Outline of cannabis

Overview of the cannabis plant and its uses

Overview

Cannabis plant

The outline of cannabis provides a comprehensive guide to the various aspects of the cannabis plant, its uses, and its impact on society. Cannabis, also known as marijuana, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Cannabaceae. The plant is known for its psychoactive properties and has been used for medicinal, recreational, and industrial purposes.

History

Cannabis has been used by humans for thousands of years. Its earliest recorded use dates back to ancient China, where it was used for medicinal purposes. Over the centuries, cannabis spread to various cultures and was used for a variety of purposes, including as a source of fiber, food, and medicine.

Botany

Cannabis is a dioecious plant, meaning it has separate male and female plants. The plant is characterized by its distinctive leaves, which are palmately compound with serrated leaflets. The three primary species of cannabis are Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis.

Uses

Medicinal

Cannabis has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries. It contains compounds known as cannabinoids, which interact with the body's endocannabinoid system. Some of the most well-known cannabinoids include tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These compounds have been studied for their potential to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, and anxiety.

Recreational

Cannabis is widely used for recreational purposes due to its psychoactive effects. The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis is THC, which is responsible for the "high" associated with its use. Recreational use of cannabis is legal in several countries and states, although it remains illegal in many parts of the world.

Industrial

Hemp fibers

Cannabis is also used industrially, primarily in the form of hemp. Hemp is a variety of cannabis that is grown for its fibers, seeds, and oil. It is used in the production of textiles, paper, biodegradable plastics, and as a food source.

Legal status

The legal status of cannabis varies widely around the world. Some countries have fully legalized cannabis for both medicinal and recreational use, while others have strict prohibitions against its use. The legal landscape is constantly evolving as more research is conducted and public opinion shifts.

Related pages

• Cannabis (drug)
• Cannabis cultivation
• Cannabis smoking
• Hemp
• Medical cannabis