Marijuana (Pot, Weed, Dope)

Marijuana is the most commonly used illegal drug in America, with 97.8 million people over twelve saying they've tried it! Marijuana is also known as weed, pot, dope, herb…you get the idea! The drug, which acts as a mild hallucinogen, is actually the bud and leaves of the cannabis plant. Weed is usually smoked, but it can also be mixed in foods or brewed as tea. When you smoke marijuana, you'll feel mellow, relaxed, and generally happy. You may feel very hungry, a phenomenon known as the “munchies.” But as your high continues, you might experience paranoia or confusion. You'll notice an increased heart rate and a loss of coordination. Excessive marijuana use can cause the same problems as tobacco smoking, such as bronchitis and emphysema.  Despite its illegal status, marijuana is approved for controlled medicinal uses in several of the U.S. states. Marijuana has been illegal since 1937, and now you know the real deal with pot.