THC (Tetra-hydro-cannabinol) is a name given to the chief psychoactive substance of the marijuana plant.
It has a complex chemical structure that makes it potent for creating several psychoactive effects in the human body, which is also the reason that THC Gummies are becoming extremely popular these days.
Let us understand this great cannabinoid in-depth and become aware of its history, benefits, and the potential future it holds.
History of Marijuana and the Resultant THC
It all started with the discovery of cannabis Sativa in Western Asia or China.
Soon after its discovery, marijuana was often used as a principal drug in treating several physical ailments, illnesses, and health conditions, primarily due to its superior healing properties.
The therapeutic benefits of marijuana are even mentioned in several ancient texts written during the periods of Indian Hindus, Romans, and Greeks.
These texts also mention several health conditions, such as arthritis, depression, inflammation, sleep disorders, lack of appetite, etc.), which can be treated using marijuana.
Introduction of marijuana in the United States
However, marijuana took a reasonably long time to reach the United States, where it was introduced not before the 1600s.
The plant gained instant popularity, and it was first used commercially in the textile industry before reaching the medical sector.
The use of marijuana as a recreational drug in the United States began in the 1930s and 1940s.
For the next 30-40 years, the use of marijuana was unregulated and unchecked until the year 1970, when the Controlled Substances Act prohibited its use at the federal level.
Discovery of THC and Subsequent Laws
The Beginning of THC
“THC ” was discovered from “Cannabis Sativa” In 1969 and hence began its journey.
The Role of WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommended transferring THC to Schedule IV of the convention.
All the drugs mentioned in this schedule exhibit a similar psychoactive effect, which is created after the administration of THC.
The Potential Future of THC
As per a survey conducted in 2019 by the New Frontier Data, the marijuana industry in the United States is estimated to be $13.6 billion, employing more than 340,000 employees.
And this is true when the usage of marijuana is illegal in the United States due to it being classified as a “Schedule I” drug.
Owing to the proven medicinal properties and benefits, marijuana remains the world’s most cultivated and used drug.
The Growing Reach of Marijuana and THC
As of April 2021:
- The District of Columbia and 35 states have legalized the usage of marijuana for its medical use
- Out of these 35 states, 16 states have also allowed the usage of marijuana for recreational purposes
The number of such states legalizing the usage of marijuana is expected to grow with time. This strengthens the future of THC and depicts that it will also be widely accepted in the coming days.
| Year | Percentage of the population favoring the legalization of Marijuana |
| 1969 | 12% |
| 2000 | 31% |
| 2021 | 67% |
The Acceptance of THC for Its Benefits
As per a recent study performed by the New York University:
- The usage of marijuana has doubled in people aged between 50 and 64 compared with the past decade.
- The usage of marijuana among people who are 65 years or older has increased by seven times compared with the past decade.
This study clearly shows the usage of Marijuana and THC for its several medicinal benefits, especially among the older population, which majorly suffers from health conditions like loss of appetite, sleeping disorders, arthritis, depression, stress, etc.
Hence, it can be assumed that the future of THC is solid and bright, with immense potential to grow.
According to Cowen analyst Vivien Azer, the marijuana industry will generate a sales volume of $85 billion in 2030.
The Several Effects and Benefits of Consuming THC Based Products
Being a psychoactive substance extracted from the marijuana leaves, THC can create the feeling of “high.”
It produces a strong “euphoric effect” as it gets itself attached to the CB1 receptors present in the central nervous system.
The stimulation process follows, during which the brain’s reward system is signaled to produce and release a higher dose of dopamine, a hormone responsible for creating feelings of motivation, satisfaction, pleasure, and bliss.
It helps Delta 9 THC to create an anticonvulsant effect, thereby helping its consumers to get relief from the various health conditions.
It even supports Neurotherapy and has proven to end the state of depression.
Conclusion
Undoubtedly, marijuana is on the run, and so are THC (delta-8 and delta-9) based products, such as THC gummies, capsules, etc.
Since its discovery and first documented use in 2800 BC, marijuana has never looked backward and goes forward from strength to strength.
Recent studies, surveys, and research reports indicate that sooner or later, marijuana and its various cannabinoids, such as THC, will get legalized pretty soon in the entire United States.
Not only the manufacturers or investors but even the general public wants THC to get legalized. Hence, indeed THC exhibits a future solid potential, with the overall marijuana industry expected to multiply.
Sandra is a health blogger based in San Diego, California. She is passionate about living a healthy lifestyle. She loves being outdoors and exploring new places with her husband. She is a mom of two awesome kids and a dog named Luna!