Term: poison (in connection with cannabis)
Definition:
In the context of cannabis, “poison” refers to a substance that exerts harmful effects on the human or animal organism in toxic doses. Although cannabis in moderate quantities is perceived as relatively safe by many users, certain components of the plant as well as extenders or contaminants can be toxic.
Explanation:
The main active ingredient in cannabis, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has a psychoactive effect, but is not considered highly toxic. However, in very high doses or in sensitive individuals, THC can lead to side effects such as anxiety, psychosis or circulatory problems – these effects are not directly toxic in the classic sense, but can be harmful to health.
In practice, the following are considered much more problematic:
- Impurities and diluents:
On the black market, cannabis is often diluted with substances such as brix (plastic-like resins), sand, sugar or hairspray. These substances can form toxic residues when consumed (especially when smoked) and damage the lungs or other organs. - Mold and pesticides:
Improperly stored or cultivated cannabis products can be contaminated with mold or pesticide residues, which can lead to toxic reactions when inhaled or consumed orally. - Synthetic cannabinoids:
These artificially produced substances, often sprayed onto herbal mixtures (e.g. “Spice”), can have far stronger and unpredictable effects than natural THC. Many synthetic cannabinoids are acutely toxic, sometimes with life-threatening side effects such as seizures, cardiac arrhythmia or kidney failure.
Legal situation:
In Germany, cannabis is subject to the Narcotics Act (BtMG). Possession, cultivation or trade without authorization is generally punishable by law, whereby the danger posed by toxic substances can also be an aggravating factor (e.g. Section 6 BtMG: “Use of substances harmful to health”).
Conclusion:
While pure, medically controlled cannabis is only toxic in extremely high doses, stretched, contaminated or synthetically manipulated cannabis products in particular can pose considerable health risks. When it comes to “poison” in connection with cannabis, the focus is therefore less on the plant itself and more on its quality, purity and origin.