Final answer:
Marijuana, also known as Cannabis sativa L, is a plant that contains chemicals that can alter mood and consciousness. It is commonly used for its psychoactive effects. While some states have legalized its use for medicinal or recreational purposes, it is important to note that marijuana has not been approved as a medicine by the FDA.
Step-by-step explanation:
Marijuana, also known as Cannabis sativa L, is a plant that contains chemicals that can affect the brain and alter mood and consciousness. It is commonly dried and crumbled into a mix of green, brown, or gray parts of the plant. One of the main chemicals found in marijuana is THC, which is responsible for the psychoactive effects.
While marijuana has been used for medicinal purposes in some states, it is important to note that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved the plant as a medicine. However, there are two FDA-approved drugs that contain THC and are used to treat specific conditions.
It is also worth mentioning that the legality of marijuana varies across states and at the national level. Although some states have legalized marijuana for recreational or medicinal use, it is still classified as an illicit substance at the federal level.