Active ingredient in Marijuana may prevent long term brain damage

In a study from Tel Aviv University published in the Journal, Behavioural Brain Research and Experimental Brain Research, it is reported that the active ingredient in marijuana, known as THC can provide a protective effect from long term damage as a result of traumatic brain injury. 

 

An extremely small dose, around 1,000 to 10,000 times less than that in a conventional marijuana cigarette — administered over a wide window of 1 to 7 days before or 1 to 3 days after injury can jumpstart biochemical processes which protect brain cells and preserve cognitive function over time

 

The study authors claim that these low doses will protect the brain from long-term cognitive damage in the wake of injury from hypoxia (lack of oxygen), seizures, or toxic drugs.  The use of THC can prevent long-term cognitive damage that results from brain injury, the researchers conclude.