Straight forward, witty and timeless. #TellItLikeItIs, is a blog for our generation 
Lately, conversations about cannabis have taken a new turn—one that moves beyond outdated stigma and misconceptions. For decades, cannabis has been labeled a dangerous drug, with global campaigns aimed at suppressing its use. Notable efforts include the infamous “Reefer Madness” Campaign (1930s, USA) and international restrictions imposed by the United Nations Drug Treaties (1961, 1971, 1988).
However, in 2025, the truth is becoming clearer: the criminalization of cannabis has been driven more by misinformation, racial bias, and political agendas than by scientific evidence. As research advances, we now have undeniable proof of cannabis’s medical benefits—as well as strong archaeological and historical evidence that ancient civilizations used the plant for healing, spirituality, and practical purposes.
For instance:
- Emperor Shen Nong of China, known as the “Father of Chinese Medicine,” documented cannabis in his pharmacopeia (Pen Ts’ao Ching), listing it as a remedy for pain, gout, and other ailments.
- In ancient India, cannabis was revered as a sacred plant and mentioned in the Vedas (holy Hindu texts), often used in religious ceremonies.
- The Ebers Papyrus, an ancient Egyptian medical text, references cannabis as a treatment for inflammation and pain.
As scientific research expands and global attitudes shift, it’s becoming increasingly clear that cannabis is more than just a controversial substance—it’s a plant with immense promise. Beyond its medical applications, it also holds economic, environmental, and social benefits.
Here are 3 ways cannabis is being redefined as a plant with promise:
👉 Medical Breakthroughs – Cannabis is proving effective in treating chronic pain, epilepsy, anxiety, and even cancer-related symptoms.
👉 Economic Growth – The legal cannabis industry is creating jobs and generating billions in revenue.
👉 Sustainability & Industry – Hemp, a form of cannabis, is being used in textiles, bioplastics, and eco-friendly products.
For far too long, cannabis has been vilified based on myths, not facts. This was widely accepted due to lack of information – back then. In this present day, information is abundant for him who will dilligently search it out. History, science, and modern-day innovation tell a different story—one of healing, progress, and untapped potential.
As more countries decriminalize and legalize cannabis, we stand at a pivotal moment in history. We can choose to remain shackled by outdated fear, or we can embrace the truth: cannabis is not the enemy—it’s an opportunity. An opportunity for better health, economic empowerment, and a more sustainable future.
The question isn’t whether cannabis has promise. The question is—are we ready to unlock it?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Written by: Dilma Bastien
For: Generation Y Dominica
Generation Y Dominica 