Top 7 Common Myths About Cannabis Debunked: Fact and Fiction

Cannabis is is controversial, there’s no doubt about it. With the ongoing legalization of recreational marijuana in many states, it’s no surprise that there are still so many myths and misunderstandings floating around. If you’re considering trying cannabis for the first time, or you’re an experienced smoker looking to educate yourself, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. In this article, we’ll be debunking 7 common myths about cannabis and providing you with the facts you need to make informed decisions about your use.

Myth 1: Cannabis is a Gateway Drug

One of the most nagging myths about cannabis is that it’s a “gateway drug” that leads to harder drug use. A gateway drug is a substance that leads to the use of more dangerous drugs. However, it seems that the vast majority of people who use cannabis do not go on to use harder drugs. In fact, most people who use cannabis only use cannabis and do not progress to using other drugs. (Source: NIDA)
The idea that cannabis is a gateway drug is not supported by scientific evidence.

*It’s worth noting that this is just one study, and the relationship between cannabis use and other drug use is a complex issue that requires more research to fully understand.

Myth 2: Cannabis Causes Lung Cancer

A common myth about cannabis is that it can cause lung cancer. This myth is likely due to the well-known dangers of smoking tobacco. However, the results of the research on the link between cannabis and lung cancer is mixed. Some studies have found an association between heavy cannabis use and an increased risk of lung cancer, while others have found no such link.

It’s important to note that many of the studies that have found a link between cannabis and lung cancer were conducted on heavy users who smoked cannabis in addition to tobacco. Given the lack of consistent evidence, it’s difficult to say definitively whether cannabis causes lung cancer.

Myth 3: Cannabis Leads to Mental Illness

Some people believe that cannabis use leads to mental illness, but the research on this topic is inconclusive. There is some evidence to suggest that heavy cannabis use may increase the risk of developing certain mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression. However, the evidence is not strong enough to say that cannabis use definitively causes these conditions. It’s also important to note that many people use cannabis to manage mental health symptoms, and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine says cannabis may be an effective treatment for certain conditions.

Myth 4: Cannabis Impairs Driving

This one isn’t really a myth; cannabis can impair driving ability, just like alcohol and other drugs can. However, the extent to which it impairs driving varies from person to person and depends on a number of factors, including the amount consumed, the potency of the cannabis, and the individual’s tolerance. If you choose to use cannabis, it’s important to never drive under the influence, not only for your safety and the safety of others, but because there are serious legal consequences and it may be a felony. If you do need to drive, make sure to wait long enough after using cannabis for the effects to wear off.

Myth 5: Cannabis is Addictive

Cannabis can be addictive, but the potential for addiction varies from person to person. Some people may use cannabis regularly without developing an addiction, while others may become addicted after using it just a few times. The risk of addiction is higher for people who use cannabis heavily or who start using it at a young age. If you’re concerned about the potential for addiction, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.

Myth 6: Cannabis is Legal Everywhere

While the legal status of cannabis is changing rapidly, it’s important to remember that it’s not legal everywhere. In the United States, cannabis is legal for recreational use in some states and for medicinal use in others. However, it’s still illegal under federal law. If you’re considering using cannabis, it’s important to know the laws in your state and to follow them carefully. Here is a great resource for state medical cannabis laws.
In the United States, cannabisis still illegal under federal law, classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the Controlled Substances Act. This means that it is considered to have “a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use.”

However, in recent years, several states have legalized marijuana for medicinal and/or recreational use, creating a variety of state and federal laws that can be difficult to navigate.

Here are three sources that can help you better understand the current federal law on cannabis possession:

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): The DEA provides an overview of the Controlled Substances Act and its classification of marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance. You can find this information on the DEA’s website.

National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): NIDA is a research organization within the National Institutes of Health that provides information on drug abuse and addiction, including a section on marijuana. You can find information on the current federal law on marijuana possession on the NIDA website.

American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): The ACLU is a non-profit organization that advocates for individual rights and liberties, including drug policy reform. The ACLU provides an overview of the current state of marijuana legalization and federal law, including information on the federal government’s approach to marijuana enforcement. You can find this information on the ACLU website.

Myth 7: All Cannabis is the Same

The final myth we’ll be debunking is that all cannabis is the same. While cannabis may look similar, there are actually many different cannabis strains, each with its own unique cannabinoid and terpene composition and perceived effects. Many modern strains and cultivars are bred to be high in THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the compound that is responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis use. Other strains, especially hemp strains, are high in CBD (cannabidiol), which is being studied for its medicinal properties without the psychoactive effects of THC. When choosing a cannabis strain, it’s important to consider what you want to use it for and to talk to a knowledgeable budtender about which strains might be best for you.
Another lesser known topic is the cultivars. Strains refer to the different varieties of the Cannabis plant that are developed over time through selective breeding. Different producers can grow the same strains that can have different appearances, terpenes, and effects, and are often loosely classified as Indica vs Sativa, vs hybrid. The specific characteristics of a strain are determined by its genetics, which can be passed down from parent plants to their offspring.

Cultivars, on the other hand, are a specific type of plant variety that has been bred and selected for specific traits. In the case of cannabis, cultivars are selected for their high THC, CBD, or other cannabinoid potency, flavor, terpenes, smell, and growth characteristics.

So in summary, strains are a broader category that refer to the different kinds of cannabis plants, while cultivars are a specific subcategory that refers to a particular version of that strain of cannabis plant that has been bred for specific traits.
Blue Dream strain is a popular example of a hybrid strain and a cross between Blueberry Indica and Haze, both Sativa strains. People say blue dream strain offers a balance of both Indica and Sativa effects, making it a popular choice for both recreational and medicinal users.

However, Blue Dream is not just any hybrid strain – it is a specific cultivar. This means that it has been bred and selected for specific traits, such as its sweet blueberry aroma, its dense, trichome-covered buds, and its uplifting, energetic euphoric effect. As a result, Blue Dream has become a highly sought-after cultivar among both cannabis enthusiasts and growers.

It’s important to note that strains and cultivars can be used interchangeably, but the term “cultivar” is becoming increasingly popular in the cannabis industry as growers and breeders seek to develop new and improved varieties of the plant. It should also be mentioned that each version of a cultivar can be wildly different depending on where and how it is grown, the genetics of the mother plant, and countless other factors.

Conclusion

It’s important to get to the right information when you’re exploring buying cannabis. Our goal is to provide you with the best information to make informed decisions about your cannabis consumption and purchases. We want you to get the best value when you buy cannabis online. However, it’s important to remember that what works for one person may not work for another, and everyone will respond to cannabis differently. If you’re considering using cannabis, it’s important to talk to your doctor first to make sure it’s safe and appropriate for you.