The Mystery behind the Munchies: Heightened Sense of Smell from Marijuana makes you Hungry

Researchers from the French Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) have uncovered the mystery of the marijuana munchies. For those who have experienced the effects of the drug-whether it be for medical purposes or recreationally-have you ever wondered why it makes you so hungry? Recent findings show that the CB1 receptor-dependent mechanism involved with cannabis may increase olfaction, which subsequently, makes us want to eat everything.

"The study clearly establishes the relationship of food intake and olfactory processing and implicates the endocannabinoid system as a key player in this signaling pathway," said Howard University College of Medicine's Thomas Heinbockel, who has investigated the endocannabinoid system's functions in the olfactory bulb, but was not involved in the work, via The Scientist.

For their study, scientists examined the standard olfactory and eating patterns in a group of mice and then compared them to mice who were given THC.

Though both groups were offered almond and banana oils, the mice in the control groups only sniffed the oils and thus, lost interest. However the other group of mice were administered THC and sniffed for longer periods of time, according to background information from the study. Those in the control group also ate substantially less food than those in the group who received THC.

Researchers also examined another group of mice that had fasted for a period of 24 hours. They found similar results in those given THC and in the control groups.

The researchers also worked with a group of genetically engineered mice without CB1 receptors in their olfactory bulbs. Results showed that after administering THC, they no longer had the same effect. Thus, the mice reacted to smell the same way as those in the control groups without an increased appetite.

Scientists said they are particularly impressed with the findings as they reiterate how promising cannabis could be in providing effective treatments for those suffering from illness-induced appetite suppression.

What do you think?

More information regarding the study can be found via the journal Nature Neuroscience.