Pubdate: Thu, 27 Nov 2008
Source: Chico News & Review, The (CA)
Copyright: 2008 Chico Community Publishing, Inc.
Contact:  http://www.newsreview.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/559
Author: Darcy Stoddard
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v08/n1048/a04.html

TIME TO DEMYTHIFY POT

Re: "Glaring spotlight" (Letters, by Jim Bettencourt, CN&R, Nov. 20):

The new year brings the light of unity, as nations gather to address 
the issues of global warming, oil crises, economic collapse, health 
and world hunger with a fevered urgency. While considering all the 
options, the cannabis hemp plant is one solution in the search for 
alternatives. Hemp has ecological, industrial and medicinal values.

Hemp fiber became a major crop in Europe by 400 BC. Hemp-fiber 
production was most important to the developing colonies for homespun 
cloth and ship riggings. Hemp production was so important that in 
1762 Virginia imposed penalties for those who refused to grow the plant.

The plant's resilience and vigor make hemp a wonderful candidate for 
methanol fuel, unlike a tender crop like corn.

Not until the 20th century, when racially provoked, misguided 
politics developed a strategy to introduce myths about hemp (like 
lust, violence, crime and the degradation of religion), did marijuana 
hysteria take hold, and stayed, as with Mr. Bettencourt's letter.

Recent studies are inundated with new results for healing--using the 
seed oil, leaf compound and roots. Just last month from Italy came 
evidence that cannabinoids kill staph infections! Don't sell cannabis 
hemp short, Mr. Bettencourt; it could be what saves your life.

For sound sustainability, it is imperative that hemp be reinstated 
[as a legitimate crop]. Take the prejudice off its image! Hemp is our 
greatest renewable resource. Support the restoration movement and buy 
a hemp product today.

Darcy Stoddard, Tierra Sol Farm

Magalia
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