Marijuana – Cannabis

• What is marijuana?
• How is marijuana used?
• Marijuana effects?
• Is marijuana addictive?
• Marijuana – Risks?

Marijuana

Marijuana – What is it?

• Marijuana, or cannabis, comes from a plant (other common names – “pot,” “weed”).
• The dried buds of the female plant contain the highest concentration of psychoactive compounds.
• These buds are usually what is sold and consumed as marijuana.
• Marijuana usually costs about $10-$20 a gram.

Marijuana – How is it Used?

• Marijuana is usually smoked, although it can be eaten.
• Joints are the most common method of smoking but a wide range of pipes, bongs, hookahs, and other devices are also used.
• Marijuana can be prepared in butter or cooked directly into foods for ingestion.
• Often people will cook with the leaves of the plant rather than the buds.

Marijuana – Effects?

• In small quantities, users find marijuana both relaxing and stimulating.
• The senses are enhanced, as well as the appetite.
• In larger quantities (or with stronger strains) the effects may feel similar to LSD or Mushrooms. Users may experience nausea, mild hallucinations, anxiety, or paranoia.
• Marijuana tends to cause an increase in heart rate, reddening of the eyes, and dryness in the mouth.
• Marijuana is used medicinally to treat the symptoms of a number of diseases such as cancer, glaucoma, and AIDS.

Marijuana – Addictive?

On average researchers have determined that 1 in 10 marijuana users feel some sort of dependence, experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as agitation and depression.

Marijuana – Risks?

• Smoking anything, including marijuana, can damage the lungs, throat, and mouth.
• Marijuana is a Schedule I narcotic, and getting caught with it can lead to serious consequences.
• Marijuana slows down reaction time and impairs driving.
• Some people feel uncomfortable, nauseous, or paranoid after using marijuana.
• Marijuana can have synergistic effects with other drugs, increasing effects of both.