Understanding Cannabis: Characteristics, Types, Composition and Legal Penalties

UNGKIT.COM – Cannabis (marijuana)—known by its Latin name Cannabis sativa—is one of the most widely discussed narcotics in the world, from both medical and legal perspectives.

In Indonesia, under Law Number 35 of 2009 concerning Narcotics, cannabis is classified as a Schedule I Narcotic. This means its unrestricted consumption is strictly prohibited due to the very high risk of dependency and the dangerous side effects it poses to both mental and physical health.

Its classification as a Schedule I Narcotic means that its use, possession, cultivation, and distribution are strictly prohibited by law and punishable by severe criminal sanctions.

Cannabis is a psychotropic substance derived from the leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds of the cannabis plant. It contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) as the primary chemical compound responsible for inducing euphoria in users.

In addition to tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabis also produces cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabinol. CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive compound that does not cause intoxication; however, it is being studied in the international medical community for its potential to treat pain or seizures.

Beyond these three cannabinoids (tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, and cannabinol), the plant contains between 80 and 100 other cannabinoids.

Cannabis is typically rolled into cigarettes for smoking, as this allows the substance's effects to take hold more rapidly compared to consuming it mixed with food or beverages.

Cannabis plants are generally categorized into three main species within the Cannabis genus: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis.

Cannabis sativa grows tall and slender, featuring thin, bright green leaves. Its effects tend to be stimulating, boosting energy and producing a cerebral, cognitive "head high." A popular example is Sour Diesel.

Cannabis indica grows shorter and bushier, with broad leaves. It provides deep physical relaxation—a "body high"—and a calming effect. A popular example is Purple Kush.

Cannabis ruderalis is the shortest variety and grows wild; it originates from cold-climate regions such as Russia. It is an autoflowering plant (meaning it flowers based on age rather than light cycles).

This type of cannabis has very low levels of THC (the psychoactive compound) and varying levels of CBD; consequently, it is rarely used for purely recreational purposes but is instead often crossbred with other strains.

This annual plant can reach a height of up to 2 meters, particularly when grown in tropical highlands or mountainous regions.

Its leaves are palmately shaped with serrated edges. Each leaf stalk typically bears an odd number of leaflets—ranging from 5 to 9.

The cannabis stem grows upright with lateral branches. The stem is strong, fibrous, and green (though it may turn brownish or purplish in older plants), with a surface that is somewhat rough and covered in fine hairs.

The flowers are small and grow in clusters at the tips of branches or buds. The plant produces both male and female flowers.

This shrub-like plant, which grows in tropical and subtropical regions, possesses a distinctive, strong, sharp, and pungent odor.

At one time, cannabis became a symbol of the hippie culture that was popular in the United States. This was typically represented by the plant's distinctively shaped leaf.

Furthermore, cannabis and opium were championed as symbols of resistance against the tide of globalization imposed by capitalist nations upon developing countries.

In India, some Sadhus who worship the deity Shiva use cannabis derivatives in their rituals, smoking hashish through bongs and consuming bhang.

This plant contains intoxicating narcotic substances. Physical side effects of marijuana use include red eyes, dry mouth, increased heart rate, and heightened appetite.

Mentally, users may experience difficulty concentrating, short-term memory impairment, anxiety, and even paranoia. Marijuana is addictive and carries the risk of impairing the brain's cognitive functions with prolonged use.

The history of marijuana use dates back thousands of years, spanning applications ranging from textile production (such as hemp rope) to ancient medicinal rituals.

However, advancements in pharmacology revealed that the psychoactive effects of marijuana can lead to cognitive and behavioral impairments, ultimately prompting strict regulations in many countries, including Indonesia.

Long-term marijuana abuse carries serious consequences that users often fail to recognize. One of the most significant risks is dependency or Cannabis Use Disorder. (*)

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