Marijuana is one of the most commonly used substances next to alcohol. The National Institute of Drug Abuse states, “Among people aged 12 or older in 2021, 18.7% (or about 52.5 million people) reported using cannabis in the past 12 months.”[1]
Marijuana has been legalized for medicinal and recreational use in some states, so many people assume it is safe for everyday use. However, there are dangers associated with chronic marijuana use.
There are many different forms of marijuana, from flower (weed) and concentrates like wax to edibles and even something called “moon rocks.”
What are Moon Rocks and How are They Made?
Moonrocks are a type of cannabis that involves taking a dried bud, covering it in concentrate, and then rolling it in kief. Kief is a mixture of trichomes and resin that is left behind after someone grinds their cannabis in a grinder. Moon rocks take on the appearance of small white rocks with craters, somewhat resembling the moon, hence their name.
Because of the amount of trichome sand crystals in kief, it is thought to be one of the most potent forms of marijuana.
While most cannabis flower has a content of 20 to 30% of THC, moon rocks sit at about 50%, meaning they are incredibly potent.
People who use moon rocks put them into a glass bowl or bong and smoke them. Sometimes, they are rolled into blunts or joints, but the sticky concentrate can make this difficult.
The Effects of Moon Rocks
The effects of moon rocks usually begin to kick in a couple of minutes after smoking them. Because this type of marijuana is so potent, it can be difficult to pinpoint exactly how long the effects will last. For some people, the effects fade away after a couple of hours while others experience a high for more than a day.
Someone with a higher tolerance for THC will experience weaker effects than a person using the substance for the first time.
The effects of smoking moon rocks may include:
- Relaxation
- Euphoria
- Increased appetite
- Feelings of creativity
- Heightened sensory perception
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Increased heart rate
- Dry eyes
- Slower reaction times
- Lack of coordination
While marijuana can cause some people to experience happiness and a calming effect, others may become anxious and paranoid. As a result, it is important that people who try moon rocks already have a tolerance for marijuana because this form of weed is extremely potent.
Can You Get Addicted to Moon Rocks?
While some recreational dispensaries may sell moon rocks, you can get addicted to them. Just like liquor stores still sell alcohol and pharmacies give out Xanax, you cannot base a substance’s safety on where you are obtaining it.
According to the CDC, nearly 30% of people who use marijuana have a marijuana use disorder.[2]
Moon rocks are more potent than traditional marijuana. If you smoke them frequently, your chances of becoming addicted are higher. Anyone using moon rocks should proceed with caution and be honest with themselves about whether they are developing a habit.
Signs of a THC Addiction
The active ingredient in marijuana is known as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). THC is what causes a high. Whether you are using THC concentrates, edibles, flower, or moon rocks, you can develop an addiction.
If you are worried that you or a loved one are suffering from a THC addiction, look for the following signs:[2]
- Using more THC than you originally intended
- Trying to quit using marijuana but being unable to
- Spending a lot of time using marijuana
- Experiencing strong urges or cravings to use THC
- Using marijuana despite facing problems at work, school, or home
- Continuing to use marijuana despite facing interpersonal relationship issues
- Losing interest in previously enjoyed activities because of marijuana
- Using marijuana in high-risk situations, such as while driving a car
- Continuing to use THC despite experiencing physical or mental health issues
- Needing to increase your dose of marijuana to experience the same high (building a tolerance)
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you do not use THC
If you deal with the above-mentioned signs of a cannabis use disorder, you require professional help. Drug rehab programs can provide you with the support and tools you need to achieve long-term sobriety.
Find Help for Moon Rock Abuse and Addiction
If you or a loved one frequently misuse moon rocks or another form of marijuana, it’s time to seek help. While marijuana can provide many benefits, it can also cause issues in your life. If your cannabis use is becoming problematic, a professional drug rehab program can help you overcome your addiction.
To learn more about our marijuana addiction treatment programs, contact First Step Behavioral Health today.
References:
- The National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA): What is the scope of cannabis (marijuana) use in the United States, Retrieved August 2023 From https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/what-scope-marijuana-use-in-united-states
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Addiction (Marijuana or Cannabis Use Disorder), Retrieved August 2023 From https://www.cdc.gov/marijuana/health-effects/addiction.html
