Marijuana may make your brain grow

[Sequoia]

Most addictive drugs inhibit the growth of new brain cells. But injections of a cannabis-like chemical seem to have the opposite effect in mice, according to new research. Experts say that the results, if borne out by further studies, could have far-reaching implications for addiction research and the application of marijuana in medicine.

For several years now, researchers have been interested in how drugs affect a part of the brain known as the hippocampus. This region is unusual in that it can grow new neurons throughout a person's lifetime. Researchers have theorized that these new cells help to improve memory while combating depression and mood disorders.

Many drugs, such as heroin, cocaine and alcohol, inhibit the growth of new cells in the hippocampus, which scientists believe could emotionally destabilize addicts. Understanding how drugs affect the hippocampus may have a critical role in treating addiction.

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http://www.nature.com/news/2005/051010/full/051010-12.html

[Angry Girl]

1. Not surprising.

No wonder free-thinkers like Carl Sagan was such a fan.

No wonder this government doesn't want anybody using it (aside from the fact that the drug war gives them an excuse to mess with any country throughout the world).

[Prisoner_Number_Six]

2. I THOUGHT I've been getting a lost smarter lately!!!

Now I know why. :rofl:

[alarcojon]

7. And I was way smarter back in college!

[Tafiti]

3. Yo!

Pass that shit to the left hand side!!!

[alarcojon]

6. the dutchie?

:smoke:

[Guava Jelly]

4. That explains all the great music from the 60's and 70's

What would happen if Dylan didnt pass the beatles the doobage??

[Taverner]

8. Then we would have been stuck with the crap we get today

[redqueen]

5. Fascinating

I can't wait to see how this pans out...