What is Cannabis?

Cannabis sativa, also known as hemp, is a species of the Cannabinaceae family of plants. Cannabis is also known as Ganja, grass, Hashish, Hemp, Indian hemp, marijuana, Pot, reefer, weed. The plant contains the chemical compound THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol), which is believed to be responsible for most of the characteristic psychoactive effects of cannabis. The dried leaves and flowers of the cannabis plant are commonly known as marijuana, which can be smoked (through a pipe or bong or hand-rolled into a joint) or taken orally with food (baked in cookies). The resinous secretions of the plant are known as hashish, which can be smoked or eaten.

What are the effects of Cannabis?

The effects experienced by the cannabis user are variable and will depend upon the dose, method of administration, prior experience, any concurrent drug use, personal expectations, mood state and the social environment in which the drug is used.
Some effects of cannabis include:
• an altered state of consciousness. The user may feel "high", very happy, euphoric, relaxed, sociable and uninhibited.
• distorted perceptions of time and space. The user may feel more sensitive to things around them, and may also experience a more vivid sense of taste, sight, smell and hearing.
• increased pulse and heart rate, bloodshot eyes, dilated pupils, and often increased appetite.

According to a study by the National Cancer Institute[www.cancer.gov], marijuana contains antitumor properties which can slow down the growth of and even kill cancer cells.