K2 or Spice is a mixture of herbs, spices or shredded plant material that is typically sprayed with synthetic compounds known as cannabinoids that are chemically similar to THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. Although these products are often marketed as “safe” alternatives to marijuana, they may affect the brain much more powerfully than marijuana. Their effects can be unpredictable and severe.
Also known as fake weed and spice, among other slang terms, K2 is a mixture of herbs, spices or shredded plant material that is typically sprayed with synthetic compounds known as cannabinoids that are chemically similar to THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. Although these products are often marketed as “safe” alternatives to marijuana, they may affect the brain much more powerfully than marijuana. Their effects can be unpredictable and severe.
K2 is typically sold in small, silvery plastic bags of dried leaves and marketed as incense that can be smoked. It resembles potpourri. It is usually smoked in joints or pipes. K2 products are also sold as liquids to be vaporized and inhaled in e-cigarettes and other devices (liquid incense).
People using synthetic cannabinoids report some effects similar to those produced by marijuana, such as elevated mood, relaxation and altered perception. Some young people incorrectly assume that these products are “natural” and therefore harmless.