Cannabis
Street Names
Weed, grass, pot, mull, hash, dope, joint, skunk, hydro, heads, ganga, buddha, reefers, m.j. and green.
Dangers
The health effects if you smoke cannabis are similar to the effects of tobacco.
There is increased risk of mouth cancer, lung cancer, heart disease and bronchitis.
In a very small minority of people, cannabis can trigger serious mental illness.
It is best to avoid it if you have a family history of schizophrenia or similar
illnesses.
Likewise, if you smoke heavily over a long period you will feel like
you are in a permanent brain fog. You could end up with serious paranoia as
well.
Cannabis is estimated to be used by 162 million people globally and is produced
in some 176 countries. Cannabis is classed as a 'depressant' drug and has
some mild 'hallucinogenic' properties.
What is it?
Cannabis is derived from the cannabis sativa plant. Cannabis grows wild
in many areas of the world. It can be grown in almost any climate and is
increasingly cultivated by means of hydroponic technology
The main active
ingredient in cannabis is commonly known as THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol).
The amount of THC in cannabis determines the strength of the effect of the
drug. The level of THC in cannabis can vary depending on the way in which
the plant is grown, the part of the plant that is used, and the way that
the plant is prepared for use.
What are the health effects?
The immediate effects of cannabis last approximately two to three hours
and may include:
- sense of well-being, relaxation and a loss of inhibitions
- increased appetite
- dryness of the mouth and throat
- distorted perceptions of time, space, distance and body image
- sense of smell, taste, touch and body awareness are often enhanced
- decreased co-ordination and balance making it dangerous to drive or operate
machinery
- reduced concentration and the ability to think logically can be affected
- impairment of complex motor skills
- increased heart rate
- drowsiness
- reddened eyes
What does it look like?
Cannabis is used in three main forms:
- Marijuana (also known as cannabis herb)
Marijuana (or cannabis herb) is the most commonly used form of cannabis.
This is the dried leaves and flowering tops (buds) of the plant. It is
the least potent of the cannabis products and usually contains between
1 – 5% THC. It looks like chopped grass and ranges in colour from
grey-green to green-brown. Its texture can be fine or coarse. Marijuana
may contain seeds and twigs from the plant.
- Hashish (also known as cannabis resin)
Hashish (or cannabis resin) is a more concentrated resinous form of the
plant that is usually sold in compressed small blocks. Blocks may range
in colour from light brown to nearly black. The concentration of
THC in hashish is higher than in marijuana, producing stronger effects.
- Hash oil
Hash oil is a thick, sticky black liquid and is usually golden-brown
to black in colour. This is the most potent cannabis product. Very small
amounts can have a strong effect.
How is it used?
- Marijuana: cannabis leaf is usually smoked in water
pipes called ‘bongs’ or in hand-rolled cigarettes called ‘joints’.
- Hashish: is usually added to tobacco and smoked.
- Hash oil: is usually spread on the tip or paper of cigarettes
and then smoked.
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