Cannabis’ journey from a well-accepted drug to a dangerous drug to its re-emergence as a legitimate health option has been turbulent, to say the least. This long and winding road has been followed by international agreements, national laws, scientific advances and social movements that have shaped the way we understand and use this diverse plant today.
The early years: The International Opium Convention and the prohibition of cannabis in the UK
The International Opium Convention of 1925 was the beginning of the global prohibition of cannabis. The United Nations approved and endorsed the convention, which bans cannabis and its derivatives except for medical and scientific purposes. The United Kingdom followed suit in 1928, banning cannabis and paving the way for similar laws around the world.
Cannabis in the United States: From Medicinal to Narcotic
By the mid-1930s, all 48 US states had banned cannabis. Although it continues to be listed in the American Pharmacopoeia as a drug, access to it is impossible. The federal government enforced this situation with the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937, which effectively decriminalized cannabis. Dr. William C. Woodward, who represents the American Medical Association (AMA), testified against the law, saying that medical professionals should be allowed to develop the drug. But his objections were ignored.
The AMA continued to oppose the removal of medicinal cannabis from the US Pharmacopoeia for five years after the passage of the Marihuana Tax Act, but finally removed cannabis in 1942. From World War II to the early 1960s, cannabis was only considered a dangerous drug, and the US government discouraged research into its health benefits.
A turning point: the discovery of THC and the era of cannabis research
The wave began in 1964 when Israeli researcher Raphael Mechoulam discovered delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. This amazing discovery opens up a new avenue of scientific research into the benefits of cannabis, taking away attention from its classification as a dangerous drug.
Cannabis Concepts and Changes: The Narcotic Drugs Convention of 1961
The 1961 Narcotic Drugs Convention is the main international agreement that prohibits the production and supply of certain types of drugs worldwide, including cannabis. This agreement requires the signatory countries to adopt laws in accordance with its provisions, thus putting cannabis under strict control. However, it is important to note that the agreement authorizes the manufacture and supply of prescribed drugs for medical or research purposes. Although government officials often say that amending cannabis laws at a national or state level would require amending the treaty, history has shown that countries may choose to ignore the treaty process if they -Ensure that politics is accepted within their borders.
A New Dawn: The Reinvention of Medical Cannabis and Public Acceptance
Over the past few decades, we have seen a huge shift in public opinion and the legal system regarding cannabis. Many countries and US states have legalized or decriminalized cannabis for health and recreational purposes, recognizing its benefits and addressing long standing misconceptions.
This new interest in medicinal cannabis has led to an explosion of research investigating its therapeutic properties, and research into its applications in the treatment of chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and even cancer. In addition, public stigma around cannabis use has decreased, allowing for an open discussion about its benefits and risks. This change in practice has paved the way for legislative reform and greater access to cannabis-based medicines for those who need them.
Conclusion: The Future of Cannabis Law and Research
The journey of cannabis from prohibition to its current state has marked important milestones, both in terms of law and in scientific research. As we move forward, it is important that we continue to evaluate the benefits and risks associated with cannabis use, and ensure that policies and regulations are based on strong scientific evidence. By learning from our past mistakes and using an open approach to cannabis research and regulation, we can work towards a future where this versatile plant is used in a comprehensive, practical way. to improve the lives of millions of people.
