From medicine to menace: The dual nature of Marijuana in modern times
A building facade in Amsterdam.(Photo by Pixabay from Pexels)
In a quaint coffee shop nestled along the cobbled streets of Amsterdam, patrons find respite from the bustling world outside. This Dutch establishment is renowned for its unique tradition: the freedom to smoke Marijuana openly.
A warm, welcoming ambiance prevails inside, with the mingling aromas of freshly brewed coffee and herbal cannabis creating an inviting atmosphere. Behind the counter, a knowledgeable barista assists patrons with a comprehensive menu of cannabis strains, each offering distinct flavors and effects. From invigorating sativas to calming indicas, something suits every preference.
Visitors, both locals and tourists, find their cozy nooks amidst comfy chairs and couches adorned with colorful pillows. They engage in relaxed conversations, forging connections with strangers and sharing stories and laughter. The coffee shop becomes a haven of tolerance and camaraderie, transcending societal boundaries.
In the Netherlands, this establishment is not just a coffee shop but a sanctuary of acceptance, where time slows down, and the world's troubles fade away. It's a place where people from diverse backgrounds come together, united by the shared experience of freely enjoying Marijuana in modern times.
In this country, however, drug possession, sale, or production is prohibited by law. Soft drugs are considered to be less harmful to health than hard drugs. As a result, the state allows coffee shops to sell cannabis under specific strict guidelines.
A coffee shop is a venue where cannabis is available, but alcoholic beverages are neither sold nor consumed on the premises. This policy aligns with the Dutch approach to tolerance.
Marijuana in modern times
"Getting high" has been a universal buzzword for decades to signify the alleviating and euphoric effects of smoking or consuming "pot."
Cannabis, colloquially known as "ganja" or "weed" claims its status as one of the most globally consumed substances. It falls in second place only to alcohol.
The surging popularity of recreational cannabis usage has led to its acceptance or leniency in various regions worldwide. As a result, one can now readily access or partake in cannabis at designated locales such as pubs, cafes, and even select retail outlets.
Many European nations and multiple American states have embraced a progressive outlook on marijuana usage. Remarkably, North Korea has taken an unusual step by permitting the sale of cannabis in grocery stores.
Within the United States, 21 states and the District of Columbia have granted legal status to modest quantities of Cannabis for adult recreational enjoyment. This status was confirmed as of April 2023.
According to the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC), “Marijuana is the most commonly used federally illegal drug in the United States; 48.2 million people, or about 18% of Americans, used it at least once in 2019. Recent research estimated that approximately 3 in 10 people who use Marijuana have marijuana use disorder. For people who begin using Marijuana before age 18, the risk of developing marijuana use disorder is even greater.”
As this movement gains momentum, it is becoming increasingly foreseeable that cannabis could eventually assume a position similar to that of tobacco and alcohol as a commonplace commodity.
Health concerns
Amid the positive signs, the National Institutes of Health emphasizes the potential adverse effects of Marijuana. Higher concentrations of THC, the primary active ingredient in cannabis, can lead to physical dependence, psychosis, and anxiety. Hence, another significant health issue revolves around the heightened risk of adolescent dependency.
With a direct correlation between the THC content in products and the probability of addiction, underage individuals are at a greater risk of developing health complications.
Recent years have witnessed a surge in cases of "cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome," colloquially referred to as "scromiting" (screaming and vomiting). This phenomenon is observed predominantly among young people who use highly concentrated marijuana products, particularly in states like Colorado.
Using cannabis among adolescents can inflict harmful consequences on their holistic growth. Neuroimaging investigations have unveiled that prolonged consumption in the teenage years leads to a diminished count of neural linkages. It consequently hampers cognitive faculties within the cerebral framework.
This stunted cerebral activity has been associated with a decelerated learning pace. It is a depletion in attentiveness and a jeopardized ability to retain memories. Specific scholarly inquiries have ventured to propose that the use of cannabis by underage individuals might even precipitate a decrement in intellectual aptitude.
Brief history of Marijuana
The history of Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is long and complex, spanning thousands of years and encompassing various cultures and uses.
- Marijuana is believed to have originated in Central Asia, specifically in modern-day Mongolia and southern Siberia.
- The first recorded use of cannabis dates back to around 2700 BCE in ancient China, where it was used for medicinal and ceremonial purposes.
- Cannabis seeds and plant material have been found in archaeological sites in Asia and the Middle East, suggesting their use for food, fiber, and medicinal applications.
- In ancient India, cannabis was mentioned in sacred texts known as the Vedas and used for religious rituals and as a traditional medicine.
- Cannabis use continued to spread through the Islamic world, where it was cultivated for its fiber and medicinal properties.
- The Arabic term "hashish" is believed to have originated during this time and refers to the resin extracted from the cannabis plant.
- Cannabis made its way to Europe through trade routes and interactions with the Middle East and Asia.
- It was primarily used for its fiber to make textiles and rope.
- Cannabis was introduced to North America by early European settlers.
- Hemp, a variety of cannabis with low THC (the psychoactive compound), became a valuable crop for producing rope, fabric, and paper.
- Cannabis was widely used as a medicinal ingredient in the 19th century and available in various over-the-counter remedies.
- It was prescribed for various ailments, including pain, insomnia, and gastrointestinal issues.
- In the early 20th century, the U.S. and other countries began enacting cannabis prohibition laws, driven by social and political factors, including racial biases and concerns about its psychoactive effects.
Marijuana: The medicinal marvel
An assortment of medicines and herbs. (Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich from Pexels)
Marijuana's journey as a medicinal herb dates back thousands of years. Ancient civilizations, including the Chinese and Egyptians, employed it to treat various ailments. Its therapeutic potential lies in its active compounds, known as cannabinoids, with two prominent players: tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
Pain management
Among the noteworthy medicinal attributes of cannabis is its capacity to mitigate pain. The active ingredient, THC, forms connections with brain and body receptors, effectively diminishing pain perception.
Mitigating nausea and stimulating appetite
Cannabis has served as a crucial support for cancer patients enduring the rigors of chemotherapy. It can alleviate the debilitating nausea and vomiting often induced by this treatment. In addition, it has demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in enhancing appetite and providing much-needed respite for conditions like HIV/AIDS.
Easing anxiety and depression
CBD, another critical cannabinoid in Marijuana, has gained attention for its potential to treat anxiety and depression. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce the euphoria associated with marijuana use but has shown promise in managing mood disorders.
Seizure control
One of the most heartwarming success stories involving Marijuana is the treatment of epilepsy, especially in children. High-CBD strains have helped reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in individuals with conditions like Dravet syndrome, bringing hope to many families.
Marijuana: The menace
While Marijuana has undeniable medical benefits, its darker side cannot be ignored. The potential for misuse, addiction, and adverse health effects has led to significant concerns.
Substance abuse and dependence
Marijuana is not without its addictive potential; regular use can lead to both physical and psychological dependence, with withdrawal symptoms like irritability and insomnia. This notion is a stark reminder that even substances with medicinal value can be abused.
Cognitive impairment
Heavy marijuana use, especially during adolescence, can impair cognitive function, leading to memory and learning problems. It may also exacerbate mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia and anxiety disorders, in vulnerable individuals.
Impaired driving
The intoxicating effects of THC can impair motor skills and coordination, making driving under the influence of Marijuana dangerous. Legalization efforts have raised concerns about road safety and the need for reliable testing methods to detect impairment.
Gateway Drug Theory
One of the most debated aspects of Marijuana's menace is the gateway drug theory. Some argue that marijuana use may lead individuals to experiment with more dangerous substances, potentially increasing the risk of addiction and harm.
Setting the boundaries
Ephesians 5:18. (Bible verse image from Bible Portal)
"And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit." - Ephesians 5:18 ESV
The Bible offers valuable guidance on leading a wise and balanced life concerning using drugs, alcohol, and various substances. Within God's creation, certain natural elements are inherently designed for specific purposes, primarily for medicinal applications.
The guidance of the Apostle Paul promotes the consumption of wine to relieve digestive distress. 1 Timothy 5:23 reads, "Stop drinking only water and take a little wine because of your stomach and frequent illnesses."
In contemporary times, pharmaceuticals are vital in managing diverse health issues, making a substantial contribution to our general state of health.
Moreover, as an illustration, specific individuals have discovered that Marijuana in modern times may alleviate symptoms associated with disorders such as ADHD.
Meanwhile, morphine is a potent pain-relieving tool utilized in medical settings and even on the battlefield. Cocaine has its place as a local anesthetic, and Central Nervous System stimulants effectively manage respiratory issues such as asthma.
It's crucial to recognize that many natural, generic, and pharmaceutical substances positively impact humanity, serving as a testament to the intricate design of creation. As has been evident since the days of the Garden of Eden, all things on Earth have their intended purpose to benefit humanity.
However, the misuse of drugs or alcohol for psychoactive or mind-altering purposes contradicts the benevolent intentions of God and His creation.
In the pursuit of wise living, it is essential to understand and respect the intended aims of these substances, which are often provided for our well-being and not for excessive or harmful use.
More importantly, we can only find true and lasting peace, joy, and security in Christ, not in earthly substances.
