The legalization of marijuana has been a topic of intense debate for decades. Only recently, in the United States and Canada, has the possibility of legalization become a reality. In the state of Colorado, adults over 21 years of age are allowed to grow six private plants in an enclosed space. Adults may also carry up to one ounce of marijuana while traveling.
Many people still believe that marijuana should remain illegal, but studies have proven that smoking cannabis is often less dangerous than consuming alcohol, which is not only legal, but part of nearly every college student’s recreational life. There are also the many medical benefits of cannabis, and pioneering companies, such as Aurora, are working hard to destroy the stigma surrounding marijuana consumption.
Is Marijuana A Gateway Drug?
One of the most common arguments against the legalization of marijuana is that it is a “gateway” that leads to the consumption of other, more dangerous substances. According to a CBS report, research at the University of New Hampshire tells a different story. Professors at UNH say that most college students that use marijuana do not develop drug habits beyond the recreational use of cannabis. People in low income areas may have a higher chance of moving on to harder drugs, but that says more about the stresses of their social status than the effects of marijuana.
Marijuana And Mental Illness
Many people believe that marijuana can cause long term mental damage, much like a strong hallucinogenic. The National Institute on Drug Abuse has admitted that there is no scientific proof to back this theory, and that any links between marijuana and mental illness may simply be for reasons of self medication. The same is true for the connection between alcoholism and mental illness. Those with depression and anxiety disorders are more likely to use substances to ease the pain of their deeper issues. College students are not strangers to stress, so it is important to understand the reasons behind the choices you make.
Cannabis Does Not Kill Brain Cells
As the title suggests, the age old myth that marijuana kills brain cells has been debunked. According to MIT, the original study had only shown structural changes in the brain cells of small animals that were giving unusually heavy doses of cannabis. A newer study, performed by the National Center for Toxicology Research using larger monkeys, showed that regular marijuana use has no such effect on brain cells. Studies done on human users in Jamaica and Costa Rica showed the same results. This is good news for those hoping to further their education.
Was Marijuana Less Dangerous In The Sixties?
This claim is not as common, but many people actually believe that the marijuana found on college campuses is more potent and harmful now than it was in the past. This claim is based on recently debunked research performed by the DEA. However, the older marijuana that was tested was stale, having sat in a police locker for so many years. It is known that stale marijuana losses potency, much like other herbs and medical substances. The study was biased propaganda that proved nothing about the dangers of marijuana.
