Hashish consumption: These are the effects it can have

The consumption of hashish is now partially legal in Germany. However, hashish can have more than just positive effects on the body and psyche. This is what you need to know.

The consumption of hashish is popular because of its relaxing effect. In Germany, possession and consumption of cannabis are now legal under certain conditions – this includes hashish. But what other effects does it have and what side effects can occur from consuming hashish?

Hashish vs. Cannabis vs. Marijuana

There is often confusion about the terminology. Both hashish and marijuana are considered cannabis – and cannabis is nothing other than hemp.

Marijuana is made from the dried flowers and leaves of the plant, and hashish from the resin. Hashish has a grey-brown to matte black colour and is also known as dope, shit and piece.

Due to the psychoactive ingredients of cannabinoids, both marijuana and hashish have an effect on our central nervous system when consumed.

Effects of hashish on the body

Cannabinoids include THC, CBD and other active ingredients. All of these are found in hashish.

The ingredient that has the strongest effect is THC – the abbreviation for tetrahydrocannabinol. The Sativa variety of hemp contains a high THC level. The effect of Sativa is considered to be more intoxicating than other types of hemp.

One thing to note: everyone reacts differently. This depends not only on mood and frequency of consumption, but also on the method of consumption. If cannabis is consumed, for example through hashish brownies, the effects often last for well over five hours. In comparison, if it is smoked, the effects only last two to three hours. The biggest differences in the method of consumption are the timing. THC can be detected in the blood for three days, and in urine it can still be detected after 30 days.

Cannabis effects: benefits and use in medicine

Cannabis and its effects, including hashish, have been increasingly researched in recent years. The Federal Ministry of Health has evaluated studies on cannabis and listed the following effects and findings, among others:

• mood-enhancing
• relaxing and calming
• appetite-stimulating and often food is perceived as tastier through consumption
• the effect of cannabis is only temporary and not life-threatening in healthy people
• There is still little research into medical cannabis. This is especially true for mental illnesses. Side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness and nausea can also occur.
• Also, consuming alcohol does not cause a hangover

Hashish consumption: negative consequences and side effects

Consumption of cannabis can have consequences. In order not to endanger yourself or others, you should not drive after consuming hashish, as your reaction time may be delayed. The current limit is 3.5 nanograms of THC, which is roughly equivalent to 0.2 per mille of alcohol.

According to the Federal Ministry of Health, chronic consumption in particular can have a negative impact on the body:

• This leads to a deterioration in brain performance, especially memory. Attention can also suffer from cannabis consumption. Since cannabis affects brain development, consumption is particularly dangerous for young people. According to brain researchers, consumption should only be legal from the age of 25.
• Cannabis can increase the risk of developing a mental illness. This is especially true for psychosis. Manic-depressive symptoms can also be among the side effects of consumption.
• The Federal Ministry of Health cites studies according to which nine percent of users develop an addiction.
• Just like smoking cigarettes, cannabis consumption can also have a negative effect on the lungs and lead to respiratory diseases.
• In addition, frequent cannabis use can lead to dropping out of school or university, as several studies have already shown.

At what point does hashish consumption become problematic?

If you only consume cannabis or hashish occasionally, the risk of developing an addiction is minimal. However, if you feel like you are thinking about consuming hashish more and more often or can no longer cope with everyday life without cannabis, these could be warning signs. Then there is a risk of becoming psychologically dependent. If the following symptoms occur 24 to 48 hours after the last consumption, they could be withdrawal symptoms:

• nervousness
• Sleep problems
• Fear

In such a case, you can contact a family doctor or a counseling center for advice. You can find a directory of addiction support services at the German Central Office for Addiction Issues.

Read more on Techzle\.com:

• Cannabis legalization: worse for your health than alcohol?
• Hemp protein: How the plant-based protein can benefit you
• Blackout: How an alcohol-induced blackout occurs

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