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Cannabis smoking (known colloquially as smoking weed or smoking pot) is the inhalation of smoke or vapor released by heating the flowers, leaves, or extracts of cannabis and releasing the main psychoactive chemical, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is absorbed into the bloodstream via the lungs. Archaeological evidence indicates cannabis with high levels of THC was being smoked at least 2,500 years ago.[1] As of 2021, cannabis is the most commonly consumed federally illegal drug in the United States, with 36.4 million people (aged 10 years or older) consuming it monthly.[2]
In addition to being smoked and vaporized, cannabis and its active cannabinoids may be ingested, placed under the tongue, or applied to the skin. The bioavailability characteristics and effects of smoking and vaporizing cannabis differ from other cannabis consumption methods in having a more rapid and predictable onset of effect.[3]
- ^ "Earliest evidence for cannabis smoking discovered in ancient tombs". Culture & History. 12 June 2019. Archived from the original on 13 June 2019. Retrieved 13 June 2019.
- ^ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2022). Key substance use and mental health indicators in the United States: Results from the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (HHS Publication No. PEP22-07-01-005, NSDUH Series H-57). Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/report/2021-nsduh-annual-national-report
- ^ Cannabis (Marijuana) Vault : Effects, Erowid.org, archived from the original on 17 April 2011, retrieved 23 February 2011