Debunking Cannabis Myths: Facts vs. Fiction

Debunking Cannabis Myths: Facts vs. Fiction

Cannabis is a plant with a complex history surrounded by a myriad of myths and misconceptions. These myths come from cultural beliefs, misinformation, propaganda, and misconceptions. This has led to widespread confusion about its effects and uses as cannabis gains a broader audience and becomes legalized in more states. It is important to separate fact from fiction to empower users so they understand the truth behind these common myths. In this article, we will look at some of the most common claims about cannabis and answer if they are true or false.

The U.S. Founding Fathers Smoked Cannabis

Myth: The Founding Fathers, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, smoked cannabis.

True or False: False

Fact: While it's well known that early Americans cultivated cannabis hemp, there is no evidence that the founding fathers smoked cannabis. They did, however, own large plantations that cultivated hemp for use in making ropes and textiles.

Hemp was a plant of critical importance in early America to supply rope and cloth for the navy.

It was such a valuable crop that The King of England and the Virginia Assembly fined farmers who did not grow it.

To support this myth, people often put forward a quote supposedly attributed to Thomas Jefferson.

"Some of my finest hours have been spent on my back veranda, smoking hemp and observing as far as my eye can see."

However, this quote is only found online, and people have searched all of Jefferson's writings but have yet to come across this statement.

There is no evidence which suggests that Jefferson smoked hemp, tobacco, or any other substance. The only references to him smoking are in the context of diplomatic meetings with American Indians.

Some believe that George Washington's writings about separating male and female hemp seeds indicate selecting seeds for the cultivation of hemp for smoking. But it's much more readily explained by selecting attributes such as size and coarseness of the hemp, which would affect the processing to make rope or textiles.

The Declaration of Independence Was Written on Hemp Paper

Myth: The Declaration of Independence was penned on hemp paper.

True or False: False

Fact: A number of websites claim that The Declaration of Independence was written on paper made from hemp.

This is a myth. It was written on parchment and made from animal skin, not hemp paper.

Other important documents, such as the five pages of the US Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Articles of Confederation, were also written on parchment.

The reason parchment was used for such important documents is because it is considered a strong and stable material, much more so than paper. However hemp was commonly used for paper in the 18th century.

Smoking Cannabis Is the Only Method to Consume It

Myth: Smoking is the only way to use cannabis.

True or False: False

Fact: While the most popular way to consume cannabis is smoking, it's not the only way to consume cannabis.

Cannabis consumption methods involve vaping dry herbs, vaping cannabis oils or waxes, edibles, tinctures, and topical applications. Each method has different effects and onset times. For more information, you can learn more about cannabis consumption methods on our blog.

Cannabis Is Addictive

Myth: Cannabis is highly addictive.

True or False: False

Fact: While cannabis can be addictive, it is much less so than substances like nicotine or alcohol.

Research indicates that approximately 9% of users may develop cannabis use disorder, with the risk increasing to about 17% for those who start in their teens. However, cannabis can be habit-forming and can lead to the development of a substance disorder. But it's not addictive in the same way as alcohol, nicotine, or cocaine, and there are not the same withdrawal effects on the body as with those sorts of drugs.

Cannabis Is a Gateway Drug

Myth: Cannabis use leads to the use of more dangerous drugs.

True or False: False

Fact: The gateway theory is very controversial.

One of the arguments used for opposing the legalization of cannabis is that cannabis is a gateway drug that will lead to using substances like cocaine, opioids, methamphetamine, or heroin.

Studies have shown that early exposure to an addictive substance, including THC, may change how the brain responds to other drugs. However, while cannabis use is associated with a higher likelihood of using other substances, causation has not been firmly established. The vast majority of people who use cannabis don't go on to use different "harder" drugs. Other factors like environment and personal predispositions play a more significant role in whether people will become addicted to other drugs.

Everybody Uses Cannabis

Myth: Cannabis use is universal and widespread.

True or False: False

Fact: Cannabis use varies significantly by region and demographics. While it is popular in some areas, such as North America, many people do not use cannabis. It's estimated that 22.2 million Americans have used cannabis in the past 30 days. It is also estimated that there are currently around 220 million cannabis users worldwide. Usage rates are influenced by cultural, legal, and personal factors.

It's Okay to Drive When Using Cannabis

Myth: Driving under the influence of cannabis is safe.

True or False: False

Fact: Cannabis impairs motor skills, reaction times, and coordination. Studies show that driving while under the influence increases the risk of accidents. Driving under the influence (DUI) of cannabis is illegal, and you can be fined, lose your license, or even go to jail.

Holding Cannabis Smoke in Your Lungs Increases Effects

Myth: Holding in cannabis smoke enhances its effects.

True or False: False

Fact: Research indicates that holding cannabis smoke in your lungs does not significantly increase the absorption of cannabinoids. Most absorption occurs within the first few seconds of inhalation. Holding in the smoke any longer doesn't increase THC absorption or get you higher. The lack of oxygen caused by holding your breath may make you feel dizzy, and this is not to be mistaken for being higher.

You Can't Overdose on Cannabis

Myth: Overdosing on cannabis is impossible.

True or False: True

Fact: While a fatal overdose of cannabis is extremely rare and almost impossible for adults, consuming very high doses can lead to severe discomfort, anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations. It's important to use cannabis responsibly.

Cannabis Use Causes Psychosis

Myth: Cannabis use inevitably leads to psychosis.

True or False: False

Fact: The increasing use of strong cannabis, particularly among young people, has caused concerns about the potential long-term health effects and its possible link to psychosis.

There doesn't appear to be any causal relationship between the increased use of cannabis and psychosis. The vast majority of users do not experience psychosis. However, THC can induce transient psychotic symptoms in those with a predisposition to mental health disorders. It is, therefore, wise to encourage people with psychotic symptoms to avoid using cannabis.

Hemp and Cannabis Are the Same

Myth: Hemp and cannabis are identical.

True or False: False

Fact: Hemp and cannabis (marijuana) are different varieties of the Cannabis sativa plant. Hemp has very low levels of THC (the psychoactive compound) and is used for industrial purposes, while cannabis typically refers to varieties with higher THC content and is used for medical and recreational purposes.

Eating Raw Cannabis Flower Can Get You High

Myth: Consuming raw cannabis flowers results in a high.

True or False: False

Fact: Raw cannabis contains only contains a small amount of THC.

It also contains a high amount of THCA, which is not psychoactive. When decarboxylated through heat (e.g., smoking, vaping, or cooking), the THCA is converted into THC. Eating raw cannabis does not produce a high.

Smoking Cannabis Causes Lung Cancer

Myth: Smoking cannabis leads to lung cancer.

True or False: Maybe

Fact: Cannabis smoke and tobacco smoke contain many of the same carcinogens. It's well known that tobacco smoke is a leading cause of lung cancer. However, current research does not definitively link cannabis smoking with lung cancer. Smoking cannabis can irritate the lungs and cause respiratory issues. Cannabis may elevate the risk of lung cancer, but more research is needed to establish the full long-term health effects.

Cannabis Has No Medical Benefits

Myth: Cannabis is ineffective for medical use.

True or False: False

Fact: Cannabis has proven medical benefits for specific conditions.

Cannabis has been used for thousands of years to treat a number of ailments. The most common use of medical cannabis is to treat chronic pain. It is also used to treat nausea from chemotherapy treatment, muscle spasticity in multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, anxiety, PTSD, and a host of other ailments. However, cannabis is not a magic bullet, and it is crucial to consult healthcare professionals before taking cannabis for medical use.

Cannabis Will Make You Lazy

Myth: Cannabis use leads to laziness or a lack of motivation.

True or False: False

Fact: Everyone reacts differently to cannabis.

The lazy stoner stereotype is a misconception. It's not true for everyone or even most people. Some strains of cannabis can make people feel lethargic, while others can increase motivation in some users, but this is not universal. Effects can vary based on individual response and context. It's not accurate to generalize this effect to all users.

Marijuana Is Safer Than Cigarettes or Alcohol

Myth: Cannabis is inherently safer than cigarettes or alcohol.

True or False: True

Fact: Cannabis and alcohol each have distinct risks. Cannabis is less likely to cause a fatal overdose than alcohol. Cannabis is also less addictive than alcohol or cigarettes. All the research suggests cannabis is safer than alcohol or smoking; however, it still poses risks. These risks include impairment and potential mental health issues.

Hopefully, this article has helped to debunk a few myths and correct a few falsehoods about cannabis and its uses. With these facts, we hope you are more informed and can make more informed decisions about cannabis use and its implications.