There has been a radical shift in the way cannabis is viewed here in the USA. Many states now allow the recreational and medicinal use of cannabis, and more states are expected to follow suit in the future. Despite this, there still exists many myths and misconceptions that are unfairly attributed to cannabis, so we thought we would examine the most common myths and said the record straight.

If cannabis is made legal everywhere, more people will become addicted?

First off, you cannot become physically addicted to cannabis. Also, if cannabis was to be made legal everywhere, it will remain illegal for people under the age of 18 to use, meaning it will still be illegal for children to use. While evidence does suggest that young adults will use it more than they do now, this will reduce their consumption of alcohol in the process. It could be argued that the money spent by the police on criminalizing cannabis can be used in a way to promote the safe and responsible usage of cannabis.

Is cannabis a “gateway” drug?

This is another myth that is wrong. This question has been extensively researched and each time, the same conclusions that have been drawn suggest that there is no evidence to suggest that cannabis acts as a gateway drug to other more harder drugs.

Smoking cannabis is harmless?

If you do use cannabis, we would recommend that you vape it. Smoking anything is not harmless. If vaping is not for you, you can use cannabis by eating edibles. When you burn cannabis when smoking, it produces carcinogenic compounds. Avoid smoking it and you will be ok.

It is riskier to use cannabis than alcohol?

No, alcohol is far more dangerous than cannabis. Alcohol is a proven carcinogenic substance where overuse over many years will lead to death. No one has ever died of an overdose because of cannabis use.

There is no appetite for the political elite to change how we access and use alcohol, because it is enjoyed by millions and will be a guaranteed vote loser. However, lessons can be learnt to ensure cannabis is legislated for by putting the health of the public first.