Marijuana
Marijuana is one of the most popular illegal drugs used today. It is a plant, technically a weed, that grows in moist climates. Users dry the “fruits” of the plant and then smoke them in various different ways such as rolling them like cigarettes, putting them in pipes, or using what is called a “bong”, a long tube filled with water at one end. While many people think that marijuana is fairly harmless, it is highly addictive and is know what’s called a “gateway drug”.
This means that by using or even experimenting with it, the desire to try more harsh drugs can become reality, and often it leads people to using the harder drugs in the long run. While a lot of people think that marijuana is fairly harmless, it does have serious effects on the body and mind. The drug can cause people to feel anxious, slow down reaction times, and has even been known to cause depression in some people. In addition, marijuana when smoked produces a thick resin which is inhaled into the lungs. This residue can cause serious lung damage and is thought to be more dangerous than cigarette smoke by many doctors.
Of course, the debate on whether or not marijuana should be used for medicinal purposes rages on. Many feel that using marijuana for the treatment of afflictions such as chronic pain or glaucoma is harmless, and that it is beneficial for sufferers of those things. Technically the drug is still illegal, but many states are looking into passing legislature that would allow doctors to prescribe marijuana strictly for medicinal use. Millions of people smoke marijuana. A study conducted in 2001 found that about 2.6 new users were documented to use the drug. The chemical in marijuana called THC is what gives users the feeling of being high. However, THC has serious effects on the brain, heart, and lung’s ability to function. In addition, marijuana has social implications for users as well. Several studies have shown that marijuana users tend to lose their jobs more often, have a difficult time in relationships, and become less likely to graduate either high school or college.
Disclaimer: Cliff Schaffer does not personally endorse or support any of the comments made within the writings of this article.
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