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Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that naturally occurs in the human brain, intestines, blood platelets and mast cells. An amino acid called tryptophan makes serotonin found in food (most famously as the substance in turkey that makes people feel tired after the meal). Imbalances in the brain's serotonin cause depression. Higher levels of serotonin are shown to counter depressive symptoms. Serotonin acts as the messenger between two nerve cells in the brain. The nerve cells in the brain are not physically connected to one another - they are separated from one another by synapses (tiny gaps ). In order for a serotonin to cross this gap, the first nerve cell shoots the serotonin out and into the gap where it travels to the receiving nerve cell stimulating it so it can bind with it. Thus, transferring the signal across the gap. The major concentration of Serotonin is in two areas of the brain -- the midbrain and the hypothalamus. These areas are responsible for regulating mood, hunger, sleep and aggression. Changes in the concentration of serotonin in these areas are linked to a variety of mood disorders, particularly depression. Depression is treated with extra serotonin by (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI's) like Prozac). Many times a person will have to play the dreaded drug shuffle while finding a suitable antidepressant. This process takes a very long, long time. THC, increases serotonin similar to SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) antidepressants, such as Prozac, Zoloft etc. All SSRIs "selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors" are designed to prolong the reuptake of serotonin. This makes more serotonin available in the brain. The anti-depressant effects of THC are caused by a chemical similar to natural endo-cannabinoids found in the brain, which are released under conditions of high stress or pain. They interact with the brain through structures called cannabinoid CB1 receptors that have a direct effect on the cells producing serotonin. Beneficial Side Effects of ingesting THC: release of natural endorphins which results in pain reduction. THC can activate a very specific population of neurons to reduce the pain signal - just like the natural endorphins do. mental states such as depression are determined by the individual having too little serotonin. While the relationship is a very complex one, there is strong evidence that serotonin is involved in regulating human violence, aggressive behaviors, suicide, appetite and hunger. These actions have all been associated with reduced levels of serotonin in the brain. Long-term and even daily marijuana use doesn't appear to cause permanent brain damage. Marijuana is not toxic. It is a highly effective medicine. In fact, marijuana was available as a medicinal treatment in the U.S. until the 1930s. Lester Grinspoon, MD, a retired Harvard Medical School psychiatrist who studied medicinal marijuana use since the 1960s and wrote two books on the topic, is reported to have stated "it's nothing that those of us who have been studying this haven't known for a very long time. Marijuana is a remarkably safe and non-toxic drug that can effectively treat about 30 different conditions, I predict it will become the aspirin of the 21st century, as more people recognize this." 
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