Cannabis is a fast-growing, flowering plant native to Asia and the Indian subcontinent. For many thousands of years, however, it has been cultivated around the world for use in textiles, medicine, and spirituality, so it now grows on every continent but Antarctica. Cannabis is the only known source of the psychoactive cannabinoids THC and CBD. These are concentrated around the plant’s sticky, resinous flowers to serve as a protective layer against predators. 

Cannabis comes in a variety of forms for consumption, the most popular being dried buds, which are usually consumed in a joint, bong, pipe, or vaporizer. The resin may also be extracted to make hashish (hash), dabs (shatter, budder, etc.), oils, or tinctures. Oils in particular (or more traditionally cannabis-infused butter) can be used to make edible cannabis products, such as the classic “space cake” or pot brownies. 

Despite its diverse and proven therapeutic benefits, cannabis has been prohibited in most countries since the early 20th century. Unfortunately, prohibition has also set research back decades. More recently, thanks to the efforts of activists, attitudes have substantially changed. Decriminalization and legalization in the United States and elsewhere has been both effective and problem-free. It has also seen a rise in the popularity of mass-produced edibles, including candy bars, gummies, and THC-infused sodas.