What is Cannabis: A Comprehensive Overview!!
Cannabis refers to a group of three psychoactive plants: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis.
When the flowers of these plants are harvested and dried, one of the world’s most common drugs is produced. Some call it weed, others pot, and still others marijuana.
As marijuana becomes legal in more places, new names for it emerge. People are increasingly using the term cannabis to refer to marijuana.
Some believe it is a more accurate name. Others believe it is more neutral than terms such as weed or pot, which some people associate with illegal use. Furthermore, the term “marijuana” is losing favor due to its racist history.
Cannabis is commonly used for its relaxing and calming properties. It’s also used to treat various medical conditions in some states, including chronic pain, glaucoma, and poor appetite.
Keep in mind that although cannabis is derived from a plant and is considered natural, it can still have powerful effects, both positive and negative.
Cannabis street name
There are many names for cannabis, including marijuana, weed, pot, and bud. It can also be referred to as green, herb, or flower. Cannabis extracts include honey oil, phoenix tears, and shatter. Edibles are also a form of cannabis.
What are the components of cannabis?
Cannabis is made up of over 120 components known as cannabinoids. Experts are still unsure what each cannabinoid does, but they have a good understanding of two of them, cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) (THC).
Each has its effects and uses:
- CBD: This is a psychoactive cannabinoid, but it is not intoxicating or euphoric, so it will not get you “high.” It’s frequently used to help with inflammation and pain relief. It may also help with nausea, headaches, seizures, and anxiety. (Epidiolex is the first and only prescription medication containing CBD approved by the Food and Drug Administration. This drug is used to treat certain types of epilepsy.) Researchers are still trying to figure out how effective CBD is for medical purposes.
- THC: This is the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana. THC is the chemical that causes the “high” that most people associate with cannabis.
How is it used?
Cannabis comes in various forms and can be smoked, eaten, or vaporized. According to users, the subjective effects of cannabis vary greatly depending on the form consumed.
- Marijuana is a term used to describe the dried leaves and flowers (buds) of the cannabis plant that are smoked in a joint or a bong. This is the most common variation.
- Hashish is a dried plant resin typically smoked or added to foods and baked goods such as cookies and brownies.
- Hash oil is a highly concentrated liquid that is added to the tip of a joint or cigarette and smoked.
- Concentrates are extracts (dabs, wax, or shatter) that are typically vaporized in small quantities due to the high THC content.
Cannabis can be mixed into various foods known as “edibles.” It typically takes one to three hours to feel its effects. However, inpatient or naive users may believe they haven’t taken enough to feel the effects, and consuming more may result in unpleasant strong psychoactive effects. However, when THC levels in edible products are inconsistent, even experienced users may struggle to control the amount consumed.
When smoked or vaporized, the effects are typically felt immediately. However, there are health concerns about the long-term effects of cannabis smoking, especially when combined with tobacco.
Cannabis can also be found in synthetic form, which may be more dangerous than the real thing.
How long does the feeling last?
When cannabis is smoked or vaped, the effect is almost immediate and can last for several hours, depending on the amount consumed. When taken orally, the effect is felt within an hour and lasts longer than when smoked.
Although the high is only temporary, THC is stored in fat cells and excreted from the body over several days or weeks. This is why drug tests for cannabis use can return positive even after the effects have worn off.
Is it habit-forming?
Regular cannabis users may develop psychological or mild physical dependence. For example, people suffering from psychological dependence may be preoccupied with using cannabis, and if they cannot obtain it, they may become anxious.
People who use cannabis regularly for an extended time may develop physical dependence. They may experience mild withdrawal if they stop using. Some symptoms include irritability, anxiety, upset stomach, loss of appetite, sweating, and disturbed sleep. These symptoms usually last about a week, but sleep problems can last much longer.
Is it hazardous?
- Cannabis users should be aware of the health risks and take precautions to avoid them. Anyone who uses cannabis heavily or regularly may face the following health risks:
- Issues with thinking, memory, or physical coordination
- Adverse effects can often result in dangerous accidents, such as car crashes.
- Hallucinations are things people see, taste, smell, or feel that does not exist.
- If you or someone in your immediate family has struggled with mental health issues, like psychosis or addiction, then you know how difficult it can be.
- An uncontrolled or compulsive desire to use cannabis, despite its negative consequences.
- Smoking can cause serious respiratory problems, including lung disease.
- Cancer caused by smoking
- Smoked cannabis during or after pregnancy can result in difficulties for both mother and child.
Conclusion:
Cannabis is a widely used drug and can be found in different forms, from marijuana to edibles and concentrates. The effects of cannabis vary depending on the form consumed, but it can lead to serious health risks if not used responsibly. Understanding the risks associated with cannabis use is essential for people who choose to consume it. When used carefully and responsibly, cannabis can be a recreational and therapeutic tool. However, it’s important to remember that it is still a drug, and the potential for harm should not be overlooked.