Cannabis is one of the oldest crops in the world and has been used for various purposes for thousands of years. The plant has a long history as a medicine, recreational drug and as a source of textiles, paper and building materials. In recent years, cannabis has received significant attention due to its potential medicinal benefits and the growing movement for legalization for recreational use. Cannabis, also known as hemp or marijuana, comes from the Cannabaceae family and consists of three main species: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica and Cannabis ruderalis. The plant contains a number of chemical compounds, including more than 100 cannabinoids, the best known of which is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, including the production of a euphoric 'high'.