The Real Deal: Just How Big is the Synthetic Marijuana Trade

There is a new illegal drug that has been making its round all across the country, and it is very deadly. Some call it "replacement cannabis," "spice," and, to the police, "weaponized" marijuana.

According to reports, the synthetic marijuana trade has become a multimillion dollar trade.

But just how big has is this illegal drug industry?

In 2013, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted operation Project Synergy that resulted in 227 arrests in 35 different states from 5 countries. They have seized 2100 kilograms of synthetic cannabinoids and a whopping $US60 million in cash and assets. According to Business Insider, The DEA continued with their crusade with Project Synergy Phase II in 2014 which resulted to 150 arrests from 29 different states, seizing a total of $US20 million in cash and assets.

But this is just the tip of the iceberg. According to DEA Spokesman Matthew Barden, "This is millions and millions and millions of dollars that these organisations make off this stuff."

Synthetic marijuana mimics the effects of marijuana, but is 100 times more potent than the traditional cannabis as initially reported by Business Insider. It is made out of deadly chemicals from China sprayed on tea leaves. Small amounts of this product can be bought for only $20. According to New York City Police Commissioner William Bratton said that synthetic marijuana is a "great and growing concern" to the police and that the police department has seen an increase in hospitalization due to this drug.

But according to users who talked about their experience said it didn't give them the same effect they would get from the traditional marijuana as reported by Business Insider Australia. Anxiety and fear where the major feelings that overwhelms the users. Their organs shut down. It was a terrifying experience and it could even lead to death.

Synthetic marijuana is manufactured into pure powder, herbal blends, and waxy solid. This way, it can be smoked. But the chemical mixed with it is stronger; it can lead to seizures and psychosis. In 2009, there were a total of 1,000 deaths linked to the drug.