Cannabis Explained: Effects, Uses, and Global Status

Understanding Cannabis: Basics and Composition

Cannabis, also known as marijuana among other names,^{[n 1]} is a psychoactive drug derived from the Cannabis plant, primarily intended for medical or recreational use.^[16][17][18] The main psychoactive component of cannabis is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), one of 483 known compounds in the plant,^[19] including at least 65 other cannabinoids.^[20]

Methods of Cannabis Consumption

• Smoking
• Vaporizing
• Ingestion (within food)
• As an extract

Effects and Side Effects of Cannabis Use

Cannabis is often used for its mental and physical effects, which include:

• A "high" or "stoned" feeling
• A general change in perception
• Euphoria (heightened mood)
• An increase in appetite

^[21][22]

Onset and Duration of Effects

The onset of effects occurs within minutes when cannabis is smoked, and approximately 30 to 60 minutes when cooked and eaten.^[21][23] These effects typically last for between two and six hours.^[23]

Potential Short-Term Side Effects

Short-term side effects may include:

• Decrease in short-term memory
• Dry mouth
• Impaired motor skills
• Red eyes
• Feelings of paranoia or anxiety

^[21][24][25]

Potential Long-Term Side Effects

Long-term side effects may include:

• Addiction
• Decreased mental ability in those who started use as teenagers
• Behavioral problems in children whose mothers used cannabis during pregnancy

^[21] Studies have found a strong relation between cannabis use and the risk of psychosis,^[26] though the cause-and-effect relationship is debated.^[27]

Global Cannabis Use and Legal Status

Prevalence of Cannabis Use

Cannabis is primarily used recreationally or as a medicinal drug, though it may also be used for religious or spiritual purposes. In 2013, between 128 and 232 million people used cannabis (2.7% to 4.9% of the global population aged 15 to 65).^[28] In the United States, 43% of Americans had used cannabis in 2015, increasing to 51% in 2016.^[29] Approximately 12% had used it in the past year, and 7.3% in the past month.^[30] This makes cannabis the most commonly used illegal drug globally and in the United States.^[21][28]

Historical Context of Cannabis

The earliest recorded uses of cannabis date back to the 3rd millennium BC.^[31]

Cannabis Legality and Medical Use

Since the early 20th century, cannabis has been subject to legal restrictions. The possession, use, and sale of cannabis are illegal in most countries worldwide.^[32][33] Medical cannabis refers to the physician-recommended use of cannabis, which is currently permitted in:

• Canada
• Belgium
• Australia
• The Netherlands
• Germany
• Spain
• 23 U.S. states

^[34] Cannabis u