Mary Jane 101: What You Need to Know Before You Smoke

It's been called different names: pot, weed, grass, hemp, wacky Tabacky - whichever name you choose, it can't be denied that medical marijuana does have some benefits. Cannabis, as it is often referred to, has been used since ancient times for medical and recreational purposes.

Today, medical marijuana clinics operate in about 20 states in the District of Columbia, with more than 58% of U.S. citizens encouraging its legalization as of October 2013. Surprising numbers of support for a green plant. But why all the hype?

Why Go for Jane?

If you have never tried marijuana before and you ask various people about their experiences with this drug, odds are, you will get varied answers. There's a basic scientific explanation to all those good reviews though. The main component of marijuana, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), is responsible for its numerous benefits which include but are not limited to:

• a relaxed and happy sensation
• treatment for nausea and vomiting
• relief from chronic pain
• inducing better appetite.

For people who have had a long-term medical condition such as multiple sclerosis or AIDS-related anorexia, this plant is technically a 'life-saver'.

However, the smart use of it will greatly affect how it is received by the mind and body. If you live in Washington or Colorado, the use of recreational hemp is actually legal. So its possible to walk into a store (as long as you're above 21) and buy a little to try it out. If you like it and it makes you feel good, or if it relieves you of your migraines (too much stress perhaps?); then maybe you can go for it once or twice a week.

How Safe Is It?

Medical marijuana is prescribed by doctors mostly to treat patients with illnesses and other health problems. So the dosage they will give their patients has been measured and proven to be safe for intake. People using marijuana for recreational purpose though, should always take precaution to ensure that they will get the desired results with minimal adverse side effects.

Although this is a natural drug, anything is bad if consumed in large quantities (yes, pizza can be bad for your health too, if you eat it everyday). Remember: just with anything else in life, the key is always moderation.

The Many Ways to Hemp Happiness

Before trying out marijuana for the first time, it's a good idea to read up on the subject and maybe talk to friends who have used the drug. You may even invite them for a short session. Most doctors would recommend using a vaporizer so you can get all the nice benefits without much of the bad stuff (too much smoke is actually carcinogenic).

Another way to take it is in pill form – which is actually more potent and has a precise dose than going raw – or cooked into foods and drinks. There are too many possibilities for this drug; so it's best to pick something that's right for you. Marijuana can be really exciting and fascinating, especially for the first-time user. As long as you're surrounded by good company and you've done your homework, you and Mary Jane might get along really well.