Marijuana

Marijuana, also known as cannabis or weed, is a psychoactive drug derived from the Cannabis plant. It has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes since ancient times, though its legal status in many countries remains controversial. The active chemical compounds found in marijuana are called cannabinoids; these include tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is responsible for the feeling of being “high” that users experience when they smoke marijuana; CBD does not produce this effect but can help reduce anxiety, pain and other symptoms associated with certain medical conditions.

The earliest recorded use of cannabis dates back to 2700 BC in China when it was used medicinally as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent. By 1000 BC, the plant had spread throughout Asia where it was consumed by smoking or drinking tea made from its leaves. In India during 500–1000 AD it became popular among practitioners of Ayurveda medicine who believed that consuming cannabis could treat numerous ailments such as insomnia, headaches and even leprosy!

In modern times marijuana’s usage has continued to increase both recreationally and medically due to advances in understanding how cannabinoids work on our bodies’ endocannabinoid systems resulting in a wide range of potential applications including treating chronic pain, inflammation reduction & nausea management amongst others.. Marijuana laws vary significantly by jurisdiction around the world ranging from complete prohibition to decriminalization or full legalization depending upon location & circumstances – making research into possible therapeutic benefits difficult yet promising at same time . Despite increased public acceptance , there remain concerns about long term health effects particularly related to regular/heavy consumption over extended periods which will require further study before conclusive results can be drawn .