The use of cannabis as a therapeutic substance has existed since 2700 B.C. when Chinese Emperor Shen-Nung discovered its healing properties. Since then, marijuana use has spiked and declined due to various social and economic changes throughout history. However on thing has remained the same, medicinal users of cannabis all claim it to have healing properties. But despite the testimony of thousands over the years, marijuana is a still an illegal substance whose possession if punishable in the U.S. with fine and jail time. Why is smoked marijuana still not being allowed for medical use despite its obvious benefits? Deep seeded misconceptions about the effects and abuse of marijuana are to blame for the reluctance of Washington and its supporters from accepting the therapeutic use of cannabis.

For those who have opposed medical marijuana, two reasons seem to be the most rigid of their arguments. Firstly, they...