Marijuana is a commonly used psychoactive drug that is considered a controlled substance by the United States federal government. Despite this, it has been legalized in many states for medical and recreational use. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the part of the marijuana plant that causes a person to feel euphoria and relaxation when it is consumed. This drug has been used around the world for centuries and became popular in the U.S. in the early 1900s. Throughout its long history, marijuana has acquired hundreds of nicknames based on what it looks like, where it comes from and how it is used.
Marijuana Street Names
Many marijuana street names refer to the green, leafy cannabis plant or the buds that are usually smoked. Some of the more common street names for marijuana in the U.S. include:
- grass
- green
- hash
- pot
- weed
- dank
- reefer
- Mary Jane
- chronic
- nug (nugget)
- bud
- herb
- flower
- skunk
- dope
- hay
- blaze
- boom
- rope
Marijuana has other nicknames in different parts of the world. “Ganja” is a well-known term for the drug that is common in the West Indies and originates in India. People in Spanish-speaking countries call it “mota,” and it may be referred to as “dagga” in South Africa and “kif” in North Africa. [inline_cta_six]
Nicknames For Marijuana Types
The two main strains of marijuana are Indica and Sativa. Other hybrid strains have been created that produce different effects based on the ratio of one type to the other. Some hybrid marijuana strains are:
- Acapulco Gold
- Panama Gold
- Black Russian
- Maui Wowie
- Endo (or Indo)
- Purple Haze
- Kush
Marijuana Use Slang Terms
Many slang terms for marijuana use refer to the act of smoking it and the paraphernalia used. Marijuana may be smoked in a bowl, bong, joint, blunt, spliff or one-hitter. Vaporizing marijuana—called “vaping”—is becoming more popular as a way to ingest the drug without the harsh smoke entering the lungs. Butane hash oil (BHO), wax, or shatter are forms of concentrated THC that come from the marijuana plant. Smoking oil is called “dabbing,” while smoking the marijuana bud may be called toking, taking a hit or burning one down. Marijuana may also be consumed in “edibles”—infused foods like brownies, gummies, cookies or candy—for a slower onset and a longer-lasting effect.
Marijuana Use Signs
People who use slang terms for marijuana are usually those who use the drug recreationally. Some people only use it occasionally in social settings, but some continue to use it more frequently and in higher doses as they build a tolerance to its effects. Someone who is abusing marijuana may show signs of use, such as:
- euphoria
- relaxation
- heightened sensory perception
- bloodshot eyes
- difficulty focusing
- slow reflexes
- dry mouth
- increased appetite (“munchies”)
Long-Term Effects Of Marijuana Use
While many people believe that marijuana is harmless, studies have shown that abusing it can have negative effects on a person’s health and may lead to addiction. Marijuana can affect brain development with prolonged use, especially if someone starts using it in their teens. It may damage memory, thinking, and learning skills. It has also been found to cause anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts in some young people. Since marijuana is commonly smoked, many people experience breathing problems with long-term use. Marijuana smoke contains toxins and carcinogens and exposes the lungs to tar. This increases the risk of infection and chronic cough or bronchitis. [middle-callout] People who become addicted to marijuana can no longer control their drug use. They may compulsively seek it and spend more and more time under its effects. If someone is addicted to marijuana, they will likely experience psychological withdrawal symptoms like insomnia, irritability, and lack of appetite if they try to cut back or stop using it. This makes it very challenging to overcome marijuana addiction alone.
Marijuana Use And Addiction Treatment
Effective treatment for marijuana addiction addresses the causes of use as well as how addiction affects a person’s life and health. At Vertava Health, we offer comprehensive and personalized care. This includes behavioral therapy and counseling to help individuals resolve issues related to marijuana use and develop healthier coping strategies. We also use experiential therapies such as art, music, yoga and adventure for a unique experience that gives each person their best chance at recovery. If you or someone you know could benefit from one of these therapies call Vertava Health at 844-470-0410.
