Cannabis

Cannabis resin (Hash, Hashish, Draw, Blow) is a green/brown block of compressed resin, prepared for smoking by heating and crumbling into a pipe, or a joint (spliff). Marijuana (Grass, Bush, Weed, Pot) is the leaves and flowers from a mature female cannabis plant. Sensimilla is grass without seeds and is much stronger than ordinary grass. Skunk is one strain of sensimilla, developed in northern California and now cultivated in the Netherlands.
	Although cannabis can be eaten, it is usually smoked. Joints are by far the most common method, although pipes, bottles, chillums, hot knives, buckets, and bongs are also used.

WHAT IS CANNABIS?

• Cannabis comes from the hemp plant.
• Cannabis costs £7-£10 for a sixteenth of an ounce.

HOW IS CANNABIS USED?

• Although cannabis can be eaten, it is usually smoked.
• Joints are by far the most common method of smoking, although pipes, bottles, chillums, hot knives, buckets and bongs are also used.

WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF CANNABIS?

• In small quantities, users find cannabis both relaxing and stimulating. The senses are enhanced and it improves the appetite.
• The drug is often used by a group as it enhances sociability.
• In larger quantities (or with stronger strains), cannabis may feel similar to LSD. Users may experience nausea, hallucinations, anxiety, panic attacks or paranoia.

IS CANNABIS ADDICTIVE?

• Cannabis is not addictive in the usual sense, but some people claim to have problems controlling their use.
• Tolerance to the drug and physical withdrawal symptoms do not occur.

DOES CANNABIS USE LEAD ON TO OTHER DRUGS?

• Cannabis use itself does not lead to other drugs.
• Many people smoke cannabis their whole lives without ever using another illegal drug.

WHY DO PEOPLE USE CANNABIS?

• Cannabis has been smoked by an estimated 6 million people, from all walks of life.
• It is far less harmful to health than either tobacco or alcohol.
• The effects are easily controlled and there are no after-effects or hangover.

WHAT ARE THE DRAWBACKS ASSOCIATED WITH CANNABIS USE?

• Smoking cannabis can trigger an underlying mental problem in some people.
• Cannabis use is illegal - a conviction may damage future career prospects.
• Cannabis makes the reflexes slower, causing accidents.
• You should never drive or operate dangerous machinery under the influence of any drug.
• Some people become psychologically dependent on the drug.
• Cannabis is detectable in the urine for up to 30 days.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR CANNABIS USE?

• The maximum sentence for possession is 5 years and an unlimited fine.
• The maximum sentence for supplying (which includes passing a joint to a friend) is 14 years and an unlimited fine.