NAMES
marijuana, draw, blow, weed, puff, shit, hash, ganja
WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE/HOW IT'S TAKEN
- Cannabis is derived from a plant called cannabis sativa.
- It comes in a solid, dark lump known as 'resin' or as leaves, stalks and seeds called 'grass', or as a sticky oil.
- It can be rolled with tobacco in a spliff or joint, smoked on its own in a special pipe, or eaten.
- There are different strengths of cannabis - some (e.g. skunk) are very strong.
- Cannabis is a Class B drug (but Class A penalties can apply to cannabis oil).
THE EFFECTS
- Getting 'stoned' on cannabis makes most users relaxed and talkative.
- It heightens the senses, especially when it comes to colours, taste and music.
- Cooking and eating hash makes the effects more intense and harder to control.
- It can leave people feeling tired and lacking energy.
- Hash may bring on cravings for certain foods.
THE RISKS
- Affects short term memory and ability to concentrate.
- Getting stoned affects co-ordination, increasing the risk of accidents.
- It impairs driving skills, so never get in a car with someone who is stoned.
- It can make users paranoid and anxious, depending on their mood and situation.
- Smoking joints with tobacco can lead to getting hooked on cigarettes.
- Smoking cannabis over a long period of tine may increase the risk of respiratory orders, including lung cancer.
- Many users find cannabis hard to quit.
THE LAW
Usually Class B.
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