Middle-aged people are finding themselves in emergency rooms after trying highly potent THC edibles, leading to hallucinations and other negative experiences. The weed available today is much stronger than what was around in the past, making it easy to overdo it with THC. More people in this age group are using marijuana, leading to an increase in ER visits and calls to poison control centers as cannabis becomes more widely available in many parts of the U.S.
The author shares her own misadventure with marijuana seven years ago while visiting California for breast cancer treatment. In search of cannabis to help with post-chemo nausea and anxiety, she found herself in a strange underground church of cannabis ministries trying to access THC products. Through a series of events, she ended up ingesting a highly potent marijuana extract known as Ricky Simpson oil, leading to a frightening and disorienting experience.
The potency of THC in cannabis products has increased significantly over the past 50 years, making it easier to get too high too quickly. With edibles, smoking, and cannabis-infused products widely available, it’s important to know the laws in your state and educate yourself on potency levels and product types before partaking. It’s recommended to start slow, consider buying from Black-owned businesses to support equity in the industry, and talk to your doctor before using cannabis, especially if you are on medication that could interact with the drug.
The author reflects on her past experiences with marijuana, realizing that she used it as a way to cope with stress in her youth but has since found other ways to manage anxiety. While some find positive benefits from using cannabis, she advises being prepared and cautious, particularly with the high-potency products available today. Live and let live is her motto, but she warns against overindulging, especially with potent products like the Ricky Simpson oil she encountered.
Lanier Isom, the author of the piece, is a journalist and award-winning author with a focus on social issues. Her personal story highlights the potential dangers of consuming highly potent THC products and the importance of being informed and cautious when using cannabis. She advises readers to be aware of state laws, product potency, and potential interactions with medications before trying any cannabis products.
In conclusion, the author urges readers to approach cannabis use with caution and mindfulness, particularly given the increased potency of products available today. While marijuana can offer benefits for stress, nausea, pain, and other health conditions, it’s important to be well-informed and responsible when partaking. By understanding state laws, product potency, and consulting with a doctor, individuals can enjoy the benefits of cannabis without risking negative experiences or overconsumption.
