Over the past centuries, the cannabis (Cannabis Sativa) was one of the most admired cultures in the world, providing a range of products often considered essential. However, a few years ago, the exaggerated fear of the potential for abuses of cannabis has led to repressive measures. Thus, Marihuana is considered illegal in many countries. Like many people, you are certainly wondering why marijuana is illegal. To find the answer to this question, you must read this article.
MARIJUANA: WHAT IS IT?
Marijuana, also called cannabis, beuh, weed, grass, pot or dope, designates the flowers, leaves, stems and dried seeds of the plant of cannabis. The cannabis plant contains more than 100 compounds (or cannabinoids). These compounds include tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which weakens or alter the spirit, as well as other cannabinoids. Cannabis also contains active compounds, such as cannabidiol (CBD). The CBD has no harmful effect, which means that it does not cause “high”. Marijuana can be used in several ways. She may be :
- Smoke in joints (such as a cigarette), in blunts (cigars or cigar envelopes partially or completely filled with marijuana), or in bongs (pipes or water pipes);
- Spray using electronic vaporization devices (such as vape pens) or other sprayers;
- Mixed or infused in foods or drinks (called edible) such as cookies, cakes, brownies, tea, cola or alcohol.
In addition, some people inhale the concentrates ofcannabis oil And other extracts from Marihuana is what is called dabbing.
THE CONTROVERSY ON THE MARIHUANA
THE Sativa cannabis is best known as the source plant of marijuana, the most consumed illegal recreational drug in the world. However, it is also extremely useful as a source of rod fiber, edible seed oil and medicinal compounds. These uses are all the subject of extraordinarily promising research, technological applications and commercial investments. Indeed, despite their ability to harm as a recreational drug, THE cannabis seeds have a phenomenal potential to provide new products for the benefit of the company and to generate many jobs and enormous profits.
WHAT ARE THE REASONS WHY MARIHUANA IS ILLEGAL?
Until recently, policies have prevented the legitimate research of beneficial properties of cannabis to continue to maintain his illegal character. Although there is now an explosion of societal, scientific and political support to reassess some of the obstacles to use, Marihuana Untilly illegal. And this, for many reasons.
CANNABIS IS A DRUG
The main cannabinoids of the cannabis are the THC, THE CBD and the Cbn. As they are present in the plant, all three are also known as phytocannabinoids, as opposed to the endocannabinoids (anandamide and 2-ag), which are present naturally in the body. Among them, the THC is considered the main substance that causes the psychoactive effects sought by cannabis consumers. THC and its synthetic preparation, dronabinol, are used for medical purposes for the treatment of conditions. It is :
- Anorexia associated with weight loss in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS),
- nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy and
- Chronic pain linked to diseases such as multiple sclerosis and neuropathic pain.
Used in a non -medical way in a healthy person, the THC may induce psychotic symptoms and anxiety and alter memory and psychomotor control. But, in schizophrenic patients, it can exacerbate existing psychotic symptoms, anxiety and memory disorders. It is therefore considered to be the main cannabinoid responsible for the development of mental disorders among large consumers of marijuana long-term.
CANNABIS, A SUBJECT OF DISCORD
If the cannabis Until then has not been legalized, it is also due to the non-existence of unanimity on its authorization. The worst part is that the search for impartial scientific knowledge has been considerably reduced, a blatant example of how political agendas subtract certain subjects from an objective exam. In addition, human prejudices against recreational drugs in general and the relentless condemnation of the marijuana in particular have made it a taboo subject.
Indeed, it is very difficult to find assessments of the marijuana which are not free from prejudices, distortions, emotions and selective consideration of evidence. Literature and especially the Internet are filled with opposite assertions. On the one hand, some supporters insist that the cannabis offers the perfect path to the economic, ecological and medical salvation of the world. Others, on the other hand, claim that it is a fraudulent hoax that will deteriorate financial, moral, physical and societal health. With such a controversy, a Legalization of cannabis would make citizens more exposed to insecurity.
CANNABIS CONSUMPTION COULD EXPLODE
If the Legalization of cannabis arouses as much stirring, it is also because the various states fear an uncontrolled consumption of cannabis leading to an increase in consumers. This is already the observation in some countries.
- In Canada, the rate of users of cannabis is one of the highest in the world. More than 40 % of Canadians used cannabis In their lifetime and approximately 10 % have consumed it in the past year. No other illegal drugs are used each year by more than 1 % of Canadians.
- In France too, statistics are alarming. Although use remains stable, it should be noted that 11.3 % of French people aged 18-64 (15.2 % of men and 7.5 % of women) consume marijuana.
Faced with population growth and the expansion of individual freedoms, a Legalization of cannabis will have an uncontrollable effect. If cannabis is legalized, governments are afraid that this decision directly impacts the number of consumers and that the legislation will be perceived as an incentive to consume.
USE BY YOUNG PEOPLE AND PUBLIC SECURITY DAMAGE
Legalization could lead to an increase in the number of young consumers, who are very sensitive to the negative effects of drugs. According to a study published in the International Journal of Drug Policy, 10 % of high school students present a low risk of marijuana consumption today declare that they would consume it if it was legal. This could give birth to a new generation of chronic consumers.
Even people who don’t smoke cannabis may undergo the negative effects of more widespread use. In an article published on Kevin MD, Dr. Jane Curley expressed certain concerns concerning the following points:
- Secondary smoke: coffee employees and other people will be more exposed to a carcinogenic agent declared by the EPA.
- Drunk driving: cognitive impairments can make consumers of marijuana dangerous on the road.
- The protection of young people: more individuals will probably be near schools and playgrounds without the threat of the police. We are also concerned that the marijuana Will not be sold in children’s tests.
- Product quality: Generalized regulations are not currently in place to guarantee the safety of storage, transport and culture operations in order to protect a whole nation of legal users against mold and other health risks.
In addition, which inevitably justifies that the Marihuana is illegal, it is the plethora of harmful effects that generates its consumption.
WHAT ARE THE HARMFUL EFFECTS OF MARIHUANA?
THE cannabis is not a harmless substance. Its health harm is increasing with the intensity of its consumption. In case of frequent consumption, the cannabis is more particularly associated with an increased risk of:
- Problems concerning cognitive and psychomotor operations,
- Respiratory disorders,
- Cannabis dependence, and
- Mental illness.
DEPENDENCE ON CANNABIS
Approximately 9 % of users of cannabis develop an addiction. These users dependent on cannabis can have difficulty stopping or decreasing their consumption, and thus continuing to make use of cannabis despite its negative effects. Those who arrest suddenly can feel light withdrawal symptoms, among which:
- Irritability,
- Anxiety,
- Stomach ache,
- Loss of appetite,
- Sleep disturbance and
- Depression.
Those who often make it and for a long time have a higher risk of dependence than occasional users. The risk of developing a disorder linked to the consumption of cannabis seeds is higher in people who are starting to consume it during their youth or adolescence and who consume more frequently. In comparison, it is estimated to develop a 68 % dependence with nicotine, 23 % with alcohol and 21 % with cocaine
RESPIRATORY DISORDERS AND CANCER
Like tobacco, the cannabis smoke contains tar and other known carcinogenic agents. There is a link between regular and long -term consumption of cannabis and the occurrence of bronchitis and cancer. To obtain a maximum effect, smokers of cannabis often retain smoke not filtered in their lungs, which potentizes these risks.
About half of the users of the past year also smoke tobacco and it is likely that this combination contributes a lot to many of these respiratory problems. Finally, like many other narcotics, the seed cannabis can cause side effects and complications. Avoid or delay conventional medical care for cancer or trust only at marijuana To treat or manage the effects of cancer can have serious health consequences.
THE RISK OF DRIVING ACCIDENTS
After alcohol, the cannabis seed is the substance most often associated with driving driving. The laws on the conduct under influence (DUI) do not only concern alcohol. Conduct under the influence of drugs, including cannabis, is also dangerous and illegal.
Driving is a complex task that requires your full attention to stay safe and alert. Marijuana affects areas of the brain which control movements, balance, coordination, memory and judgment of your body. Marijuana consumption can alter the significant skills necessary for safe driving:
- Slowing down your reaction time and your ability to make decisions;
- Altering coordination; And
- Distorting perception.
Studies have shown a link between acute marijuana consumption And car accidents, but additional research is necessary.
THE HEART
Marijuana can speed up heartbeat and increase blood pressure immediately after consumption. It can also cause increased risk of stroke, heart disease and other vascular diseases. Most scientific studies binding cannabis Heart crises and cerebral vascular accidents are based on relationships of people who have smoked marijuana (as opposed to other consumption methods).
Smoke marijuana brings to the Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other cannabinoids. Marijuana smoke also releases several of the substances that researchers have found in tobacco smoke. These substances are harmful to lungs and the cardiovascular system.
MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS
Consumption of cannabis seeds as the Dinafem seed, especially if it is frequent (daily or almost daily) and in high doses, can cause disorientation and sometimes unpleasant thoughts or feelings of anxiety and paranoia. People who consume marijuana are more likely to develop temporary psychosis (do not know what is real, hallucinations and paranoia).
They can also have lasting mental disorders, including schizophrenia (a type of mental illness where people can see or hear things that do not really exist). The association between marijuana And schizophrenia is stronger in people who are starting to consume marijuana at an early age and who consume more frequently. Marijuana consumption has also been linked to depression, social anxiety, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts and suicide.
If it is not questionable that the consumption of cannabis May, in some cases and in some people, be harmful, it also follows that its prohibition is not the most judicious and healthy policy for health. Should we raise this Legal embargo On marijuana in all countries?