Cannabis is derived from the cannabis plant (cannabis sativa). The main active ingredient in cannabis is called delta-9 tetrahydro-cannabinol, commonly known as THC. This is the part of the plant that gives the ‘high’. There is a wide range of THC potency between different types of cannabis.
Some street names for cannabis are pot, weed, blow, herb, spliff, ganja, grass, boom.
Cannabis normally comes in three different forms.
This is the bud/leaves of the cannabis plant. It is the most common form of cannabis in the UK, mostly grown indoors under artificial lights.
The resin from the cannabis plant pressed into dark brown /black blocks.
Known as hash oil, is a thick liquid made from dissolving hashish or herbal cannabis in solvents.
It can be rolled into a spliff with or without tobacco or smoked using a pipe, bong or vapouriser. It can also be added to food and eaten.
Cannabis is illegal. It is a class B drug. It’s against the law to possess, sell, give away, grow, or let your premises be used for smoking it.
The maximum penalty for possession of a Class B drug can be up to five years in prison and an unlimited fine.
The maximum penalty for supplying a Class B drug can be 14 years’ imprisonment a fine or both. The actual sentence you receive depends on things like your age and if you have been in trouble with the police before.
It depends on how much you use, how you feel, if you have taken any other drugs and how strong the cannabis is. Normally when smoked the effects are felt almost straight away. You may feel relaxed, laid back, euphoric, dizzy, giggly or very talkative. If eaten the effects can take longer to start but will also last longer
The experience for some will be a negative one, they can experience anxiety, panic attacks and paranoia.