Why NEUROOTS Strongly Advises Against Canna Use Before Age 18

A message from our community to parents, young members, and future farmers
We believe in growing with awareness, responsibility, and care for both the plant and the people.

While we respect cannabis as a natural herb with a long agricultural and cultural history, we are also committed to science and the well-being of our younger community members. For this reason, we do not recommend and actively discourage cannabis use by anyone under 18 years old.

Here’s what decades of scientific research tell us about the developing brain and cannabis: The brain continues developing until about age 25

The prefrontal cortex – responsible for decision-making, impulse control, planning, and emotional regulation – is one of the last areas to mature.

THC (the main psychoactive compound in cannabis) interferes with this critical development process.

People who start using cannabis before age 18 are 4–7 times more likely to develop cannabis use disorder later in life (Winters & Lee, 2008; Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration data).

Today’s cannabis is significantly stronger

Average THC concentration in Europe and North America has risen from ~4% in the 1990s to 15–25% or higher today (and even 90%+ in concentrates). This dramatic increase in potency amplifies all the risks listed above.

We welcome open, honest conversations about cannabis, its history, and its responsible adult use. But protecting the developing minds of our younger members and children of our community is non-negotiable.

Until the brain is fully mature – ideally age 21 or older – the potential risks far outweigh any perceived benefits.