Marijuana Should be Considered for Medical Use :: Argumentative Persuasive Essay Examples

     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Abstract:  Ã‚   Marijuana, scientifically known as Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica , is the most widely used illicit drug in the United States. Much evidence supports the fact that it may possess properties that could warrant its usefulness in the medical field. For example, it has been used in the treatment of nausea, glaucoma, and migraines among other things. On the other hand, many of its useful effects are accompanied with side affects such as disorientation and hallucinations. Very little studies have been done concerning the beneficial and malignant effects of marijuana despite its ubiquitous nature in American society. This paper combines many of the tested treatments of marijuana with reported side effects in order to test the validity of the drug as a medicine. Since the passage of the Controlled Substance Act in 1970, marijuana has been considered a Schedule I drug. This means that it fits the following criteria: 1) has a high potential for abuse, 2) has no currently accepted medical use, and 3) lacks safety even under medical supervision (Boire 1993). No one can grow the plant, possess it or any mix or preparation, or absorb it in any way. Many argue in favor of the drug saying that it has no ill effects, and that it, in fact, harbors medicinal properties. Proposition 215 amended California state law to allow people to grow or possess marijuana for medical use when recommended by a physician. The physician may diagnose that a patient may benefit from its use in the treatment of cancer, anorexia, AIDS, chronic pain, spasticity, glaucoma, arthritis, migraine, or any other illness for which marijuana provides relief. Unfortunately, studies on the effects of marijuana are scarce so its useful purposes are highly debatable. Whether or not medi cal marijuana deserves to be legal shall be further examined here.    "Marijuana" is just one particular term for the hemp plant classified as Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica. Linnaeus gave its name and classification in 1753 and for hundreds of years it has been used as an intoxicant or an herbal remedy. Cannabis is easily distinguishable by its leaf which is often long, has serrated edges and grows in groups of five, resembling the fingers of the hand. It is made up of about 480 substances. The active ingredient in cannabis is known as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9-THC, mostly referred to simply as THC).