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Here’s what we know about cannabis and its potential benefits and risks.
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The Different Types of Cannabis
Cannabis is a plant that can be used for a variety of purposes. The most common use for cannabis is for recreational purposes. Cannabis can be smoked, vaporized, ingested, or used topically. The effects of cannabis can vary depending on the method of use.
Indica
Cannabis indica, formally known as Cannabis sativa forma indica, is a species of the Cannabis sativa plant. It is most commonly known for its physical effects, which can differ from those of Cannabis sativa forma sativa. Indica produces a more sedative high, which is why it is often used to treat anxiety and insomnia. It is also used to increase appetite and relieve pain.
Sativa
Sativa plants tend to be tall and thin with long, narrow leaves. They are typically more energetic and uplifting, making them a popular choice for daytime use. They grow quickly and can be ready for harvest in as little as 10 weeks.
Indica plants are short and wide with short, wide leaves. They tend to produce a more relaxing effect, making them a good choice for evening or nighttime use. They grow more slowly and can take up to 16 weeks to be ready for harvest.
Ruderalis is a type of cannabis that grows wild in Russia and other countries in eastern Europe. It is often considered a weed because it grows quickly and is difficult to control. It is also low in THC, so it is not commonly used for recreational or medicinal purposes.
Hybrid
A cannabis hybrid is a plant that has been cross-bred from two or more species of cannabis. The resulting plant will inherit traits from each parent plant, which can make for a more diverse and well-rounded final product. hybrids can be sativa-dominant, indica-dominant, or evenly balanced.
Most of the cannabis on the market today is some form of hybrid, as growers have bred different strains together to create new varieties with desired traits. For example, a grower may breed asativa plant with an indica plant to create a hybrid that has the best qualities of both parents: the highs of a sativa with the sedative effects of an indica.
There are literally thousands of different cannabis hybrids on the market today, and new ones are being created all the time. Some popular hybrids include Sour Diesel, Blue Dream, Girl Scout Cookies, and Granddaddy Purple.
The History of Cannabis
The cannabis plant has a long and rich history, dating back thousands of years. It’s thought to have originated in Central Asia, and it has been used both medicinally and recreationally for centuries. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in cannabis, and its potential uses.
Ancient Use
Cannabis has been used by humans for millennia. The first evidence of its use dates back to around 10,000 BCE, when cannabis seeds were found in a burial site in present-day China.
The ancient Greeks and Romans also used cannabis for medicinal purposes. In fact, the Greek physician Hippocrates – often referred to as the “father of medicine” – prescribed cannabis for a variety of ailments.
Cannabis continued to be used for medicinal purposes throughout the Middle Ages and into the early modern period. It was particularly popular in Europe and was even prescribed by some doctors in the United States up until the early 20th century.
So why did medical professionals stop prescribing cannabis? In short, because it became illegal. In the early 1900s, many countries – including the US – began to pass laws banning its use and cultivation. This trend continued throughout the century, and today, cannabis is illegal in most countries around the world.
Modern Use
Cannabis, also known as marijuana, is a plant from the Cannabaceae family that includes three main species: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis.
Cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. The first recorded use of cannabis as a medicine was in 2,737 BC by the Chinese emperor Shen Neng. In ancient Egypt, cannabis was used to treat glaucoma and other eye diseases. In India, it was used as a pain reliever and an antispasmodic.
In the 18th century, cannabis started to be used for recreational purposes in Europe and North America. It became popular in jazz clubs and was often used by artists and writers. By the mid-20th century, its use had become widespread in North America.
Today, cannabis is legal for medicinal purposes in 33 US states and Washington DC, and 11 states have legalized it for recreational use. It is still illegal at the federal level in the US.
The Benefits of Cannabis
Cannabis has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments and is now gaining mainstream acceptance as a natural medicine. Cannabis has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions, including pain, inflammation, anxiety, and seizures. Let’s take a closer look at some of the specific benefits of cannabis.
Medical Uses
Cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. The plant contains a number of compounds that can have positive effects on the body and mind, including THC, CBD, and terpenes.
THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, and it can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including pain, nausea, and muscle spasms. CBD is another compound that is thought to have medicinal properties, and it is often used to treat anxiety, inflammation, and seizures.
There is a growing body of evidence to suggest that cannabis can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions. Some of the most promising areas of research include cancer, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain.
Unfortunately, the legal status of cannabis in many countries makes it difficult to conduct large-scale clinical trials. However, there are a number of small-scale studies that have shown promising results.
Recreational Uses
While there are many ways to use cannabis, most people use it for recreational purposes. Cannabis is used for its pleasurable effects, which include happiness, relaxation, and an increase in appetite. Some people also use it to deal with anxiety or pain.
In some cases, people use cannabis for medical purposes. For example, it can be used to help relieve the symptoms of cancer or HIV/AIDS. It can also be used to reduce anxiety or improve sleep.
The risks of Cannabis
Experts say that smoking cannabis can increase your risk of cancer, lung problems, and other health issues. They also say that it can be addictive and lead to mental health problems.
Short-Term Effects
Short-term effects of cannabis are caused by its active ingredient THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is rapidly absorbed by the body when cannabis is smoked or ingested.
The effects of THC can be felt within minutes, and they peak within 30 minutes to two hours. They include:
-Euphoria
-Relaxation
-Improved mood
-Increased appetite
-Slower reaction times
– Problems with memory and learning
Short term effects of cannabis usually wear off within two to three hours, although if large amounts have been consumed, the effects may last longer. Some people may also experience residual effects, which can last for days or even weeks after the initial effects have worn off.
Long-Term Effects
Cannabis use can have a wide range of long-term effects. These effects can vary from person to person, and no two people will react in the same way. The severity of these effects will also depend on things like how often you use cannabis, how much you use, and how long you’ve been using for.
The long-term effects of cannabis can include:
-Cognitive impairment
-Decreased motivation
-Anxiety
-Depression
– Psychosis
