by Brandon Romines

Created on: February 20, 2010

 Marijuana is one of the least dangerous things likely to be encountered today. There is no evidence of any long term effects, and there has never been a death attributed to Marijuana. Smoking habitually may not be healthy, but the risks are dramatically lower than tobacco. The illegality of marijuana is its most dangerous aspect. Unable to purchase marijuana legally many patients and recreational users must find less reputable sources. Physical dependence on marijuana is impossible, though some may be susceptible to mental addiction. The few side effects that marijuana causes only affect the user while under the influence of marijuana.

There are very few products that exist today that have never caused a death. Marijuana has been in use for thousands of years with no deaths. Smoking the plant is the most commonly used method for marijuana consumption and the only method that offers any possible danger at all. Tobacco contains many carcinogens and other chemicals that are very bad for the body. Compared to smoking cigarettes, the dangers of marijuana are relatively few. Cancer is not a result of marijuana use, and there is some evidence to suggest just the opposite. Inhaling smoke of any kind may not be good for you, but marijuana smoke is not likely going to kill you.

Unlike most illegal drugs, tobacco, and alcohol; marijuana is not addictive. Alcohol addiction is even considered a disease,. The low possibility of marijuana addiction, makes it uses much preferred to prescription pills that cause addiction and death daily in this country. Dangerous is certainly not a word that can easily be associated with marijuana. The source of the marijuana is the most dangerous aspect of this natural non toxic plant. Drug dealers have been known to lace marijuana with other drugs. Perhaps this is to get customers interested in more expensive and dangerous drugs, but legalizing marijuana would greatly reduce this risk.

Operating machinery under the influence of any drug is dangerous and illegal. Though drivers under the influence of marijuana tend to be more cautious, and no car accidents have been attributed soley to marijuana. Fear of marijuana stems from associated dangers that do not exist. The method of purchase and lack of product information offer the most risk. With far fewer problems caused by marijuana use, the few dangers that do exist are not beyong an adults capability of judging for themself. Alcohol use, though potentially deadly, is tolerated and required a constitutional amendment to outlaw. Marijuana cannot kill and has many medical uses and can come with a life sentence.

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