Marijuana - Is it really as bad as they make out? Pros and cons of smoking cannabis.

Puffing on a joint and getting high is what most teenagers who dabble in drugs adore to do in their spare time. Not only is it teenagers who have been known to smoke pot, but many older generations also. Famous faces such as Elvis Presley, Sinead O'connor, Kurt Cobain, Lindsay Lohan and even Bill Clinton have been known to smoke marijuana in the past, despite the fact the drug is illegal. (And there's plenty more where that came from.)

Marijuana has been used for many different reasons since as long ago as 6000 BC. The first woven fabric cloth was made out of hemp and marijuana was known to be used for many healing properties, incense and clothing for years to come.

Over the years there was debate about whether it was a harmful drug and if it was related to drug abuse and depression. Conclusions were met that it was a drug with a ''high potential for abuse''. This meaning that those who smoke it tend to let it dominate their lives as they get hooked on the mellow, happy feeling that drowns their body with each puff of smoke they inhale.

This resulted in the drug becoming illegal, therefore those caught with it in their possession would have it confiscated and may even face prosecution with a jail sentence if a substantial amount is on a person. However, this has not stopped cannabis users from lighting up their joints. The number of smokers in ages young and old is ever increasing, letting us know there must be many dealers out there hiding their magic herbs.

Despite the fact this drug is banned in most countries around the world, its usage levels continue to soar. Take a look at some of the following statistics relating to those who smoke the drug:

• Smoking cannabis is most popular among college students
• Over 30% of college students claimed to have used the drug in the last year
• Marijuana is used most commonly through ages of 18-25

These facts are true and remain true as time progresses. Those who smoke the drug fall in love with the effects it gives. Smoking a joint or a spliff is known to relieve stress and relax a person to the point where the may feel they are melting out of reality and into a land where there is nothing to worry about.

This is understandable in the sense that many people would require a bottle of wine or a pint of beer at the end of a hard day to unwind. But is being dependent on this herb a disastrous thing to do? Of course it takes money out of the users pocket on a regular basis and many frown upon it.

Health issues and problems have been linked to the smoking of cannabis such as mental health problems like anxiety, depression, panic attacks and schizophrenia. Although these are issues that consistently come up when talking about the harmful effects of smoking marijuana, how much of it is true? And is it good for a person in any way?

Short term effects

The short term effects of this drug that occur when under the spell of the active ingredients delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol or THC include the following:

• Trouble with thinking
• Trouble with concentration
• State of unawareness
• Slow reactions, movements and distorted perceptions
• Increased heart rate
• Reduced blood pressure

These are worrying facts alone and should be taken into consideration for anyone thinking about trying the drug. Many succumb to the need of smoking a joint and ignore the facts that remain, which is a dangerous thing for those not understanding the strain they are putting their bodies through.

Marijuana has also been known as a 'gateway' drug. This name came about due to the amount of heroin and crack users who began their drug infested lives by lighting up a joint crammed with the strong smelling plant. (Find out about the effects of cocaine here - one of the drugs that can be linked to smoking cannabis.)

Although long term effects have been studied such as links relating to intelligence and mental health problems, this is still a highly debated topic. Nothing is yet to prove that the drug produces these problems solely.

Which follows on to the next question - Are there any benefits of cannabis use?

The surprising answer is YES. This is a miraculous drug that many perceive as a dark and damaging hobby. Of course, like any other drug, the overusing of this product can be harmful. However, there are medical properties to this fascinating herb that produce positive effects and can be beneficial to many problems.

Interesting facts of marijuana benefits

• Studies have shown that the brain cells marijuana kills are more often cancerous or precancerous cells that would possibly turn into tumors if not killed by the drug.
• Marijuana can help to heal asthma.
• Induces appetite and decreases nausea for Chemotherapy and AID's patients.
• Very good as a pain reliever.
• Produces positive effects for insomnia sufferers.
• Relieves nausea, stress, persistent muscle spasm, headaches, migraines, arthritis, spasticity.
• Has helped anorexic people to gain an appetite again.
• Marijuana is a sociable drug
• Can prevent Alzheimer’s.
• Marijuana seeds are high in beneficial acids - 1 bowl is equal to 1000 bowls of oatmeal.
• Spiritually allows your mind to wander into depths you don't when not on the drug.

These surely are great reasons to support the drug. However, condemning smoking a drug is in no way a good thing to do. For those who have motivation, smoking in moderation reduces the chance of it taking over your life. But aside from these marvelous effects, the fact remains that there are many negative points to taking the drug.

Whether you decide to relish in its wondrous properties or avoid it for its negative effects is completely up to you. But one thing is for sure; this drug is to be a popular choice for those who like to escape reality, for a long time to come.