Difference between Medicinal Marijuana and Opium

Difference between Medicinal Marijuana and Opium

Both Medicinal Marijuana and Opium are different in nature properties and effects. Medicinal Marijuana is made from a flower known as Cannabis Sativa. The most important ingredient found in Medicinal marijuana is known as

tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The main effect of medicinal marijuana is that of relaxation and therefore is useful in preventing and treating chronic illnesses and diseases. Accounts dating back as far as 2700 BC describe the Chinese using marijuana from rheumatism to constipation. Similarly the Indians, Africans, ancient Greeks and medieval Europeans also used marijuana to treat fevers, dysentery and malaria. Other effects are that of being a stimulant, depressant or even hallucinogenic in some cases where it is not administered correctly or under supervision.

Opium is made from the latex of the poppy seed and is known as Papaver Somniferum. It was used in Egypt as far back as 2000 BC as a children’s sedative and teething remedy. Its popularity grew to new heights by the end of the 2nd century. The most important ingredients found in Opium are plant alkaloids, mostly morphine. The effects of Opium are it’s used as a painkiller, sedative and a respiratory depressant. It’s used since days of yore as relief for pain, cough and insomnia.


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