Legalization of Marijuana in Ohio

LEGALIZATION OF MARIJUANA IN OHIO

The legalization of marijuana in Ohio is a controversial topic. Some may say it’s only for recreational use, some may say it’s only for medical use; others say it’s the devils lettuce. However, with other states legalizing the drug for medical and recreational use, I believe more people are researching the history and effects it has on our body.

Marijuana has many nicknames; weed, pot, mary jane, bud, to name a few and has been around since before 3,000 BC. In the midst of segregation and after the Mexican Revolution in the early 1900’s, the U.S noticed a large amount of immigration from Mexico to Texas. The Mexican immigrants brought their language, their culture, and large amounts of marijuana into the U.S. The media began to falsely spread claims about the “disruptive Mexicans” and their dangerous marijuana use. With marijuana still legal in the U.S and the American Government unable to control the growing Mexican population, they made marijuana illegal. (Source: www.drugpolicy.org/blog/how-did-marijuana-become-illegal-first-place)

There are many pros and cons to this smoke-able and edible drug. It has been scientifically proven to inhibit tumor growth and kill cancer cells due to the tetrahydrocannibol also known as THC in the drug. Marijuana has been used to treat Brain Cancer, Melanoma, and Glioblastoma- the most severe form of cancer. It has also been proven to treat Epileptic Seizures, Multiple Sclerosis, ADHD, Glaucoma, and even slowing the process of Alzheimer’s disease. (Source: www.businessinsider.com/health-benefits-of-medical-marijuana-2014-4/#res-whats-actually- happening-when-you-smoke-24) Marijuana can also replace some of the most addictive prescription drugs such as Vicodin, Xanax, Adderall, Ambien, and Zoloft. (Source: www.attn.com/stories/3609/prescription-drugs-that-can-be-replaced-marijuana)

There are many pros to this drug but, there are also cons as well. Studies show heavier pot smokers experience lower scores on memory and attention tests. While high you may experience dry mouth, increased appetite, red eyes, and slowed coordination. Heavy use for a male may lower your testosterone levels which will affect your sperm count and quality. Heavy use for a female may disrupt your normal monthly menstrual cycle and inhibit the discharge of eggs from the ovaries. (Source: www.sensiseeds.com/en/blog/cannabis-and-human-fertility/)

In conclusion, Marijuana is the most used illegal drug in the world. It was also used to make rope and fabric from its fibers, but only when the plant is grown without Tetrahydrocannibol or THC making it a productive industry plant. The popularity and versatility of this plant leads me to believe that it will only become more known and used within the U.S and many other countries.