cannabis

Cannabis is statutorily synonymous to marijuana. Cannabis is broadly categorized into two principal subspecies: cannabis sativa and cannabis indica. Cannabis plants have trichomes, which are hair-like structures on the surface of flowers and leaves; these trichomes contain cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Under the federal Controlled Substances Act, cannabis is illegal and is classified as a Schedule I drug, prohibiting its manufacture, distribution, and possession. Despite this federal prohibition, 40 states have legalized medical cannabis, and 24 have also legalized non-medical (recreational) cannabis. 

[Last reviewed in October of 2025 by the Wex Definitions Team] 

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