What Is Weed?
Weed, also known as cannabis or marijuana, is a plant from the Cannabis sativa family. It contains over 100 chemical compounds called cannabinoids, the most well-known being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects ("high"), while CBD is non-intoxicating and often used for therapeutic purposes.
Historical Background
Cannabis has been used by humans for thousands of years:
- 2700 BCE: First recorded use in ancient China for medicinal purposes.
- Middle Ages: Spread through Asia, the Middle East, and Africa for fiber (hemp), medicine, and recreation.
- 19th century: Widely used in Western medicine before prohibition began in the early 20th century.
- 1970s–present: Global movement toward decriminalization and legalization.
Modern Uses
Weed is used in several key areas today:
- Medical: Pain relief, epilepsy treatment (e.g., Epidiolex), nausea reduction during chemotherapy, and managing anxiety or PTSD.
- Recreational: Legal in countries like Canada, Uruguay, and multiple U.S. states for adult use.
- Industrial: Hemp (low-THC cannabis) is used to make textiles, paper, biofuels, and biodegradable plastics.
Legal Status Around the World
Laws vary significantly:
- Legal (recreational & medical): Canada, Uruguay, Malta, Luxembourg, Thailand (partially), and 24+ U.S. states.
- Medical only: Germany, Australia, UK, Israel, and many others.
- Decriminalized: Portugal, Netherlands (in practice), parts of Mexico.
- Strictly prohibited: Most of Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Africa.
Cultural Impact
Weed has influenced music, film, literature, and social movements. From reggae icon Bob Marley to modern cannabis advocacy, it remains a symbol of counterculture, personal freedom, and ongoing debates about drug policy reform.