Introduction

Euphoria, relaxation, an increased awareness and consequent healing along with a sense of relief from pain are experiences that have dated back to the beginning of time. Ever since, man has searched for ways to dampen physical pain due to ailments and according to religious texts has been bestowed with a plant which is believed to have supernatural curative powers along with the ability to provide an uplifting experience. This plant is cannabis (more popularly known as marijuana)

The Scythians used marijuana to induce a state of trance that apparently allowed them to feel closer to their maker. In ancient Africa, it was used as an antiseptic and to cure rheumatism, delirium, cramps and to restore appetite. In ancient India its documentation in the religious Hindu texts dates back to as early as 1500 B.C. which state that wise consumption allowed the user to evade the miseries of hell and unite with Lord Shiva who revered the plant. It was also used freely in Central Asia, China, Europe, Jamaica and America under similar pretexts.

If marijuana does possess these divine healing qualities, why has it been criminalised and its users jailed, incarcerated or worse? This blog will aim to provide an answer to a highly controversial and debated question. Should medical marijuana be legalised?