[Illustration: Indian hemp, cannabis, marihuana, marijuana
_Cannabis sativa--MORACEAE_]
=Description=: This tall annual weed is usually eradicated by local
authorities as soon as it is found because of its narcotic properties.
Occasionally, however, it turns up on dumps, along railroad tracks,
or other places. Fruits or “seeds” of the _Cannabis_ for commercial
purposes, have been pre-treated to render them non-viable and of use
in bird seed mixtures. At times, some are not rendered sufficiently
sterile and these, in the home refuse, get to dump areas where they
germinate. Plants can reach more than 6 feet in height.
Leaves are slender and divided into five to seven long, narrow, pointed
leaflets each with a saw-tooth margin. They are rough to the touch,
giving one the feeling of sand paper. Smaller flower bracts are quite
resinous and sticky. Flowers and fruits are rather inconspicuous and
scattered along upper portions of the stem. Male and female flowers are
borne on separate plants.
=Poisonous Parts=: The leaves, flowering parts, and resinous secretions
contain the _Cannabis_ (=cannabinol=) narcotic principles. Publicity
over the illegal use of marihuana in its various forms, i.e.,
cigarettes, extracts, pills, etc., make it a curiosity among some
people. It causes cerebral stimulation and excessive amounts produce
hallucinations, delirium, and eventually mental depression. It is a
plant which can cause drug addiction.
=Antidote=: Call your doctor. Have patient vomit. Physicians treat for
cerebral depression and other aspects of marihuana poisoning.