Medicinal Marijuana

Course overview

This course adopts the common name "marijuana" to refer to the species Cannabis sativa and C. indica, as well as hybrids of the two. The science of botanical nomenclature requires that a genus and species name be italicized, and that the genus be capitalized. Much of the medical and scientific literature refers to marijuana as "cannabis" not Cannabis spp., and state registries use the term "marijuana," not Cannabis. Marijuana is the term commonly employed by the public. Although supporters of marijuana use and legalization are concerned about the social stigma surrounding the use of the word "marijuana," there is no intention to further stigmatize the plant in this course. The common name for the plant was chosen for the title of this course because it is likely to be more recognizable by OHCPs seeking continuing education courses that include the information provided here. For consistency, ease, and clarity, the term "marijuana" will be used. Botanical names may also be employed to add specificity to the information presented.