marijuana

marijuanaormarihuana,drug obtained from the flowering tops, stems, and leaves of the hemp plant,Cannabis sativa(seehemp) orC. indica;the latter species can withstand colder climates. It is one of the most commonly used drugs in the world, following onlycaffeine,nicotine,酒精beverages in popularity. In the United States, where it is usually smoked, it also has been called weed, grass, pot, or reefer.

Sections in this article:

• Introduction
• The Plant
• The Drug
• The Legalization Question
• Medical Uses
• History of Marijuana Use
• Bibliography

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia,6th ed. Copyright © 2012, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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