By Cailin Fourie
Cannabis has been and still is the topic of heated debates—praised by some as a natural healer and dismissed by others as a mind-muddling menace. When it comes to the effect of cannabis on our memory, the conversation gets a bit more complicated. From curious, casual tokers to concerned parents or someone simply trying to make sense of it all, understanding how cannabis affects memory can help shape a more informed perspective.
A Quick Breakdown
In essence, memory involves two main processes: formation (creating new memories) and recall (retrieving past ones). When someone says they’re “forgetting things” after using cannabis, it’s usually the latter of these processes that’s being affected.
So, What’s the Deal?
Cannabis affects the brain’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in a lot of bodily functions, including our memory. One of the active compounds in cannabis, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), binds to receptors in the brain that influence how we learn and remember.
That doesn’t mean lighting up once will fry your brain—but it does mean there could be some noticeable effects, depending on how much, how often, and at what age you’re using. There are so many contributing factors. However, knowing yourself and understanding the cues your body may give you when you partake is important.
The Case for Caution
Let’s start with the upsides since they tend to get the least airtime.
While THC tends to get the spotlight, cannabis is a complex plant with over a hundred different cannabinoids, including CBD (cannabidiol). Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t make you feel high, and some research even suggests it could counteract THC’s negative effects on memory.
Interestingly, there’s emerging evidence that cannabis might help with memory in specific contexts, especially when it comes to people with conditions like PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). In these cases, cannabis may reduce the emotional weight of traumatic memories, helping individuals manage flashbacks or anxiety.
There are also ongoing studies into how cannabis compounds could support brain health, particularly for older adults. Some early animal research shows that low doses of THC could improve memory and learning in ageing brains. We’re still far from drawing solid conclusions, but evidence and research are ongoing on both sides of the coin.
Take the Good with the Bad
Several studies suggest that frequent or long-term cannabis use, especially starting at a young age, can impair short-term memory. That might mean trouble remembering what someone just said, where you put your keys, or what you were about to do next. Developing brains, especially during the teen and early adult years, are susceptible to cannabis use and the effects thereof.
Over time, this could impact learning or performance, whether at school, university, or work. And for some, the effects linger even after the high has worn off. One study showed that heavy users had more difficulty recalling information than non-users, even after weeks of abstinence.
There’s also the matter of dosage and strain. High-THC strains, which have become more common in recent years, are more likely to impair memory than those with balanced or lower THC levels.
But It’s Not All Bad News
Locally, the conversation around cannabis has shifted dramatically since the Constitutional Court ruling in 2018, which decriminalised personal use. This opened the door for more open discussions—and, hopefully, more research within South Africa.
But with growing access comes greater responsibility. As cannabis becomes more socially accepted, it’s important that users, especially young ones, understand the risks and not just the rewards. Education is key, particularly in communities where cannabis has long been present but rarely talked about in terms of health and cognitive impact.
It’s All About Balance
So, does cannabis ruin your memory? Not necessarily. But it can have an adverse effect, mainly if used often, in high doses, or from a young age.
Does it have some potential benefits for memory in specific circumstances? It appears so. But we’re still learning how and why.
Like most things in life, context, moderation, and individual biology play major roles; what affects one person dramatically might have a minimal impact on another. That’s why personal experience varies so much—and why blanket statements rarely hold up.
If you use cannabis and are worried about your memory, try paying attention to patterns. Are you forgetting things more often? Are you struggling to concentrate or stay organised? Consider cutting back on your consumption, switching strains, or taking regular tolerance breaks.
On the other hand, if you’re exploring cannabis for medical reasons—perhaps for anxiety, trauma, or sleep—it’s worth speaking with a healthcare professional who understands both the risks and the potential benefits to make a well-informed decision.
And if you’re a parent or educator, create space for honest conversations. Fear tactics rarely work, but honest conversation does. The more we know, the better choices we can make.
At the end of the day, the link between cannabis and memory is not black and white. The effects on long and short-term memory vary greatly, influenced by age, dose, strain, and individual brain chemistry. As South Africa steps into a new era of cannabis culture, it’s up to each of us to stay informed, stay curious, and be mindful of mindful consumption.