1. Neurological Aspects of THC as a Treatment for Generalized Anxiety
Khaliah Kelly
Biology Major
Bio 410 Review Paper

2. Statistics on (various) Anxiety
(Karsch, VIlla Medica)

3. Anxiety Disorder is caused by imbalance of neurotransmitters
Psychiatric disorder causing panic and apprehension responses to stress
Sources: trauma, environment, genetic inheritance, fear or phobias, etc.
Caused by chemical imbalances of neurotransmitters (GABA & Glutamate) in the limbic system

4. Marijuana (sativa)
C. sativa the species of cannabis containing highest THC content
THC- psychoactive component
CBD- non-psychoactive component
More effective in studies than C. indica.

5. Endocannabinoid System vs Limbic System
ECS consists of: medial prefrontal complex, hippocampus, and amygdaloid complex
Limbic system consists of: amygdala, hippocampus, and hypothalamus area
Amygdala controls responses to fear

6. Amygdala is the key factor to expressing anxiety

7. Where is the amygdala located?
(Mouhammed, et al., Drug, Healthcare, and Public Safety)

8. Receptors & Neurotransmitters involved in the Synapses
CB1 & CB2 - receptors
GABA - anxiogenic neurotransmitter
Glutamate - anxiolytic neurotransmitter
THC - from marijuana, binds to CB1 & CB2 receptors
(Mouhammed, et al., Drug, Healthcare, and Public Safety)

9. The Link What can we do from here?
Researchers have established the bridge between cannabinoids and anxiety using cannabinoid receptors
focus on releasing one specific neurotransmitter in a cannabinoid to relieve anxiety symptoms
What can we do from here?