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The cannabis plant produces over 100 cannabinoids, or compounds. Tetrahydrocannabinolis (THC) is just one of these natural compounds that you’ll see a lot when researching medical cannabis. Although THC is psychoactive, so can be behind that ‘high’ feeling cannabis is often associated with, it also has a lot of medical benefits when prescribed and used correctly. And this is why it’s growing in popularity.
With research that is still being conducted, we’re starting to further understand THC oil benefits. We’ll be exploring how it can be used as a medicinal oil below, the science behind it, and the effects. From how you take it, to how it's originally grown, we’ve got plenty to cover - and hopefully you’ll have a good understanding of THC oil by the end of the article.
How Does THC Oil Work?
THC interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a messenger and receptor system that is integral to the management of balance within the human body.
One of the core components of the ECS are the cannabinoid receptors. This includes cannabinoid 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid (CB2), and they’re one of the main reasons behind why so many different conditions react so positively to cannabis.
THC is chemically similar to your body’s endocannabinoids which is why it can interact with your cannabinoid receptors. It binds with the CB1 receptors and releases neurotransmitters in your brain. This is what can be behind that ‘high’ feeling, but it depends on the dosage level, individual and symptoms being treated. If you’re worried, have a conversation with your pharmacist to decide what the best dosage or form is for you.
The CB1 receptors are primarily found in the central nervous system (CNS). When THC binds to the CB1 receptors in the CNS, it can affect appetite and pain.
CB2 receptors are found in the peripheral nervous system (PNS), immune cells, and various organs. CB2, along with other receptors, mediate THC's neuroprotective, anti-nausea, anti-spasmodic, and anti-inflammatory effects. In other words, patients can use THC oil for pain relief, and muscle relaxation and recovery through reduced inflammation.
Serotonin in the PNS plays a pivotal role in regulating respiration, a chemical reaction in our bodies that helps us produce energy. Disturbances in its function can contribute to irregular breathing patterns during sleep. THC appears to act as an antagonist of serotonin, and therefore can help with sleep.
Effects of THC Oil
THC oil is often considered by some to have more precise and consistent effects, compared to other forms of cannabis, like dried flower or edibles. It can also be tailored to individual needs. Although dosage, patient tolerance and method of administration can change the effects THC oil has on the body, studies have shown that it has the potential to:
- Relieve pain
- Reduce nausea
- Ease migraines
- Reduce anxiety
- Increase appetite
- Help with insomnia
- Is anti-inflammatory
Potential THC Oil Side Effects
Just like with any other medication, there can be side effects when taking THC oil. It’s likely they'll vary from person to person, and you may not experience any at all. The best thing you can do is take your medication as prescribed. But some common side effects to be aware of include:
- Feeling sick
- Weakness
- A behavioural or mood change
- Dizziness
- Feeling very tired
- Feeling high
- Dry mouth
Don’t panic if you experience any of the above. These side effects should only last for 2 to 3 hours. But if you are concerned, or experience serious side effects, speak to your pharmacist or doctor as quickly as possible. And we’re always here to help. You can email us at hello@alternaleaf.co.uk or call 029 2271 1227. The solution may be as simple as adjusting your dosage.
Factors That Influence THC Oil Effects
The way you use THC oil is completely down to what you feel comfortable with, and how your prescriber has advised. They’ll work with you to choose a dosage that suits you and your symptoms. You may not get it right the first time you use medical cannabis, which is why we recommend starting slow. It’s also important to remember that everyone’s body can react differently, and you’ll have your own individual tolerance to the medication.
Although THC oil dosage and individual tolerance can influence effects, we’ll explore a couple of methods of consumption below, as this can have an impact on how quickly it affects you and how long the effects last.
Sublingual
Doctors normally recommend sublingual use when prescribing THC oil in the UK. You place the THC oil under your tongue, and it’s absorbed into your bloodstream. This method cuts out the "first pass effect" associated with normal oral administration, which is where a medication undergoes metabolism at a specific location in the body, decreasing the active drug’s concentration. The effects can be felt within 15-30 minutes and can last for up to 4 hours.
Oral
This is typically a THC oil capsule or tincture that can be swallowed whole (capsule), or added to food or drink. Tinctures are made from cannabis plant extract, and therefore not as concentrated, resulting in a slower onset time. If you ingest the oil by swallowing it or adding it to food and drinks, it needs to pass through your digestive system before being absorbed into your bloodstream, so the effects usually occur between 30 minutes to an hour. They can last anywhere from 4-8 hours depending on dosage and metabolism. Typically, unless you’re prescribed capsules, your doctor will prescribe oil to be taken sublingually.
Summary
Whether you need help sleeping, want to relieve chronic pain, or reduce anxiety, THC oil could be a good option for you. And if you want to incorporate it into a personalised treatment plan, speak to your specialist doctor or pharmacist. They’ll be able to talk through the best dosage and method of administration for you.
THC oil has a lot of therapeutic benefits. But, as with any form of medication, there can be risks. It’s important to use responsibly, and it never hurts to do your own research. There’s lots of help and information on the Alternaleaf website, and we’re always here to answer any questions you may have.