Mariguana

Mariguana

Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a psychoactive drug from the Cannabis plant used primarily for medical or recreational purposes. The main psychoactive component of cannabis is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), one of the 483 known compounds in the plant, including at least 65 other cannabinoids. Cannabis can be used by smoking, vaporizing, within food, or as an extract.

Cannabis has a long history of use dating back thousands of years. The earliest recorded uses date from the 3rd millennium BC. Since the early 20th century, cannabis has been subject to legal restrictions. The possession, use, and sale of cannabis is illegal in most countries of the world. However, some countries and jurisdictions have legalized cannabis for medical use, and more recently, recreational use.

Medical Use

Cannabis is used for a wide range of medical applications. The most common uses include pain relief, particularly for chronic pain, nausea, spasticity, and multiple sclerosis. Other medical uses include treatment for neuropathic pain, glaucoma, and gastrointestinal disorders. Research is ongoing into the therapeutic potential of cannabis for various conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, cancer, Parkinson's disease, and mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Medical cannabis is subject to regulation and differs by jurisdiction. Patients typically require a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. The efficacy and safety of cannabis for medical use are still under investigation, with the scientific community calling for further research.

Recreational Use

Recreationally, cannabis is used to achieve a "high," characterized by feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and altered sensory perception. Recreational use varies by culture and legal status. In jurisdictions where recreational use is legal, cannabis is sold in various forms, including dried flower, concentrates, edibles, and topicals.

Legal Status

The legal status of cannabis varies widely from country to country. Some countries have decriminalized or legalized cannabis for medical or recreational use, while others have strict penalties for possession and use. The international drug control treaties, including the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, classify cannabis as a Schedule I drug, which has led to a complex legal landscape that is constantly evolving.

Cultivation and Types

Cannabis plants are classified into two main types: Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica, with a third, less common type, Cannabis ruderalis. The effects of cannabis can vary significantly depending on the strain, which is determined by the plant's genetic makeup, growing conditions, and processing after harvest.

Cultivation techniques also vary, with some growers preferring indoor hydroponic systems, while others grow cannabis outdoors. The cultivation of cannabis is subject to legal restrictions in many countries.

Controversies and Criticisms

The use of cannabis is controversial. Proponents argue for its medical benefits and the right to personal freedom, while opponents cite concerns about dependency, mental health effects, and the potential for increased traffic accidents. The debate over cannabis also includes issues of social justice, with critics pointing out the disproportionate impact of cannabis-related legal penalties on minority and low-income communities.

See Also

• Cannabinoid
• Hemp
• War on Drugs
• Drug liberalization