Synthetic marijuana: what is it and why is it dangerous

Substances like "Spice" or "K2" have an approximately similar effect with real hemp. They are made from a mixture of herbs that are treated with chemical compounds similar in structure to cannabinoids - the active substances of cannabis. The result is a contented toxic substance that is not recommended for a variety of reasons.

By comparison, the consumption of regular cannabis is approved by the World Health Organization. This became possible not only due to the many beneficial properties of the plant (relieves pain, cramps, spasms, improves the psycho-emotional state, etc.), but also due to low toxicity compared to many prescription drugs.

How does synthetic marijuana harm?

Her problem is too strong an effect on human cannabinoid receptors. Regular cannabis “works” with the same system, but synthetic cannabis – at least some of its compounds – does it 100 times “more effectively”. This gives an effect similar to marijuana, but at times increases the likelihood and intensity of side effects. We are talking about palpitations, epileptic seizures, psychosis and other critical changes in the psycho-emotional state, the development of bleeding, stroke and even death. In comparison, there is not a single recorded case of death from natural cannabis, and among the most common side effects are relatively harmless dry mucous membranes, anxiety and paranoia. In addition, the likelihood of getting used to the synthetic analogue is higher, especially with frequent use.

Overall, it's just a really bad alternative to cannabis. The impact is about the same, but in addition there is a whole bunch of possible complications and an increased risk of experiencing withdrawal for a long time.