The extract of Cannabis sativa (marijuana) was once one of the most highly prescribed medicines in the United States until it was prohibited in 1937.
After it became an illegal medicine, the use of the drug for medicinal purposes became restricted.
However, in recent years, when some states decided to legalise smoked marijuana for individual patients, medical marijuana became a subject contentious debate.
Meanwhile, the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) classifies marijuana as a Schedule 1 drug and considers it has “no currently accepted medical use & a high potential for abuse.”
Schedule 1 drugs include heroin, LSD, ecstasy, and meth.
These Schedule 1 drugs are considered to be dangerous drugs because they are highly addictive and may cause “severe psychological or physical dependence.”
Now, to the talk of the town – despite marijuana stigma, many people believe that marijuana has high value as a medicinal herb for treating various conditions.
Marijuana can relieve many types of chronic pain, nausea, and vomiting from any number of ailments.
Moreover, it is argued that many people suffering from terminal illnesses such as multiple sclerosis, cancer, and AIDS could benefit from consuming marijuana and should have the right to do so if desired.
SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS OF MARIJUANA USE
On this medical marijuana debate, some argue that marijuana’s classification under the Controlled Substances Act should be changed by Congress.
They said if marijuana were no longer a Schedule 1 drug, its medicinal benefits could be recognised legally, relieving the suffering of thousands of terminally ill patients.
However, on the other hand, some argued that if medical marijuana were legalised, there could be repercussions outside the realm of medicine.
This could make teens believe that marijuana is safe for recreational use and increasing the availability of the drug.
BASED ON VARIOUS STUDIES, HERE ARE SOME OF THE BENEFITS AND CONS OF USING MARIJUANA:
PROS
Reduce or control epileptic seizures
Can decrease symptoms from Dravet’s syndrome
THC may slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease
May prevent or settle down muscle spasms
Alleviates symptoms from Hepatitis C treatments
It may be used to improve metabolism
It can soothe Parkinson’s disease tremors
Can be used to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
CONS
Impairment of thinking, problem-solving skills, and memory
Lowered reaction times and altered perception
Reduced balance and coordination
Apathy, drowsiness, and depression which may affect personality and mood
Increased risk of heart attack
Heightened risk of a chronic cough and respiratory infections
Potential for hallucinations and withdrawal symptoms
Immune system suppression from long-term use
Reduction of male hormones
SOUTH AFRICA AND MARIJUANA
In September 2018, South Africa’s Constitutional Court legalised the use of cannabis in private for personal consumption, allowing adult citizens to grow, possess, and use the drug for personal recreational or medical use.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BqwWvUUHmvX/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=6b47cb11-6f1e-4759-9bd0-f6784973007e