In my opinion...

marijuana is a substance (THC) that exists naturally and like almost every pharmaceutical drug alters the state of mind of the individual who consumes it.
It possesses the ability to cure chronic pain and provide relief to those suffering from numerous conditions. I do not condone the use of marijuana recreationally but strongly believe that it should be made available on prescription to those who are in need of its pain relief properties.
After all, it grows in nature like every other plant and turns into a drug only if it is synthesized. In its pure form, marijuana should be decriminalised, taxed by the government and grown by the state.

Now to address the matter of addiction,

• It is crucial to alert children about the dangers of consuming any drug including alcohol and tobacco. The important bit is to address the matter at the appropriate age. According to me teenagers and adoloscents are the most easily influenced so 13-15 would be an appropriate age to start educating about drugs.
• If made legal, the charges for possessing marijuana without a prescription should be strict in order to enforce discipline and order among the general population. This is in regard only to adults, whereas in the case of minors the punishment MUST be lenient because children are the future of any nation and they almost always deserve a second chance.
• Those addicted to smoking marijuana should be subjected to the same therapy and consultation given to those addicted to tobacco and alcohol.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that there is one major advantage to decriminalising marijuana intended for medicinal purposes. It will cause a sharp decline in drug related crimes and the justice system will be able to focus on more important matters of concern such as violent crimes and other anti-social behaviour.