There are numerous signs of marijuana addiction. When an individual has an addiction to marijuana they experience several physical and physiological changes. Smoking marijuana can relax a person and/or elevate their mood. This can be followed by drowsiness and sedation. Other effects include heightened sensory awareness, euphoria, altered perceptions and feeling hungry ("the munchies"). High concentrations of THC, the active chemical in marijuana may produce a more hallucinogenic response.

Marijuana is the dried flowers, leaves and stems of the Cannabis sativa plant. The main active ingredient in marijuana is THC (delta 9 tetrhydrocannabinol). Marijuana can range from 1% THC to 8%. Hashish can be 7% to 14% THC and hash oil is up to 50% THC. THC is a fat soluble substance and can remain in the lungs and brain tissue for up to 3 weeks. This information is helpful because if you suspect someone you care about is exhibiting signs of marijuana addiction you will be able to know if they have used recently.

The high a marijuana smoker feels is a unique constellation of feelings, and there are only two sources for the substances which activate THC's very own neuroreceptor. Our brain is one source: it generates a neurochemical very similar to THC, called anandamide. The only other source for this bliss-producing substance is the cannabis plant.

High quality marijuana gives off a clean, sharp, pungent smell. Some marijuana varieties have a citral smell similar to the scent of a lemon tree, other marijuana varieties have a spicy scent or even an ammonia/chemical-like smell.

Some forms of marijuana have longer and looser buds and leaves while growing. These strains like Thai, and Columbian are usually packed or compressed into bricks for shipment. As a result, they tend to be hard, flakey, and compact once delivered to the user. Lower quality marijuana will crumble easily, often feeling powdery and dry. High end forms of marijuana known as “hybrids” will always feel sticky and moist no matter how dry the environment they are stored in.

There are many signs of marijuana addiction to be aware of. We have listed numerous below to help in determining if someone you care for may be using marijuana.

Signs of Marijuana addiction:
Dilated (large) pupils
Cigarette rolling papers
Seeds that have been cleaned from marijuana
Smell on clothing, in room, or in car
Bloodshot eyes
Sleepy appearance
Reduced motivation
Pipes, bongs, homemade smoking devices (you may see sticky residue from burned marijuana)
Anxiety
Difficulty thinking
Distorted sensory perceptions
Dry mouth
Euphoria (temporary feelings of elation, energy and limitless power)
Feeling sluggish
Grandiosity (acting in a pompous or boastful manner)
Impaired judgment
Impaired short-term memory
Inappropriate laughter
Increased heart rate
Increased appetite, craving sweets
Reduced coordination
Temporary feelings of reduced anxiety or stress
Sadness/depressed mood
Sensation that time is passing slowly
Social withdrawal and isolation
Discolored fingers
Sleepiness