What is the main effect of THC found in marijuana?

The main effect of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive component found in marijuana, is indeed its psychoactive effect, which produces euphoria. THC interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the brain, leading to alterations in mood, perception, and consciousness. This interaction is what typically gives users the "high" associated with marijuana use.

While THC does have analgesic properties and can stimulate appetite, the defining characteristic that sets it apart in a broader context is its ability to induce euphoria, which is a key reason why it is often sought after for both recreational and medicinal use. Unlike non-psychoactive compounds found in cannabis, such as CBD (cannabidiol), THC distinctly alters mental states, making it the primary contributor to the substance's psychoactive effects.