I would like to propose reading a short extract from the book “Die Wiederentdeckung der Hanfpflanze” by Jack Herer. In this extract we can read how hemp is an ally for man and his health.
THC, the human brain and hemp
The human brain is equipped with receptors that can only and exclusively absorb THC and its natural relatives. These neurotransmitter docking sites in the human brain have certainly arisen regardless of whether cannabis is present or not. One of the main reasons why cannabis is such a ‘safe’ medicine is that it does not affect involuntary muscle functions that, among other things, control respiration. Instead, cannabis influences motor skills and memory through special receptors. A closer look at the molecular structures reveals that THC adapts so precisely to the corresponding receptors, as if they had been created specifically for this purpose. The hypothesis of an ancient symbiosis between man and plant is almost obvious. Several doctors who have led the US government’s national marijuana-testing programmes over the past 60 years have basically stated: the active components of THC are broken down during the first or second passage through the liver. The remaining THC metabolites usually accumulate in fat deposits to be subsequently available to the body. This is a harmless natural process. Many chemicals found in food, herbs and drugs react the same way in the body. Most metabolites are not dangerous and THC metabolites develop a less toxic potential in the body than any other known metabolite residue.
The THC metabolites that remain in the body can be compared to the ash of a cigarette: they are inactive cannabinoids that are metabolised by the body. Incidentally, all the literature warning about the possible long-term damage to the brain and reproductive organs caused by THC metabolites comes mainly from the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency). The founder is Anslinger, who was involved in the banning of hemp in 1937, and the pharmaceutical industry, which financed this literature.
In order for a chemical to influence brain activity, it must be able to bind to special receptors. Although morphines can also be bound to a certain extent by the body’s beta-endorphin receptors, and the structures of amphetamines are vaguely similar to those of the body’s dopamines, such drugs (together with tricyclics and other mood-influencing preparations) pose a serious danger to the fluid balance of our nervous system. Nothing is known about such side effects with natural cannabis. People taking psychiatric medications (drugs) are rarely informed that they may suffer debilitating facial and body spasms as a permanent side effect of psychotropic drugs. Yet, psychiatrists readily admit in newsletters and psychiatric journals the catastrophic nerve damage caused by their drugs. Due to the side effects of these new preparations put on the market as substitutes after the prohibition of hemp in 1937 and originally made from cannabis, the side effects have since given rise to a series of new clinical pictures. The pharmaceutical preparations severely reduce the quality of life of those affected and some even lead to suicide.
Balancing health and nature
Although there are cases where there are no real natural alternatives, it is always important to look first at nature rather than chemistry. Every artificial product is something potentially dangerous for our organism. A good balance between human health and nature is the basis for a long and peaceful life.
Source: Die Wiederentdeckung der Hanfpflanze di Jack Herer – German Edition
