makes you euphoric, and creates a feeling of relaxation. It also affects motor abilities, impairs short-term memory, and slows reaction time. Certain strains can make you paranoid and anxious.
- Alcohol, on the other hand, causes reduced inhibitions, poor coordination, aggression, and, in severe cases, sedation. Long-term use can damage the liver, brain, and other organs.
Duration of Effects
- The effects of marijuana, when smoked, start to take effect within minutes and spike between thirty minutes and an hour later, lasting two to three hours. Edibles last longer and also take longer to start working (30 to 90 minutes).
- The effects of alcohol may linger for several hours after the initial 10 to 30 minutes of intake. This is, however, dependent on the amount one consumes.
Legal and Social Perspective
- The legalization of cannabis for medical and recreational use is increasing all over the world. From a social perspective, it’s linked to alternative movements and counterculture.
- In most regions of the world, alcohol is widely legal and socially acceptable. It often features in social gatherings and festivities.
Possibility of Addiction
- Although it is thought to be less addictive than alcohol, marijuana can cause psychological dependence in certain users.
- Many people find alcohol to be extremely addictive, which can result in physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms.
Health Hazards
- Long-term smoking of weed can lead to lung complications. It can also negatively affect mental health.
- Apart from the hangover and headaches, excessive alcohol consumption can affect almost all organs, resulting in cardiovascular problems, liver disease, and cognitive decline. It can cause pancreatitis and erectile dysfunction.
Medical Benefits of Cannabis
Cannabis has several health benefits. Let’s sample some of them.
Helps with Anxiety
According to a recent study, cannabis can help people with anxiety. It’s helpful, especially for those with social anxiety disorder. One of the psychoactive ingredients in cannabis, THC, has a biphasic effect on anxiety, meaning that various dosages will produce distinct effects. A small amount of THC yields a calming effect.
Relieves Chronic Pain
There is evidence that people who have chronic pain and have difficulties sleeping can benefit from high-CBD cannabis strains. In patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), which affects the brain and spinal cord, cannabis may also help reduce discomfort and calm tense, rigid muscles. Cancer patients can also use THC-containing cannabis strains to reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
Final Thoughts
Generally, cannabis has fewer long-term effects compared to alcohol. Both substances have distinct effects on users, depending on body chemistry, tolerance, and usage habits. Given their effects on your body, it’s imperative to exercise self-control when consuming these substances.