Marijuana is one of the most controversial substances today. Classified by the federal government as an illegal drug yet legalized in several states, the data on its addictiveness, effects, and potency seems conflicting. However, recent research is clarifying marijuana’s properties. This research demonstrates that marijuana is not as destructive as the government claims. It has harmful effects if used unrestricted and for recreation, but its industrial and medical uses should not be discounted. Marijuana should be legalized only for industrial and medical uses.
Marijuana can be used as an effective drug for medicinal purposes. Marijuana has a history of being used to treat diseases such as seizures, muscle spasms, nausea, insomnia, asthma, and depression (Earleywine 9). Today, it is effectively used to treat glaucoma (high blood pressure in the eye) and possibly neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s (Fox 35-36). The medical benefits of marijuana are substantial, especially since other drugs used to treat the same diseases often have more serious side effects. Using marijuana in the medicine industry, under regulation, should be encouraged when no other effective treatments are available.
The therapeutic potential of marijuana is underpinned by its active compounds, primarily tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is well-known for its psychoactive properties, while CBD is recognized for its therapeutic benefits without the “high.” According to the endocannabinoid system theory, these compounds interact with receptors in the brain and immune system to produce various effects, including pain relief and anti-inflammatory responses. This system is crucial in understanding how marijuana can be harnessed for medical purposes. Studies have shown that CBD can significantly reduce seizure frequency in patients with epilepsy, particularly those resistant to conventional treatments (Devinsky et al., 2016).
Marijuana can be used effectively in industry. One example is biofuel. This is fuel obtained from crops, such as ethanol from corn, sugarcane, and other seeds such as canola. The seeds from the marijuana plant, according to recent research, can be used in the production of biofuel. If all strains of marijuana were legalized, seed yield would have a yield exceptionally greater than that of canola (Hemp, 4), and it can be used at lower temperatures than ethanol (Buckley, 1). Marijuana also does not need tilled soil to grow, allowing farmable land to be used for food instead of biofuel. Besides biofuel, paper made out of marijuana shows significant benefits compared to conventional paper made from wood. For instance, paper produced from marijuana is more eco-friendly than paper made from wood pulp. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, ‘one acre of hemp can produce 4 times more paper than one acre of trees!’ (Environmental 1). Therefore, marijuana should be permitted for industrial uses.
The industrial applications of marijuana extend beyond biofuel and paper. The textile industry benefits from hemp fibers, which are strong, durable, and eco-friendly. Hemp fabric is a sustainable alternative to cotton, requiring less water and pesticides. Additionally, the construction industry uses hempcrete, a biocomposite material made from hemp hurds and lime, which is lightweight, energy-efficient, and provides excellent insulation. The environmental benefits are substantial, as hemp cultivation improves soil health and sequesters carbon dioxide, thus contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.
Marijuana’s uses in recreation should be illegal and discouraged. Marijuana’s long-term recreational use negatively alters processing in the brain, as shown by altered brain structure (Earleywine 152). However, these statistics only apply when marijuana is used in unrestricted doses, and they do not apply to controlled marijuana doses for medical purposes. Marijuana should not be prevented from being used in tightly controlled medical treatments just because it has negative effects when used in recreation.
From a psychological perspective, the gateway drug theory posits that marijuana use can lead to the consumption of more dangerous substances. This theory is supported by studies showing that early marijuana use increases the likelihood of using harder drugs (Kandel & Kandel, 2015). Additionally, the psychopharmacological model suggests that chronic marijuana use can result in dependence and withdrawal symptoms, particularly among adolescents whose brains are still developing. These potential risks underscore the need for strict regulations on recreational marijuana use.
In conclusion, marijuana should not be encouraged for recreational use due to demonstrated negative health effects. However, it has a wide variety of beneficial uses in medicine and in the paper and biofuel industries. Based on research, it is irrational for states to legalize marijuana for recreational use. A more beneficial approach would be to legalize marijuana only for industrial and medical uses, with appropriate controls to limit abuse.
To further elucidate the rationale behind this stance, it is essential to consider the public health model. This model emphasizes a balanced approach that maximizes benefits while minimizing harms. Legalizing marijuana for medical and industrial purposes aligns with this model by providing valuable resources and treatments without exposing the population to the risks associated with recreational use. The regulatory framework must include measures such as age restrictions, potency limits, and comprehensive education programs to mitigate potential abuse and ensure safe consumption.
Furthermore, the economic implications of marijuana legalization cannot be overlooked. The tax revenue generated from regulated marijuana sales could be substantial, providing funds for public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. States that have legalized marijuana have reported significant economic benefits, suggesting that a well-regulated market could contribute to overall societal well-being. However, these economic gains must be balanced against the potential costs associated with increased healthcare needs and law enforcement efforts to manage misuse.
In summary, the multi-dimensional impact of marijuana necessitates a nuanced approach to its legalization. While its recreational use poses undeniable risks, the medical and industrial benefits are too significant to ignore. By implementing strict regulatory measures and prioritizing public health, it is possible to harness the positive aspects of marijuana while mitigating its negative effects. This balanced perspective is crucial for informed policy-making and societal advancement.
References:
- Devinsky, O., Cross, H., Laux, L., Marsh, E., Miller, I., Nabbout, R., Scheffer, I., Thiele, E., & Wright, S. (2016). Trial of Cannabidiol for Drug-Resistant Seizures in the Dravet Syndrome. The New England Journal of Medicine, 376(2), 2011-2020.
- Earleywine, M. (2005). Understanding Marijuana: A New Look at the Scientific Evidence. Oxford University Press.
- Kandel, D. B., & Kandel, E. R. (2015). The Gateway Hypothesis of Substance Abuse: Developmental, Biological, and Societal Perspectives. Acta Paediatrica, 104(2), 130-137.
- U.S. Department of Agriculture. (n.d.). Environmental Benefits of Hemp.