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Glossary

Marijuana

Marijuana is a widely recognised informal term for the cannabis plant (Cannabis sativa). While "marijuana" remains common in everyday language and US medical/legal contexts, the UK medical and regulatory framework uses "cannabis" as the standard terminology. Medical cannabis has been available on prescription in the UK since November 2018.

Key Takeaways

  • "Marijuana" and "cannabis" refer to the same plant — Cannabis sativa

  • UK medical and legal frameworks use "cannabis" as the standard term; "marijuana" is more common in the US

  • The word has a complex history, with some considering it outdated due to racialised associations from 20th-century US prohibition

  • Medical marijuana / medical cannabis has been available on prescription in the UK since November 2018

What Is Marijuana?

Marijuana is an informal name for the cannabis plant and its dried flowers, which contain cannabinoids such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). The term is used interchangeably with "cannabis" in everyday language, though medical professionals and UK regulators prefer "cannabis."

Origin of the Term

The word "marijuana" (also spelled "marihuana") entered English from Mexican Spanish in the early 20th century. During the 1930s US prohibition era, the term was deliberately used in anti-cannabis propaganda to associate the plant with Mexican immigrants and racial minorities. Because of this history, many in the medical and advocacy communities now prefer the term "cannabis" as more neutral and scientifically accurate.

Medical Marijuana in the UK

Since November 2018, cannabis-based products for medicinal use (CBPMs) have been available on prescription in the UK as Schedule 2 controlled substances. Patients with qualifying conditions who have tried conventional treatments without adequate relief may be eligible for a medical cannabis prescription from a specialist doctor.

Further Reading