Medical Cannabis sativa (Marijuana or drug type): Psychoactive molecule, Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC)

This review paper provides an educational overview of medical Cannabis sativa (marijuana) in India, focusing on the psychoactive molecule Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC). Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica, originally native to India, grow as a wild weed in the Indian Himalayan region. Marijuana (known as Charas, Ganja, and Bhang in India) is a mind-altering illicit drug containing 25-35% Δ9-THC, and its import, export, local sales, and cultivation are banned in India.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This review paper highlights about Medical Cannabis sativa (Marijuana or drug type) containing psychoactive molecule, Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) as a part of educational awareness programme in India. Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica were originally a native of India growing as a wild notorious noxious weed in the Indian Himalayan region. Marijuana (Charas, Ganja and Bhang in India) is a mind-altering (psychoactive) drug, produced by the Cannabis sativa plant. Marijuana (Charas, Ganja or Bhang drink in India) is an illicit drug containing very high levels (25-35%) of narcotic psychoactive molecule, Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) is banned and prohibited in India. Import, export, local sales and cultivation of Cannabis are illegal and prohibited in India. Phytocannabinoids (Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol-Δ9-THC, and Cannabidiol- CBD) have attained a global attention recently due to the therapeutic potentials in Parkinson’s disease, Schizophrenia, cancers, pain, anxiety, depression other neurological disorders as well as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of Epidiolex for Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gauss Syndrome. Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) is known as the substance that makes a person feel a “high,” while Cannabidiol (CBD) often promotes a feeling of relaxation. However, the adverse effects of Marijuana (medicinal cannabis) comes from studies of recreational users of marijuana led to the impaired short-term memory; impaired motor coordination; altered judgment; and paranoia or psychosis at high doses. The quality control of Cannabis products, contamination and adulteration of Cannabis products in Cannabis industry is another major issue. Therefore, a detailed study with clinical trials is warranted and this knowledge should be shared and explained to the customers.