Article seems mediocre or worse...<p>Probably best to keep it in moderation for most folks and occasionally benefit from the introspective or entheogenic effects, which I'd argue outweigh most dangers.<p>The analgesic effects really do work for some people, it seems via detachment rather than direct anesthetics. If it worked for me, I'd struggle with moderation. While it does shift perspective enough to reinterpret some discomfort in an alleviating manner, it's a bit much for me in exchange.<p>Recreational use mystifies me, but I'd rather be judged than judge, and regarding these supposed associations with dementia, I find the chronic consumers that I know more mentally fit than most others. I've also, for the hordes of stoners I've known, never observed nor heard of a hospitalization. I have however, observed that the plant and its extracts instill a focused awareness on one's self and previously hidden ailments can be both revealed and sometimes appear exaggerated. I think there's a sensitizing effect, but it's often lost with chronic use.<p>I consider it a medicine, and given the choice between ineffective legal analgesics, would fear marijuana less than, eg acetaminophen [0] or ibuprofen, which annihilates my stomach.<p>0. <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0163834323001317" rel="nofollow">https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S01638...</a>