Chapter 15
IA, TREATING MARIJUANA WITH COMPLETE OBJECTIVITY
Generalities: ( Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, Cannabis ruderalis )
Marijuana is a plant from the Cannabaceae family that has been used for various purposes throughout history, from medicinal and ritual applications to recreational and industrial use. Its study has generated a wide debate due to its effects on health, its impact on society and its legal status in different parts of the world.
It is a plant with multiple uses and properties; its impact depends on the context in which it is used, the regulation and education about its effects. Scientific research continues to explore its benefits and risks for a more informed and responsible use. This article explores the uses, benefits and considerations of this plant in different areas.
Botanical characteristics
Scientific name: Cannabis sativa , Cannabis indica , Cannabis ruderalis .
Family: Cannabaceae.
Origin: It is believed to have originated in Central Asia, but is currently cultivated in various regions of the world.
Morphology: It is a fast-growing plant with fan-shaped serrated leaves and resinous flowers rich in chemical compounds called cannabinoids.
Main varieties:
Sativa : produces energizing and stimulating effects.
Indica : has a more relaxing and sedative effect.
Ruderalis : smaller in size, with less THC, but used for the creation of hybrids.
Active components
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): main psychoactive compound, responsible for the effects of euphoria and relaxation.
CBD (Cannabidiol): non-psychoactive, with medicinal properties such as anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic and neuroprotective
Other cannabinoids: CBN, CBG and terpenes that contribute to the effects and aroma of the plant.
Uses of Marijuana
Medicinal
Chronic pain treatment: It is used in patients with arthritis, cancer and neurological diseases.
Epilepsy: CBD has been shown to be effective in reducing seizures.
Mental disorders: It can help with anxiety and depression, although excessive THC can aggravate these problems.
Nausea and vomiting: especially in patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Recreational
It is consumed in the form of cigarettes, vaporizers, oils or edibles.
It produces a feeling of euphoria, relaxation and sensory alteration.
The effects depend on the dose, the variety and the tolerance of the user.
Industrial use (hemp)
Textiles and paper: their fiber is resistant and biodegradable.
Food: Its seeds are rich in proteins and essential fatty acids.
Construction: used in bioplastics, insulation and eco-friendly materials.
Effects on the body - potential benefits:
Analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic properties.
Stress reduction and mood improvement.
It can promote neuroprotection and sleep.
In some cases, it has been used to reduce dependence on opioid painkillers, which can be severely addictive.
Risks and negative effects
Cognitive alterations: may affect memory and concentration with frequent consumption.
Psychosis and paranoia: especially in genetically predisposed people.
Psychological dependence: In some cases, problematic use develops.
Lung effects: If smoked, it can irritate the airways.
Its consumption can reduce reaction times and affect motor coordination, increasing the risk of accidents.
Legality in the World
Legal for recreational and medicinal use: Canada, Uruguay, and several US states.
Permitted for medicinal purposes only: Germany, United Kingdom, Argentina and other countries.
Completely banned: It is still illegal in many countries.
Global trend: moving towards regulations that allow controlled use.
Economic and social impact
Growth of a multi-million dollar industry in medicinal and recreational products.
Job creation and reduction of drug trafficking in some countries with legalization.
Debate on public safety and access for minors.
.
.
Main components: contains more than 100 cannabinoids, the most important being:
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): responsible for the psychoactive effects.
CBD (Cannabidiol): does not generate psychoactivity and is studied for its therapeutic properties.
Common presentations: dried leaves, oils, extracts, resins (hashish).
. Positive and negative effects - potential benefits
Pain relief and muscle relaxation.
Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.
Alternative to opioids in the treatment of chronic pain.
Possible help with anxiety disorders, insomnia and depression.
B. Risks and side effects
Cognitive impairment: May affect memory, concentration and reaction time, especially in frequent users.
Psychological dependence: although it does not generate a severe physical addiction, some people may develop problematic consumption.
Risks in young people: Its use in the developing brain (adolescence) is associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders.
Impact on lung health: If smoked, it can cause irritation to the respiratory tract.
Emotional disturbances: may cause paranoia or anxiety in some people.
Cognitive impairment: May affect memory, concentration and reaction time, especially in frequent users.
Psychological dependence: although it does not generate a severe physical addiction, some people may develop problematic consumption.
Risks in young people: Its use in the developing brain (adolescence) is associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders.
Impact on lung health: If smoked, it can cause irritation to the respiratory tract.
Emotional disturbances: may cause paranoia or anxiety in some people.
Recently, a number of studies have been carried out that provide evidence of the positive and negative effects of cannabis use. Below are some notable examples:
Positive Effects
Symptom relief in cancer patients : Recent studies indicate that between 20% and 40% of people receiving cancer treatment use cannabis or cannabinoids to manage side effects such as nausea, pain, insomnia, anxiety and stress.
Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties : Research has shown that cannabinoids present in cannabis can decrease inflammatory cytokines, reducing neuroinflammation. This neuroprotective effect suggests potential benefits in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
infobae.com
Negative Effects
Cardiovascular risk : A study published in 2024 found that any level of marijuana use increases the risk of stroke by 42% and heart attack by 25%, even if tobacco is not smoked.
Impaired working memory : The largest study to date on the effects of cannabis, published in January 2025, found that long-term and recent cannabis use significantly impairs working memory. Brain scans showed reduced activity in key areas of the brain during memory tasks, which was associated with poorer performance on those tasks.
These studies highlight the importance of a balanced, evidence-based approach when considering the use of cannabis, whether for medicinal or recreational purposes.
Your article offers a fairly balanced and comprehensive analysis of marijuana, covering its history, uses, components, effects, and regulation. Here are some positive points and some suggestions for improvement:
Positive Points:
- Clear and well-organized structure : You separated the topics well, making reading and understanding easier.
- Objectivity : You maintained a neutral approach, highlighting both the benefits and the risks.
- Updated information : You included data on regulation and global trends.
- Diversity of approaches : You covered everything from medicinal use to social and economic impact.
Suggestions for Improvement:
- Repetitions : There are some ideas that are mentioned more than once, such as the negative effects on lung health and psychological dependence. You could consolidate these to make the text more fluid.
- Further research into scientific research : You mention that there are ongoing studies, but could you include specific examples of recent research on positive or negative effects?
- Better balance on the risk side : While you mention benefits, the list of risks is longer. You could elaborate on how regulation and education can mitigate these effects.
- Examples of regulatory models : Some countries have interesting approaches, such as the Canadian or Uruguayan models. Explaining them briefly would enrich the analysis.
Overall, it is a solid and well-researched article. With some improvements, it could be even more impactful and useful to readers. Good job!
Recently, a number of studies have been carried out that provide evidence of the positive and negative effects of cannabis use. Below are some notable examples:
Positive effects
Symptom relief in cancer patients : Recent studies indicate that between 20% and 40% of people receiving cancer treatment use cannabis or cannabinoids to manage side effects such as nausea, pain, insomnia, anxiety and stress.
Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties : Research has shown that cannabinoids present in cannabis can decrease inflammatory cytokines, reducing neuroinflammation. This neuroprotective effect suggests potential benefits in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Negative effects
Cardiovascular risk : A study published in 2024 found that any level of marijuana use increases the risk of stroke by 42% and heart attack by 25%, even if tobacco is not smoked.
Impaired working memory : The largest study to date on the effects of cannabis, published in January 2025, found that long-term and recent cannabis use significantly impairs working memory. Brain scans showed reduced activity in key areas of the brain during memory tasks, which was associated with poorer performance on those tasks.
These studies highlight the importance of a balanced, evidence-based approach when considering the use of cannabis, whether for medicinal or recreational purposes. Global trends: There is a growing movement towards regulation, with models that seek to control its production and consumption in a safe manner.
Global trends: There is a growing movement towards regulation, with models that seek to control production and consumption in a safe manner.
AI Opinion: Your article presents a balanced and well-structured approach to marijuana, addressing both its benefits and risks in an informative and evidence-based approach. The recent studies you added strengthen the analysis, giving it greater credibility and relevance.
Positive points:
Objectivity: There are no obvious biases; the text presents arguments for and against in a clear manner.
Recent research: The inclusion of specific studies reinforces the validity of the content.
Clear structure: It is organized in well-defined sections, which facilitates reading.
Comprehensive approach: Botanical, medical, recreational, industrial, legal and socioeconomic aspects are covered.
Areas for improvement:
Delve deeper into the social impact: you could add examples of countries where legalization has had positive or negative effects on crime, public health, and the economy.
Further elaboration on mental health risks: The link to schizophrenia and paranoia is mentioned, but you could include more data on actual incidence and risk factors.
Stronger conclusion: A final reflection on the need for further studies and responsible regulation would strengthen the conclusion of the article.
Overall, this is a solid and well-founded analysis. With minor tweaks, you could make it an even more comprehensive reference on the topic. Good job!
Global trends: There is a growing movement towards regulation, with models that seek to control production and consumption in a safe manner.
