smoking pot
Definition:
Smoking pot refers to the consumption of cannabis, usually in the form of marijuana or hashish, by smoking a joint, bong or other smoking device. The term is colloquial and is mainly used in German-speaking countries.
Background:
Cannabis contains various active substances known as cannabinoids. The best known and most effective is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which produces psychoactive effects. When smoking weed, these active substances are released by burning the plant material and absorbed through the lungs.
Effects:
The effects of smoking pot can vary greatly depending on the dose, method of consumption and individual sensitivity. Typical effects are:
- Relaxation and well-being
- Change in perception (e.g. sense of time and space)
- Increase in appetite (“binge eating”)
- Impairment of concentration, reaction time and memory
- In some cases, feelings of anxiety or paranoia
Risks and side effects:
Long-term or intensive use can lead to health problems such as:
- Impairment of lung function (due to smoking)
- Mental health problems (e.g. anxiety disorders, psychoses) in susceptible people
- Dependence potential (cannabis dependence)
- Negative effects on brain development in adolescents
Legal situation:
In Germany and many other countries, cannabis is generally prohibited as a narcotic, although there are exceptions for medical use and in some federal states there are relaxations for recreational use. The legal situation varies greatly depending on the country.
Synonyms and related terms: