Facts about marijuana
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Facts About Marijuana
Introduction to Marijuana: Definition and Usage
Marijuana, also known as cannabis, pot, weed, or several other names, is derived from the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa. The plant's dried parts are typically smoked in pipes, cigarettes (joints), or cigars (blunts), and can also be consumed in food or brewed as tea1 5. The primary psychoactive component in marijuana is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for its mind-altering effects1 5.
Historical and Legal Context
Marijuana has been used for thousands of years for medical, recreational, and spiritual purposes. In the United States, it was widely prescribed by physicians until the 1930s when federal restrictions began, culminating in its classification as a Schedule I substance in 1970, indicating no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse3 9. Despite federal restrictions, several states have legalized marijuana for medical and recreational use, driven largely by public approval rather than scientific evidence3 7 9.
Medical and Therapeutic Uses
Marijuana has been used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including pain, nausea, and spasticity. The main active ingredient, THC, acts on cannabinoid receptors in the brain and body, which are part of the endocannabinoid system7. This system's discovery has opened up potential pharmaceutical applications, although research is hampered by legal restrictions3 7. Some synthetic cannabinoids, such as dronabinol, have been developed and approved for medical use7 10.
Adverse Effects and Risks
Despite its therapeutic potential, marijuana use is associated with several adverse effects. These include impairment of short-term memory and driving skills, particularly in adolescents, and the potential for developing an amotivational syndrome with frequent use4. Marijuana's addictive potential, especially among young users, and its ability to exacerbate psychotic illnesses in susceptible individuals are well-documented concerns3 9 10. The potency of marijuana has increased significantly over the past few decades, raising the risk of these adverse effects5 10.
Controversies and Public Perception
The debate over marijuana's safety and efficacy is ongoing. While some view it as a benign substance with medical benefits, others highlight its potential for harm. Public perception often drives legalization efforts, sometimes outpacing scientific research and evidence2 3 9. The media can contribute to this confusion by promoting a false sense of safety regarding marijuana use2.
Conclusion
Marijuana is a complex substance with a long history of use and controversy. While it has potential medical benefits, it also poses significant risks, particularly with increased potency and recreational use. Ongoing research and balanced public education are essential to navigate the complexities of marijuana use and its implications for health and society.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Marijuana and pregnancy.
THC in marijuana can cross the placenta and affect a baby's system during pregnancy.
Marijuana: Current Concepts
Current research on cannabis sativa and its constituents reveals potential medical benefits, but public education on potential dangerous adverse effects is needed to counter media-driven misconceptions.
Highly CitedBlurred boundaries: the therapeutics and politics of medical marijuana.
Medical marijuana has potential therapeutic benefits, but its recreational use and potential addictive potential require further research and public approval before its legalization.
Systematic ReviewHighly CitedMarijuana: an overview.
Marijuana use in adolescents can impair short-term memory, driving skills, and impair normal maturation, leading to amotivational syndrome.
Highly CitedThe Science of Marijuana
Cannabis science offers opportunities for new medicines and medical treatments, and its regulation varies globally, with the United States and Canada leading the way in liberalizing medical and recreational use.
Highly CitedMedical Use of Marijuana: Truth in Evidence.
Marijuana has been used for centuries as a remedy for various medical conditions, with its primary psychoactive cannabinoid, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (9-THC), acting as an agonist on CB1 receptors in the central nervous system.
Rigorous JournalHealth Policy for Marijuana
Marijuana is a Schedule I drug with high addiction risk and no medical benefit, but is legal in some states for various conditions despite studies showing greater harmful effects than benefits.
Systematic ReviewMedical uses of marijuana (Cannabis sativa): fact or fallacy?
Cannabis has long been used medically and recreationally, but its recreational use and potential addictive potential remain controversial, with 23 US states legalizing its medical use despite federal prohibition.
Cannabis, cannabinoids, and health
Cannabis use has harmful psychiatric and addictive effects, with synthetic cannabinoid use increasing, but certain cannabinoids and their synthetic derivatives have therapeutic properties for certain indications.
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