Cannabis is divisive. Some swear by it as a recreational substance, others use it for medical purposes (with some scientific backing in certain arenas). On the other hand, some people consider cannabis a gateway drug into more serious drug misuse.
Whatever your take, chances are you know what it is. So here are 17 fast facts about cannabis.
1. Cannabis Has Been Used for Thousands of Years
Cannabis is one of the oldest crops known to humans. Archaeological evidence suggests that it was used as far back as 2,500 BC in what is now modern-day China. Ancient civilisations used it for medicinal purposes, clothing, and even in rituals.
2. There Are Multiple Species of Cannabis
The cannabis plant is generally divided into three species: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. Each species has different properties and effects. For example, Cannabis sativa is known for its uplifting and energetic effects, while Cannabis indica is often associated with relaxation and sedation.
3. The Legal Status of Cannabis Varies Worldwide
Cannabis legality varies greatly from country to country. Some countries, like Canada and Uruguay, have fully legalised cannabis for both medical and recreational use. In the UK, cannabis is still classified as a Class B drug, making its recreational use illegal, although medical use has been legalised under strict conditions.
4. The Cannabis Plant Contains Over 100 Cannabinoids
Cannabis contains more than 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. The most well-known cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is psychoactive, and CBD (cannabidiol), which is not. These cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce various effects.
5. CBD Oil is Legal in Many Countries
CBD oil, derived from the cannabis plant, is legal in many parts of the world, including the UK, as long as it contains less than 0.2% THC. It is often used for its potential therapeutic effects, such as reducing anxiety and pain.
6. Cannabis Can Be Consumed in Many Ways
Cannabis isn’t just smoked. It can be consumed in various forms, including edibles (like brownies and gummies), tinctures, topicals (like creams), and vaporisers. Each method of consumption has a different onset time and duration of effects.
7. Medical Cannabis is Used to Treat a Variety of Conditions
Medical cannabis is prescribed to treat a range of conditions, including chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and the side effects of chemotherapy. However, it is only prescribed when other treatments have not been effective.
8. THC is the Main Psychoactive Component in Cannabis
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. It is responsible for the “high” that people experience when they consume marijuana. The concentration of THC varies between different strains of cannabis.
9. Hemp is a Variety of Cannabis
Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant species that is grown specifically for industrial use. It contains low levels of THC and is used to produce products like rope, clothing, paper, and biodegradable plastics.
10. The Endocannabinoid System Plays a Key Role in the Body
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex cell-signalling system in the human body that plays a role in regulating a range of functions and processes, including mood, sleep, appetite, and memory. Cannabinoids from cannabis interact with this system, which is why cannabis has such varied effects.
11. Cannabis Can Affect Your Memory
Short-term cannabis use can impair memory and cognitive functions. This is particularly true for young people whose brains are still developing. Long-term use may lead to persistent cognitive deficits.
12. Synthetic Cannabinoids are More Potent and Risky
Synthetic cannabinoids, often sold as “Spice” or “K2,” are man-made chemicals that mimic the effects of THC. However, they can be far more potent and unpredictable, leading to severe side effects or even death.
13. Cannabis is Being Researched for its Potential in Cancer Treatment
Cannabis is currently being studied for its potential to treat cancer and alleviate symptoms related to cancer treatment. While some studies have shown promising results, more research is needed to determine its efficacy and safety.
14. The “Munchies” Are a Real Phenomenon
Cannabis use is known to increase appetite, a phenomenon often referred to as “the munchies.” This effect is due to THC interacting with the brain’s cannabinoid receptors that regulate appetite.
15. Cannabis Can Have Both Short-Term and Long-Term Effects on Mental Health
While cannabis can provide short-term relief from anxiety or stress, long-term use is associated with an increased risk of mental health issues, including depression and schizophrenia, especially in individuals with a predisposition to these conditions.
16. Cannabis Can Affect Your Heart
Using cannabis can lead to an increased heart rate, which might be risky for people with heart conditions. Some studies suggest that cannabis use might increase the risk of heart attack shortly after use, especially in older adults.
17. Cannabis Is Still Classified as a Controlled Substance in the UK
Despite its medical use being legalised, cannabis remains a controlled substance in the UK under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. This classification means it is illegal to possess, grow, distribute, or sell cannabis without appropriate licences.
