Marijuana might not be legal in many countries, but there’s no denying that the number of weed enthusiasts is huge. In fact, there is growing support for the legalization of marijuana. Here are 7 quick facts about marijuana.

1. Marijuana, also known by other names like weed, cannabis and hemp, is derived from the cannabis plant. The plant can grow both indoors and outdoors. The ‘high’ feeling that you get with marijuana is due to a compound known as THC. Marijuana is greenish-gray in color.

2. The use of medical marijuana is legal in over 20 states of the US. The medical benefits of marijuana can be derived by consuming extracts in an edible form. Contrary to popular belief, you cannot get the medical advantages by smoking the pot!

3. While weed enthusiasts use a number of ways to smoke and use marijuana, experts and doctors advise users to go for a vaporizer. A vaporizer is capable of heating the cannabis to a point when the active ingredients start to vaporize, but without direct burning. This reduces the effects of smoking.

4. Marijuana effects can last for hours, especially when taken with food or any liquid. The effects are both physical and psychological. If you are ‘high’ on marijuana, you may have increased heart rate, glazed eyes or a sudden increase in craving. Psychologically, you may have a sense of euphoria, which can last for a while. Smoking extreme amount of weed can also lead to paranoia and anxiety.

5. Marijuana is also known by other names in many regions and street markets. Terms like Mary Jane, weed, pot, help, ganja, bud and dope are some of the common names. Possession of the drug is legal in some countries such as Spain and Colombia. Please note that weed is illegal in Canada without medical prescription.

6. Medical marijuana in the US can be obtained through a doctor’s prescription only, at least in most states. The laws vary with state, but there’s usually a cap on amount of medical marijuana a patient can obtain. The weed must be purchased directly from state-authorized dispensaries only.

7. In the medical world, marijuana is mostly given to patients for pain and anxiety as of now. It may be prescribed to cancer patients, who are going through chemotherapy. It is known to offer benefits to those dealing with unexpected appetite loss and nausea. Doctors also prescribe marijuana for multiple sclerosis, anxiety and depression in some cases.

How many did you know!