Cannabis, commonly known as marijuana, is a psychoactive drug derived from

the Cannabis sativa plant. Cannabis has been utilized for centuries in different cultures

worldwide. In some societies, it holds religious or spiritual significance, such as in India

where it is associated with Hinduism and the worship of Lord Shiva. Additionally,

cannabis has played a role in traditional medicine, as seen in ancient Chinese practices.

However, the cultural context of cannabis use varies greatly across regions, with some

embracing its consumption while others stigmatize it due to social or legal reasons.

Throughout history, its use has been commonplace in various cultures for recreational,

medicinal, and spiritual purposes. In recent years, there has been a significant shift in

global attitudes towards cannabis, leading to the legalization and or decriminalization of

its use in several countries. However, the effects of cannabis vary widely depending on

factors such as individual physiology, dosage, method of consumption, cannabinoid

content, and cultural context. This essay explores the international landscape of

cannabis use and highlights the diverse effects associated with its consumption

specifically in concentrate from.

Cannabis concentrates are broken down into two categories, solvent extract and

solventless extract. Solvent extract uses a solvent to extract the THC and other

cannabinoids, usually butane or propane. These extraction methods can very but are

essentially using a solvent to wash the cannabinoids off of the plant and then with the

remaining mixture of solvent and cannabinoids using varying methods to remove

solvent. Some of these methods work very well but even the newest technologies and

methods can’t remove 100 percent of solvent or other contaminants. Although many

cannabis companies make solvent extracts that contain less than 1 percent of
contaminants, none are zero. This is why many consumers choose solventless

concentrate. Solventless concentrate is simply the extraction of cannabinoids without

use of any solvent. These methods involve the use of ice, water, heat, and pressure.

Taking the plant and flash freezing it before its harvested to preserve the terpenes and

overall cannabinoids. Next its put through an ice water wash where the tiny micron

sized THC stalks and heads that hold the highest cannabinoid content are strained

through the water in different sized bags. This material is dryed and then pressed

between a hot press. The rosin flows outside and is collected. Since there is no solvent

used in this extraction method there is no solvent in the material that is consumed.

Solventless extracts are becoming increasingly more sought after for this reason,

however the high demand increases the price and these methods are already more

expensive than solvent extracts due to the lower yields solventless extracts naturally

give. There are only a few cannabis companies that make exclusively solventless

products, but more are adopting the extraction method and offer some solventless

products. Both extraction methods yield the highest concentration of THC that has ever

been recorded. Most concentrates that are produces with the intent of being vaporized

or smoked have a THC content of 60-80%, while distilled or oil in vaporizer cartridges

has a THC content of 80-90%. Some isolate, diamond, and other specific extracts can

have THC contents of 95-99%. It is unknown the longterm effects of consuming such

potent cannabis.

It’s important to understand the difference and possible effects of these new

methods due to their increasing popularity and high THC yields. Globally, cannabis is

becoming legalized and being studied more than ever. One of the key areas where
cannabis has gained attention is its potential medical and therapeutic applications.

Research has shown that certain compounds in cannabis, particularly cannabinoids like

delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), may have therapeutic

properties. These cannabinoids interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, which

plays a role in regulating various physiological processes.Medical cannabis is now legal

in several countries, and it is used to alleviate symptoms in conditions such as chronic

pain, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and nausea associated with chemotherapy.

Recreational cannabis use is prevalent worldwide as well, although its legal status

varies significantly. In some countries, like Uruguay and Canada, the recreational use of

cannabis has been fully legalized, allowing adults to purchase and consume it under

specific regulations. Other countries have decriminalized its use or adopted more

relaxed enforcement policies. Legalization and regulation of cannabis have the potential

to generate tax revenue, create jobs, and reduce the strain on the criminal justice

system. Countries like the Netherlands and certain states in the United States like

California, Colorado, and Florida have implemented regulated cannabis markets,

providing economic opportunities and attracting tourism. Despite the growing trend

towards cannabis legalization, there are still significant disparities in drug policies

worldwide. Some countries maintain strict prohibitionist approaches, imposing harsh

penalties for cannabis-related offenses. This often leads to social and racial disparities

in arrests and incarceration rates. Other countries have opted for harm reduction

strategies, such as Portugal's decriminalization model, which prioritizes public health

and treatment over punishment. The global discourse surrounding drug policy continues

to evolve, with increasing calls for evidence-based approaches and a shift away from
punitive measures. International cannabis use is a complex and multifaceted

phenomenon with varying effects on individuals, societies, and economies. The cultural,

medical, recreational, social, and economic dimensions of cannabis use all contribute to

its diverse impact. While cannabis has shown therapeutic potential and economic

benefits, it is crucial to balance the positive aspects with considerations for public

health, safety, and potential harms. Further research is necessary to better understand

the effects of cannabis use and inform evidence-based policies that prioritize individual

well-being and societal interests. Ultimately, finding the right balance between

regulation, education, and harm reduction will be essential in shaping the future of

cannabis use on a global scale. I personally believe cannabis has great potential to help

many people in society especially as an alternative to opioid and other harmful

medications. Cannabis also has the potential to be a very well regulated, safe, and

profitable recreational drug. Cannabis is far less harmful than cigarrettes, tobacco, and

alcohol. Hopefuly we can work towards a future where cannabis can be fully utilized.
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