Lebanon: De-Stigmatizing Marijuana

INTRO:

Lebanon began with a pretty negative outlook on Medical Marijuana, to say the least. But we have learned recently that there is, in fact, hope for our wondrous plant in this region. Part of me is a bit refreshed when a person or persons turn on the light over cannabis, while they have previously lacked knowledge and access to the resources needed to truly be in the know. This means they weren't just closing their minds to it - like so many do - and choosing not to use what is right in front of them.

Why Lebanon?

Joseph G. Jabbra, the president of Lebanese American University, took a very giant, and somewhat controversial step forward onto his path toward marijuana research. After all, Lebanon is recognized as the world's best hash producer. In fact, it's industry of marijuana is worth $4 billion - the 5th largest cannabis market place. Super impressive, we know. Jabbra claims that the region is very ideal for growing the crop. The cannabis derived from Lebanon is resistant to severe heat and drought. More THC is actually produced when the plant is exposed to a more stressful environment.

The Goal:

But wait, there's more! The surface has barely been scratched on Lebanon's unique marijuana - much less, the way it could benefit the nation and the world as a whole. There's more to be studied about the biochemical effects of its hot, dry climate on the herb.

Jabbra announced on May 30th, that it is inherent to the University's history as the first women's college in the nation, that they make this mark. Though still very much illegal, the government has grounds to grant permits to study unlawful plants and substances. Jabbra's prerogative is not just to study it.

Why make hypotheses and conquer the results if it isn't going to be put into action? He wants these efforts to lead to manufacturing marijuana plant pharmaceuticals right there in Lebanon.

Lebanon MUST change it's stance on marijuana for any of this to be put in motion. "We are awaiting the creation of a legal framework within which we can proceed, with full support of the Ministry of Public Health," he says.