Marijuana
By: Gabi Ospelt and Ally Hobbs
What is Marijuana?
Marijuana is a mixture of the dried and shredded leaves, stems, seeds and flowers of the cannabis sativa- the hemp plant. The mixture can be green, brown or gray.
How is marijuana abused?
Marijuana is commonly smoked using pipes, bongs, hand-rolled cigarettes called "joints". Sometimes it is combined with tobacco in partially hollowed out cigarettes or cigars. It can also be brewed as a tea or mixed with foods.
How does marijuana effect the brain?
Marijuana releases a chemical called THC which when smoked, is passed from the lungs directly into the blood stream. IT then gets carried to organs throughout the body, such as the brain.
Most of the cannabis receptors are found in parts of the brain that influence pleasure, memory, thinking, concentration, sensory and time perception and coordination movement.
What are other effects of marijuana?
Effects on health: Increased heart rate, respiratory problems, increased risk for menatl health and unborn baby problems.
Effects on school and social life: reduced school performance, impaired driving, potential gateway to other drugs