5 Common marijuana myths debunked

Myth 1: “Marijuana is completely safe because it’s natural.”

While marijuana is a natural plant, that doesn’t make it completely safe. There are plenty of natural substances, like tobacco or poison ivy, that can be harmful. Marijuana can affect brain function, especially in adolescents, and regular use can lead to dependency, cognitive impairment, and other health issues. Just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s harmless.

Myth 2: “You can’t get addicted to marijuana.”

Contrary to popular belief, marijuana can be addictive. Around 9% of users develop a dependency, and this rate increases for those who start using in their teens or who use it daily. Marijuana use disorder is a recognized condition, and withdrawal symptoms like irritability, mood swings, and sleep issues can occur when someone stops using it. So yes, addiction is very much a possibility.

Myth 3: “Marijuana is a gateway drug.”

The idea that marijuana inevitably leads to the use of harder drugs like cocaine or heroin is largely exaggerated. While some users might experiment with other substances, the majority do not.

Factors like environment, genetics, and personal choices play a much larger role in whether someone tries other drugs. Marijuana doesn’t have a magic power that makes you want to try everything else in the drugstore.

Myth 4: “Marijuana has no medicinal value.”

Research has shown that marijuana does have medical benefits, particularly in pain management, reducing nausea, and treating conditions like epilepsy and multiple sclerosis.

However, like all medications, it comes with potential side effects and risks. Its use should be guided by a healthcare professional to ensure that it’s beneficial and not harmful.

Myth 5: “Marijuana is harmless because it doesn’t cause overdoses.”

While it’s true that fatal overdoses from marijuana are extremely rare, this doesn’t mean it’s harmless. High doses can lead to acute psychiatric episodes, increased heart rate, anxiety, and paranoia. Long-term use, especially when smoked, can also impair lung function.

So, while you’re unlikely to overdose fatally, that doesn’t mean there aren’t other serious health risks.