Legalizing Marijuana

Legalizing marijuana

Introduction

Marijuana scientifically known as Cannabis sativa is the most discussed and controversial drug throughout the globe. According to the U.S national institutes of health (NIH) around 95 million Americans have used marijuana once in their life. This estimates 40% of the American population has used marijuana.

This study shows that marijuana is the most commonly used drug in the states. However the case is marijuana is different from other drugs that are used in America. This is because it does not cover a long history like other drugs. However it does not make marijuana a less harmful drug. It may be used legally or illegally, but is considered a dangerous addiction compared to tobacco and alcohol which are commonly used and legal.

Marijuana contains more than 400 chemicals in itself. Among those chemicals 60 belong to a group named cannabinoids. The effect of cannabinoid is great on the human brain. Also known as THC (tetra hydrocannabinol) can greatly affect the brains performance. According to the University of Mississippi the level of THC found in marijuana is about 8.5%. Stronger marijuana has this about 15%. Marijuana decreases the brain activity of the user and causes a lack of coordination and thinking capabilities.

Why We Use Marijuana?

Use of marijuana is because of the feelings that are created by THC in the human brain. The terms used by marijuana smokers are used to describe these sensations. These terms may be GETTING HIGH, BUZZ or STONED. Many users say that using marijuana makes them feel happy and carefree from the environment. Some feel relaxed and sleepy. The usage of marijuana may also be of different types. Usually it is smoked like cigarettes and cigars. Smoking starts the effects within few minutes and last for two to three hours. Eating marijuana is also a way in which it is absorbed through the blood and effects are felt after an hour of eating but can last up to six hours.

Discussion

Medically marijuana is also used by some people when prescribed by their doctors in certain conditions and illness. The doctor may prescribe their patient to use marijuana for headaches nausea and cancer treatments. Marijuana may also be used to ease pain in an eye disorder called glaucoma.

In the early 19th century marijuana was considered to be one of the most dangerous drugs in America. However this perception changed in the late years when more people starting to use marijuana. However it can't be completely proved that use of marijuana is harm free. Many activist and health professionals have a very hard time making people understand that the use of marijuana is harmful. But the common use of marijuana has made people realize that since it is used in such a widespread then maybe the effects of marijuana won't be that harmful (Ingram, 1998). Prohibition of marijuana is mainly concerned to the harmful effects it may cause within a society. Several arguments arise due to its use which may include aggression, driving problems and decreased creativity or ...