THC On Blood: The Science Behind The Debate
As more states legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, it’s important to understand the potential effects of THC on blood. One area of concern is how THC may affect our blood pressure. In this article, we’ll explore the current research on the topic and what it means for those who use THC.
Best Strains of Marijuana to Use for High Blood Pressure
Remember, it’s always a good idea to consult with a doctor who has cannabis experience before trying medical marijuana for hypertension. You should also monitor your blood pressure and attend regular doctor visits if you have any serious medical conditions.
Marijuana and Hypertension
Some of the best strains for helping with high blood pressure include the following:
- Blue Dream (Hybrid): Helps you relax and wind down — just what your blood vessels need with hypertension
- Purple Kush (Indica): Helps with stress and promotes relaxation
- Northern Lights (Indica): Removes muscle tension and bodily pain by helping blood flow throughout your body
- Sour Diesel (Sativa): Reduces anxiety and stress often related to hypertension
- Mango Kush (Indica) and Jillybean (Hybrid): Hybrid strains to fight nausea
- Harlequin (Sativa) and Pennywise (Indica): Helps to tackle depression
The Short-Term Effects of THC on Blood Pressure
THC can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure.
A study published in the American Journal of Cardiology in 2001 found that THC caused an average increase of 20 mmHg in systolic blood pressure and 10 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure.
This means that a person with high blood pressure may experience a spike in their blood pressure after using THC.
The Long-Term Effects of THC on Blood Pressure
Interestingly, regular THC use may lead to a decrease in blood pressure over time. A study published in the European Journal of Epidemiology in 2014 found that regular cannabis users had lower blood pressure than non-users.
So, a person with high blood pressure who uses THC regularly may see a decrease in their blood pressure over time.
The Interaction of THC and Blood Pressure Medications
THC can interact with certain blood pressure medications and may increase the risk of side effects. A study published in Pharmacotherapy in 2007 found that THC use was associated with a 2.5-fold increased risk of hypotension in patients taking antihypertensive medication.
So, a person taking a blood pressure medication should talk to their doctor before using THC as it may interact with their medication and increase their risk of side effects.
The Individual Effects of THC on Blood Pressure
THC can affect blood pressure differently in different people based on factors such as age, sex, and overall health.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology in 2002 found that the effects of THC on blood pressure varied based on age, sex, and overall health.
So, a young, healthy person may not experience a significant change in blood pressure after using THC, while an older person with underlying health issues may experience a spike in blood pressure.
The Need for Further Research on THC and Blood Pressure
Despite some studies, more research is needed to fully understand the impact of THC on blood pressure. A review of studies published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology in 2018 found that while some studies have found a link between THC and blood pressure, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship. Further research is needed to understand how THC affects blood pressure in different populations and under different circumstances.
Is CBD safe to use for high blood pressure?
CBD is generally considered safe to use, and there is some evidence to suggest that it may have a beneficial effect on blood pressure.
A 2017 study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that a single dose of CBD reduced blood pressure in healthy individuals.
However, it’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD on blood pressure, and individuals with hypertension or other cardiovascular conditions should consult with a healthcare professional before using CBD products.
Additionally, it’s also important to note that CBD can interact with certain medications.
The Bottom Line: THC and Blood Pressure
While the current research on the topic is mixed, it’s important to note that THC can temporarily raise blood pressure and interact with blood pressure medications.
If you have high blood pressure or are taking blood pressure medication, it’s important to talk to your doctor before using THC. It’s also worth noting that more research is needed to fully understand the impact of THC on blood pressure.
Is THC Raising Your Blood Pressure Q&A
Q: Can THC raise my blood pressure?
A: THC can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure, with a study published in the American Journal of Cardiology in 2001 finding that THC caused an average increase of 20 mmHg in systolic blood pressure and 10 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure.
However, regular THC use may lead to a decrease in blood pressure over time.
Q: Can THC interact with my blood pressure medication?
A: Yes, THC can interact with certain blood pressure medications and may increase the risk of side effects.
A study published in Pharmacotherapy in 2007 found that THC use was associated with a 2.5-fold increased risk of hypotension in patients taking antihypertensive medication.
Q: Will THC affect my blood pressure differently based on my age, sex, and overall health?
A: Yes, THC can affect blood pressure differently in different people based on factors such as age, sex, and overall health. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology in 2002 found that the effects of THC on blood pressure varied based on age, sex, and overall health.
Q: Is there enough research on the link between THC and blood pressure?
A: While some studies have found a link between THC and blood pressure, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship.
A review of studies published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology in 2018 found that further research is needed to understand how THC affects blood pressure in different populations and under different circumstances.
Q: Are there any strains of cannabis that are particularly high in THC that may have a greater effect on blood pressure?
A: Some strains of cannabis may be higher in THC than others, and thus may have a greater effect on blood pressure.
However, it’s important to note that individual reactions to THC may vary
THC on Blood Pressure Source’s
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5237375/
- https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/severe-lung-disease.html
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12412838/
- https://www.cdc.gov/marijuana/health-effects/heart-health.html
- https://medlineplus.gov/marijuana.html
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7072941/
- https://journals.lww.com/jhypertension/Fulltext/2020/05000/Vasodilatory_effects_of_cannabidiol_in_human.16.aspx
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5470879/