What is Cannabis?

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, weed, or pot, is a plant that has been used for medicinal, spiritual, and recreational purposes for thousands of years. It contains a number of active compounds, the most well-known of which is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which produces a range of effects when consumed.

Botanical Info

Cannabis is a flowering plant that belongs to the Cannabaceae family. There are three main species of cannabis: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. The plant grows best in warm, humid climates and is typically harvested in the autumn which is April in New Zealand.

History & Culture

Cannabis has a long history of use for medicinal and spiritual purposes in cultures around the world. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 5,000 years and has been used for spiritual purposes in India for even longer. In the Western world, cannabis was first introduced in the 1800s and quickly became popular as a treatment for a variety of ailments.

Effects

The effects of cannabis vary depending on the strain and method of consumption. Some of the positive effects of cannabis include relaxation, euphoria, and pain relief. However, cannabis can also have negative effects, such as anxiety, paranoia, and impaired memory and coordination.

Usage

Cannabis can be consumed in a number of ways, including smoking, vaping, and edibles. It is often used recreationally, but is also used for medicinal purposes to treat conditions such as chronic pain, nausea, and seizures.

Medicinal Use

Cannabis has been shown to have a number of medicinal benefits, including pain relief, nausea relief, and seizure reduction. It is often used as a natural alternative to pharmaceuticals for these conditions.

Combinations

Cannabis should not be combined with alcohol or other drugs, as it can increase the risk of adverse effects. It can also interact with some medications, so it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before using cannabis as a medicinal treatment.

Harm and Addiction Potential

While cannabis is generally considered safe, excessive use can lead to negative effects, such as addiction, cognitive impairment, and respiratory problems. It is important to use cannabis responsibly and to speak with a healthcare provider before using it as a medicinal treatment.

Natural Alternatives

There are a number of natural alternatives to cannabis that can promote relaxation and relieve pain. These include herbal remedies such as chamomile and valerian, as well as supplements like magnesium and L-theanine.

Resources

If you are interested in learning more about cannabis or using it as a medicinal treatment, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider. There are also a number of resources available online, including the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the American Herbal Pharmacopoeia.

References

1. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021). Marijuana. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/drug-topics/marijuana

2. American Herbal Pharmacopoeia. (2013). Cannabis Inflorescence.

3. Hauser, W., Finn, D. P., & Kalso, E. (2018). Cannabis and pain: a clinical review. European journal of pain, 22(3), 455-464.

4. Medical Marijuana by Christian Ratsch

5. Wikipedia - Cannabis - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis

6. Erowid Cannabis Vault - https://www.erowid.org/plants/cannabis/cannabis.shtml