Cannabis (drug)

Unrolled joint

Cannabis is a psychoactive drug derived from the Cannabis plant, which has been used for recreational, medicinal, and spiritual purposes for centuries. The primary psychoactive component of cannabis is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), but the plant contains over 100 other cannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD), which has gained attention for its potential therapeutic uses. Cannabis is consumed in various forms, such as smoking, vaporizing, edibles, tinctures, and topical applications.

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History

Cannabis has a long history of human use dating back thousands of years. It has been used for medicinal, recreational, and spiritual purposes in various cultures, including ancient China, India, and the Middle East. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, cannabis was widely used as a medicinal compound in the Western world. However, concerns about its potential for abuse and association with counterculture led to its criminalization in many countries throughout the 20th century. More recently, there has been a shift in public opinion and policy towards cannabis, with many countries and states decriminalizing or legalizing its use for medicinal or recreational purposes.

Effects

The effects of cannabis can vary depending on factors such as the strain, method of consumption, dosage, and individual sensitivity. Some common effects include:

• Euphoria or relaxation
• Altered perception of time and space
• Increased appetite
• Heightened sensory perception
• Impaired short-term memory
• Impaired coordination and motor skills
• Altered judgment and decision-making

In some individuals, cannabis use can also lead to negative effects, such as anxiety, paranoia, and increased heart rate. Long-term cannabis use has been associated with an increased risk of mental health issues, particularly in individuals with a predisposition to psychiatric disorders.

Medicinal uses

Cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, and in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in its potential therapeutic applications. Some of the conditions for which cannabis has been studied or prescribed include:

• Chronic pain
• Nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy
• Muscle spasticity in multiple sclerosis
• Seizure disorders, such as epilepsy
• Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease
• Glaucoma
• Anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

It is important to note that the evidence supporting the use of cannabis for these conditions varies, and more research is needed to establish its safety and efficacy for each specific indication.

Legal status

The legal status of cannabis varies widely around the world, with some countries and states having legalized its use for medicinal and/or recreational purposes, while others continue to criminalize its possession and use. In recent years, there has been a trend towards the decriminalization or legalization of cannabis in various jurisdictions, driven by changing public opinion and the recognition of its potential therapeutic benefits.

Routes of administration

Cannabis can be consumed in various forms, including:

• Smoking: Cannabis is often smoked in joints(cigarettes containing cannabis), pipes, or water pipes (bongs). This method involves inhaling the smoke produced by burning the cannabis plant material.
• * Vaporizing: Vaporizing, or "vaping," involves heating cannabis to a temperature that releases the active compounds without combustion. This method produces fewer harmful byproducts and is considered a healthier alternative to smoking.
• * Edibles: Cannabis can be incorporated into various food products, such as brownies, cookies, and gummies. The effects of edibles tend to be more potent and longer-lasting compared to smoking or vaporizing, making it essential to start with low doses and be patient before consuming more.
• * Tinctures: Cannabis tinctures are alcohol or oil-based extracts that can be consumed orally or sublingually (under the tongue). Tinctures offer a discreet and precise dosing method.
• * Topicals: Cannabis-infused creams, balms, and salves can be applied to the skin for localized relief of pain or inflammation. Topicals typically do not produce psychoactive effects.

Potential risks

While many people use cannabis without significant problems, there are potential risks associated with its use. Some of the known risks include:

• Impaired driving: Cannabis use can impair motor skills, reaction time, and decision-making, increasing the risk of accidents when operating a vehicle.
• Dependency: Although cannabis is often considered less addictive than other substances, some users can develop a dependence on the drug.
• Mental health: Long-term, heavy cannabis use has been associated with an increased risk of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and psychosis, particularly in individuals with a predisposition to these disorders.
• Respiratory issues: Smoking cannabis can lead to respiratory problems, such as chronic bronchitis and lung infections. Vaporizing or using other methods of consumption may reduce these risks.

See also

• Endocannabinoid system
• Cannabinoids
• CBD (Cannabidiol)
• Medical marijuana
• Hemp

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