cannabis

other words for cannabis include; bhang, blow, blunts, dope, draw, ganja, grass, hash, hashish, hemp, herb, marijuana, pot, puff, sinsemilla, shit, skunk, spliff, wacky backy, weed.

What does it look like?

• Hash is a blacky-brown lump and is the commonest form of cannabis in the UK.
• Grass or weed is made from the dried leaves of the plant and looks like tightly-packed dried herbs.
• Less common is cannabis oil, which is dark and sticky and comes in a small jar.

How do you take it?

• Most people mix cannabis with tobacco and smoke it as a spliff or a joint.
• Some people put it in a pipe.
• You can make tea with it or stick it in food like ‘hash fudge' or ‘space cakes'.

What does it feel like?

• Some people may feel chilled out, relaxed and happy, while others have one puff and feel sick.
• Others get the giggles and may become talkative. 
• Hunger pangs are common and are known as 'getting the munchies'.
• Users may become more aware of their senses or get a feeling of slowing of time, which are due to its hallucinogenic effects.

What are the risks?

• Even regular smokers can become anxious, panicky and suspicious.
• Cannabis contains chemicals that can cause lung disease and cancer. Cannabis also burns much hotter than tobacco which is more damaging to the lungs.
• There's increasing evidence of a link between cannabis and mental health problems like schizophrenia. If you've a history of mental health problems or are experiencing paranoia, then taking this drug is definitely not a good idea.
• Regular use makes it difficult to focus and concentrate.  Some people begin to feel tired all the time and lack motivation.

The Law

• Cannabis is illegal. It's a Class C drug.
• If you're caught with cannabis the police will always take action.
• The maximum penalty for possession is 2 years in prison.
• The maximum penalty for dealing/supplying is 14 years in prison.

For more infomation on the effect of cannabis on mental health, click here.

For more information visit the FRANK website.