Slang
Weed, Draw, Skunk, Soap and Hash
Appearance
Can be encountered as herbal cannabis, cannabis resin and less frequently cannabis oil. The majority of seizures in the UK are now in the form of herbal cannabis – the dried and harvested material from cannabis plants, typically the flowering heads from the female cannabis plant.
How Taken
Usually smoked in a “Spliff”, pipe or “Bong” but can be eaten on its own or cooked in food. It can also be infused into a drink.
Effects
The effects of cannabis vary from user to user and depend upon a number of factors such as the individuals mood, strength of the drug and the setting in which the drug is taken. However in general following smoking of cannabis the onset of effects will be felt within minutes and may last for a couple of hours in higher doses. The effects of the drug can be extremely subtle but most users report feeling relaxed. It also produces a number of physical effects including increased pulse rate, dry mouth and occasional dizziness commonly referred to as a “Whitey”.
Cannabis is often used to promote relaxation, sociability and talkativeness with users often reporting high levels of introspective reflection. Many users get an increased appetite referred to as the “Munchies”.
Health Risks
There is growing concern over the possible link between cannabis and mental health problems. Many users of cannabis indicate that cannabis affects their concentration and increases levels of paranoia and anxiety.