Cannabis and marijuana are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to different aspects of the same plant. Cannabis is the name of the plant genus that includes both marijuana and hemp. Marijuana is a type of cannabis plant that is grown specifically for its psychoactive properties and is often used for recreational or medicinal purposes. Hemp, on the other hand, is a type of cannabis plant that is grown for its fibres and is used for a variety of industrial purposes such as making paper, clothing, and building materials.
Both marijuana and hemp contain compounds called cannabinoids, which are responsible for their effects on the body. The main psychoactive cannabinoid in marijuana is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is responsible for the plant's characteristic "high." On the other hand, Hemp has a much lower concentration of THC and a higher concentration of CBD (cannabidiol), which is believed to have therapeutic benefits without producing a psychoactive effect.
In many parts of the world, marijuana is illegal due to its psychoactive effects and potential for abuse. However, it has been legalized for medicinal and recreational use in some areas. Hemp, on the other hand, is generally legal to grow and use.
There are several countries that have legalized drugs like cannabis and marijuana for medical or recreational purposes:
- Canada: Cannabis was legalized for recreational use in Canada in 2018. It is also available for medical purposes with a prescription from a licensed healthcare professional.
- United States: Several states in the States have legalized cannabis for medical or recreational purposes, including Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, and Washington. Though different states have decriminalized the consumption of such drugs, there are certain protocols to be maintained in terms of how much you carry In terms of weight.
- Uruguay: Uruguay was the first country to fully legalize cannabis for recreational use in 2013. It is also available for medical purposes with a prescription.
- The Netherlands: While cannabis is technically illegal in the Netherlands, possession and use of small amounts for personal consumption are tolerated and regulated by the government.
- Spain: In Spain, possession and use of cannabis for personal consumption are not criminal offences, but cultivation and sale are illegal. However, possession and use of cannabis in private clubs or “cannabis social clubs” is permitted.
- Jamaica: Cannabis has been decriminalized for personal use in Jamaica and is also available for medical purposes with a prescription.
- Israel: Israel has legalized medical cannabis and has a growing medical marijuana industry.
- South Africa: Cannabis was legalized for personal use in South Africa in 2018, but the cultivation and sale of the drug remain illegal.
- Portugal: Portugal has decriminalized all drugs, including cannabis, for personal use and has a system to provide treatment and support to individuals struggling with drug addiction.
- Switzerland: Though Cannabis is illegal in Switzerland, possession and use of small amounts for personal consumption are not criminal offences.
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