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https://stoner.boston/alcohol-vs-cannabis-the-ultimate-showdown/
Are you curious about the dangers of alcohol and cannabis? In this article, we take a deep dive into the harmful effects of both substances, comparing the risks and discussing the statistics surrounding alcohol as the fifth leading risk factor for premature death and disability on a global scale, versus the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis. From understanding the definition of poison and the number of deaths caused by alcohol, to exploring the medicinal properties of cannabis, this article is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the real differences between alcohol and cannabis.
Alcohol versus cannabis… which is more dangerous?
Key Points:
Alcohol is considered a poison and is the fifth leading risk factor for premature death and disability worldwide.
3 million deaths each year are caused by the harmful use of alcohol.
The majority of these deaths are a result of alcohol-related injuries, such as car crashes and violence, as well as from chronic diseases, such as liver cirrhosis and cancer.
Cannabis is not considered a poison and is not considered to be a leading cause of death worldwide.
It contains compounds called cannabinoids, the most well-known being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which have therapeutic benefits such as pain relief and reduction of nausea.
It is recommended to consume it in moderation as advised by some health professionals and it’s important to be aware of the risks before consuming it, as it may interact with certain other medications and have an effect on pre-existing mental health conditions.
Studies are being conducted to figure out more about what is known as “The Entourage Effect”, which has been shown to change how the plant can be used in a therapeutic way.
Alcohol:
Is considered a poison
Is the fifth leading risk factor for premature death and disability on a global scale
Causes 3 million deaths each year
Is responsible for alcohol-related injuries and chronic diseases
Is a leading cause of death and disability among individuals aged 15 to 49
Is a central nervous system depressant
Can lead to addiction and a wide range of health problems such as liver damage, brain damage, cardiovascular disease and an increased risk of certain cancers
Cannabis:
Is not considered a poison
Contains compounds called cannabinoids that have therapeutic benefits
Is commonly consumed for its medicinal benefits and relaxing effects
Should be consumed in moderation and with awareness of the risks
Studies are being conducted to figure out more about the “Entourage Effect”
Tags:
Alcohol
Cannabis
Risks
Therapeutic benefits
Poison
Deaths
Medicinal properties
Health
Addiction
Chronic diseases
Public health
Substance abuse
Mental health
Medical marijuana
Recreational use
Cannabis legalization
Alcohol regulation
Substance abuse prevention
Harm reduction
Drug policy
Toxicity
Dependence
Chronic use
Medical use
Social use
Public safety
Mental health effects
Physical health effects
Chemical compounds
Cannabinoids
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
Cannabidiol (CBD)
Entourage effect
Endocannabinoid system
Fermentation
Central nervous system
Blood alcohol content
Legal drinking age
Drinking culture
Drug testing
Impaired driving
Addiction treatment
Substance abuse disorder
Rehabilitation
Sobriety
Substance-free lifestyle
Naltrexone
Disulfiram
Acamprosate
Methadone
Buprenorphine
Suboxone
Naloxone
Vivitrol
Medication-assisted treatment
Substance use disorder
Dual diagnosis
Harm reduction therapy
Support groups
12-step programs
Therapeutic communities
Behavioral therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy
Motivational interviewing
Mindfulness-based therapy
Contingency management
Family therapy
Group therapy
Psychoeducation
Relapse prevention
References:
Russo EB. Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain. Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2008;4(1):245–259. doi:10.2147/tcrm.s1928
Zuardi AW, Crippa JA, Hallak JE, et al. Cannabidiol, a Cannabis sativa constituent, as an antipsychotic drug. Braz J Med Biol Res. 2006;39(4):421–429.
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). (2021). Alcohol’s Effects on the Body. Retrieved from https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-body
World Health Organization (WHO). (2018). Alcohol and health. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/alcohol-and-health
Please note that this information is based on scientific research and studies. However, it’s important to consult with a professional and be aware of the laws and regulations in your area before consuming any substance.
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