Albuquerque Journal, 11 Feb 2013 – Before we consider decrimalization of marijuana, let’s examine some basic facts about the mind-altering drug. Marijuana today is not the same plant of the ’60s generation. Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC, is the mood/mind altering chemical ingredient that users seek. Rising potency of this psychoactive ingredient THC now averages 10 percent depending on where the marijuana is grown and the genetic characteristics of the plant. There are more than seven varieties of marijuana, each having different concentration of THC and other chemicals.