Smoking bhang can be harmful to the heart and blood vessels, new research shows.
A study by the American Heart Association (AHA), released earlier this month, shows though bhang may have medicinal properties, it can damage the heart and blood vessels.
Previous studies have associated tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which are the active chemicals in bhang, to an increased risk of heart attacks.
Some research has found that within an hour of smoking bhang, THC, which causes the high or euphoric feeling in the drug, may induce heart rhythm abnormalities.
According to the report, THC also appears to stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, responsible for the “fight or flight” response once the drug enters the body.
This results in a greater demand for oxygen by the heart, a faster heart rate, abnormal functioning of the walls of the arteries and higher blood pressure while lying down.
On the other hand, CBD, which does not intoxicate users, has been associated with increased ability of the arteries to open, reduced heart rate, potentially reduced inflammation and lower blood pressure.
Inflammation is linked to atherosclerosis, the slow narrowing of the arteries.
According to the report, research has also linked bhang use to a heart rhythm disorder known as atrial fibrillation and heart failure.
Source: Daily Nation