Synthetic marijuana is a chemical compound designed to mimic the effects of THC, the main psychoactive component of natural marijuana. While it may be similar in appearance and smell to regular cannabis, synthetic marijuana can have very different and potentially dangerous effects on users. On the one hand, natural marijuana has been used for centuries as an herbal remedy with few serious side effects when used responsibly.
Synthetic marijuana use has been linked to numerous health risks due to its unregulated production process and extreme potency. The debate over synthetic marijuana vs. natural marijuana comes down to which one poses the greatest potential risk of physical or psychological harm.
Michael’s House in Palm Springs, California, offers treatment for substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions. Our marijuana treatment center can help you or a loved one struggling with marijuana use. Call 760.548.4032 to learn more about synthetic vs. natural marijuana risks and our marijuana rehab center in California.
What Is Synthetic Marijuana?
Synthetic marijuana is a manufactured, artificial drug made of chemical compounds sprayed on dried plants and herbs, then packaged for sale. It goes by many names, such as “Spice” or “K2,” and often contains higher levels of THC than natural marijuana.
Synthetic marijuana looks like regular cannabis but has been linked to various serious side effects, such as vomiting or paranoia. Synthetic marijuana has also been known to cause seizures and is linked to a higher risk of developing psychiatric issues due to its unregulated production process.
What Are the Dangers of Synthetic Marijuana?
Synthetic marijuana is much more potent than natural marijuana, and its effects can be unpredictable. The chemical compounds present in synthetic marijuana have been linked to a variety of severe side effects, including the following:
- Increased heart rate
- Vomiting
- Psychosis
- Seizures
- Confusion
- Paranoia
In extreme cases, it can even cause death. Furthermore, the unregulated production process of synthetic marijuana means that the quality and potency of these drugs can vary wildly, leading to even more unpredictable side effects.
What Is Natural Marijuana?
Natural marijuana is a plant-based drug made from the leaves and flowers of the Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica plants. It contains several psychoactive compounds, including THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids. Natural marijuana has been used for centuries as an herbal remedy to treat various medical conditions such as pain, nausea, and inflammation. Its effects vary depending on the person and the strain, but generally, it causes relaxation and euphoria.
What Are the Dangers of Natural Marijuana?
Despite its widespread use as an herbal remedy, natural marijuana can be dangerous when used irresponsibly. Overdosing on THC can cause paranoia and anxiety, while prolonged or excessive use can be linked to the following outcomes:
- An increased risk of addiction
- Breathing problems
- Psychological issues such as depression and schizophrenia
Furthermore, smoking marijuana can harm your lungs due to the smoke and tar it contains.
Is Synthetic Marijuana Worse for Your Health Than Natural Marijuana?
The debate over synthetic vs. natural marijuana is ongoing, but synthetic marijuana has been linked to a greater risk of physical and psychological harm than natural marijuana. The chemicals used in synthetic marijuana are unregulated and often more potent than THC found in natural marijuana, leading to unpredictable side effects such as seizures, psychosis, and even death.
Natural marijuana is generally considered a safer option due to its centuries-long history of use as an herbal remedy with few serious side effects when used responsibly.
Call Michael’s House to Learn More About Our Marijuana Rehab Center
Michael’s House in Palm Springs, California, can help you or a loved one struggling with marijuana use. We are committed to providing the highest quality of care for individuals suffering from substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions.
Call us today at 760.548.4032 or contact us online to learn more about our programs and services.
