Hemp ranks among the least toxic recreational and medicinal plants in the world. Compared to other psychoactive substances, its side effects are minimal. Nevertheless, like any substance, negative effects can occur—particularly in individuals with genetic predispositions.
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A widespread consumption method involves smoking hemp in joints mixed with tobacco. A recent study shows that many of the potentially negative consequences don’t come from hemp itself, but from this mixture. While pure consumption of the plant material is rarely problematic, combining it with tobacco appears to negatively influence certain biochemical processes in the brain.
Canadian Study Examines Drug Interactions
McGill University in Canada recently published a study involving 13 young adults to examine the interactions between tobacco and hemp more closely. The research was prompted by surveys showing that approximately 80 percent of consumers in Canada use tobacco alongside hemp.
Eight participants consumed hemp exclusively, while five added tobacco to their use. On average, they smoked approximately one gram of hemp daily; the tobacco amount corresponded to up to eight cigarettes per day. All participants were experienced users and demonstrated comparable consumption patterns in the weeks before the study.
To control for potential genetic influences, researchers examined the rs324420 gene in all subjects, which affects the activity of the FAAH enzyme (fatty acid amide hydrolase). Using PET scans, MRI, and blood tests, they determined how mixed consumption affects brain chemistry. The result: only the combination with tobacco led to significant changes in brain metabolism.
More FAAH, Less Anandamide
In mixed users, significantly more FAAH was present in the brain. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down anandamide, the body’s own cannabinoid—a neurotransmitter also known as the „bliss molecule.“ Consequently, participants who consumed tobacco showed significantly lower anandamide levels.
Anandamide plays a central role in emotional balance, pain perception, and overall well-being. The name derives from the Sanskrit word ananda meaning „happiness.“ A deficiency can promote depressive moods, anxiety, and even addictive tendencies.
The researchers conclude that a substantial portion of the negative side effects attributed to hemp consumption are actually triggered by the addition of tobacco.
Enhanced Side Effects from Tobacco
An anandamide deficiency is directly linked to the development of depression and anxiety disorders. Particularly in genetically predisposed individuals, the combination of hemp and tobacco can intensify paranoid symptoms and psychological instability.
Additionally, nicotine is highly addictive. Many people who believe they’ve developed a hemp dependency are actually addicted to nicotine. The decline in anandamide levels caused by tobacco further increases susceptibility to addictive behavior. This means numerous problems attributed to hemp consumption are actually caused by mixed use.
Need for Further Research
The researchers emphasize that additional studies are needed to understand the interaction between tobacco and hemp at the molecular level. Future studies should clarify whether tobacco alone also causes increased FAAH activity.
As an interim conclusion, however, it’s already clear: those concerned about health risks should avoid mixing hemp with tobacco. For significantly lower-risk consumption, vaporizing with a vaporizer is recommended, as this avoids combustion byproducts and preserves the full aromatic profile.
Mischst du Cannabis mit Tabak, wenn du einen Joint rauchst?
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