Cannabis Health - [Nov/Dec 2003]

2 CANNABIS HEALTH Journal

Editorial ........................................................................................... 4

Letters...............................................................................................................................4/5Readers write in

Hippie Nation Invites.........................................................................................................5Uncle Gord will answer all your ordering, shipping and product questions

French cannabis activist visits Cannabis Health ............................................5Check out her smoking museum

A Cannabis Odyssey ......................................................................................................6A personal story from Dr. Lester Grinspoon

Where is Dr. Ethan Russo?.........................................................................................8Dr. Ethan says good-bye to Cannabis Health Journal and its readers

Calling for an international debate on prohibition...................................8Publisher of MarijuanaNews.com speaks out

From a Jamaican Green to a Canadian reality...........................................10The story of Med-Marijuana.com

Courage .............................................................................................................................11A tale of the courage of Grant Krieger

Providing the right environment for a Sativa .............................................14Klosit King talks about growing the sativa strain

Medicinal cannabis now available in the Netherlands ............................18Report from the Willem Sholten, representing the Netherlands

Interview with SIMM the contracted Dutch grower...................................20James Burton talks about the Dutch growing operation

Interview with Health Canada .............................................................................21Cannabis Health Journal talks with Valerie Lasher and Dr. Richared Viau

Interview with Prairie Plant Systems ...............................................................22Brent Zettle explains what it’s been like, in charge of Canada’s first grow

Got Shake???.................................................................................................................25Book review of Ed Rosenthal’s book “Trash to Stash”

Detailed results of nutrient research................................................................26The results are in from the “Brian Carlisle Grow Off”

HIA 2003 Convention ...............................................................................................28Sovereignty for Pine Ridge Reservation, South Dakota

Friendly Business Directory ................................................................................30/31/32Where you can pick up your issue of Cannabis Health

Classified and help listings .............................................................................................32

I N S I D E @ C A N N A B I S H E A L T H www.cannabishealth.com

Editor: Brian Taylor - Production: Brian McAndrew - Sales: Lisa Smith -Accounting Barb Cornelius - Distribution: Mandy Nordahn - Shipping &Receiving: Gordon Taylor - Web: Brian McAndrew.Cannabis Health is published 6 times per year by Cannabis Health Foundation, P.O. Box 1481,Grand Forks, B.C. Canada V0H 1H0, Phone: 1-250-442-5166 Fax: 1-250-442-5167No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form, print or electronic, without writtenpermission of the publisher. For subscription information use phone or fax or e-mail:[email protected]. Cannabis Health is also reproduced on the web in downloadablepdf format at cannabishealth.com/downloadable.

Visit our website at cannabishealth.comfor extended versions of the storiesand links to information andresources.Looking for that perfectgift to put under thatspecial tree?Visit our Virtual Storefor books, harm reduction suppliesand more for the responsibleCannabis user!Cannabis Health Journalwishes everyone a MerryCannabis and a Hempy NewYear! Go Green!!

C o v e r S t o r y

the Cana-Dutch model

16/17

On the left, Cannabis is soldto pharmacies in containerssimilar to those used forother pharmaceuticalstarting materials in theNetherlands.

On the right is a sample ofthe vacuum-packed pouchsent to patients who havebeen approved to receive thegovernment supply ofmedical marihuana inCanada.

C O V E R

The Cannabis Health Foundation was formed in the springof 2002 as a non-profit foundation.

The foundation is dedicated to:• Promoting the safe medicinal use of cannabis.• Research into efficacy and genetics of cannabis.• Supporting and protecting the rights of the medical cannabis users.• Educating the public on cannabis issues.The first initiative of the foundation is this complimentary hard copypublication of Cannabis Health.Other activities will include financial and practical support for lowincome patients and the establishment of a legal defense fund.The free hard copy of Cannabis Health is also reproduced in whole onthe World Wide Web at cannabishealth.com (the foundation website)with extended stories and hot links to resources and information.

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

If you would like to receive 6 copies per year of the most informativeresource for medical marijuana available, subscribe to Cannabis Healthby sending your name and address and a cheque to Cannabis HealthFoundation, P.O.Box 1481, Grand Forks, B.C., V0H 1H0 (USA sendCAN$45.00cdn and foreign send $75.00cdn)

4 C A N N A B I S H E A L T H J o u r n a l

E D I T O R @ C A N N A B I S H E A L T H

It’s hard not tonotice that mostof the major USand Canadianfinancial journalshave now cov-ered or are plan-ning to cover the“economics ofmarijuana”.Numerous USstates are even

paying economists to give them the post-marijuana prohibition picture. Here in BCwhere the grassroots economy is estimat-ed to be in the 4 to 6 billion dollar range,we cannot get the attention of the gov-ernment opposition. I know now whatdrives Marc Emery to stand on soapboxes on street corners and shout,“Myfellow businessmen.Wake up!!”Two months ago when we first consid-ered the 4 corner story idea, we neverimagined we would find ourselvesstuck in the middle of a raging scientif-ic and emotional controversy. Our ini-tial strategy was to parlay our newfound friendship with Willem Sholten,the head of the Dutch government’s

marijuana program, into an interviewwith their supplier, American expatri-ate, James Burton, from the Dutch com-pany SIMM, then use that to try tointerview their counterparts,ValerieLasher from Health Canada and con-tracted Canadian supplier Brent Zettlefrom Prairie Plant Systems. Somewherebetween Willem Sholten’s submissionand our first interview with BrentZettle, Canada released its first legalcannabis to the medical users and thefireworks began.Rather than joining sides, (not to saywe have no opinion), we think themost constructive role the journal canplay is to help bring out the facts anddefine the problem.When the heat ison, most government representativeslook for cover.We particularly want tothank PPS and HC for being accessible.For those who read this and say wecould have gone deeper with this issue,keep your tickets.This situation hasbecome world news and the story willcontinue to unfold.To borrow a thought from JamesBurton, Canada has reached the pointwhere chronically ill and sick people

are being asked who they trust more,their government or their dealer.Yesterday I had an intriguing discussionwith Lester Grinspoon. It started with acomment he made several weeksbefore where he cautioned us not tomake the mistakes the other publica-tions had made.We talked at lengthabout the evils that threaten theintegrity of neophyte journalistic inno-cents. Most of all we talked about theboundaries that we still need to bridgein the marijuana debate. I realized thatwe have indeed been so focused on thehard core medical issues that we haveneglected an important part ofcannabis and health. Health is creativi-ty, talking to your loved ones, laughingat funny stories, writing songs, paintingpictures and making time to explorethe beauty of your garden.The whole staff voted and our newyear’s resolution is to pay more atten-tion to the enhancement and creativeaspects of cannabis in the coming year.Thanks for the reminder Lester.From all of us at the journal,Merry Christmas North America

Brian TaylorEditor-in-Chief

We underestimated the response!Our branch managers love the fact that

they will continue to receive theCannabis Health magazines all of thetime! I really have underestimated theresponse... our Winnipeg branch hasgiven them out to several palliative careagencies in the Winnipeg area. They arequite happy to be receiving them! Whencan we expect the next shipment???Thank you againGrant and Marie KriegerKrieger Foundation

No longer standing alone!I have used marijuana for depression

for 3 years now and I sure feel so muchbetter. When I didn’t have any supportfor finding ways to get medical grademarijuana, times were grim. I bought mymarijuana on the street and sometimes itwasn’t flushed or would still be wet andI would buy because there was no choice.

Now I have found the BC CompassionClub Society, a place of peace, truth,kindness and caring. It has saved me

from the streets and suppliers who don’tcare.

Thank you Hilary Black and all themembers and staff for saving my life.

Thank you Cannabis Health for lettingme tell my story of one man’s journey,who is no longer standing alone.

Michael

cartoon by Glenn Smith from Osoyoos, B.C.

L E T T E R S

C A N N A B I S H E A L T H J o u r n a l 5

Studies Canceled!Dear Editor: (RE: cancellation of CRIT cannabis research study) Ithink the crowning irony is that, while Canadian clinical trials arestalled, not one but several similar research studies are being con-ducted at the Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research in California.

Canada had a chance to be a world leader on this issue, but has notonly dropped the ball, but essentially has flung the ball down on theground and stomped on it. I think it is grotesquely ironic that thewar-on-drugs United States has taken the lead on the very kind ofhigh-calibre clinical research that Anne McLellan is calling for.They'll probably be announcing their results while we're still tryingto find the starting gate.Derek Thaczuk, Treatment Resources, Toronto People With AIDS Foundationand former chair, CRIT Scientific Committee

L E T T E R S

TORONTO, June 19 /CNW/ - The Community ResearchInitiative of Toronto (CRIT) today announced the cancella-tion of the first Canadian study evaluating the therapeuticeffects of smoked marijuana, a direct result of HealthCanada's decision not to renew funding for this ground-breaking project.

This study was to have assessed whether smokingcannabis can alleviate the debilitating nausea and weightloss experienced by many persons living with HIV/AIDS.Research was to have begun this spring as a pilot study inToronto, involving a total of 32 individuals.

C a n a d a ' s f i r s t c a n n a b i sH I V / A I D S s t u d y s u s p e n d e d

H I P P I E N A T I O N I N V I T E S

FRENCH CANNABIS ACTIVIST VISITS CANNABIS HEALTH IN MID AUGUST

French Cannabis activist Michka vistiting Grand Forks in Mid August

Our invitation to do business in friendly BChas resulted in numerous inquiries and we havemade an increasing number of "drop sales"arrangements with suppliers. That is where wesell and mail out a wide range of products.

Uncle Gord who runs the shipping dept isready to answer all your ordering ,shipping andproduct questions.

Heart of gold, bite like a dog

Thanks Uncle GordI hope that the exposure you received in

Rolling Stone generates as much business as youcan handle. I also hope that the exposure does-n’t generate any problems. Of course Canadaseems to be further ahead than the US in their

quest for intelligent pain relief solutions.I broke my back on my last fire call in “95 and

have been in terrible pain ever since. The paindoc has me on 80mg/day of oxycotin and it’s notenough, although I am thankful for the bit itdoes provide. My wife almost ordered theRaydiator pipe without asking me if I wouldwant one.

Any how, my best to you and my best wishesfor a long and successfull business for you

God blessJim

First of all, fire had to be mastered. Thenmankind was ready to discover that inhalingthe smoke of certain plants had a particulareffect, casting a different light over theworld.

From the native Americans who gave ustobacco to the pious saddhus of India whosacramentally puff on ganja, smoke is holy.

It connects mankind to the divine element,inviting the gods to descend among mortals.It inspires human beings. "Before answeringa question, one ought to light a pipe" com-mented Einstein.

Having now become an industrial product,tobacco has lost all sacredness. Condemnedas harmful and addictive, cigarettes havefallen into disrepute, where as cigars, hemp,and a whole new range of smoking para-phernalia are gaining popularity. All in all,smoke has retained its mystery.

The Smoking Museum presents a practiceas ancient as mankind. It also provides avantage point for the observation of chang-ing behaviors.http://museedufumeur.net/cadresa.html

Where can we go for help?I’m an individual who smokes cannabis

for pain relief/control. I’m a full blownchronic fibromyalgic, who had an injuryat work in January, and has graduatedfrom the world’s best pain managementprogram. Still I can’t get support from anydoctors for medicinal cannabis, not evenfrom those in the pain program. What am

I to do? Local hydroponic suppliers, alter-native health care providers, family andfriends are sympathetic, but I have tounlawfully attain this medicine and it islike, no one gives a damn!

I prefer to live within the law but mylife will only be an unfortunate exis-tence if I can’t use this medicine, whichI use daily to provide relief to the point

where I can function. Otherwise I ambedridden.

I am starting to think I am in a sadisticpipe dream where I can only attain med-icanal cannabis unlawfully. So, tell me,am I going crazy, or is everyone else hav-ing trouble finding support for a Section56 patient? If so, where is the support?

Randy


Lester Grinspoon circa 1971By LESTER S. GRINSPOONPublished on Monday, September 15, 2003 forthe Harvard Crimson OnlineDr. Lester Grinspoon is an emeritus professorof psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. Heis the author of Marijuana Reconsidered anda co-author of Marijuana, the ForbiddenMedicine. He currently manages the websitewww.marijuana-uses.com.

My improbable cannabis enlighten-ment began in 1967. I was concernedthat so many young people were usingthe terribly dangerous drug, marijuana,so I decided to review the medical andscientific literature on the substance andwrite a reasonably objective and scien-tifically sound paper on its dangers.Young people were ignoring the warn-ings of the government, but perhapssome would seriously consider a well-documented review of the available data.

As I began to explore the literature, Idiscovered, to my astonishment, that Ihad to seriously question my own under-standing. What I thought I knew wasbased largely on myths, old and new. Irealized how little my training in science

and medicine hadprotected meagainst this misin-formation. I hadbecome not just avictim of a disin-formation cam-paign, but becauseI am a physician,one of its agentsas well.

To share my

new skepticism, I wrote a book,Marijuana Reconsidered, which waspublished in 1971 by HarvardUniversity Press. While writing thebook, I considered trying marijuana, notbecause I thought it would inform mywork, but because it appeared to be aninteresting recreational experience. Idecided against it in order to avoid com-promising my objectivity.

After publication, I began to exploremarijuana as a drug for relaxation andrecreation, and I was not disappointed.In fact, it soon displaced alcohol alto-gether. I was 44 years old in 1972, whenI experienced my first marijuana high. Ihave found cannabis so useful and sobenign that I have used it ever since-as arecreational drug, as a medicine and asan enhancer of some capacities.

I am one of more than 12 millionAmericans who use it regularly. Wesmoke marijuana not because we aredriven by uncontrollable "ReeferMadness" cravings, as some propagandawould have others believe, but becausewe have learned its value from experi-ence. Yet almost all of the research, writ-ing, political activity and legislationdevoted to marijuana has been con-

cerned only with the ques-tion of whether it is harm-ful and how much harm itdoes. The only exceptionis the growing interest inthe exploration ofcannabis as a medicine,

but as encouraging as that developmentis, it represents only one category ofmarijuana use. The others are some-times grouped under the general headingof "recreational," but that is hardly anadequate description of, say, marijuana'scapacity to heighten the appreciation ofmusic and art or to strengthen the senseof connection to the natural world. Itcan deepen emotional and sexual inti-macy, crystallize new ideas and insights,and expand one's capacity to appreciatenew aspects of life. Experienced usersknow that ideas flow more readily underits influence. Some of these ideas aregood, some are bad; sorting them out isbest done while straight. Now, whenev-er I have a difficult problem to solve ordecision to make, I try to think about itboth stoned and straight.

I often wonder whether, if I had begunto use cannabis earlier, I would have

A C A N N A B I S O D Y S S E YA C A N N A B I S O D Y S S E Y

I am one of morethan 12 millionAmericans who use itregularly.

BCAMP represents, connects and promotes the BC mag-azine industry by uniting the talent, knowledge and skills ofits publishers.

The British Columbia Association of Magazine Publishers(BCAMP) was established in 1993 to serve and promoteBritish Columbia magazines. BC magazines foster award-winning talent and represent some of the best periodicalspublished in Canada. The BCAMP membership includesarts and culture, news, business, lifestyle, leisure and spe-cial interest magazines. These titles represent the diversityof interests of British Columbians and are read by morethan one million people around the world.

Contact Information: BCAMP, 1604 - 100 West PenderStreet, Vancouver, BC V6B 1R8 / phone: 604-688-1175fax: 604-687-1274 email: [email protected]

Cannabis Health journal

Is proud to announceour membership in


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avoided making some choices I nowregret. The worst career choice I evermade was to enter psychoanalytic train-ing. Although I became skeptical aboutsome aspects of psychoanalytic theoryduring that time, my qualms were notsufficient to dull the enthusiasm withwhich I began treating patients psychoan-alytically in 1967.It was not until themid-'70s, shortlyafter I began tosmoke marijuana,that my emergingdoubts about thetherapeutic effec-tiveness of psycho-analysis began tomake me uncomfortable. The eveningswhen I smoke marijuana provide, amongother things, an opportunity to reviewideas, events and interactions of the day.This cannabis review-of-the-day is almostalways self-critical, often harshly so, andits scope is broad. In 1980, the cumulativeeffect of these stoned self-critiques finallymade me decide not to accept new psy-choanalytic patients and then to resignfrom the Boston Psychoanalytic Institute.

I had been puzzled for many years overone aspect of another bad decision Imade, this time as an adolescent. In later

years it was not difficult for me tounderstand why I made the decision toleave high school early in my senior yearto enter the Merchant Marine. What Icould not understand was why my lov-ing father (since deceased) so readilyacquiesced to this plan; he never lifted afinger to try to prevent his promising

high school stu-dent son fromabandoning ourshared dreamof my going tocollege. Oneevening whilestoned manyyears later itcame to me,

and I now understand what had seemedso inexplicable about his behavior.Would I have eventually figured it outwithout the subtle alteration of con-sciousness that cannabis provides?Perhaps.

There is no denying that many people,especially young people, use marijuanamainly for "partying and hanging out".And most non-users (at least until theylearn of its medical value) believe that isall cannabis is useful for. This stereotypeis so powerful that reactions rangingfrom puzzlement to outrage greet claims

to the contrary. Anyone who attributesmore than recreational and medicinalvalue to marijuana runs the risk of beingderided as a vestigial hippie. So it is notsurprising that many people who usecannabis do so behind drawn curtains.

If more people in the business, academ-ic and professional worlds were knownto be marijuana users, the governmentwould not find it so easy to pursue itsharmful and wasteful disinformationcampaign. That campaign continuespartly because of the widespread falsebelief that cannabis smokers are eitherirresponsible and socially marginal peo-ple or adolescents who "experiment" and"learn their lesson." These lies are per-petuated when those who know betterremain silent. The gay and lesbian out-of-the-closet movement has done muchto reduce homophobia in this country. Itmay be difficult in the current climatewhere dissenters are intimidated andprofiled, but if the many people of sub-stance and accomplishment who usecannabis could find the courage to "comeout" in the same way, they could con-tribute greatly to the diminution of"cannabinophobia" and help to end theharassment, persecution and prosecutionof innocent marijuana users.

A C A N N A B I S O D Y S S E YA C A N N A B I S O D Y S S E Y

We smoke marijuana notbecause we are driven by uncon-trollable "Reefer Madness" crav-ings, as some propaganda wouldhave others believe, but becausewe have learned its value fromexperience.

By Richard CowanRichard Cowan is the publisher of Marijuana-News.com and a former National Director ofNORML in the US, and a consultant to theFree Canadian Party

Canada’s cannabis communities shouldunite in calling for an internationaldebate on prohibition.

Sometime in the next 6 months thegovernment of Canada may or may notchange its cannabis laws, depending onwhat the politicians feel like doing. Itwill also depend on how badly theCanadian police and their US allies canfrighten them.

The proposed “modernization” of thelaws is a complete fraud that would trade

a very limited de-penalization of posses-sion of very small quantities in exchangefor a major increase in penalties for culti-vation and a huge increase in funding forprohibitionist propaganda.

Around the first ofthe year, theCanadian SupremeCourt will rule on theconstitutionality ofthe various aspects ofprohibition. Theprovincial courts are forcing HealthCanada to come up with a workable med-ical cannabis program. In fact, only courtrulings may force the politicians to con-front the issues in any realistic way.

Although several of Canada’s majornewspapers have endorsed the full legal-ization of cannabis, the quality of thereporting and commentary seldom risesto the level of mediocrity. The same is

even truer of the politi-cal debate. Nowhere inthe public discourse isthere any visibleprospect of consideringinformed public opin-ion, much less theviews of the cannabis

community. As things stand now, thefreedom of millions of Canadians may bedecided in ignorance behind closed doorsin the Liberal Party Caucus. We are to bethe targets, not the participants.

To a degree, this is our own fault. Sadly,Canada lacks any nationally coordinatedchallenge to cannabis prohibition. Part ofthis problem arises from the highly alien-ated and individualistic nature ofcannabis users. It would be rather likeherding cats, but as Benjamin Franklinsaid of an earlier challenge to authority,“We must all hang together, or assuredlywe shall all hang separately.”

Our ultimate objective is obvious: fulllegalization. However, there are alsosome immediate objectives, such as aworkable medical access program and anending of Health Canada’s monopoly onmedical grade cannabis.

The Justice Ministry should also callfor an end to any arrests of users any-where in Canada, and ImmigrationCanada should stop trying to kill medicalcannabis refugees by sending them backto the US. These are simple common-


A Note toCannabis Healthand its Readers:It has been mygreat pleasureand honor towrite the “AskDr. Ethan” col-umn for Can-nabis Health in

the year of its inauguration. During thistime, many patients and their familiessubmitted questions about the healingbenefits or side effects of cannabis asmedicine. Together, we have been able toexplore the issues related to this ancient,venerable, but controversial remedy, thestudy of which finds Canada and

Canadians at the forefront in seekingcompassionate and just answers for itspeople. We have discussed its use in sen-iors, cannabis in kids, and even veteri-nary indications.

I regret that I need to move on from theposition at this point. Summer's end in2003 finds me in the midst of many tran-sitions: moving our household, closingmy neurology practice after 20 years, andtaking a new position as strategic medicaladvisor to the Cannabinoid ResearchInstitute. Because that organization isprivately funded by GW Pharmaceuticals,it is clear that many people will assumean unavoidable conflict of interest. It ismy belief that the new position will

afford me better opportunities to promoteresearch and development of cannabismedicines, and help more people morequickly in the long-term.

Thus, I expect to be extremely activeand involved with cannabis health issues,if more behind the political scenes, infuture years. I am very grateful to thestaff of Cannabis Health, and its contrib-utors and readers for their dedication anddevotion to a worthy cause. The chanceto contribute to this endeavor has beenmost rewarding to me. I look forward toreading each and every issue, and wisheveryone concerned the very best.Sincerely,Ethan Russo, MD

W H E R E I S D R . E T H A N R U S S O ?

GROWSEMINARSby Cannabis ResearchInstitute Inc. & CannabisHealth Foundation

Groups of up to 100Reasonable rates & special arrangements forsmall groups.Exciting multi-media and hands-on learning.Level 1 Basics: 1.5 hours.Level 2 Intermediate: 1.5 hoursInquiries phone: 1-866-808-5566or visit www.cannabishealth.com

C A L L I N G F O R I N T E R N A T I O N A L D E B A T E O N P R O H I B I T I O N

Our ultimate objec-tive is obvious: fulllegalization.


sense moves that have overwhelmingpublic support.

Despite this support, the only way thatwe are going to be able to participate inthe process and influence the public, themedia, and the politicians is by calling fora public debate on the issues. In March ofthis year, Justice Minister MartinCauchon actually called for just such adebate, and we should take him up on hischallenge.

As Mark Twain observed, the processof lawmaking can be as unappetizing assausage-making, but it is really no mys-tery. Influencing the future of thecannabis laws is little different frominfluencing how any other laws are made,and because Canada has such a small pop-ulation, I think that it may be possible todo this for as little as $250,000.

First, we need a realistic survey of thesituation in Ottawa. We don’t have anyidea about how either House will divide,or how the leaders really feel about theissue.

Secondly, we will need some presencein Ottawa. “Out-of-sight. Out-of-mind” isespecially true in politics.

Thirdly, no modern political movementcan succeed without the Internet, andthis is where we are strongest, especiallyin comparison with our opposition.However, there should be a hub for the

movement on the Internet, so that thepoliticians and the media know where tostart looking.

Fourthly, we should seek strategic alliesin other areas of Canadian society,notably in academia and supporters ofprogressive and libertarian causes. Lastyear, the Canadian Senate report exhaus-tively analyzed the issue and stronglycalled for full legalization. Senator PierreClaude Nolin, who chaired the committeethat issued the report, is a very articulateand intelligent advocate.

Finally, given the blatant official USinterference in Canada’s internalaffairs, Canadian reformers should notbe bashful in seeking support fromtheir American allies. The best place tostart would be in the entertainmentindustry. Vancouver is famous forbeing “Hollywood North,” andToronto’s recent film festival drew theglitterati, many of whom are“cannabis-friendly” – most notablyWoody Harrelson and Canadian docu-mentary producer Ron Mann.

Recently in Seattle, US Drug Czar, JohnWalters even echoed Cauchon’s call for adebate on the legalization of cannabis.Because of the US policy of interfering inthe internal affairs of countries that devi-ate from the prohibitionist orthodoxy, thedebate will necessarily be international.

If Walters can demand that Canadiansgive up their freedom, I would like tooffer my help to Canadians to defendeveryone’s freedom.

I want to tell the politicians in Ottawaand the people of Canada that if cannabisis important enough to justify arrestingpeople, then it is important enough tohave policies based on informed publicopinion, rather than demonizing anyonewith real knowledge of the subject.

Most importantly, Canadians must con-front the fact that their police use publicfunding to lie to the people and the politi-cians. That appalling practice itselfshould be the real cannabis issue, hereand everywhere. Prohibitionists alwayswant to talk about cannabis, but neverabout how cannabis prohibition reallyworks.

Steve and Michele Kubby have createdthe Free Canadian Party as a vehicle, andAdvanced Nutrients has provided the ini-tial funding, but this must be an inclusiveeffort. We will win, but only if we uniteand make ourselves heard.

Canada is the perfect forum for aninternational debate on cannabis prohibi-tion, and I urge those who want to helplaunch this debate to get in touch with meat [email protected]

Providing a legal,therapeutic cannabis tothe Canadian markethas been a dream cometrue for the founders ofMed Marijuana Inc.,Michael and MelaniePatriquen. They haveseen first hand thehealth wonders of thecannabis plant duringtheir time spent in

Jamaica in the ‘70s & ‘80s. Cannabis wasbeing used in most of the homes for manydifferent ailments, ranging from influenzato arthritis, and for more serious disorderssuch as chronic pain.

When Canada finally cracked open thedoor to total legalization by allowing theproduction and distribution of low THCcannabis, Med Marijuan Inc. was born.From years of accumulated researchbetween them, they knew that low THCcannabis had been effectively used totreat high blood pressure, arthritis, highcholesterol and weakened immune sys-tems. Research determined the mostbenefical type of low THC cannabis togrow, as well as the best area in Canadafor doing it. Then a licensed cannabisgrower was chosen to provide rawcannabis for the company’s product. Atthe same time, financing, marketing, dis-tribution, production and packaging wasbeing set up and coordinated.

C A L L I N G F O R I N T E R N A T I O N A L D E B A T E O N P R O H I B I T I O N

F R O M A J A M A I C A N G R E E N T O A C A N A D I A N R E A L I T Y

F R O M A J A M A I C A N G R E E N T O A C A N A D I A N R E A L I T YIn the Summer of 2001 the first crop

for Med Marijuana Inc. was harvested,the oil was extracted from the plants inan “inert environment” (on a coldpress in the absence of oxygen andlight to preserve the delicate medicinalqualities). After micro bioligical test-ing is completed, the extract is packedinto vegan gel caps and then into plas-tic containers to be distributedthroughout Canada.

Med Marijuana Inc. has been movingforward ever since. They have whole-sale and retail distributors in everyprovince as well as a recent agreement

with an agent to provide global mar-keting via the internet.

The success of the product has beenproven through its personal benefit to ourclients, some who have become wholesaledistributors themselves. Age has neverbeen a barrier for the inquiring customer.

In our expanding business we haverecently introduced a new veterinarysuplement, Medi-Paws™. Med Marijuanabenefis all mammals and is guaranteed tomake your “critter fitter”.

Under development is a cannabis weightgain product for those suffering “Wasting

Syndrome” and along with their cannabisepidermal lotion, are expected to be on themarket later this year.

For more infomation visit www.med-marijuana.com.

C A N N A B I S H E A L T H J o u r n a l page 11

actual size

Is a soldiercourageous if hefollows ordersand goes intobattle? I’m notsure about that.What otherchoice does hehave? In war-

time he’d be shot if he refused to fight.When there is no alternative is it reallycourage that is involved?

How many times do we hear, “So andso fought a courageous battle with can-cer or some other disease”? Whatchoice does a victim of a life threaten-ing illness have except to get as muchmedical help as they can and carry on

with life as long as possible? Is survivalreally about being courageous?

What about police and firemen? Theyare often offered up as examples ofcourage but, let’s face it, they receivespecialized training and have all theequipment to do their jobs and they arepaid well to do it, so isn’t their situationmore about having nerves of steel?

C O U R A G E There are words in the English language that we allknow by definition and immediately understand.There are plenty of words that we have to look upin the dictionary if we are to learn what they mean.

Then there are words that we all think we knowand that are bandied about to a point where the realmeaning is obscured. I think that ‘courage’ is onethat falls into the latter category.

by J. B. York continued next page

Some people look at daredevils andthink they must have extra amounts ofcourage to be able to drive that car overthe Grand Canyon or bail out of an air-plane and free fall from tremendousheights. Again, is that really whatcourage is all about? I don’t think so.

Don’t misunderstand me. I have greatrespect for all the people I’ve just men-tioned; it’s just that I don’t thinkcourage is what they are examples of.

When itcomes toreal cou-rage, Ithink therehas to bean elementof choice.You haveto under-stand thatthere issomethingabout whatyou aredoing orgoing to do

that is a danger to you and, eventhough it’s not your job or responsibil-ity, you decide to do it anyway becauseof the greater need. It is the element ofchoice that has to be present forcourage to be tested.

Am I being courageous taking whatmay be an unpopular stand on this sub-ject, having the courage of my convic-tions? After all, I expect that most peo-ple will want to discuss examples ofwhat they see as heroic deeds by greatindividuals. You know, stories of savinglives and great sacrifices by those specialpeople we only hear about but will neverknow personally. That is all fine but thestories of ordinary men and women tak-ing extraordinary measures to make lifebetter for their families and even theircommunities intrigues me.

Take Grant Krieger for example.Here’s a man who has suffered for yearswith Multiple Sclerosis, a disease thatrobs you of your life by sapping yourenergy, screwing up your insides andtaking away your ability to walk. Mostof its victims have known for some timethat the symptoms of this curse are

eased by marijuana. Why would anyonewho is suffering every moment of everyday, take it upon himself to be a martyrand publicly smoke pot on the frontsteps of the Calgary courthouse? Whywould he do it? He had to know that itwould end with his arrest. He wouldn’tbe able to smoke pot in jail, so he’d endup suffering excruciating pain. His legmuscles would knot up and he’d have tolive with continuous Charley Horses fordays on end. This is such unusualbehavior that most of us don’t recognizeit for what it is: raw courage. He hadthe choice to continue to buy the potquietly and keep to himself and avoidtrouble but he elected to take a standthat he knew would bring him hardship,even agony. He was trying to achievesomething for his brothers and sisters inpain and now that the federal govern-ment is moving to de-criminalize simplepossession, he may have succeeded.Grant Krieger is an example of couragepersonified.

Individualswho try to savea drowning per-son, stop a thiefor ‘give’ theirlives to the serv-ice of their fel-low man orthose who elect to become police, fire oremergency medical personnel in aneffort to save lives, sometimes at the riskof their own, display tremendouscourage. Their contribution to our soci-ety is invaluable and as far as the hun-dreds of thousands of victims ofMultiple Sclerosis here in Canada andperhaps to others throughout the rest ofthe world, Grant Krieger’s contribution,I believe, is also one of great courage.


C O U R A G E

Grant Krieger at home

There are marked differ-ences when growing the 2branches of the Cannabisfamily. Since the Indicaplant grows in theNorthern and Southern lat-itudes, its short-day trig-gered flowering reaction iswell documented. An 18hour day and 6 hour nightwill promote vegetativegrowth which is triggeredby a 12 hour day/nightcycle. The same cannot besaid of the equatorial Sativavarieties (which are nowbeing sown by medicalgrowers for their ability torelieve symptomatic andsevere clinical depression,and help ease withdrawalfrom hard drugs such asheroin and crack cocaine)This giant is a little moredifficult to grow, requiringextra experience and time,

but offering spe-cial curativeeffects. Its medic-inal propertiesare usuallyuplifting, cre-ative, and pleas-antly enjoyable.

Its floweringcycle typicallyoccurs after along vegetativephase at an evenlight/dark ratio,(13/11 to12/12)and the changein light length isactually veryslight indeed.After 6 monthsof growingthrough the sum-mer season, thechange in lengthof the day, short-

ening to 11 hours and lengthening thenight to 13 hours, which allows thehormonal buildup that will trigger theplants to begin blooming.

Their size means a Sativa can be verydifficult to tend, making them less like-ly to be cultivated inside, except in aScROG type of grow where the heightcan be kept in check at all times. Oftenthey are over 8 feet tall, and the largestcan reach 16 to 20 feet tall, easily out-growing the normal garden space.Clever gardening is needed to surmountthis. For example, a seedling can begrown to a good size and many clonesmade of it to provide the right outputfor a medical garden. Using small potsand a floor tray, a “sea of green” (SOG)can be made from clones which growinto big bonsai buds as well, each yield-ing up to an ounce.

The length of the flowering cycle ismuch longer than an Indica plant, theshortest being around 12 weeks, andsome others stretching to an unbeliev-able 20 weeks depending on the genet-ics of that particular variety. It is best toknow in advance what the length of theflowering time is. Timing is everything,and if you are providing herbs for med-ical patients you need to know that youcan be on time to fulfill their needs.(Being a compassionate grower andmed MJ provider means being on time.)

If you have gotten used to growing anIndica on a schedule, and realize a goodconsistent yield, then all you will haveto do to be successful with a Sativagrow is adjust your expectations andadopt a new set of rules to govern theflowering behavior of the sub-species.All of the same general rules for grow-ing Cannabis still apply other than that.

LIGHTINGVegetative growth may be done under12 to18 hours of lighting, but on theequator it is likely to be:Vegetate at: 13 Light / 11 DarkTrigger at: 12 Light /12 Dark

Flowering at: 11Light /13 DarkEnjoy your Sativa!!

Klozit King

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Your Healthy Alternative

pictures below and left illustrate controlled environment and sanitaryconditions under which PPS produces its research-grade marihuana.

Right: A member of staff at the Office for Medicinal Cannabis hand-ing over the first harvest of Bedrocan cannabis, May 2003

James Burton and his crop growing atSIMM, the Dutch contracted grower.


by Willem K. ScholtenWillem K. Scholten PharmD. MPA, is head ofthe Office of Medicinal Cannabis of theMinistry of Health, Welfare and Sport, TheHague, The Netherlands.

Cannabis has been available on prescrip-tion in the Netherlands since the 1st ofSeptember 2003. Following a governmentdecision taken in autumn 2001, prepara-tions were made to cultivate and distrib-ute cannabis under government control.After tendering, the Office of MedicinalCannabis (OMC) contracted two growers,a laboratory, and a packaging and distri-bution company. Cultivation started lastMarch and the first batches were ready forsale in August.

The OMC is a government agency witha monopoly on the wholesale of cannabis.It is also responsible for granting anylicences required for cannabis orcannabis resin. The fact that it holds themonopoly means that all cannabis isowned by the state from the moment theharvest is bought from the growers untilthe final product is sold to a pharmacy insealed five-gram containers.

The contracted growers, the Instituteof Medical Marihuana (SIMM) and

Bedrocan, are required to comply withthe rules of Good Agricultural Practices(GAP) for the cultivation of medicinalcannabis. These rules were laid downby the Dutch Minister of Health,Welfare and Sport and are based on theGAP rules formulated by the EuropeanAgency for the Evaluation of MedicinalProducts. Additional rules were intro-duced to standardise the cultivation anddrying processes and to prevent diver-sion. Standardised cultivation ensures aconstant cannabinoid content incannabis products. As the two growersemploy different methods and cultivatedifferent varieties, their end-productsdiffer from one other. As a result, pre-scribers and patients are offered achoice of products. The Bedrocan vari-ety contains approximately 18 percentdronabinol (the official WHO designa-tion for THC) and the SIMM 18 varietyaround 15 percent. Both are low incannabidiol. The OMC is consideringexpanding the product line in future byadding varieties with a higher cannabid-iol content or a high cannabichromeneor cannabigerol content.

The cannabis delivered by the growers

to the OMC is gamma-irradiated toreduce and virtually eradicate bacteriaand moulds. The procedure eliminatesmicrobiological contamination, whichmay be harmful to immune-compromisedpatients. The cannabis is laboratory test-ed for identity, purity and content, usingan analytical monograph drafted by theNational Institute for Health and theEnvironment (RIVM). It is tested toensure purity from microbiological con-tamination, heavy metals and pesticides,and to establish the dronabinol, cannabi-nol and cannabidiol content. Finally, it ispacked in polypropylene containers hold-ing five grams each. We made grateful useof Canadian documents when designingour quality control system. They prevent-ed us from overlooking important factorsand helped us to harmonize productionand international quality requirementsright from the start.

On the basis of the laboratory results,the OMC approves batch release for pack-aging and distribution. The companyresponsible for packaging also does thelogistics on behalf of the government, tak-ing orders by phone, fax or email and for-warding them to pharmacies within 24

M E D I C I N A L C A N N A B I S N O W AVA I L A B L E I N T H E N E T H E R L A N D S


hours. It invoices customers monthly andcollects payments on behalf of the OMC.Cannabis is supplied only to pharmacies;patients cannot order it themselves.

Dutch policy is based on the principlethat cannabis is a medicine, like mor-phine or any other controlled narcotic.Hence, there is no reason to prohibit itsuse for medicinal purposes as long as it isprescribed according to the rules thatapply to all controlled substances and thatit is used in a responsible manner.

We refer to our products as cannabis orhemp (hennep in Dutch). We choose notto use terms like ‘weed’ and ‘marihuana’,which are associated with the recreation-al use of drugs and may stigmatizepatients as drug abusers.

The product information provided bythe OMC notes that the efficacy ofcannabis has not yet been proven,although it is recorded as a treatment forover 200 conditions. It should thereforebe used only if the conventional treat-ments prescribed in medical protocolsprove ineffective, and not as a first-linetreatment. In other words, it is indicatedonly if other drugs offer insufficient relief

or produce excessive side effects. In the Netherlands cannabis is recom-

mended only for the conditions listedbelow, for which there is most evidence ofits efficacy:

• nausea and vomiting in cancerchemotherapy, radiotherapy and HIVtherapy• palliative treatment for cancerpatients (i.e. as an appetite stimulantand for pain relief and well-being ingeneral)• spasticity in combination with pain(e.g. multiple sclerosis or spinal cordinjury)• chronic neuropathic pain conditions• Tourette’s syndrome.

Under Dutchlaw, doctors arenot prohibitedfrom prescribingcannabis forother condi-tions, but theyare answerableto the medicalcouncil or thehealth care

inspectorate for any adverse effects.The Netherlands is thus following the

example set by Canada, where cannabishas been used for medicinal purposes forsome years. Though not identical, thepolicies of the two countries are similar inmany respects. Above all, both recognisethe medical potential of cannabis butrequire more evidence of its efficacy. Inthe meantime, Canada has allowedcannabis to be used on compassionategrounds, but without giving it medicalstatus. The Netherlands allows doctors toprescribe it as a last-line medicine. Bothcountries encourage research. Few clini-cal trials were carried out during thedecades of worldwide prohibition, andinformation is sorely needed. Asexplained below, Canada has so far beenmore successful than the Netherlands ingenerating research.

Canada and the Netherlands are thefirst and, at present, the only countries toallow the medicinal use of cannabis, andboth have to do the groundwork. Thismay change in the future, as severalother initiatives have been launched.The UK-based company GW


Canada and theNetherlands arethe first and, atpresent, the onlycountries toallow the medici-nal use ofcannabis, andboth have to dothe groundwork.


Pharmaceuticals plc, for instance, hasdeveloped a sublingual spray based on acannabis extract. It has applied to have itlicensed in the UK. The government ofNew South Wales in Australia recentlyannounced its intention to makecannabis available for clinical trials on arelatively large scale. Cannabis will besupplied to all patients suffering from cer-tain specified conditions. SeveralEuropean countries, including Belgium,Germany and Luxembourg, are reconsid-ering their positions and may ultimatelyaccept cannabis as a useful medicine.

Some patients in Canada are evidentlydissatisfied with the distribution ofcannabis in their country and are underthe impression that the Dutch are doingbetter. However, they may be overlookingthe fact that the Canadian governmentauthorised the possession, cultivationand use of medicinal cannabis severalyears ago. The Netherlands followed suitonly as of 1 September 2003 by making it

legal to supply Dutch patients with phar-maceutically approved cannabis.Canadian patients are also critical of thestrength of the cannabis they receive.However, I do not believe that strength isthe main issue. Patients who used to buymedicinal cannabis illegally in theNetherlands expressed satisfaction with acontent of 10 percent, although strongervarieties were also available. I have noillusions on this score. Dutch patients arealso critical, and it will be impossible tosatisfy everybody. The point is that weknow so little at present and it will takeseveral years to obtain the informationwe need to produce the best possibletreatment for specific conditions.

The Canadians are also dissatisfiedwith the price of cannabis, which I con-sider quite low. Although we market ourproducts at cost price, they are twice asexpensive in the Netherlands. It isexpensive to produce cannabis thatmeets all pharmaceutical requirements.

Standardization, laboratory testing, pro-fessional packaging, pharmacy services,a 24 hour delivery service countrywide,plus a 6 percent sales tax make prescrip-tion cannabis far more expensive thanthe illegal product. On the other hand,our product is constant in strength andavailable at all Dutch pharmacies. Butthe two products cannot be compared.And if we regard it as a medicine,cannabis is not expensive.

To its credit, Canada is one of very fewcountries to fund clinical trials. Theresults of their research will be invalu-able, and I wish we could afford to do thesame in the Netherlands. However, weare in the throes of an economic recessionand the government is not fundingcannabis research. As a result, almost noresearch is being done.

More information will be availableshortly on www.cannabisoffice.nl. TheDutch site, www.cannabisbureau.nl isnow open.

Cannabis Health:Do you feel compe-tition from the cof-fee shops or otherillicit distributors?James Burton:Not at all. We pro-duce a medicine.

As medicines go, this is a very affordablechoice. The dangers of the illegal productare the same everywhere: no idea ofpotency, how it was grown and what con-taminates it might contain. We deliver asafe medicine to people who would neverbuy from a coffee shopCH: Would you comment on the reportedcriticism of the newly released Canadiancannabis.

James: There is no reliable THC testing.Regardless of your methods, testing canbe manipulated. Given a certain targetand access to a lab, it is conceivable thatone could pick the % you wanted to testout at. Using HPLC for instance willalways show THC levels 3 to 5% higher.HPLC will give you a different readingthan testing by MSGS Each method willgive you a different reading on the samesample.Even though this is one of the most stud-ied plants on the earth we know so littleabout some things. We are still learningabout pre-heat temperatures and cannabi-noid vaporization levels.The most insidious mistake that Canadahas made, and likely contributing factor

to this situation is the further stigmatiza-tion of an already highly stigmatizedissue. Becoming the direct distributor ofcannabis is without precedent and sendsthe message to patients that this plant iseven more dangerous than any otherchemical drug, and so dangerous that itcan only be managed by the government.To receive a normal medicine, you do nothave to fill out special government forms.I am aware that Canada was forced to actby the courts, but they did have somechoices. Now they have created a situa-tion where the patients have to choosewho they trust more, their government ortheir dealers. CH: So tell me more about the issue ofquality

James Burton: DirectorStichting Institute ofMedical Marijuana

INTERVIEW WITH SIMM THE CONTRACTED DUTCH GROWER



James: Quality is in the whole process,the growing, trimming, curing handlingand storage. Getting rid of the chlorophyllis just the start, we use dark and temper-ature and time not unlike a wine makerto bring out the best of the strain.

I refer to what I call my cookbook whichcontains formulas for each strain or culti-var. In it I have the plant and strain spe-cific organic nutrient and other environ-mental variables required to produce aperfect healthy plant in dirt. Regardless ofthe lighting companies claims of widespectrum coverage, real sunshine is stillthe healthiest and the best for both theplant and the people who use it.

CH: I have heard some conflicting reportson the acceptance of cannabis as a medi-cine by the insurance companies?

James: In Holland, the more affluentwho have private insurance will havethe cost of their cannabis covered undertheir insurance, but those on the publicplan are not at this time covered. I wouldpredict that they will be include in thenext few years.CH: Looking forward a few years, whereare you going?James: I have a few old cannabis medi-cine bottles from the early 1900s and Iremind my friends that this is not new,this is the reintroduction of an old medi-cine. I see our cannabis industry creatinga vigorous and healthy debate and I pre-dict over the next 2 or 3 years, you willsee increasing levels of acceptance ofmedical cannabis in the European com-munity and new opportunities for ourcompany and others.

CH: Can you comment further on yourrelationship to the Canadians?James: We have had a number of visitsand an ongoing relationship with ourCanadian officialsWe were disappointed that Canada didnot take us up on the offer we made toassist them with their start up. We offeredsome genetically stable seed strains and ifthey wished for even more control, weoffered to share cloned stock.The option to acquire Dutch cannabiswas also available. I am not aware ofwhat seeds were finally chosen. Patientsassisted in the selection of cultivars thatwere chosen for distribution here, and weeven offered to supply Canada withcannabis grown in Holland to make itpossible for them to begin research.

INTERVIEW WITH HEALTH CANADAHealth Canada was the final interview

in this series and for the sake of brevity andclarity the interview with Valerie Lasher,and Dr. Richard Viau has been organizedinto topics.

Valerie Lasher is with the Office ofCannabis Mecical Access and RichardViau PhD. is Director of Drug AnalysisService, Health Canada.Comments on the quality of cannabis

and recent criticism by somepatients.

Richard made it clear that quality wasimportant, but, he was not convincedthat stronger was better, pointing out

I N T E R V I E W W I T H S I M M T H E C O N T R A C T E D D U T C H G R O W E R


again that scientific research was notavailable on this and other quality issues.He used the example of personal tasteand preferences in whisky, beer, and cig-arettes and went on to explain that noreal science exists to support these prefer-ences or some of the personal preferencesexpressed by cannabis users.

Valerie stated that only 2 patients havereturned the product, and she expressedher regrets that some potential cannabisusers might be frightened off by thereports of basically two patients.

Richard reported that product that theyordered from PPS was to be grown asclose to the desired THC level as possibleand then blended to achieve a THC levelof 10% plus or minus 1.5%

Reduction of the THC levels wasachieved by adding minimal amounts oflower THC leaf and stalk or small sticks.When asked if this made the product lesssmokable, Richard reminded me that HCdid not recommend smoking anything.When questioned on the slippery issue of"organic" his opinion was that sincethere is no official definition, the one

used for plant food products was, theabsence of the use of pesticides and her-bicides. Richard pointed out that if thisdefinition is used, then the PPS productqualifies as organic. "However, the use ofsuch a nebulous term in a scientific con-text is problematic since it is not clearwhat is meant if anything".

We asked Richard if the THC testingwas as easily manipulated as JamesBurton had indicated in his interview. Heconfirmed that yes, manipulation ofresults is possible, and sometimes desired,but, properly calibrated testing of the typeused in the testing of the PPS product wasextremely accurate in establishingcannabinoid levels and detecting anyadulteration. On the future of compassion clubs:Individual US states and other countrieshave chosen to work with the existingclub or other group distribution system.Valerie made it clear that the distributionnetworks that have been set up in Canadaare illegal and the responsibility for deal-ing with this issue will be with the policeand the justice system. not HC

On patient Involvement:Both Valerie and Richard were happy

with having 2 medical patients on thecommittee. Valerie indicated that patientinput was also happening at the patientadvocacy group level with the involve-ment of patients through their advocacygroups like HIV Aids, and the Arthritissociety. They pointed out that the com-mittee was already large, and dealing witha highly sensitive issue affecting thewhole community, a large number ofstakeholder groups want representation. On research

Over the course of the interviewRichard made numerous comments onthe need for more scientific data and clin-ical trials, specifically in relation tostrength/potency and on smoking andvaporization. He indicated the same con-cerns in relation to the impact of specificcannabinoids like CBDs and the wholestrain efficacy debate.

Valerie announced that new otherresearch initiatives were under consid-eration and that research at theUniversity of McGill was proceedingusing PPS product and she was opti-mistic that the work initiated by CRITwould be continued.On Insurance coverage:

Valerie said an issue for insurance com-panies was that cannabis is not an"approved drug" which explains whyinsurance companies will be reluctant tocover the cost.

Valerie expressed her desire to improvecommunications with the medicalcannabis community. Those of you whohave followed our journal over the pastyear will realize that granting this on-the-record interview is in itself a break-through.

Thanks to Richard and Valerie for theinterview and their co-operation.

(Editors Comment) In early 2000, a yearor so before the start of this journal, I led ateam for the Cannabis Research Institutethat responded to the Canadian federal gov-ernment's call for a company to grow med-ical quality marijuana. I was elated at thechance to interview Brent Zettle the head ofPrairie Plant Systems, the company thatlanded that first Canadian contract.

Cannabis Health: In general termsBrent, how have things gone?

Brent Zettle: This project has been atotal personal challenge, and by far theeasiest part has been the growing of thecannabis. Dealing with the regulations,the exhaustive analyses and testing hasbeen demanding, but frankly, communi-cations with, and the expectations ofHealth Canada has been the biggest chal-lenge. This is a sensitive political issueand the high turnover of staff has madecommunications more difficult.

CH: The marijuana that was sent outfrom Health Canada to a select number of

INTERVIEW WITH HEALTH CANADA

INTERVIEW WITHPRAIRIE PLANT SYSTEMS


doctors in Canada has now been tried bysome of the patients. Considering theobvious frustration with Health Canadaexpressed by some medical users, onecould argue that being rated as 6 out of 10is not a bad a rating for your introducto-ry product.

Brent: I am pleased at the reception ourproduct is receiving. Using cloning toreproduce the same genetics in eachplant, we can produce our marijuana veryclose to the limit of 10% THC that HealthCanada requires. In this release of prod-uct, we have chosen a strain that pro-duces very close to 10%, and we havebeen required to make minor potencyadjustments.

CH: How would you compare the prod-uct being delivered by the Dutch govern-ment to your product? I understand thatthe Dutch product will test at 15% withthe higher potency, better quality reach-ing 18%.

Brent: To be fair, we have genetics andcan produce plants with 25% THC but atthis stage we are being told by HealthCanada to produce 10% THC and we are.

Also you have to consider the testingmethods and the accuracy. PPS uses theLCMS method as opposed to the standardGC test and we provide a profile of 5cannabinoids, THC, CBD, CBC, CBG,andCBN.

The safety of ourproduct is the majorconcern for our com-pany. Our testingidentifies a broadrange of potentiallydangerous moldspores and residualsthat could negativelyaffect patients withcompromised immune systems. As well,our testing provides the most accuratecannabinoid profile.

CH: How about the issue of variety andcost? Patients are saying that some strainsare better and variety works best.

Brent: We are aware that patients are

seeking variety and saying that somestrains work better. You have to under-stand that we are working within a newand sensitive field. Under the rules andrestrictions established by Health Canadaand other regulating agencies, PPS is pro-ducing the best quality product possible.We could provide variety, but right nowthe order is for one strain with a stablecannabinoid profile, and 10% THC.Health Canada has established the cost tothe patients.

CH: I am interested in the delivery andpackaging.

Brent:: Our product is delivered in heatsealed air locked plastic bags. The mari-juana is manicured, the moisture level iscontrolled and the plant material is pre-dominantly mature female flower. As youare aware, the federal RFP called for thedelivery of rolled joints. Pre rolling is notattractive to the consumer. Holland andCanada both concurred that patientswant the freedom to custom roll theirjoints or to use the product in a pipe orother delivery choice.

CH: What do you think about the cur-rent nutrient war, and, do you favor aparticular nutrient company?

Brent: PPS treats cannabis like any ofthe other plant we are asked to grow. It isinteresting how some factions would liketo convince you that growing cannabis is

a mystical andmagical process.We approachcannabis as anelastic and highlyadaptive plant, butin the end we lookat the necessary13 macro andmicro nutrients

that all plants require and we prepare ourown nutrient formulas. The other sciencewe introduce is when you feed, how muchyou feed and in what nutrient ratios youfeed the essential nutrients. In short, wehave great lab facilities and we do not getinvolved in the politics and the competi-tion over cannabis nutrient.

CH: Those who are aware of the RFPare interested in how PPS is doing finan-cially with this contract and question whowill own what at the end of the contract.

Brent: No windfalls, on this project,PPS is just holding their own. We have

I N T E R V I E W W I T H P R A I R I E P L A N T S Y S T E M S

To be fair, we have genet-ics and can produce plantswith 25% THC, at thisstage we are being told byHealth Canada to produce10% THC and we are.


seen changes and additional testingrequirements, and again security coststhat have kept our costs up. For instance,money saved from rolling has gone intopackaging that delivers a product that issealed and moisture controlled and safe.Health Canada owns the genetics. Theintellectual property is owned by PPS.

As far as the future goes, we see thepotential of the industry and we arelooking at developing strains withcannabinoid profiles that address theincreasing sophistication of researchinto cannabis and specific illness.

CH: How do you deal with the poli-tics?

Brent: From my perspective thechanges that are unfolding are driven bythe courts. Allen Rock had a vision forhow this program would evolve, he wasopen and expected feedback. AnnMcLelleand brought another approach,less open, more cautious. But to under-stand how the problems develop youmust look at the whole reality. HC isforced to deal with a new hot issue, fewrules, no history and nervous politi-cians. Many of their people have never

been in the spotlight, far less under thehot lights of weekly national television.

CH: So what can we do better?Brent: I see many of the problems as

communications problems. Again, weare a company that is working withinvery tight parameters set by the govern-ment. Lots of details are being workedout and I am well aware of the cautiouspace. These are my tax dollars beingspent. The most important improvementwould be to introduce more openness,more transparency; be positive, the pub-lic is ready, they just want to know whatis going on.

Between the time of this firstinterview and our print dead-line a number of medicalpatients and other cannabisactivists took exception to thecannabis released by HealthCanada and grown by PrairiePlant Systems. We reconnectedwith Brent to discuss the nega-tive reactions of some medicalpatients.

CH: What do you think is happeninghere?

Brent: I hesitate to point fingers at anyone individual, however the persons thathave released the so called results ofsecret testing are way off the mark, andfrankly most appear to have a vestedinterest.

The agenda of this group appears to beorganic growing and anger that the gov-ernment has chosen not to support thedistribution by these clubs and groups.

Our product has gone through exhaus-tive analyses with both inhouse and inde-pendent testing.

If it wasn't for the fact that this emo-tional attack reflects so poorly on thecredibility of the attackers, we would con-sider legal action.

CH: What do you think of the picturesthey have posted on their web site?

Brent: I can only speculate on whatmay have happened Is it our product, orhas it been tampered with? Who knows?Emotions are running high and peoplehave attitude and a vested interest.

I N T E R V I E W W I T H P R A I R I E P L A N T S Y S T E M S


by Lisa Smith

Ed Rosenthal has done his homeworkagain. Trash to Stash shows us how touse the full potential of a harvest.Understand your harvest and you’llnever throw out shake again.

Trash to Stash is the how-to book,everything is in here, including recipes,

shopping lists, reviews of products andother invaluable information. Ed takesan in depth look, in an easy to under-stand format, at alternative administra-tive methods for cannabis.

Sometimes smoking cannabis can beobvious and inconvenient. Trash toStash shows how to make edibles andtinctures that come in real handy forsomeone who doesn’t want to smoke orneeds to be discreet. Also included inthis book is information to regulatedosage (titration).

Ed fully explains how to take shakeand turn it into something very valuable.

Need to know how to make kief, hash orcannabis butter?? That’s here too!! Edincludes many methods for doing greatthings with bud and shake.

Do you know anyone who can’t alwaysafford high grade, but needs help? Whynot save a big bag of shake from harvestand include a copy of Trash to Stash?You will have given someone an invalu-able gift.

Thanks, Ed, I never knew what to dowith that bag at the back of my closet.

Five Leaf Award

GOT SHAKE???GOT SHAKE???GOT SHAKE???

by Brian Carlisle

2 6 C A N N A B I S H E A L T H J o u r n a l

Green & Clean Hydroponics has beenin business since July 1997 in Sudbury,Ontario. It originally started off with a500 square ft. retail location. Two yearsinto the business, owners Sharon Shawand Frank Beaudoin realized thatexpansion was necessary in order tosupply the Northern Ontario Market. Awall was torn down and the unit nextdoor became an additional storefront.This allowed Green & Clean to build aself-contained grow room for displaypurposes. Customers can experiencefirst hand live tomato and herb plantsgrowing hydroponically year round.

Sharon and Frank realized early in theirbusiness venture that the NorthernOntario Market was greatly under serv-iced and they allow customers from dis-tant locations in the north to be serv-iced by bus and mail orders. They havealways maintained that if they don’thave a product they can probably get it.Green & Clean has remained independ-ent and deals with a number of suppli-ers offering the best selection, bestproducts and best prices in the North.Green & Clean believes that it is allabout choice, and due to the increase in

medicinal growers, they can offer com-passion discount to those in need.

G R E E N & C L E A N H Y D R O P O N I C S - C o m p a n y R e v i e wG R E E N & C L E A N H Y D R O P O N I C S - C o m p a n y R e v i e w

Editors Note:In September/October issue 6 edition ofCannabis Health Journal, we published anutrient comparison study conducted byBrian Carlisle. In response to critiquesthat this was funded by AdvancedNutrients, we repeat, this article wasnot published as a clinical study.We believe the general public are confusedat claims and counterclaims, and in theabsence of other hard data, this, at least, isa positive approach to the problems by agroup of medical users.THE RESULTSVEGETATIVE CYCLE;General Hydroponics: Calcium, zinc,and potassium deficient and were 3rdlargest plant in size.Dutch Master: Manganese deficiencyand 4th largest plants in size.Super Natural: Were stunted and hadsulfur and calcium deficiencies andwere 6th largest plant in size.Canna: Calcium, nitrogen and sulfur defi-ciencies and were 2nd largest plant in size.

Grow Tech: Were stunted and hadnitrogen and sulfur deficiencies andwere 5th largest plant in size.Advanced Nutrients: Had no deficien-cies and had the largest plant size.FLOWERING CYCLE;GH: Was Phosphorus, potassium andnitrogen deficient with largest colas butthe plants stayed small.DM: Was manganese deficient and hadthe smallest colas but the tightest colasalthough the plants stayed small almost“dwarfish”.SN: Had nitrogen burning, the 2nd

largest colas yet the plants stayed small.GT: Had potassium and nitrogen deficien-cy and the plants only grew to 2/3 size.CA: Had nitrogen and potassiumdeficiency and the plant only growto 2/3 size.AN: Had a slight amount of tip burn.Even though the group was given 2small plants unlike the other groupswhich received only one, even those 2plants grew into full size plants andthe group produced the largest andmost abundant colas.

D E T A I L E D R E S U L T S O F N U T R I E N T R E S E A R C H

Owners, Frank Beaudoin & Sharon Shaw


Gathering at Kiza Park on the Pine RidgeReservation in South Dakota, fifty hempentrepreneurs and activists were welcomedby the White Plume family to their Lakotacultural center. We came with intent to sup-port sovereignty for all people, and specifi-cally for this tribe whose laws allow indus-trial hemp cultivation (one of sixteen in theUSA). Alex and Debra White Plume's fam-ily was terrorized by the DEA three yearsago and today they continue to fight for theright to grow a plant that can feed, clothe,and house their family.

The Hemp Industries Association (HIA)held their tenth annual convention onnative land, sleeping in tipis, eating buffalostew, listening to Lakota singing, and join-ing in prayers of thanks. Some rode horses,while others hiked the beautiful hills andcommuned with the buffalo. We visitedhemp buildings - one house built by TomCook and crew for his wife, Loretta Afraidof Bear's family, a greenhouse, and anotherearthship being built by Henry Red Cloud.Their Slim Buttes Land Use Associationhas developed over 400 vegetable gardenson the reservation. Gorgeous beadwork wasoffered by skilled craftswomen.

Stories were shared by Milo Yellow Hair,Alex White Plume and Tom Cook of thestruggles the Lakota have endured and con-tinue to fight. The Black Hills were takenby the government because there was goldand oil to be mined, so the Lakota's sevensacred sites are unavailable for their cere-monies. Through all the challenges (85%unemployment, alcoholism, etc.) the Lakotaremain strong and several families have thecourage and determination to keep tradi-tions and maintain their language, and sur-vive with dignity and respect for each otherand Mother Earth. It was a special meetingand we thank our hosts for the precioustime spent with them in their homeland.

Meals prepared by Alta and Rita, DebraWhite Plume's sisters, and neighbor, Bettywere authentic Lakota fare - buffalo stew,fry bread, and choke cherry pudding.Thanks to the crew from Prairie Dust Filmswe enjoyed a dinner, offered interviews andparticipated in filming sessions. DavidFrankel, Tom Ballanco, and JohannaSchultz shared some great vegetarian foods.Hemp granola, hemp bread, hemp chips,hemp oil salad dressing, hemp ice cream,hemp sodas, and hemp protein powderwere donated and enjoyed by all.

On Friday, August 22nd a Hemp Seminarin Hot Springs, SD was presented - a hempluncheon with speakers, a benefit auction,and demonstrations. Attendees were enthu-siastic in supporting the many uses ofindustrial hemp. Joe American Horse, infull headdress, led with the opening prayerand song in Lakota language. Panel Onebegan with Tom Cook and Alex WhitePlume who gave a historical overview of thehemp movement on Pine Ridge. AttorneyBruce Ellison spoke about the DEA caseagainst the White Plumes. Tom Ballancoand David Frankel, also attorneys, sharedtheir involvement with the tribal sovereign-ty issue, citing treaty breaches that will beused in the legal challenge. The tribal presi-dent, John Yellowbird Steele, then spoke,offering his support, and a tribal represen-tative from the Cheyenne River includedhis remarks upholding the right to growhemp on the reservation. Gloria Castillo, co-producer of the seminar, ended the firstpanel with a clarification of the expandedmeaning of sovereignty - freedom for allpeople.

Representing the newly formed CanadianHemp Trade Alliance, Arthur Hanks ofSaskatchewan talked about the progressand set backs the Canadian hemp industryhas had in the last five years. The expertisegained was offered to those who will growhemp on the reservation in the future.David Bronner, HIA Food & Oil Chairman,gave a brief rundown on the phenomenalgrowth market for hemp foods and bodycare, the development of the Test PledgeProgram, and introduced attorney PatrickGoggin who elaborated on the HIA vs DEAcase pending in the Federal 9th CircuitCourt. Prospects for processing hemp inneighboring North Dakota were presentedby Robert Robinson of Modern Hemp. BobNewland of the SD Industrial HempCouncil spoke about legislative efforts andencouraging polls taken in the region, andhis partner, Jeremy Briggs, announced thebeginning of a new industry publication,

Hemphasis Magazine. The final panel at the seminar focused on

applications of hemp fiber and seed. ShaunCrew of Hemp Oil Canada has a successfulfood and body care company and offered tosend 500 lbs. of seed when the legalities forthe cultivation of hemp have been estab-lished. He explained that it is not difficult toprocess seeds for oil, nut, meal, and flour.An investment of $60,000 usd would set upa facility. Craig Lee from Madison Hempand Flax in Kentucky spoke about usinghemp seed and meal for feeding beef andfish. The high protein and omega fat con-tent is perfect for animal feed. University ofKY research results are available. Hempfiber used for horse bedding has also beenresearched and a market targeted. AlbertLewis of Hempy's, a clothing and acces-sories company, shared his experienceswith managing growth in the textile sector.A lecture and demonstration was held out-side as Agua Das from Original Sourcesshowed how biofuel can be made fromhemp fiber using gasification. A spinningwheel and hemp break were also demon-strated, showing a primary use for hemp.

Hemp products donated by HIA memberswere auctioned and raised $2900 for theWhite Plume Defense Fund. Thanks to allwho contributed! And a special thanks toCarol Koski and Ron Holton for receivingthe goodies and organizing the auction.

Marie & Teresa Mills - Navajo Hemp RugFor Mother Earth - hemp jewelry LivingSeed Products, Merry Hempsters, and otherOregon companies - Hemp Lip Balm, HempZap, Dolly Mama Doll, Hemp ChocolateBars, Hemp Bag, Hemp jewelry, HempCandles, Naked Clothing hemp shirt andhoodie. Hemp Trivia - Hemp Tshirt,Postcard set, Hemp Farmer Notepads,George Washington was a Hemp FarmerPosters, Presidents Rolling Papers. Chic Eco- 2003 Directory Hempcore - HempSkateboards Hemp Hound - Dog collarsSmith Center - Organic Cotton Tshirts Intl.Hemp Association - Journal of IndustrialHemp Kashmir Gold - Goddess Kit:Evening purse, silk/hemp & lace handker-chief, rosebud, candle, lavender oil, andsoap. Paul Benhaim - Fields of Green musicCD - hemp plastic tray. Hemp Starzz - Lipbalm, Uncle Betsey Tshirt and CD - HighHopes - We Want Hemp Now! Minawear -Hemp shirt Magellan - Race Around theWorld Game Hempy's - Shorts, hats, bagsSativa Hemp Wear - Zipper purse, stickersPure Hemp - Cigarette Papers GlobalGroove - Hemp Waist Belt Candi Penn -Hemp Fabric from Thailand Living Tree

H I A 2 0 0 3 C O N V E N T I O NSOVEREIGNTY FOR PINE RIDGE RESERVATION, SD

Joe American Horse & Tom Cook

H I A 2 0 0 3 C O N V E N T I O NPaperCompany -Circle ofLife Postersigned byJuliaButterfly,2004ProtestPoster ArtCalendar,MoviePoster"Scorched"with WoodyHarrelson.Hempola -TemporaryTattoos Co-

op America - Community LenderBrochures James Pollock - "Grow a Field ofHemp" Tshirts Cool Hemp - Hemp Seedee(Canadian hemp songs & stories) SantaBarbara Hemp Company - Hats andTshirts Original Sources - Hemp I ScreamSandwiches Humbodlt Hemp Foods - "OhMega!" Organic Blue Corn Hemp ChipsNature's Path - "Hemp Plus" GranolaCereal Hempzel Pretzel Company -Hempzels, Flour, and mustard. Nutiva -Organic Hemp Protein Powder FrenchMeadow Bakery - Hemp Sprouted Bread

Hemp Oil Canada - Roasted Hempseed,Shelled Hempseed, Hemp Flour, Body careproducts. Ruth's Hemp Foods - Hemp Oil &Balsamic Salad Dressing Vote Hemp -Brochures, VH Reports HIA - 2003Calendars, HIA T-shirts.

Upon return to the reservation that night,we were met with a grass fire, out of controlwith 50 mile an hour winds spreading ittoward Kiza Park. The community foughtthe fire and it stopped just over the hill. Thehorses and buffalo were ok. The house andcamp were ok. It was another awakeningfor us to the daily struggles of the Lakotapeople. They will experience a spiritual,emotional, and physical model of a beauti-ful, truthful, loving way of life.

Thanks to all who helped make this a

wonderfully successful event!Respectfully submitted by Candi Penn HIA

Executive Director 8/28/03 2003 ConventionCommittee Alex and Debra White Plume [email protected] Tom and Loretta Cook [email protected] Gloria Castillo [email protected], Ron Holton and CarolKoski, David Frankel - [email protected],Tom Ballanco - [email protected], CraigLee - [email protected], Candi Penn [email protected]. Penn, HIA ExecutiveDirector Hemp Industries Association, POBox 1080, Occidental, CA 95465 Tel: 707 8743648 Fax: 707 874 1104 Email: [email protected], http://thehia.org http://-hempstores.com http://testpledge.com,http://votehemp.com


Tom Cook


B U S I N E S SB U S I N E S S& D i s t r i b u t o r D i r e c t o r y

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CONROY & COMPANYBarristers and Solicitors

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KRIEGER FOUNDATION The Krieger Foundation is dedicated to bring-ing you the most up-to-date information onmedicinal cannabis through links and news.HEAD OFFICEPO Box 85055, APPO Calgary, AlbertaCanada T2A 7R7 - Tel (403) 235-1244

Fax: (403) 770-8131 - e-mail [email protected] Alberta - Calgary (403) 272-5204 Edmonton (780) 474-7958 -Lethbridge (403) 328-4264 Saskatchewan - Regina (306) 359-0357 Manitoba - Winnipeg (204) 785-8613 Ontario - Kenora, (807) 467-8651 Coming soon: Saskatoon

NEW MEMBERS ARE WELCOMETO OUR COMPASSION PROGRAM

seeCourage

storypg 11

MEDICAL MARIJUANA HELP

Green Aid. The Medical Marijuana Legal DefenseFund (USA). Contributions welcome.www.green-aid.com or call 1-888-271-7674(US), 1-415 677 2226. Donations are taxdeductible (US).Colorado Med. Users: Colorado Cannabis ishelping people join the Colorado PatientsRegistry. We offer grow advice, registrationassistance and referrals. Contact us [email protected] Medical Marijuana Mission Real stories &valiant struggles of Federal Medical MarijuanaExemptees in Canadawww.themarijuanamission.comU.S./Canadian medical marijuana benefit con-cert, Hands Across the Border: Persons interestedin the organization of a major musical event in thefall or late summer of 2003 please contact CannbisHealth, attention “Benefit Concert”. We are seekingorganizers, volunteers, bands, financial backers,etc. This is a call for assistance with this project.The organizers are open to ideas and suggestions.Canada’s Medical Marihuana Resource IslandHarvest P.O. Box #5 Duncan, BC, Canada V9L3X1 250 748 8614 [email protected]

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THE HEMP SEEDEE - Songs and stories aboutindustrial hemp in Canada. http://www.cool-hemp.com/HempSeeDeeFor the 4th time, Paka Organisation and itsGlobal Hemp Store “Chanvre & Cie” organize theHemp and eco-technologies Festival in Paris(France) from 7 to 9 of November 2003. / Theplace chosen is the scientific museum named“La Cite des Sciences et de l’Industrie”, a perfectplace to show the aspects and potential of theCannabis plant

HEALTH AND HEALING

FLYINGHANDS FARMEffective, energetic herbal help for chronic, seri-ous imbalances: wounds/rashes, frostbite/sun-burn; arthritic/rheumatic, bone, muscle, liga-ment problems; immune system boosting.Flying Hands Farm Herbals 1-250-265-4967 usehttp://www.flyinghandsfarm.addr.com

FOR SALE

Are you seeking that unique Christmas gift?Check out the great selection of gifts for thediscriminating cannabis consumer atwww.cannabishealth.com. The perfect placeto get the perfect gift.SHAKEDOWN STREETFor all your psychedelic needs, 276 King St. W.,Kitchener Ont. Twisted smoking accessories,519-570-0440 Wholesale Available www.shake-down.com

ONTARIO

Cool Hemp, Delicious, nutritious, all naturalorganic vegan Canadian hemp foods.www.coolhemp.com RR#4, Killaloe, ON, K0J2AW Email: [email protected] Budda,Oakville’s Cannabis SmartShoppe 135 Kerr Oakville, ON905-337-1149 1-800-784-5815

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Highway Hydroponics - 1791 Tamarac St.Campbel River, B.C. 1-250-286-0424 Fax:1-250-286-0420 - e-mail: [email protected] Hydroponic Garden Supplies - 8460West Granville St. Vancouver, BC,Ph: 1-604-266-5582

BRITISH COLUMBIA

JJ’s Hemp Hollow420 TCH West Salmon Arm, B.C. V1E 1S9ph/fax 250-833-1414

The FMJP seeks to remove all penalties for adults 21 andover who choose to consume cannabis in a responsible man-ner. We demand an end to the war on productive and other-wise law abiding citizens by the powers that be who claim toprotect us. We demand the right to use any medication ourhealthcare providers and we deem fit without governmentinterference. We demand the release of all people imprisonedon marijuana charges and that their criminal records be

expunged. We demand that all property seized in marijuana raidsbe returned to the rightful owners at once. We demand that our lawenforcement officers make more efficient use of our tax dollars anduse the resources they have at their disposal to go after violent crim-inals and crimes that actually have victims. We demand the right togrow marijuana on our family farms for personal consumption, justas alcohol can be brewed at home legally so long as it is not solduntaxed. We demand that you stop treating us like second class cit-izens for consuming something that is less dangerous than alcoholand tobacco, both of which are legal and cause numerous deathseach year. Cannabis has never caused one.

The Florida Marijuana Partyhttp://florida.usmjparty.com

Contact: Jason ColeEmail: [email protected]

Phone: 239-848-0135

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Cannabis Health - [Nov/Dec 2003]

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