The marijuana plant, or "ganja" as it is often called has long played a significant role in the reggae and Rastafarian cultures which originate in the Caribbean island of Jamaica. This natural herb has numerous health benefits and other uses which are examined in the book "Grow Jamaica" by Reverend Leeroy Campbell who presents a multifaceted argument for its legalization. This book inspired the production of a Grow Jamaica movie, a thought-provoking hour-long documentary which explores the implications of legalizing the herb through the eyes of various Jamaicans.
Reverend Campbell passed away in 2009, but during his life he dedicated many years to studying the cannabis plant and its effects. In the book he discusses the history of cannabis and hemp, its various uses, and how it became criminalized. He purports that it should be legalized to grow in Jamaica as this crop would surely help the country's economic situation.
The concept introduced in the book are brought to life through the variety of opinions shared by a sampling of the Jamaican population, including police officers, doctors, economists, and politicians who are all supportive of Reverend Campbell's philosophy on the legalization of marijuana. The film also includes an appearance by Campbell himself, which clearly demonstrates his intelligence and credibility.
Other guests who speak up on the topic include such locally recognized figures as actor and broadcaster Oliver Samuels, musician Stephen Marley, and Dr. Bragga. These men each have an enlightening and interesting perspective on the implications of legalizing ganja, which is presented factually, yet humorously.
Campbell is a very effective speaker whom the audience can easily relate to and he has a greatly ability to motivate them, likely due to the many years he spent as a teacher and counselor. Rather than just making claims, his information is fact-based from research he has carried out on the cannabis plant. He sees the potential the legalization of hemp and cannabis has, as it would positively affect many parts of the economy and various industries, for instance food and tourism.
Hemp belongs to the marijuana family but has a lower amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive chemical responsible for the typical effects of marijuana. There are many uses for this plant including biofuels which are environmentally-friendly, constructions materials, a cotton-like fiber, and paper, which helps save trees. It is a fast-growing crop that is relatively low-maintenance and does not require excessive pesticides.
The nutritional values of hemp are many as well. Its oil and seeds are a great source of essential fatty acids which are necessary for many bodily functions. They have been proven to lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol. Unfortunately, even hemp is lumped in with the other types of ganja, making it illegal to grow and sell too.
The Grow Jamaica movie has been featured at both the Flash Point and BFI Film Festivals and it has garnered considerable attention from critics and viewers alike. The impact of its message is potentially powerful both locally and globally and one day it may even possibly become a reality if the view of ganja can successfully be changed.
Reverend Campbell passed away in 2009, but during his life he dedicated many years to studying the cannabis plant and its effects. In the book he discusses the history of cannabis and hemp, its various uses, and how it became criminalized. He purports that it should be legalized to grow in Jamaica as this crop would surely help the country's economic situation.
The concept introduced in the book are brought to life through the variety of opinions shared by a sampling of the Jamaican population, including police officers, doctors, economists, and politicians who are all supportive of Reverend Campbell's philosophy on the legalization of marijuana. The film also includes an appearance by Campbell himself, which clearly demonstrates his intelligence and credibility.
Other guests who speak up on the topic include such locally recognized figures as actor and broadcaster Oliver Samuels, musician Stephen Marley, and Dr. Bragga. These men each have an enlightening and interesting perspective on the implications of legalizing ganja, which is presented factually, yet humorously.
Campbell is a very effective speaker whom the audience can easily relate to and he has a greatly ability to motivate them, likely due to the many years he spent as a teacher and counselor. Rather than just making claims, his information is fact-based from research he has carried out on the cannabis plant. He sees the potential the legalization of hemp and cannabis has, as it would positively affect many parts of the economy and various industries, for instance food and tourism.
Hemp belongs to the marijuana family but has a lower amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive chemical responsible for the typical effects of marijuana. There are many uses for this plant including biofuels which are environmentally-friendly, constructions materials, a cotton-like fiber, and paper, which helps save trees. It is a fast-growing crop that is relatively low-maintenance and does not require excessive pesticides.
The nutritional values of hemp are many as well. Its oil and seeds are a great source of essential fatty acids which are necessary for many bodily functions. They have been proven to lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol. Unfortunately, even hemp is lumped in with the other types of ganja, making it illegal to grow and sell too.
The Grow Jamaica movie has been featured at both the Flash Point and BFI Film Festivals and it has garnered considerable attention from critics and viewers alike. The impact of its message is potentially powerful both locally and globally and one day it may even possibly become a reality if the view of ganja can successfully be changed.
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Show your support now by watching the Grow Jamaica movie. To see the trailer and read the blog, go to http://www.growjamaica.org.
