Does Smoking Cannabis Kill Your Brain Cells?

There are many myths surrounding cannabis. From killing brain cells to lazing around people, many behaviors have been attributed to cannabis. Does weed actually make you dumber or is it just a Prohibition-era problem?

Despite the prevalence of this stereotype, there is little evidence to support or discredit this belief. Many think this started with the infamous Fried Egg commercial that aired in the 80s that featured a fried egg as your brain’s encapsulation on drugs. There are terrible drugs out there, but moderate use of cannabis won’t eat your brain.

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When it comes to scientific evidence, there is one study that shows a link between a smaller hippocampus and chronic cannabis use. The hippocampus, which is important for memory and learning, is not directly related to brain cells, but does show a negative association between chronic cannabis use and an impaired brain.

RELATED: Is It Possible For Marijuana To Make People Smarter?

Another study, conducted over a 38-year period, linked cannabis use to cognitive decline. It was found that adolescents who used cannabis heavily and continued to do so as adults, lost six to eight IQ points by mid-life. Those who used a lot and quit later in life did not regain lost IQ points. On the other hand, adults who used cannabis heavily did not lose any IQ points.

Other studies show the opposite effect. A study conducted in mice shows that low doses of THC can reverse age-related cognitive impairments. This link was found in another study in people with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s that showed that THC and CBD could be therapeutic.

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There is no clear answer to cannabis and brain cells. While there have been negative associations between heavy cannabis use and the brain, moderate cannabis use has been linked to therapeutic effects.

RELATED: Marijuana Doesn’t Make You Dumber, According to Science

To use cannabis in a smart and healthful way, moderation is key. Instead of consuming cannabis on a daily basis, it might be better for your health and enjoyment to treat cannabis as something pleasant rather than a habit.