Material Found Via Internet and ''Re-Digested” by Puppet. Ver

Absinthe Material found via Internet and ‘‘Re-digested” by Puppet. Ver 1.3

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0DWHULDOIRXQGYLDWKH,QWHUQHW )URPDQLGHDE\3XSSHW *UDSKLFSURMHFWE\3XSSHW 3DJLQJE\3XSSHW 'HVLJQG\3XSSHW )URQW&RYHUE\+5*LJHU /DVW3DJH&RYHUE\+5*LJHU

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No copyright! Copy and diffuse it in any way! Via software, paper, word and any other way you know. Maybe inside this book something is under copyright, but we don’t know what or why, so don’t be afraid. Use it as you want but, please, do not change or manipulate it, we like it just as it is! Verses (pg.122) are taken from: “Memory Gardens” by Allen Ginsberg. Images (pgg.3-122) by H.R.Giger. All this stuff is reproduced and reproducible with(out) kind permission of the authors.

3 (NO)COPYRIGHT 3XSSHW 1995 Summary

Introduction: What kind of stuff is this? 9 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science 11 A little bit of all… from the beginning… 13 The Plant in Question 14 Criminalized, Decriminalized, Recriminalized 15 Role of the international narcotics control board 16 Mandate 16 Membership 17 Secretariat 17 Scope of international drug control 17 Control of narcotic drugs 17 Control of psychotropic substances 17 Control of precursor and essential chemicals used to illicitly manufacture drugs 17 Evaluation and support national efforts 18 Dialogue with Governments 18 Training programmes 18 Annual report 18 Legalization of Marijuana long overdue 19 An act to amend the Health and Safety Code of California: 20 Telephone interview with Laurence McKinney 22 Medicine man, inside the story 26 Amotivational Syndrome 30 Literary fonts 30 The opinion of a psychiatrist 31 Medical Marijuana, the last smoke… 32 Marijuana miths 33 1. Marijuana causes brain damage 33 2. Marijuana damages the reproductive system 33 3. Marijuana is a ‘‘gateway’’ drug, it leads to hard drugs 33 4. Marijuana suppresses the immune system 33 5. Marijuana is much more dangerous than tobacco 33 6. Legal Marijuana would cause carnage on the highways 33 7. Marijuana ‘‘flattens’’ human brainwaves 34 8. Marijuana is more potent today than in the past 34 9. Marijuana impairs short-term memory 34 10. Marijuana lingers in the body like DDT 34 11. There are over a thousand chemicals in Marijuana smoke 34 12. No one has ever died of a Marijuana overdose 34 What is the ICLU drug task force? 34 Sources 34 Three things Marijuana doesn’t do 36 No brain damage seen in Marijuana-exposed monkeys 36 Pot found not to cause fetal alcohol syndrome 36 Pot doesn’t lower testosterone 36 References: 36 Cannabinoids and appetite stimulation 37 Just what WERE the conditions? 37 1.Acute Oral Study 37 2.Multiroute study 38 3.Chronic Study 38 4.Satiety Study 38 Selected Results/Discussion 38 Experiments on monkeys 39 Pot research lid about to blow open 41 The forbidden medicine 42 The health effects of Marijuana on humans 43 Introduction 43

5 Absinthe

Physical Effects 43 Psychological Effects 43 Conclusion 44 References Cited 44 About Cancer 45 A comparison between Marijuana and tobacco 45 Sources: 47 More Reasearch 47 Interactions between Marijuana and other drugs 48 What is THC 49 Latest research about Marijuana 49 The Joy of Growin’ by Yourself 51 The joys of an herb garden at home 53 Statement of Intent: GROW POT! 53 Table of contents: 53 Overview 53 Genetics and the plant 53 Indoor and outdoors constant harvest strategy 54 Planting indoors 54 Shelf growing 55 Light 55 Sea of green 57 Germination 57 Vegetative growth 58 Hidroponic vegetative solution, 58 Flowering 59 Hidroponic flowering solutions 59 Hidroponics 60 Recycling 61 Planting outdoors 62 Guerrilla farming 63 Soil growing 63 Subterfuge 64 Plant food and nutrients 64 Ph and pertilizers 65 Folair feeding 65 CO2 65 Venting 67 Temperature 67 Pests 68 Transplanting 68 Early sexing 68 Regeneration 69 Prunung 69 Harvesting and drying 69 Cloning 70 Breeding 71 Sinsemillia 72 Sinse seeds 72 Odors and negative ions 72 Oxigen 73 Safety and privacy 73 Distilled water 73 Birth control pills 73 Seed and bud storage 73 A final comment: 73 Lamps for the best growing 74 Introduction: 74 Flurescents 74 High Intensity Discharge Lamps (HID’s) 74 When to harvest 75 Maturity and THC 75 Plant Size 75 Photoperiod: The Key to Maturation 75 Male Versus Female 75 Different Varieties 75 Time of Year 75

6 Summary

Monitoring Buds 75 Nomadic, hydroponic gardens on a limited budget 76 Introduction: 76 Disclaimer: 76 Materials: 76 Comments: 77 Starting Seeds: 77 The grower’s guide 78 Light 78 PhotoperiodD 78 Light cycle chart for flowering 78 Temperature 78 Tertilizer 78 Humidity 78 Co2 78 Pruning 79 Leeching the soil 79 Cloning (Cutting plantlets) 79 Stress 79 Simple steps for outdoor growers 80 About the Authors 80 Table of Contents 80 Acquiring Good Seeds 80 Finding a Site 80 Making a Trail 81 The Mechanics of Growing 81 The Harvest 83 When to Harvest 83 Sinsemilla Tips 85 Use & Abuse 87 Marijuana Smoking Guide 89 Joints: 89 Bowls: 89 Water Pipes (or bongs): 89 Gravity bongs: 89 How to roll a Joint. 90 How to avoid cancerogenic effects of smoking Marijuana 91 How to build a Death-star 91 Instructions: 92 Tips: 92 Reasons for vapourizing: 93 Vapourizer plans: 93 Materials: 93 Procedure: 93 Blender vaporizor 93 Vaporizer Principles 94 Introduction 94 Introduction: 94 Phase I: The Parts 94 Phase II: The Tools 94 Phase III: Construction 94 Phase IV: Operation 95 Miscellaneous: 96 How to make Hashish 96 Isomerization 97 Disclaimer 97 Overview and Theory 97 For further reading on the subject of alchemy: 97 Why Bother Doing All This? 97 Initial Extraction 98 Purification Stage 98 Isomerization 99 Expected Yield and Consumption Methods 99 Dosage 99 Pertinient references (for completists): 100 Bathtime for Billy! 101

7 Absinthe How to prepare a BHANG !! 101 The Green Dragon 102 Let’s cook it ! 102 Cannabutter 102 Carrot Cake 103 Frosting 103 Pizza Pot 103 Happy Cookies 104 Smoke it, Drink it, Eat it! 104 Smoking 104 Joints 104 Bongs 105 Pipes 105 One-hits 105 Gas Pipes 105 Gravity Bongs 105 Tilt Pipes 106 Eating & Drinking 106 Eating 106 Drinking 106 Brownies 106 This & That 107 What we want: Legalization! 109 A little of History 110 Cannabis 114 How much do we know? How little do we know? 114 The Assassins 114 The tale of two Hashish-eaters 115 Pete the Happy Homegrower 117 1) Amsterdam Sprouts 117 2) The Earth 117 3) Can You See The Light? 118 Bibliography: 118 A Tale of Two Gardens 119 Part 1 119 Part 2 119 Part 3 120 Part 4 120 Part 5 120 Part 6 120 Smoking Etiquette 121 ‘‘Oops! Sorry, wrong house!’’ 122 Drug raid at wrong slo house leaves woman ‘shaken’ 122 ‘‘Apology Doesn’t Make It: Couple’s Home Raided by Police With Wrong Address’’ 123 ‘‘Cops were at fault in busting up home’’ 123 Former NASA Official Mistakenly Arrested for Drug Offense 124 D.A. Says Drug Raid Lacked Legal Justification 124 Untitled 124 Untitled 125 Quotable Quotes 126 The Plantem. 126 Alexander Trocchi. 126 Genesis ( the Bible) 1:29. 126 Ecclestiastes 3:1-2. 126 Thomas Jefferson. 126 George Washington. 126 Ken Kesey. 126 Tim Leary. 126 ? 126 Bill Clinton, 1992. 126 Jimmy Carter, 1977. 126 H.E.M.P. 126 Smokin’ Slang 126 Projects 127

Introduction: What kind of stuff is this?

Introduce yourself right now!!

This book is not an invitation to smoke, eat or use in any way Marijuana or its extracts, this is mainly a document “assembled” to inform people on what is and what could be the culture and the motivations that stay behind the consumption of Marijuana and the political struggles embarked on by lots of artists (mainly musicians) to legalize its consumption and its growing. Ah, one more thing: I am not responsable of any kind of grammatical or orthographic mistake it would be really impossible to me to clear all the errors pushed inside here, I’ve found someone (luck!) but I really am not going to look for them all… I am not a teacher and I’m not emnglish, forgive me!…

WE DO NO WANT IN ANY CASE TO FORCE ANYBODY TO USE IT, ONLY BE TOLERANT!

O.K., after these clarifications… …WHAT it with alcohol, pasta, chocolate and ap- KIND OF STUFF IS THIS? ples. There are also a lot of plans (draw- This is a really tiny book assembled ings are at the end of the book) of some with some files we found “surfing” the sea instruments you can use to get the higher of Internet. So we really are not the au- smoking satisfaction avoiding most of the thors of anyone of the articles, texts, undesirable carcinogenic effects con- drawings or stories you may find in there, nected. Anyway… keep smoking tobacco except for this introduction and the cover (really more dangerous) and getting high of this book. with alcohol (really really really more This book is divided in four parts: dangerous and with a lot of connected side-effects like headache and nausea)… Marijuana: Prejudices VS Science: This is the most interesting part of all the book. This and That: A little chapter inside Inside this chapter you may find a little which you can find two funny and curious introduction about Marijuana legalization, stories, a big text with an historical a big part about physical and psychologi- treatment of the argument, the story of cal effects on humans, and, most of all, a the assassins, a groups of terrible warri- lot of stuff about medical applications of ors, really existed, enslaved by their the THC (the main active principle) in the sultan with a chronic use of Marijuana, treatment of AIDS, anorexia, nausea caused and a vocabulary of the slang used by the by the use of some medicines used to cure Mj-users. cancer. ATTENTION: these texts are not written by Maybe you can find this stuff a little people who are interested in legalizing or confused, with something repeated in dif- criminalising Marijuana use, these only ferent parts, it happens because, as said are the results of serious researches, in before, all this stuff has not been writ- many cases extracted from scientific maga- ten by a single person, but by a lot of zines or ONU-organs reports. people, in many different occasions. We really hope this book were an inter- The joy of growin’ by yourself: This part esting thing for those who just know Mari- of the book explains how to grow Mari- juana, and a vehicle of knowledge for juana, how to build outdoor or indoor those who don’t know it. “Marijuana gardens”, what kind of lamps Maybe (surely…) there are a lot of good use for an indoor growing, when to har- motivation not to use Marijuana, but vest, how to recognize the maturity of the surely there are no good reasons to crimi- plant and increase the THC production… nalise its use. really interesting… anyway… keep growing tomatoes!!! E-mail: Use and abuse: It’s all about using it: how to eat it, cook it, smoke it, assume [email protected]

Knowledge is the best enemy of discrimination. P.S.:Please, if you can, print this stuff on good recycled paper, it will be better for the trees, for our planet and for your soul… …God Bless You!

Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science

Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. with sentences of twenty or thirty or forty years, the number condemned to die A little bit of all… in prison may reach into the hundreds. Other inmates, no one knows how many, are serving life sentences in state correc- from the beginning… tional facilities across the country for growing, selling, or even possessing Mari- juana. Marijuana has not been de facto legalized, The phrase “war on drugs” evokes images and the war on drugs is not just about co- of Colombian cartels and inner-city crack caine and heroin. In fact, today, when we addicts. In many ways that is a mispercep- tion. Marijuana is and has long been the don’t have enough jail cells for murder- most widely used illegal drug in the ers, rapists, and other violent criminals, United States. It is used here more fre- there may be more people in federal and quently than all other illegal drugs com- state prisons for Marijuana offenses than bined. According to conservative esti- at any other time in U.S. history. mates, one third of the American population over the age of eleven has smoked by Eric Schlosser Marijuana at least once. More than 17 mil- Copyright 1994, The Atlantic Monthly. lion Americans smoked it in 1992. At least three million smoke it on a daily basis. In the state of Indiana a person con- Unlike heroin or cocaine, which must be victed of armed robbery will serve about imported, anywhere from a quarter to half five years in prison; someone convicted of of the Marijuana used in this country is rape will serve about twelve; and a con- grown here as well. Although popular victed murderer can expect to spend twenty stereotypes depict Marijuana growers as years behind bars. These figures are actu- aging hippies in northern California or ally higher than the figures nationwide: Hawaii, the majority of the Marijuana now eight years and eight months in prison is cultivated in the United States is being the average punishment for an American grown in the nation’s midsection, a swath found guilty of murder. The prison terms running roughly from the Appalachians west given by Indiana judges tend to be long, to the Great Plains. Throughout this Mari- but with good behavior an inmate will juana Belt drug fortunes are being made by serve no more than half the nominal sen- farmers who often seem to have stepped tence. Those facts are worth keeping in from a page of the old Saturday Evening mind when considering the case of Mark Post. The value of America’s annual Mari- Young. At the age of thirty-eight Young juana crop is staggering: plausible esti- was arrested at his Indianapolis home for mates start at $4 billion and range up to brokering the sale of 700 pounds of Mari- $24 billion. In 1993 the value of the na- juana grown on a farm in nearby Morgan tion’s largest legal cash crop, corn, was County. Young was tried and convicted un- roughly $16 billion. der federal law. He had never before been Marijuana has well-organized supporters charged with drug trafficking. He had no who campaign for its legalization and pro- history of violent crime. Young’s role in mote its use through books, magazines, and the illegal transaction had been that of a popular music. They regard Marijuana as middleman, he never distributed the drugs; not only a benign recreational drug but he simply introduced two people hoping to also a form of herbal medicine and a prod- sell a large amount of Marijuana to three uct with industrial applications. Mari- people wishing to buy it. The offense oc- juana’s opponents are equally passionate curred a year and a half prior to his ar- and far better organized. They consider rest. No confiscated Marijuana, money, or Marijuana a dangerous drug, one that harms physical evidence of any kind linked Young the user’s mental, physical, and spiritual to the crime. He was convicted solely on well-being, promotes irresponsible sexual the testimony of co-conspirators who were behavior, and encourages disrespect for now cooperating with the government. On traditional values. At the heart of the February 8, 1992, Mark Young was sentenced ongoing bitter debate is a hardy weed that by Judge Sarah Evans Barker to life im- can grow wild in all fifty- states. The prisonment without possibility of parole. two sides agree that countless lives have There was so much talk in the 1970s been destroyed by Marijuana, but disagree about the decriminalization of Marijuana, about what should be blamed: the plant it- and the smoking of Marijuana is so casu- self, or the laws forbidding its use. ally taken for granted in much of our cul- The war on drugs embraced by President ture, that many people assume that a Mari- Ronald Reagan began largely as a campaign juana offense these days will rarely lead against Marijuana organized by conserva- to a prison term. But in fact there may be tive parents’ groups in the late 1970s. more people in prison today for violating After more than a decade in which penal- Marijuana laws than at any other time in ties for Marijuana offenses had been re- the nation’s history. Calculations based duced at both the state and federal lev- on data provided by the Bureau of Prisons els, the laws regarding Marijuana were and the United States Sentencing Commis- made much tougher in the 1980s. More re- sion suggest that one of every six inmates sources were devoted to their enforcement, in the federal prison system, roughly and punishments more severe than those ad- 15,000 people, has been incarcerated pri- ministered during the “reefer madness” of marily for a Marijuana offense. The number the 1930s became routine. All the legal currently being held in state prisons and tools commonly associated with the fight local jails is more difficult to estimate; against heroin and cocaine trafficking a conservative guess would be an addi- (civil forfeitures, enhanced police search tional 20,000 to 30,000. And Mark Young’s powers, the broad application of conspir- sentence, though unusual, is by no means acy laws, a growing reliance on the testi- unique. A dozen or more Marijuana offend- mony of informers, and mechanistic sen- ers may now be serving life sentences in tencing formulas, such as mandatory mini- federal penitentiaries without hope of pa- mums and “three strikes, you’re out”) have role; if one includes middle-aged inmates been employed against Marijuana offenders.

13 Absinthe The story of how Mark Young got a life in discovering any of its benefits, while sentence reveals a great deal about the major drug companies have little incentive emergence of the American heartland as the to fund expensive research on Marijuana. region where a vast amount of the nation’s As Grinspoon explains, “You cannot patent Marijuana is now grown; about the changing this plant”. composition of the federal prison popula- The long-term health effects of chronic tion; and about the effects of the war on Marijuana use, and Marijuana’s role as a drugs, a dozen years after its declara- “gateway” to the use of other illegal tion, throughout America’s criminal- drugs, are issues surrounded by great con- justice system. troversy. Marijuana does not create a Underlying Young’s tale is a simple physical dependence in its users, but it question: How does a society come to pun- does create a psychological dependence in ish a person more harshly for selling some. People who smoke Marijuana are far Marijuana than for killing someone with a more likely to experiment later with other gun? psychoactive drugs, but no direct cause- and-effect relationship has ever been es- The Plant in Question tablished. Delta-9-THC is highly lipid- soluble and has a half-life of five days, “Marijuana” is the Mexican colloquial which means that it diffuses widely name for a plant known to botanists as throughout the human body and remains Cannabis Sativa. In various forms it has there for quite some time: an occasional long been familiar throughout the world: user can fail a urine test three days af- in Africa as “dagga”, in China as “ma”, in ter smoking a single joint, and a heavy Northern Europe as “hemp”. Although Canna- user may test positive after abstaining bis most likely originated in the steppes from Marijuana for more than a month. of central Asia, it now thrives in almost Delta-9-THC’s persistence within various any climate, spreading like milkweed or cells and vital organs (also a character- thistle, crowding out neighboring grasses istic of Valium, Thorazine, and quinine) and reaching heights of three to twenty suggests that it could have the ability to feet at maturity. exert subtly harmful effects; few have yet Marijuana has been cultivated for at been proved. Studies of lifelong heavy least 5,000 years; it is one of the oldest Marijuana users in Jamaica, Greece, and agricultural commodities not Costa Rica reveal little psychological or grown for food. The stalks of the physiological damage. Much more research, plant contain fibers that have been however, needs to be done in the areas of woven for millennia to make rope, cognition, reproduction, and immunology. canvas, and paper. Cannabis is dioecious, Adolescent users in particular would be at spawning male and female plants in equal risk if Marijuana were found to have per- proportion. The flowering buds of the fe- nicious systemic effects. Some studies male (and to a lesser extent those of the have shown that short-term memory defi- male) secrete a sticky yellow resin rich ciencies in heavy smokers, though reversi- with Cannabinoids, the more than sixty ble, may endure long after the cessation compounds unique to Marijuana. Several of of Marijuana use. Other studies have dem- them are psychoactive, most prominently onstrated in vitro and in laboratory ani- delta-9-tetrahydro-cannabinol (THC). mals that Marijuana may have a mild immu- Lester Grinspoon, an associate profes- nosuppressive effect, but no study has sor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical conclusively linked delta-9-THC to immune- School, believes that Marijuana will some- system changes in human beings. Well- day be hailed as a “miracle drug”, one publicized horror stories from the 1970s that is safe, inexpensive, and versatile. (that Marijuana kills brain cells, damages In his book Marijuana, the Forbidden Medi- chromosomes, and prompts men to grow cine (1993) Grinspoon provides anecdotal breasts) were based on faulty research. evidence that smoking Marijuana can re- Smoking Marijuana does seem to damage lieve the nausea associated with chemo- the pulmonary system, in some of the ways therapy, prevent blindness induced by that inhaling tobacco smoke does. In a glaucoma, serve as an appetite stimulant study of people who have smoked four or for AIDS patients, act as an anti- five joints a day for more than ten years, epileptic, ward off asthma attacks and mi- the physician Donald P. Tashkin, of the graine headaches, alleviate chronic pain, University of California at Los Angeles and reduce the muscle spasticity that ac- Medical Center, has found substantial evi- companies multiple sclerosis, cerebral dence that Marijuana smoke can cause palsy, and paraplegia. Other doctors think chronic bronchitis, changes in cells of that Grinspoon is wildly optimistic, and the central airway which are potentially that no “crude drug” like Marijuana (com- pre-cancerous, and an impairment in scav- posed of more than 400 chemicals) should enger-cell function which could lead to a be included in the modern pharmacopoeia. risk of respiratory infection. A joint They point out that effective synthetic seems to deliver four times as much car- drugs, of precise dosage and purity, have cinogenic tar as a tobacco cigarette of been developed for every one of Mari- the same size. Tashkin expects that some juana’s potential uses. Dronabinol, a syn- heavy Marijuana users will eventually suf- thetic form of delta-9-THC, has been fer cancers of the mouth, throat, and available for years, though some clinical lungs, although none of his research sub- oncologists find it inferior to Marijuana jects has yet developed a malignancy. as an anti-nausea agent. There have been Oddly enough, the more potent strains of remarkably few large-scale studies that Marijuana may prove less dangerous, since might verify or disprove Grinspoon’s less of them needs to be smoked. claims. Nevertheless, thirty-six states There is much less disagreement about allow the medicinal use of Marijuana, and the short-term health effects of Mari- eight patients are currently receiving it juana. According to the physician Leo Hol- from the Public Health Service. According lister, a former president of the American to Grinspoon, the federal government has College of Neuropsycho-pharmacology, who always been far more interested in estab- now teaches at the University of Texas, lishing Marijuana’s harmful effects than the occasional use of Marijuana by a

14 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. healthy adult poses no greater risks than Southwest and from Louisiana petitioned the moderate consumption of alcohol. For a the Treasury Department to outlaw Mari- variety of reasons, however, Marijuana juana. Their efforts were aided by a lurid should not be smoked by schizophrenics, propaganda campaign. “Murder Weed Found Up pregnant women, and people with heart con- and Down Coast”, one headline warned; ditions. Although the misuse of over-the- “Deadly Marijuana Dope Plant Ready For counter medications such as aspirin, Harvest That Means Enslavement of Califor- acetaminophen, and antihistamines each nia Children”. Harry J. Anslinger, the year kills hundreds of Americans, not a commissioner of the Federal Bureau of Nar- single death has ever been credibly at- cotics, at first doubted the seriousness tributed directly to smoking or consuming of the problem and the need for federal Marijuana in the 5,000 years of the legislation, but soon he pursued the goal plant’s recorded use. of a nationwide Marijuana prohibition with Marijuana is one of the few therapeuti- enormous gusto. In public appearances and cally active substances known to man for radio broadcasts Anslinger asserted that which there is no well-defined fatal dose. the use of this “evil weed” led to kill- It has been estimated that a person would ings, sex crimes, and insanity. He wrote have to smoke a hundred pounds of Mari- sensational magazine articles with titles juana a minute for fifteen minutes in or- like “Marijuana: Assassin of Youth”. In der to induce a lethal response. 1937 Congress passed the Marijuana Tax Act, effectively criminalizing the posses- Criminalized, Decriminalized, sion of Marijuana throughout the United Recriminalized States. A week after it went into effect, a fifty-eight-year-old Marijuana dealer The first American law pertaining to named Samuel R. Caldwell became the first Marijuana, passed by the Virginia Assembly person convicted under the new statute. in 1619, required every farmer to grow it. Although Marijuana offenders had been Hemp was deemed not only a valuable com- treated leniently under state and local modity but also a strategic necessity; its laws, Judge J. Foster Symes, of Denver, fibers were used to make sails and rig- lectured Caldwell on the viciousness of gings, and its by-products were trans- Marijuana and sentenced him to four hard formed into oakum for the caulking of years at Leavenworth Penitentiary. wooden ships. Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Harry J. Anslinger is a central figure Maryland eventually allowed hemp to be ex- in the history of American drug policy. He changed as legal tender, in order to headed the Federal Bureau of Narcotics stimulate its production and relieve Colo- from its inception through five presiden- nial money shortages. Although a number of tial Administrations spanning more than the Founding Fathers, including George three decades. Anslinger had much in com- Washington and Thomas Jefferson, later mon with his rival, J. Edgar Hoover. Both grew hemp on their estates, there is no were conservative, staunchly anti- evidence that they were aware of the communist proponents of law and order who plant’s psychoactive properties. The do- imbued nascent federal bureaus with their mestic production of hemp flourished, es- own idiosyncracies. Anslinger did not be- pecially in Kentucky, until after the lieve in a public-health approach to drug Civil War, when it was replaced by imports addiction; he dismissed treatment clinics from Russia and by other domestic materi- as “morphine feeding stations” and “bar- als. In the latter half of the nineteenth rooms for addicts”. In his view, strict century Marijuana became a popular ingre- enforcement of the law was the only proper dient in patent medicines and was sold response to illegal drug use; he urged openly at pharmacies in one-ounce herbal judges to “jail offenders, then throw away packages and in alcohol-based tinctures as the key”. Anslinger’s outlook was consis- a cure for migraines, rheumatism, and intent with that of most Americans, though somnia. his opinions proved more resistant to new The political upheaval in Mexico that scientific evidence. When the New York culminated in the Revolution of 1910 led Academy of Medicine, after years of re- to a wave of Mexican immigration to states search, issued a report in 1944 concluding throughout the American Southwest. The that Marijuana use did not cause violent prejudices and fears that greeted these behavior, provoke insanity, lead to addic- peasant immigrants also extended to their tion, or promote opiate use, Anslinger an- traditional means of intoxication: smoking grily dismissed its authors as “dangerous” Marijuana. Police officers in Texas and “strange”. claimed that Marijuana incited violent America’s drug problem often seemed the crimes, aroused a “lust for blood”, and work of foreign powers: during the Second gave its users “superhuman strength”. Ru- World War, Anslinger accused the Japanese mors spread that Mexicans were distribut- of using narcotics to sap America’s will ing this “killer weed” to unsuspecting to fight; a few years later he asserted American schoolchildren. Sailors and West that Communists were attempting the same Indian immigrants brought the practice of ploy. The Boggs Act, passed by Congress at smoking Marijuana to port cities along the the height of the McCarthy era, specified Gulf of Mexico. In New Orleans newspaper the same penalties for Marijuana and her- articles associated the drug with African- oin offenses, two to five years in prison Americans, jazz musicians, prostitutes, for first-time possession. As justifica- and underworld whites. “The Marijuana Men- tion for the long sentences contained in ace”, as sketched by anti-drug campaign- that act and in the Narcotic Control Act, ers, was personified by inferior races and which followed in 1956, Anslinger stressed social deviants. In 1914 El Paso, Texas, Marijuana’s crucial role as a “stepping- enacted perhaps the first U.S. ordinance stone” to narcotics addiction. Like Hoo- banning the sale or possession of Mari- ver, he maintained dossiers on well-known juana; by 1931 twenty-nine states had out- entertainers whose behavior seemed un- lawed Marijuana, usually with little fan- American. Anslinger disliked jazz and kept fare or debate. Amid the rise of anti- a special file, “Marijuana and Musicians”, immigrant sentiment fueled by the Great filled with reports on band members who Depression, public officials from the played with Cab Calloway, Louis Armstrong,

15 Absinthe Les Brown, Count Basie, Jimmy Dorsey, and Duke Ellington, among others. For months Anslinger planned a nationwide roundup of Role of the popular musicians, a scheme that was foiled by the inability of FBN agents to infiltrate the jazz milieu. Although international Anslinger’s opposition to drug use was both passionate and sincere, he made one narcotics control notable exception. In his memoir, The Mur- derers, Anslinger confessed to having arranged a regular supply of morphine for board “one of the most influential members of Congress”, who had become an addict. Anslinger’s biographer believes that addict was Senator Joseph R. McCarthy. Over the last 80 years, a worldwide By 1962, when Harry J. Anslinger re- system for control of drugs of abuse has tired, many states had passed “little developed gradually through the adoption Boggs Acts” with penalties for Marijuana of a series of international treaties. The possession or sale tougher than those de- important multilateral conventions cur- manded by federal law. In Louisiana sen- rently in force are the Single Convention tences for simple possession ranged from on Narcotic Drugs of 1961 (1961 Conven- five to ninety-nine years; in Missouri a tion), as amended by the 1972 Protocol; second offense could result in a life sen- the Convention on Psychotropic Substances tence; and in Georgia a second conviction of 1971 (1971 Convention) and, adopted in for selling Marijuana to minors could 1988, the United Nations Convention bring the death penalty. As the political against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs climate changed during the 1960s, so did and Psychotropic Substances (1988 Conven- attitudes toward drug abuse. A series of tion). Each successive treaty brought com- commissions appointed by Presidents John plementary regulations and advances in in- F. Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson repudiated ternational law. some of the basic assumptions that had From the beginning, the basis aim of guided Marijuana policy for more than the international drug control treaties fifty years, denying a direct link between has been to limit the use of drugs to the drug and violent crime or heroin use. medical and scientific purposes only. As Marijuana use became widespread among The International Narcotics Control white middle-class college students, there Board (INCB or Board) is the independent was a reappraisal of Marijuana laws that and quasijudicial control organ for the for decades had imprisoned poor Mexicans implementation of the United Nations drug and African-Americans without much public conventions, established in 1968 by the dissent. Drug-abuse policy shifted from a Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of purely criminal-justice approach to one 1961. It had predecessors under the former also motivated by interests of public drug conventions since the time of the health, with more emphasis on treatment League of Nations. than on punishment. In 1970 the Comprehen- The Board is independent of Governments sive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act as well as of the United Nations; its 13 finally differentiated Marijuana from members serve in their personal capacity. other narcotics and reduced federal penal- They are elected by the United Nations ties for possession of small amounts. As Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and directed by Congress, President Richard their work is financed by the United Na- Nixon appointed a bipartisan commission to tions. Three members are elected from a study Marijuana. In 1972 the Shafer Com- list of candidates nominated by WHO and 10 mission issued its report, advocating the from a list nominated Governments. decriminalization of Marijuana for personal use, a recommendation that Nixon Mandate flatly rejected. Nevertheless, eleven states, containing a third of the coun- It is the Board’s responsibility to try’s population, decriminalized Marijuana promote government compliance with the in the 1970s, and most other states weak- provisions of the drug control treaties ened their laws against it. President and to assist them in this effort. The Jimmy Carter endorsed decriminalization, Broadly speaking, the Board deals with two and it seemed that long prison sentences aspects of drug control. for Marijuana offenders had been consigned With regard to licit manufacture, com- to the nation’s past. merce and sale of drugs, the Board endeav- ors to ensure that adequate supplies are available for medical and scientific uses, and that leakages from licit sources to illicit traffic do not occur to this and, it administers an estimates system for narcotic drugs and a voluntary assessment system for psychotropic substances, and monitors international trade in drugs through the statistical returns system. The Board also monitors government control over chemicals used in the illicit manufacture of drugs, and assists them in preventing iversion of these chemicals into illicit traffic. With respect to illicit manufacture and trafficking of drugs, the Board identifies where weaknesses in the national and international control systems exist and contributes to correcting the situation.

16 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. Further, the Board is responsible for assessing chemicals used to illicitly The international system of controlling manufacture drugs, for possible interna- the licit movement of narcotic drugs under tional control. the 1961 Convention functions in a generally satisfactory manner, and licitly pro- Membership duced or manufactured drugs usually do not constitute a source for illicit traffic. The members, with mandates expiring on The fact that the system generally works 1 March of the year Indicated, are: well is mainly due to the estimates system that covers all countries whether or not Gottfrid Machata Austria 1997 parties to the convention. H. C. Kauffman Bolivia 1995 Countries are under an obligation not to Zhi-Ji Cai China 1995 exceed the mounts of the estimates confirmed or established by the Board. Mohammed Abbas Mansour Egypt 1995 The Board, in cooperation with WHO, Oskar Schrvder Germany 1995 publishes reports on the supply of and de- M.V.N. Rao India 1995 mand for opiates for medical and scien- Sirad Admodjo Indonesia* 1997 tific needs. The reports analyse the pro- Abdol-Hamid Ghodse Iran* 1997 duction of opiate raw materials and the Manuel Quijano Narezo Mexico 1997 consumption of opiates. They also make Raoof Ali Khan Pakistan 1997 recommendations to Governments, profes- Mohsen Kchuk Tunisia 1995 sional associations and medical instruc- Bunsom Martin Thailand 1997 tors, aimed at minimizing, if not overcom- Herbert Okun U.S.A. 1997 ing, impediments to ensure adequate availability of opiates for treatment and man- * Elected by ECOSOC from among nominees agement of severe pain. submitted by WHO. Control of psychotropic substances Secretariat The 1971 Convention came into force in The secretariat is located at the Vi- 1976. In contrast to illicit traffic in enna International Centre, P.O. Box 500, narcotic drugs, which are obtained from A-1400 Vienna, Austria, telephone: 211310; illicit production and manufacture, psy- telefax: 232156 and 2309788; telex: chotropic substances are often obtained 135612. The secretary is Herbert Schaepe. through diversions from legitimate manufacture. These diversions stem ainly from Scope of international drug control inadequate legislation in a number of manufacturing and xporting countries and Two categories of drugs, narcotic drugs the lack of advance information on actual and psychotropic substances, are con- medical and scientific requirements. Mil- trolled by the international drug control lions of dosage units of such unwanted treaties: At present, control is exercised substances have thus been “exported” to over more than 116 narcotic drugs under countries that had no use for them, and the 1961 Convention. They include mainly end up being abused worldwide. natural products such as opium and its de- Acting on recommendations made by INCB rivatives, morphine, codeine and heroin, in 1980, 1981 and 1991, ECOSOC requested but also synthetic narcotics such as all Governments to provide the Board with methadone and pethidine, as well as Canna- an assessment of their actual requirements bis and cocaine. Some 105 psychotropic for medical and scientific purposes of in- substances are controlled by the 1971 Con- ternationally controlled psychotropic sub- vention. Most of them are contained in stances. Today, approximately 170 Govern- pharmaceutical products acting on the cen- ments provide the Board with such informa- tral nervous system. Broadly speaking, tion, at least for the more dangerous psy- these are the hallucinogens, the stimu- chotropic substances. These figures are lants and the depressants and some analge- published regularly by the Board. Diver- sics. sion of legitimately manufactured sub- The measures of control that these two stances has already been significantly re- conventions prescribe vary in strictness duced, because the authorities of export- from one group of drugs to another. For ing countries can now easily check whether this purpose, drugs are listed in various the orders they receive tally with the schedules annexed to the Conventions ac- real needs of importing countries. When in cording to the differences in their de- doubt, exporting countries consult INCB. pendence-producing properties, their therapeutic value and their risk of abuse. Control of precursor and essential The United Nations Commission on Narcotic chemicals used to illicitly manufacture Drugs (CND or the Commission), a func- drugs tional Commission of ECOSOC, has the power to determine whether a new drug should be Article 12 of the 1988 Convention in- listed, or whether a listed drug should be troduced a number of control measures on transferred to another schedule or de- various substances frequently used in the leted. In so doing, the Commission must illicit manufacture of narcotic drugs and take into account the findings and recom- psychotropic substances. The article en- mendations of the World Health Organiza- trusted the Board with the responsibili- tion (WHO). ties of monitoring the implementation by Besides the control of narcotic drugs Governments of the control measures over and psychotropic substances, both of which such substances and assessing chemical are dependence-causing substances, inter- substances for possible international con- national drug control has been extended by trol. The Board reports yearly to the Com- the 1988 Convention to 22 chemicals fre- mission on government implementation of quently used in the illicit manufacture of that article. narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances. A databank has been established to en- Control of narcotic drugs able INCB to make full use of the informa-

17 Absinthe tion furnished by Governments and obtained ECOSOC through the Commission. The report from other sources. This databank is used provides a comprehensive survey of the both to assist the Board in assessing sub- drug control situation in various parts of stances for possible control, and as a the world. As an impartial body, INCB tool to help Governments prevent diversion tries to identify and predict dangerous of precursor and essential chemicals to trends and suggests necessary measures to the illicit manufacture of drugs. be taken. The annual report is supple- mented by technical reports on narcotic Evaluation and support national efforts drugs and psychotropic substances, giving a detailed account of estimates of annual By examining and analysing the informa- legitimate requirements in each country as tion it receives from some 190 countries well as data, the licit production, manu- and territories, INCB monitors whether the facture, trade and consumption of these treaties are being applied throughout the drugs worldwide. world in as an effective a manner as possible. Through its continuous evaluation United Nations system and drug control or- of national efforts, INCB may be able to gans and their secretariat. recommend actions and suggest adjustments * In accordance with General Assembly to both international and national control resolution 45/179 of 21 December 1990, the regimes. In appropriate cases, the Board secretariat of INCB has been fully inte- may recommend to the competent United Na- grated into UNDCP. tions organs, to specialized agencies and Governments that technical and/or finan- cial assistance be provided in support of the Governments’ efforts to comply with their treaty obligations.

Dialogue with Governments

In order to further the aims of the treaties, the Board maintains ongoing dis- cussions with Governments. Such dialogues are pursued through regular consultations and through missions arranged in agreement with the Governments concerned. As a result, for example, countries became parties to the conventions and have strength- ened their legislation, particularly concerning psychotropic substances, or have improved coordination of national drug control efforts. The Board has repeatedly stressed that real and lasting progress in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking depends on the strong commitment of Governments, the establishment of priorities and the allocation of adequate resources by national authorities, since they and they alone are able to take the necessary measures within their countries. To achieve maximum impact, all such national endeav- ors must be coordinated at both regional and worldwide levels.

Training programmes

In order to enhance the functioning of national drug control administrations, the INCB secretariat conducts training programmes for drug control administrators, particularly from developing counties. These officials receive training in the implementation of treaty obligations, especially those that relate to cooperation between INCB and parties to the treaties. Regional training seminars have not only helped to improve cooperation from par- ticipating countries but have also served to enhance collaboration among countries within the regions. These seminars are organized in close cooperation with the United Nations Inter- national Drug Control Programme (UNDCP) and other competent international organizations, in particular WHO and the Inter- national Criminal Police Organization. Na- tional administrations also send officials to the INCB secretariat for training.

Annual report

Based on its activities, INCB publishes an annual report that is submitted to

18 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science.

• The National Organization for the Re- form of Marijuana Laws has a program, Legalization of Mari- which is to bring on the legalization of Marijuana by the year 1997. The juana long president of NORML, as it is everywhere referred to, is a man of considerable literary and polemical skills. Richard overdue Cowan is a graduate of Yale and a co- founder of Young Americans for Freedom. He is here and there given to hyper- bole, as when he cites the support Here is an article by well-known conserva- given to the Partnership for a Drug tive columnist William F. Buckley, a sup- Free America (PDFA) by corporate Amer- porter of drug legalization, concerning ica as “reminiscent of the support the legalization of Marijuana. I do not given the Nazis by German industrial- know where this article originally ap- ists”. peared. • But Cowen is on to something, the root credentials of which are: by William F. Buckley • However one feels about legalizing cocaine, the case for legalizing Mari- In a recent encounter, Edward Koch re- juana is an entire world removed from minded his interlocuter that many years that question. ago, Rep. Edward Koch had sought backing • The amount of money and of legal energy for a congressional investigation into the being given to prosecute hundreds of Marijuana laws. I had been reminded by the thousands of Americans who are caught former mayor of New York that along about with a few ounces of Marijuana in their 1967-68, the typical congressman had to jeans simply makes no sense - the kind- reflect that any law requiring one or five est way to put it. A sterner way to put or 10 years in jail as a penalty for being it is that it is an outrage, an inposi- caught using Marijuana endangered his own tion on basic civil liberties and on sons and daughters in college. Koch got the reasonable expenditure of social the support he sought. But no meaningful energy. reforms, if that is the word we are per- • The point must surely come when the mitted to use, were enacted. In 1967, all American people acknowledge that the drug arrests came to 121,000. Of these, drive against Marijuana is not proving Marijuana arrests were one-half, 61,000. anything at all, given the contnuing In 1991, all drug arrests were 1 million, availability of the drug and its (rela- Marijuana 285,000. tively modest) patronage. Background data give us perspective. Richard Cowan makes a telling point, Sixty-six million Americans have smoked namely that the media are notoriously in- Marijuana, and at least 10 million - per- sensitive to the abuses of the narcocracy. haps many more - continue to do so regu- “Most people are unaware of the nature of larly. Comparable figures? Twenty-two mil- the Marijuana prohibition in America to- lion have used cocaine, 1.5 million still day, the extent of its cruelty and injus- do; 150 million have used tobacco, 50 mil- tice, and the threat that it poses to eve- lion still do. In 1976, 12 percent of ryone’s freedom. Ironically, many of those children age 12-17 had used Marijuana dur- who are aware of the extent of the problem ing the preceding month. By 1990, this view it as being so great that they de- figure was down to 5 percent. Over age 26, spair of being able to end it. Conse- the percentage had not changed: 3.5 per- quently, as an act of triage, they abandon cent in 1976, 3.6 percent in 1990. The so- it as a lost cause, to work on something cial vectors within the drug-law-reform which they view as at least possible”. movement have during the period since Koch Like what? The rehabilitation of President asked for an investigation of federal Clinton? Marijuana laws moved as follows: • The informed public is gradually will- William F. Buckley Jr. ing to acknowledge a difference between Marijuana and more lethal drugs. • It is, however reluctantly, acknowl- edged that Marijuana can have therapeu- “As for drug proscription, I don’t think tic uses, in particular to bring relief it’s possible except by inaugurating a so- to those suffering from radiation or ciety in which we wouldn’t want to live. chemotherapy treatments for cancer. Legalize drugs for those over 21, and exe- • There is a gradual awakening of the cute anyone convicted of selling drugs to moral sensibilities of the alert mem- a minor. That will leave us with about $25 bers of the public. My own belated ar- billion per year to spend on therapy and rival on the scene stings in the mem- education and will reduce the crime rate ory. It came with a letter from a fa- overnight by more than 50 per cent”. ther in his early 30s who neither smoked nor drank, who had three chil- William F. Buckley, “National Review” , dren, was gainfully employed, and en- Dec. 28, 1992, p 55 gaged in civic-minded activity - but liked on Saturday nights, to retreat to his woodshed and smoke a joint. He was caught at it, arrested, his house seized, and is now in jail, and sentenced to 10 years. It is hard to understand the moral disposition of the prosecuter who asked for that sentence, and the judge who imposed it.

19 Absinthe including but not limited to: seed, seed protein, seed oil, essential fatty acids, An act to amend the seed cake, gruel, or any preparation or extract thereof. (e) The term “hemp intoxicating prod- Health and Safety ucts” means any hemp, Cannabis or Mari- juana product other than industrial hemp Code of California: products, hemp medicinal preparations or hemp products for nutritional use. (f) The term “personal use” means the use or consumption of any product or California Hemp Initiative, 1994 preparation of hemp, Cannabis or Mari- An Initiative Measure juana, intended for any relaxational, To Be Submitted Directly to the Voters. spiritual, religious or other personal purpose other than for sale. I. Add Section 11357.5 to the Health and Safety Code of California, any laws or (3) Hemp medicinal preparations are hereby policies to the contrary notwithstanding: restored to the available list of medicines in California. Licensed physicians (1) Persons, 21 years or older, shall not shall not be penalized for nor restricted be prosecuted, be denied any right or from prescribing hemp medicinal prepara- privilege nor be subject to any criminal tions for any medical purpose to any pa- or civil penalties for the possession, tient, regardless of age. No tax shall be cultivation, transportation, distribution applied to prescribed medical prepara- or consumption of hemp, including: tions.

(a) Industrial hemp products. Hemp (4) Hemp intoxicating products shall be farmers and manufacturers shall not be regulated in a manner analogous to Cali- subject to any special zoning requirement, fornia’s wine industry model. licensing fee or tax that is discrimina- For the purpose of distinguishing personal tory or prohibitive. from commercial production, up to 48 (b) Hemp medicinal preparations. ounces of dried, cured hemp flowers pro- (c) Hemp food products for nutritional duced per adult, 21 years or older, per use. year shall be considered as being for per- (d) Hemp intoxicating products, includ- sonal use. ing plants, flowers or resin, for personal use in private by persons 21 years or (5) The manufacture, marketing, distribu- older. No permit, license or tax shall be tion or sales between adults of equipment required for the non-commercial cultiva- or accessories designed to assist in the tion, transportation, distribution or con- planting, cultivation, harvesting, curing, sumption of any such hemp product. Testing processing, packaging, storage, analysis, for inert Cannabis metabolites shall not consumption or transportation of the hemp be required for employment or insurance, plant, industrial hemp products, hemp me- nor be considered in determining impair- dicinal preparations, hemp nutritional ment. products, or hemp products for personal use shall not be prohibited. (2) Definition of terms: (a) The word “hemp” is the pre-eminent (6) Enactment of this initiative shall be term and means hemp, Cannabis, Marihuana retroactive in its application to include or Marijuana; any part or preparation of amnesty and clearing of all criminal re- the plants Cannabis Sativa, Cannabis In- cords for all Cannabis/Marijuana related dica, Cannabis Americana or any variety of offenses which are included in this ini- Cannabis. tiative and are hereby no longer illegal. (b) The term “industrial hemp products” means all products made from hemp that are Within 60 days of the passage of this act, not designed or intended for human con- the Attorney General shall develop and sumption, including, but not limited to: distribute a one-page application, provid- clothing, housing, paper, fiber, fuel, lu- ing for the destruction of all criminal bricants, plastics, paint, seed for culti- records in California for Canna- vation, animal feed, veterinary medicine bis/Marijuana related offenses which are and oil; or hemp plants used for crop ro- included in this initiative and are hereby tation, erosion control, weed control or no longer illegal. Such forms shall be other horticultural purposes. distributed to district and city attorneys (c) The term “hemp medicinal prepara- and made available at all police depart- tions” means all products made from hemp, ments in the state of California to per- Cannabis or Marijuana, that are designed, sons hereby affected. Upon filing such intended, or used for human consumption form with the Attorney General and payment for the treatment of any disease, for pain of a fee not greater than $10.00, all per- relief, or for any healing purpose, in- tinent records anywhere in the state shall cluding, but not limited to: the treatment be destroyed. Such persons may truthfully or relief of arthritis, asthma, epilepsy, state that they have never been convicted glaucoma, migraine, multiple sclerosis, of any Cannabis/Marijuana related offense nausea, side effects of cancer chemother- which is included in this initiative and apy, sickle cell anemia, stress, wasting is hereby no longer illegal. syndrome from AIDS or anorexia; hemp plants or preparations thereof for use as II. The legislature is authorized, upon an antibiotic, antibacterial, antiviral, thorough investigation, to enact legisla- or anti-emetic; as any healing agent, or tion using reasonable standards to: as an adjunct to any medical procedure or herbal treatment. (1) Determine an acceptable standard of (d) The term “hemp food products for impairment, to restrict persons impaired nutritional use” means any hemp products by hemp intoxicating products from operat- intended for human consumption as food, ing a motor vehicle or heavy machinery, or

20 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. otherwise engaging in conduct that may af- other than those as to which it is held fect public safety. invalid, shall not be affected thereby, and to this end the provisions of this act (2) Limit the use of hemp intoxicating are severable. products in enclosed and/or restricted public places. VII. Construction: If any rival or conflicting initiative regulating any matter (3) Place no tax on commercial produc- addressed by this act receives the higher tion of hemp intoxicating products in ex- affirmative vote, then all non-conflicting cess of $10.00 per ounce. parts of this act shall become operative.

(4) License concessionary establish- VIII. Purpose of Act: This act is an exer- ments to distribute hemp intoxicating cise of the police powers of the State for products. Sufficient community outlets the protection of the safety, welfare, shall be licensed to provide commercial health and peace of the people and the en- distribution to persons of legal age, so vironment of the state, to protect the in- as to discourage and prevent the misuse of dustrial and medicinal uses of hemp; to and illicit traffic in such products. Any eliminate the evils of unlicensed and requirement or fee for licensing shall not unlawful cultivation, selling, and dis- be discriminatory or prohibitive. pensing of hemp; and to encourage temper- ance in the consumption of hemp as an in- (5) Delete and expunge any existing toxicant. It is hereby declared that the statutory laws that conflict with the pro- subject matter of this act involves, in visions of this initiative. the highest degree, the ecological, economic, social and moral wellbeing of and III. No California law enforcement person- the safety of the State and of all its nel or funds shall be used to assist en- people. All provisions of this act shall forcement of federal Cannabis/Marijuana be liberally construed for the accomplish- laws governing acts which are no longer ment of these purposes, to restore respect illegal in the state of California. for human rights, to promote tolerance and to end hemp prohibition. IV. The legislature, Governor and Attorney General are hereby directed to challenge federal Cannabis/Marijuana prohibitions San Diego Hemp Council -- sdhc@pro- that conflict with this act. harold.cts.com Hemp Can Save The Planet -- Re-Legalize It V. Temporary Advisory Panel: Within 120 NOW! days following passage of this act, the legislature shall direct an amount, not to exceed $1.5 million, from the law enforce- Thomas Edwards N3HAU ment savings hereby generated to fund a temporary advisory panel to study the fea- ([email protected]) sibility of and methods for making restitution to all persons who were imprisoned, excessively fined or had assets or private properties seized and/or forfeited as a result of criminal or civil actions for Cannabis/Marijuana related acts which are hereby no longer illegal. Said restitution shall only be paid from a portion of the tax revenues created by the reintroduction of the hemp intoxicating products industries, or in a manner to be recommended by the Temporary Advisory Panel and/or determined by the State Legislature. This panel shall consist of 13 members, to be appointed in the following manner: one appointed by the Governor; one appointed by the State Attorney General; one appointed by the State Controller; two appointed by the Speaker of the Assembly; two appointed by the President Protem of the Senate; and the remaining six to be chosen from the private sector, three by the Secretary of State and three by the State Treasurer. The panel will hold a minimum of six meetings throughout the state, which will be open to the public. A preliminary report shall be submitted to the legislature within six months of the formation of this panel. A final report with recommendations shall be submitted to the legislature and the public within one year of the formation of the advisory panel.

VI. Severability: If any provision of this act, or the application of any such provision to any person or circumstance, shall be held invalid by any court, the remain- der of this act, to the extent it can be given effect, or the application of such provision to persons or circumstances

21 Absinthe OLSEN: What about the bronchodilator and bronchoconstrictor things? Telephone interview MCKINNEY: That has to do with the effects of THC on the smooth muscle. Initially, it with Laurence acts as a stimulator, which causes smooth muscle to contract, which gives you that feeling of your diaphragm getting tight, McKinney or people say that smoke is expanding. That’s ridiculous. Smoke is not expanding their diaphragm, it’s contracting. It’s because it effects all smooth muscle imme- Cambridge Pharmaceutical Laboratories, diately, making it contract. inc. p.o. box 748 Cambridge, Massachusetts OLSEN: Well, they say Marijuana’s like a 02139 (617) 868-9386 bronchodilator, and tobacco is a broncho- July 20, 1991 constrictor. MCKINNEY: Who say? OLSEN: What’s the difference between syn- OLSEN: I’ve read this over and over again. thetic THC and natural THC? MCKINNEY: Yeah, well, there’s a lot of MCKINNEY: Molecularly speaking, there’s no things. People used to say you could bury difference at all. The only difference be- your dope in the ground, it would get full tween getting THC out of the plant, is of mold and everything. There’s a lot of when you get it out of the plant, the re- bullshit around in this business, because siduals, the impurities, are all these there’s so many people dismissive molecules, which are other OLSEN: I’ve also heard that it was good plant molecules, of course. When you make for migraines, because it expanded the synthetic THC, the only residual impurity, blood vessels in the brain. quote-unquote, is delta-8 THC, so Mari- MCKINNEY: Well, that’s complete bullshit, nol’s technically 95% THC and 5% delta-8 because there’s nothing that’s going to THC, whereas Marijuana is 5% THC and 95% give you a headache faster than expanding plant material which apparently has no ef- the blood vessels in the brain. In fact, fect, because every time people give all the two kinds of headaches that we nor- this testimony and talk about the effects mally have, one is caused by constriction of smoking Marijuana, or whatever, when- of the muscles in the neck which drops the ever they talk about the effects, the ef- blood pressure in the brain, the other is fects are identical from the effects of caused by exhaustion which by making the taking THC. smooth muscles relax… OLSEN: You said there’s never been any…, OLSEN: Well, it was described to me as the you know, when people talk about Mari- migraine or the headache comes from con- juana, they’re talking about THC, because stricting of the blood vessels, cutting none of the other chemicals have ever been off the supply of oxygen to the brain. tested. MCKINNEY: No. No, not at all. If you cut MCKINNEY: Exactly. Well, it’s not that off the blood supply to the brain, you’d they haven’t been tested, they’ve been be dead. It just drops the blood pressure tested, but there’s been no real Indica- slightly. tion that they have an effect to the ex- OLSEN: Well, just restricting the flow, I tent that it changes the effect of smoking mean, somewhat. Marijuana. In other words, there’s never MCKINNEY: Restricting the flow drops the been a test on any of the other drugs that blood pressure, doesn’t it? are in Marijuana that Indicated they have OLSEN: I don’t know. dramatic enough effects that they would be MCKINNEY: Well, let’s face it. You’ve got changing the effect of THC. Say, maybe, X amount of blood pressure, and you put there was, you know, 2% water in your or- less blood in. Come on. ange juice, it wouldn’t do a lot of dif- OLSEN: Yeah. I don’t know. It was de- ference to the orange juice. It would be scribed to me as being a reduction in oxy- slightly diluted, but you wouldn’t taste gen. any difference, and you wouldn’t feel any MCKINNEY: By a licensed physician who had difference. So, what’s happening is, the a knowledge of cardiovascular things, or government charges, which are totally spe- some Marijuana advocate? Let’s get cious, is that there are these other straight here. Who are we talking to, ex- things in Marijuana, sure, but not one of perts or Merlins? these other things in Marijuana has been shown to be dangerous or problematical, OLSEN: No. I just heard this. I’m just nor has it ever been shown that those ex- checking it out. periencing the effects of Marijuana are MCKINNEY: Don’t believe a thing you hear, experiencing the effects of anything else unless the guy who is saying it. but THC. OLSEN: Well, I don’t believe a thing I OLSEN: What about the argument that smok- hear. I repeat it as being something I ing Marijuana is bad because it’s smoke? heard, and that’s all the value I give it. MCKINNEY: That, per se, is silly, because MCKINNEY: Between you and me, I won’t pass the National Cancer Institute will tell along anything. Ever since I’ve been in you that unless you smoke more than four the drug education business, since 1970, I cigarettes a day, there’s no determination always check it out with the medical jour- that you’re moving towards lung damage, nals before I repeat anything. and very few people are smoking more than OLSEN: Well, of course, well, I just four joints a day. thought I’d check with you, since you’re OLSEN: Is there anything different about that kind of a person. Marijuana smoke than tobacco smoke MCKINNEY: Well, here’s the word. THC from MCKINNEY: No. Actually, Marijuana does a plant and THC from a vat are absolutely have a slightly tarrier smoke. It’s about identical. However, since that’s the case, 30% to 40% tarrier, but, again, we go down and since no one smoking Marijuana has to how many joints a day. ever described the symptoms of smoking Marijuana as being different from those of

22 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. having an effect of THC, we are really ize it, which the isomerizer never did do, putting people in jail for an alternative into THC. That’s the Razdan process. You administration of a legal drug, and that’s see, the thing is, that when you’re making what I keep saying. If you vaporize a THC, if you let the reaction go too far, plant to get your THC molecules, even you end up with Cannabidiol. And, what the though they’re mixed with a lot of other Razdan process locked into, the fact was, crap, sure, it’s ineffective, but it’s take it all the way to Cannabidiol and simply an alternative mode of administra- then turn the Cannabidiol into THC. That’s tion. And the Drug Enforcement Administra- how they do Razdan THC, which is the stuff tion has to admit that people smoking that Harry Pars wanted to put on the mar- Marijuana are selfmedicating themselves ket. Remember, THC can be made by anybody with THC. And if you talk about self- for nausea, it can’t be made by anyone medication, instead of getting high, and else excepting Unimed for weight gain. you talked about self-medication with OLSEN: OK. Why? crude THC, rather than smoking a doobie, MCKINNEY: Why? Because they got an orphan now you re talking about using this wonder drug from the United States government, a drug that everyone says is so safe. monopoly. That’s why this whole thing OLSEN: Yeah. Yeah, OK, tell me now, what started. Kapoor, an Indian fellow with are the two chemicals that are used to $200 million, took over Unimed and then he make THC synthetically. got an orphan drug for weight gain, and MCKINNEY: Olivitol and paramenthadianol, pushed forward with a lot of government And you react the two, and I’m not certain pressure, and they opened up the market in how you react the two, I mean, that’s the Europe by having the UN change their OKs part I don’t know. Do you put it in a on THC. pressure cooker? Do you put it in a spe- OLSEN: OK. What’s an orphan drug? cial apparatus? Do you do this? Do you do MCKINNEY: Orphan drug means when a drug that? I’m not sure. But you react the two upposedly has so little market that making together. It is being done at Norac Indus- the…, the expense of creating an FDA pass- tries owned by Chester, Dr. Chester, able version of the drug would exceed the McCluskey in Azusa, California. I mean, money that a person was going to make from this is something that ought to be fun. it. It’s called an orphan drug. That means You could get a sort of a tour of the lab. that nobody really wants to make it, be- You could get all the Marijuana activists cause it’s not profitable enough. So, in out to Azusa and stand around the place order to induce a company to make an or- where they make the THC. phan drug, the government gives one com- OLSEN: Yeah. I’m interested in where they pany a monopoly. So, Unimed has a monop- get these two chemicals from, too. oly. The interesting thing about Unimed is MCKINNEY: They get it from Sandoz in New that it’s owned by an Indian named John Jersey. Kapoor who lives in Chicago, but it’s dis- OLSEN: And do you have any idea how Sandoz tributed by Roxane Laboratories which is gets it? wholly, privately, owned by the German MCKINNEY: They make it. drug cartel Boehringer-Ingelheim, which OLSEN: OK. And do you have any idea how means that the profits from this drug are they make it? going to Germany. And, the people who make MCKINNEY: Yeah, from a lot of other stuff. the olivitol are Sandoz. It’s a Swiss com- I think they start with gallac acid. I’m pany. So, the profits from the manufacture not certain, but I think they start with of the raw ingredients go to Switzerland. gallac acid. I’m not sure, but the thing All the money from this wonderful drug is, someone told me… Carl Nocka is the man goes out of the United States, increasing who makes it. our deficit. If we grew it in this country OLSEN: OK. Got his address? and made it, it would be American THC. MCKINNEY: Carl Nocka is the man who makes This is sold by the Germans, with ingredi- the olivitol for Sandoz. I believe it’s ents made by the Swiss. And we could do it Sandoz, in their chemical division. He de- all ourselves. The original work was done scribes the process of making olivitol as by Arthur D. Little and was picked up by mouse milk. Unimed back in 1983, because no one else OLSEN: OK. Is there any way I could find wanted to make it. The capsules are made by Banner Laboratories in Los Angeles. So, out from this guy, or from anybody else, the THC, pure THC, is shipped from Norac exactly where the organic compounds come to Banner, Banner puts it into capsules from? What do they start out with? Where and ships it to the Cleveland, Ohio, ware- do they get the plant material or the min- house of Roxane Laboratories. eral material? OLSEN: How do you think that the govern- MCKINNEY: There’s no plant material. ment can keep Marijuana illegal then? OLSEN: Well, where do they get the miner- MCKINNEY: Well, because, you see, the law, als from then, to start this whole proc- as was written by John Mitchell, is the ess? Controlled Substances Act. If it was the MCKINNEY: Well, they usually get them out Controlled Drug Act, we’d have a real of the ground. problem, because in modern day we don’t OLSEN: Yeah. And what are they? What are think of a drug as being a collection of the minerals? substances, but as being a specific mole- MCKINNEY: Well, it comes down to probably cule. But, by calling it a Controlled Sub- atoms of carbon and nitrogen, and things stances Act, you can play all sorts of le- like that. You see, when you talk about gal rubbery games like saying that cocaine biosynthesis, it means the plant, using is in schedule 2, because there’s a medi- its own clever bits of iona this and iona cal use for cocaine, but crack is in that, is shifting the molecules back and Schedule 1. forth. Let’s also recall that the plant OLSEN: And the coca plant is in Schedule doesn’t make Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), 2. it makes Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid and MCKINNEY: Yes. But, what I’m trying to then it has to be decarboxylated by heat. point out is, although cocaine is in Now, the other way of making THC is to Schedule 2, and they can’t get it out of make Cannabidiol and then reverse isomer-

23 Absinthe Schedule 2, to make more money for the po- rything, which I’ve been talking about for lice and the Justice Department, crack is the last four years, which is a very sim- in Schedule 1, which means there is no ple movement to change the definition of medical intervention, it’s all in the Marijuana in the rule books. All you have hands of the police, although, chemically to do is include Tetrahydrocannabinol speaking, crack and cocaine are precisely (THC) as one of the legal products of the the same. It’s simply another form of it. plant, along with hemp seed and hemp cloth And that’s why I say you have the Con- and hemp this and hemp that, and the whole trolled Substances Act. That’s how you can thing would fall apart immediately, behave the entire peyote plant in that cate- cause then you would have the anomaly of a gory, or the entire Marijuana plant, be- plant which had its active ingredient re- cause it’s a substance. THC is in Schedule moved still being in Schedule 1. It would 2. Marijuana is in Schedule 1. It’s in fall apart on its own ridiculousness. And Schedule I supposedly because it contains yet… a drug called THC which is in Schedule 2. OLSEN: In other words, you’re saying that However, if you take the THC out of Mari- it would be looked at like tobacco? juana, it’s still in Schedule 1, even MCKINNEY: Yeah. I mean, it wouldn’t be though its got its drug taken out of it, looked at like tobacco. Suppose that you because it’s the Marijuana that’s the con- had a lemon, and vitamin C was legal, but trolled substance, and that is the trick lemons were illegal because they had vita- to a controlled substance. They could make min C, and a lemon was defined as every- Scotch Tape into a controlled substance. thing that comes off the lemon tree. OLSEN: Why is Marijuana then, without THC, OLSEN: Yeah. Well, you re saying Marijuana in Schedule I and tobacco is legal? is illegal because it has THC in it. MCKINNEY: Because, in Schedule I in the MCKINNEY: I’m saying that the way that the Controlled Substances Act they define a government keeps Marijuana illegal is by number of different items, and Marijuana broadcasting the idea that Marijuana con- is defined as the leaves and the flowering tains a dangerous drug. The dangerous drug tops and everything made of the Marijuana they refer to is THC at 5%. On the other plant. That’s the legal definition. side of their mouth, they’re calling THC a OLSEN: But how can you call it due proc- safe and harmless drug at 95%. In other ess, I mean, how is it fair that a classi- words, when the THC is in sesame oil, fication include something and doesn’t in- which is the only other ingredient in Mar- clude something else, when they both fit inol, surrounded by a gelatin capsule, the same definition? it’s a wonder drug. When the THC is in a MCKINNEY: No one ever said the body of law hemp stalk, surrounded by hemp fibers, in any country is particularly good. In it’s Schedule I criminal, and how it would Arabia, they chop your head off. I mean, be illegal for us to hack our way into let’s face it, the laws are never anything there and pull the legal drug out. You but the current reflection of popular po- see, to us, to our way of thinking, and litical opinion. So, what you’re looking our argument all along, we’re going into a at here is a drug which is itself, at 95%, plant to pull out something legal, and considered to be a wonder drug, safe, we’re calling the plant illegal because never been an overdose. OK? But, at 5% in its got the legal stuff in it. It doesn’t a plant, it’s in the same category as her- make any sense. You can simply say that oin. In other words, when it’s 20 or 30 the people smoking Marijuana are self- times more potent, it’s legal. But, when medicating themselves with the effects of it’s so crude, when it’s in its crudest THC, which are found by the government to form, it’s like saying gasoline and crude be safe, efficacious, and absolutely harm- oil… less. There’s never been an overdose, OLSEN: Well, aren’t they saying, because there’s never been a death. And they’re of the fact that it’s only 5% and it’s just people who have, you know, nausea mixed with all this other stuff, that maybe? Who knows? Maybe they want to gain that’s why it’s worse that the 95% pure? weight. Fine, let them self-medicate. Why MCKINNEY: Well, what they’re saying, when- can’t they medicate by taking it out of ever you try to make Marijuana into Sched- the plant? It’s like saying you’ve got to ule 2, is that there are all these other have pure synthetic maple syrup, you can’t things which haven’t been tested. They tap a tree. make you put Marijuana through the same OLSEN: So, is there another way to get THC test you’d put THC through, which is to out of Marijuana besides smoking it, and say, what are the impurities?, and of without refining it? course there are 423 molecules in Mari- MCKINNEY: No. juana, only one of them is THC. So, if you OLSEN: Is there some way to use the raw take out the THC, how many impurities have Marijuana at home, does it have to go you got? 422. That’s how they do it. Be- through some… cause, normally, when you make a drug, MCKINNEY: You can’t get pure THC out of you’ve got to test the impurities and see it. if they’re OK, and see if they have any OLSEN: You can’t? effect. Can you imagine anyone wanting to MCKINNEY: You can’t. No. You can get maybe test 422 other molecules? Now, the only a solution as high as 65% or 75%, you can. thing I have, there’s been a change in the That’s about as high as you can go. The generic drug laws that says you don’t have reason it costs nearly as much to make to duplicate the entire procedure, but you natural THC is because there’s so much do have to make it equivalent, its got to more gunk to clear out with the liquid have the same effect. And when the FDA chromatograms. When you’ve only got two told us that they didn’t care where you molecules to separate, it’s not so hard. got THC from, as long as it was 95% pure, When you’ve got 400 to separate, it’s there was some question there. But what it harder. comes right down to is that nobody in the OLSEN: It would be more expensive to make Marijuana movement, including Richard Den- THC from a plant than it would be to …? nis, wants to put their money behind the MCKINNEY: As expensive. Until you get into one simple routine that would change eve- serious large roduction, there’s no real

24 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. advantage. The one thing that’s the big- bies on the back porch and gazing at the gest advantage is you don’t have to rely sun and saying, “Oh wow!” They’re not re- on a lot of complex expensive chemicals alizing there are two important things to made by a lot of complex expensive compa- do. First, it’s very easy to change the nies. When Carl Nocka said that making definition if it looks like you’re doing olivitol was mouse milk, what he meant was it to keep Marijuana away from people. And it takes a hell of a lot of whatever they by simply slipping in a definitional use to make it out of to make a little change in the Marijuana definition in the bit. It’s a very low yield process. That’s law, state by state, you can slip that why olivitol costs $1,000 a kilogram. Very through the legislatures with no one get- expensive. Now, in the making of THC from ting excited, because they wouldn’t under- the raw materials, it costs a lot more to stand what you were really doing. It refine it, but the raw materials are sounds like you’re, you know, bringing the cheaper. You see, the liquid chromatogram definition up to date, because in 1985 THC uses packed columns of silica gel which became legal, therefore, THC is defined as will retard certain molecules and let the psychoactive drug in Marijuana, and other molecules go through. And what hap- that’s the way it’s defined in the Physi- pens is that it retards the Cannabinoids cian’s Desk Reference, the PDR. say, but then eventually the little gran- OLSEN: Well, you know, Iowa’s law says ules in the tube become all clogged up that Marijuana’s in both Schedule I and with what they’re trying to sieve out. And Schedule 2. Schedule I says it has no the problem is because there’s so many medical use, and Schedule 2 says it does, similar molecules to THC in the gunk, that and what you just said would be a way to you can’t run the solution through the solve, to make the Iowa law make sense and tubes more than two or three times and accomplish exactly what they tried to ac- it’s all gunked up. And, silica gel costs complish without making it look like a $150 to $250 a kilogram. It’s like sand. bunch of idiots wrote it. It’s specially treated sand, for all in- MCKINNEY: You can change the definition so tents and purposes. But the fact is, it’s that Marijuana is illegal, excepting for expensive, and when you have a synthetic, the products, and one of those products which only has delta-9 and delta-8, you would be pure, it could be pharmaceuti- can see it’s a lot easier to separate cally pure THC. them. Still, the most expensive part of OLSEN: Which would be Schedule 2. making the synthetic is separating the MCKINNEY: Yeah. Now, the legislatures and delta-9 so you end up with a 95% solution. the lawmakers know if anyone wouldn’t re- OLSEN: You have to do this no matter how alize what they were doing by changing you make it, right? that to make it clear that only pharmaceu- MCKINNEY: You always have to go to the tically pure THC from the Marijuana plant liquid chromatogram for the last stage. would be considered legal, but the rest of The thing is, when you make it syntheti- it’s no good, it sounds like you’re making cally, you end up with an 80% solution, it impossible for someone to do this, but and there are only two molecules in that whet they are doing is that they’re making solution. In the making of natural , you Marijuana the precursor of a legal drug. end up with a 75% solution, 25% of which is made up of 420 different other things. However, generically speaking, this may not be as important if it’s shown that CARL ERIC OLSEN tests have no differences in the effect. (515) 243-7351 The only reason that Perdue-Frederick dropped that is because there wasn’t enough sales of the synthetic. Otherwise, they would have backed us with the natural. OLSEN: They would have kept testing? MCKINNEY: They would have backed us with the natural. They didn’t test. They never got to that stage. But the funny thing is that, of course, if they push the synthetic enough, or course, other people will come in line and start working with the natural, hopefully. And, if they’re going to make the natural, they’re going to have to make it out of the plant, and the plant will have to drop to Schedule 2, as all precursors of Schedule 2 drugs have to be in the same schedule. You can’t have a precursor of a drug in a higher schedule than the drug itself. OLSEN: What is a precursor? You mean the plant? MCKINNEY: The plant, the poppy. OLSEN: The coca plant? MCKINNEY: Yeah. The poppy plant is in chedule 2, opium poppy. And, if, say, for instance, if mescaline became legal, they’d have to put peyote in Schedule 2 for the same reason. And that’s why I keep saying, if we can only get natural THC into Schedule 2, it would force Marijuana into Schedule 2. But the nutniks in the Marijuana reform movement are all a bunch of ex-hippies sitting around rolling doo-

25 Absinthe was arrested, acquitted and then sued the American government to obtain the first Medicine man, legal supply of Cannabis in the United States. “My defence was actually derived from inside the story English common law”, recalls Randall. “Thirty five US states have allowed the medical use of Marijuana. In opinion Since the Thirties Cannabis has been taboo polls, 80 per cent of Americans support demonized as a stepping stone to hard Marijuana on prescription. “Now president drugs. Yet for centuries it was a re- of the US alliance for Cannabis Therapeu- tics, Randall was told in 1972 that his spected medicine. Now, people with ail- sight would last three years. Today his ments from multiple sclerosis to glaucoma glaucoma is no worse. are clamouring for pot on prescription. A handful of patients with cancer or Could Marijuana be a wonder drug for the suffering chronic pain have also won ac- Nineties? cess. In 1990, a man known as Steve L be- ALEX KERSHAW investigates… cam the first Aids patient to obtain the drug legally, 10 days before he died. The “When I first took it the effects were same year, Aids patients Kenny Jenks and dramatic. It was a god-send. It’s help his wife, Barbra, won the same right fol- with my spasticity, my bladder, taken away lowing their arrest for possesing two Can- my head sweats and gives me a much better nabis plants. Ten armed narcotics officers night’s sleep”. A year ago, 43-year-old had broken down the door to their trailer David McGill was suffering chronic pain. home and held a gun to Barbra Jenks’s Depressed and insomniac, he had sunk to head. his lowest point since being diagnosed Then, in 1991, James O Mason, head of with multiple sclerocis in 1983. Then, America’s Public Health Service, suspended last November he heard about Cannabis. He the programme which allowed the Jenkses is just one of hundreds, maybe thousands, and others Cannabis on compassionate who now use the drug regularly as a treat- grounds. Robert Randall, who recieves a ment for MS and all sorts of other debili- tin box every month crammed with 300 tating diseases. joints (!), is one of only nine people in Despite widespread use for thousands of the US permitted a legal supply grown on years, Cannabis’s secret medical history the US governments’s Marijuana plot at the is only now being rediscovered in this University of Mississipi. country, thanks in part to those battling “We let doctors decide every day against diseases for which there is no whether we are allowed to take morphine known cure. Yet from 1842 to 1900, Canna- and all kinds of dangerous drugs”, said bis made up half of all the medicine sold Kenneth Jenks before he died on July 19. in America. Robert Burton the English “The decision to take Marijuana should be clergyman, first recommended Cannabis for between the doctor and the patient” depression in the Anatomy of Melancholy, Jenks’s sentiments are echoed by many published in 1621. Queen Victoria used it in this country. Sufferers from various to alleviate period pains. A hundred odd ailments are turning to Cannabis, often in years later, the use or supply of Cannabis the last resort and in preference to le- is, of course, illegal. Next month, a Mer- gally prescribed, sometimes highly toxic, seyside GP (General Practitioner) is due drugs. Many suffering manic depressive or- to appearat Liverpool Crown Court charged der, for example, complain the lithium under the Misuse of Drugs Act, 1971. It is carbonate robs them of their creativity likely to be a test case about the supply and vitality to the extent that they stop of Cannabis out of medical necessity. The taking it despite the potentially serious case is the first of its kind in this consequences. Cannabis, for some, has country, but there have been many similair proved an effective substitute. And for MS presented in American courts. sufferes, in particular, Dr Lester Grin- Although the US Surgeon General, spoon insists, “Cannabis is the drug of Jocelyn Elders, supports Cannabis for necessity”. Desperate for relief, many therapeutic use, the medical profession swear it helps to alleviate muscle spasms remains bitterly divided over Cannabis. and other symptons. “It has completely Its political potency, it seems, is as in- changed my life”, says Elizabeth MacRory, toxicating as ever. And far more is at who is 51 years old. Diagnosed as having stake than possible legalization. The ar- MS in 1986 after a car accident, MacRory guments over Cannabis are also about the was told “go home and get used to it and efficacy of modern medicine, the futility don’t read any books”. “Sometimes I joke of the government’s war on drugs and even that I’ll be the first woman in prison in the ecology of the planet itself. a wheelchair”, she says. “Cannabis has Most evidence of Cannabis’s therapeutic criminalized me but also liberated me. It value come from America. Marijuana: The has helped with muscle spasms, allowed me Forbidden Medicine, for example written by to sleep properly and helped control my Dr Lester Grinspoon, Associate Professor bladder”. of Psychiatry at Harvard medical school, Clare Hodges , a 36-year-old mother of includes moving personal accounts of how two, who has coped with MS for 10 years, Cannabis has alleviated epilepsy, the reports similair results. She runs the weight loss of Aids, the nausea of chemo- British Association of Cannabis Therapeu- therapy, menstrual pains and multiple tics from her home in Leeds. “I now wake sclerosis. Several glaucoma sufferers have up in the morning and my balance is sensa- found that using Cannabis had lowered the tional. I’ve been prescribed all sorts of pressure within the eye, so averting the medicines. Most of the time I felt I was onset of blindness. Robert Randall is one being overdrugged, but with Cannabis you of them. In 1975, steep street prices can really regulate the dosage. So-called drove him to grow Cannabis plants in his experts are always quick to point to the Washington home “just eight blocks from side-effects. But if you read about the Capitol Hill” to treat his glaucoma. He possible effects of aspirin, you’d never

26 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. take it again”, she says, lighting a joint times more tars and five times more carbon containing herbal tobacco. monoxide than tobacco. But even the heavi- MacRory, Hodges, McGill and other MS est Marijuana smokers rarely use as much sufferers, who claim considerable benefit as an average tobacco smoker. And, of from Cannabis, are increasingly disaf- course, many prefer to eat it. fected with the charity representing their “Cannabis does have therapeutic proper- interests, the Multiple Sclerosis Society. ties”, admits Dr Heather Ashton, Professor Hodges points to the memorandum on Canna- of Clinical Psychopharmacology at Newcas- bis use issued by the Society in which tle University, “but at the cost, in my John Walford, its general secretary, as- view, of unacceptable side-effects. I’m serts that “there is no evidence that this not convinced that it can be any more agent has an effect on people with MS”. therapeutic than other drugs which don’t Walford also claimed that “long-term use have the risks or that the advantages of may be associated with significant, seri- Cannabis outweigh its disadvantages com- ous side effects”. This contradicts Thera- pared to other drugs”. peutic Claims in MS, published by the In- Also a leading expert on Cannabis, Pro- ternational Federation of MS Societies, fessor Ashton points to the “marked in- which concludes that “no significant side crease in heart rate” caused by Marijuana, effects were reported in the limited tri- which, she insists, “can precipitate heart als” and “no serious long-term effects attacks in people with cardiac diseases”. have been proven to result from the drug”. She stresses that Marijuana does cause When pressed, Walford concedes, “The “amotivational syndrome” when consumed - society would welcome properly conducted “it take away the desire to do anything trials into any substance that is thought because you feel good”. It has, in some to be helpful, but there are 80,000 people rare cases, also triggered psychotic epi- with MS in the UK. What you are talking sodes. about is a small minority. There are peo- Dr Roger Pertwee, Secretary of the In- ple who will swear by all manner of ternational Cannabis Research Society and things”. the UK’s pre-eminent Cannabis expert, sees “He [Walford] thinks we all just get himself as occupying the middle ground on high”, counters Elizabeth MacRory with the Cannabis debate. “Cannabis does seem some bitterness. “He says there are ‘sig- to be as effective, if not better, than nificant side effects associated with existing drugs in dealing with spasticity long-term Cannabis use’ yet the Society and bladder problems of multiple sclero- fails to inform the membership of the sis. The side-effects seem to be more tol- toxic effects of drugs with no proven ef- erable for some patients”, he says. ficacy which neurologists continue to pre- “Clinical trials have all backed Cannabis scribe”. in being able to, not cure, but suppress “Cannabis is one of humanity’s oldest some of the symptons. Migraine could well medicines, with a remarkable record of be another case”. both safety and efficacy”, insists Dr Les- As a recreational drug, alongside nico- ter Grinspoon whose unflinching advocacy tine, alcohol and even caffeine, Dr of Cannabis caused a storm in America and Pertwee concedes that Cannabis compares even led to death threats, “I’d like to favourably. No human fatalities have as see the day when full medical potential of yet been recorded as a result of Mari- Cannabis is recognized”, he says. “Then it juana. Withdrawal symptons have been re- will be seen in the same light as other ported in long-term chronic users in Ja- socalled wonderdrugs: penicillin, aspirin maica and Costa Rica, but they do not ap- and insulin. People will look back and ask pear to be dependent in the damaging sense how people could have been so blind. There that others are to, say, alcohol and tran- is no plant with so many therapeutic quillisers. qualities. It’s one of the safest drugs Much effort has also been devoted to known to mankind”. proving the “stepping-stone hypothesis” Far from being a potential “wonder- that Marijuana smoking leads to the use of drug”, it has been claimed that Cannabis dangerous drugs. In Holland, laws passed causes birth defects, hormonal imbalances in 1976 established a division between resulting in males growing breasts, im- hard and soft drugs, effectively decrimi- paired sperm and egg production as well as nalising, with strict conditions, the pos- impotence, frigidity, cancer and brain sesion and supply of Cannabis. The Lancet damage. None of these claims has yet been report in 1989: “The Dutch have shown that supported by scientific evidence. An esti- there is nothing inevitable about the mated 10,000 studies worldwide and hun- drugs ladder in which soft drugs lead to dreds conducted by the US gorvernment be- hard drugs. The ladder does not exist in tween 1966-76 to back its policy of prohi- Holland because the dealers have been bition, have shown that Cannabis, even separated”. when smoked in huge quantities, is rela- The most exhaustive recent investiga- tively benign. The spaced-out pot-head, tion into Cannabis occured in America be- permanently brain damaged after countless tween 1986 and 1988, when the Drug En- tokes on a “Camberwell carrot”, is a fig- forcement Administration heard evidence ment of what Grinspoon calls “Psycopharma- from doctors, patients and studied thou- cological McCarthyism”. sands of pages of documentation. The con- As all regular users know - and the clusion reached by the DEA’s administra- Home Office estimated that there were 1.5 tive judge, Francis J Young, makes star- million in the UK in 1991, and new figures tling reading: “Nearly all medicines have to be published later this month are toxic, potentially lethal effects”, de- likely to put the total higher - Cannabis clared Young, “But Marijuana is not such a does have well-known side-effects: atten- substance, Marijuana, in its natural form, tion and short-term memory, tracking and is one of the safest active substances co-ordination can be impaired. But not know to man. By any measure of rational permanently. analysis Marijuana can be safely used The only well-confirmed negative effect within a supervised routine of medical of Marijuana, according to Grinspoon, is care”. caused by the smoke, which contains three

27 Absinthe Given Cannabis’s medical potential, why ble for more emergency hospital admissions was it criminalized at all? Jack Here, au- than all illegal drugs combined. “Can- thor of The Emperor Wears No Clothes, has nabidiol could do all these things”, con- constructed a powerful thesis to explain curs Professor Ashton “But not at any less Cannabis’s fall from favour earlier this cost than other drugs, in my opinion”. century, culminating in the 1937 Marijuana At grass-roots level, Cannabis’s reha- Tax in America. Cannabis, also known as bilitation also reflects a growing disaf- hemp, is a prolificm fast-growing crop, fection with orthodox medicine, borne out useful for a wide range of industrial pur- by the Nineties’ boom in alternative medi- poses, and an economical source of fuel: cine. A common complaint, aired by MS suf- it threatened to bankrupt the paper indus- ferers in particular, is that cannibidiol try, destroy an emerging synthetic fibre research has been woefully neglected. How- industry and even challenge the dominance ever, despite decades of marginalization, of oil companies. there have been spectacular breakthroughs. In Harry Anslinger, head of the Federal Pertwee points to the recent discovery of Bureau of Narcotics, imperilled interests anandamide (reported in a recent New Sci- in America found a messianic ally, “If the entist), a substance produced by the brain hideous monster Frankenstein came face to that behaves like Marijuana. “Anandamide’s face with the monster Marijuana he would discovery promises to open a door to how drop dead of fright”, railed Anslinger. the brain works. There may be possibili- Through a rash of B movies such as Reefer ties of working on a memory drug and the Madness, Anslinger managed to convince the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease”. American public that Cannabis caused vio- The exploitation of Cannabis’s medical lent crimes and accelerated Uncle Sam’s benefits has always been limited because moral decline. Cannabis still unnerves a of it’s psychoactive properties. The holy powerful axis of interests. Many of the grail of Cannabinoid therapeutics has, 4,000-odd “Families Against Marijuana”- therefore, been to eliminate Cannabis’s style organizations in the US are funded high. Drug companies have spent years try- by the tobacco, pharmaceutical and alcohol ing, without success. But now, the discov- lobbies. Cannabis revisionists now view ery in Cambridge (discussed in this the Marijuana Tax as an ecologocial crime. month’s Nature) by Dr Sean Munro of a re- “We want the establishment to acknowledge ceptor for THC, not in the brain, but in that the reasons Cannabis became illegal peripheral tissues, promise to solve this in the first place was because of the problem. Pharmaceutical companies have al- threat posed by it’s commercial applica- ready expressed an interest in Munro’s tions. not its use as a drug”, says Andy findings, particularly as related to glau- Waller of the UK-based House of Hemp, set coma. Yet it is the receptors in the up this year to promote Cannabis’s commer- brain, points out Munro, “that are respon- cial use. Until the late 19th century, sible for many of Cannabis’s potential says Waller, Cannabis was one of the therapeutic effects”. And it is precisely world’s main agricultural crops. the euphoria induced by Marijuana which Today, it has an estimated 50,000 non- makes it such an attractive drug for those smoking commercial uses. According to the with terminal illnesses. US Department of Agriculture research, According to Andy Waller, Marijuana hemp has four times as much cellulose fi- should “theoretically” cost less per acre bre suitable for making paper as wood than wheat to grow. Yet Nabilone, the only pulp. The original Levi’s jeans were, in synthetic Cannabinoid legally prescribed fact, 100 per cent hemp/ others claim that in the UK, costs the NHS [National Health cultivating Marijuana in the Third World Service] 39.70 pounds [about 60-70 dol- would save the rainforest purify the at- lars?] for twenty capsules. “The pharma- mosphere and provide autonomy to Third ceutical industry and regulatory system World economies crippled by debt. are addicted to the cult of synthesis”, In tacit recognition of marijhuana’s complains Robert Randall. “It’s as if (sic(sp?)) profit potential, in February, every drug has to come out of a factory. the Home Offive granted commercial li- God forbid that it might be natural. cences to permit the cultivation of 1,505 There’s an attitude that man can make a acres of Cannabis in the UK. It is, how- better Garden Of Eden scientifically”. ever, unsmokeable, containing none of the In fact, Dr Grinspoon doubts whether psychoactive ingredient THC. The first synthetic compounds would be as effective crop is now being harvested. as the natural substance. “It’s the syn- In the Seventies, Dr Raphael Mechoulm, ergy of so many Cannabinoids in natural who first isolated THC at the University Marijuana which may be the secret to it’s of Tel Aviv in 1964, predicted that Mari- wide-ranging properties”, says Grinspoon. juana would become a major medicine by the However, he doubts whether straightforward mid-Eighties, replacing 10 to 20 per cent Cannabis will become a prescription drug. of all prescription medicines. Dr Grin- As a plant, Cannabis cannot be patented spoon argues that, since Cannabis is inex- and is therefore an uncommercial proposi- pensive, it could significantly reduce tion for the drug companies. Legalized health service’s enormous drugs bills. prescription would also need to cope with Used to combat stress, the world’s num- the problems of standardization and leak- ber one killer, Cannabis could also cur- age on to the market. “There would be tail or replace hugely-profitable drugs queues outside every GP’s office”, jokes such as Valium, Librium and, indeed, alco- Mike Goodman of Release, the national hol, Grinspoon believes. “I’m convinced”, drugs and legal advice service. he says, “ that cannibidiol (one of 60 “If you can get Marijuana for $10 an therapeutic compounds isolated in Canna- ounce from your doctor rather than $600 on bis) will be the best sleeping medicine the street”, says Grinspoon, “it’s obvious and one of the best anti-anxiety drugs why prescription won’t work. Cannabis must with the least toxic side-effects”. be given the same status as alcohol - le- Cannabidiol, which does not produce a gal, with appropriate limitations, for use high, could also possibly alleviate Brit- by adults for any purpose”. ains’s most serious drug problem: tran- Robert Randall echoes others in vehe- quiliser abuse, which is already responsi- mently disagreeing with Grinspoon’s call

28 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. for general legalization. “The idea that rounding Marijuana and that is deeply re- sick people are the key to decriminaliza- grettable”. tion is to hold the welfare of the ill “Marijuana has empowered many sick peo- hostage to reformist fantasies. We want it ple for the first time”, says Robert Ran- on prescription, like morphine, to help dall. “For many, it is the only drug that people. Not so that a hippie can have a works. The real problem with Marijuana is good time in the afternoon”. [selfish perhaps it threatens to put people in tosser] charge of their own medical lives. The Once deemed the weed that propgated question is: who is going to control indi- flowerpower, the subversive dropout’s fa- vidual’s biology - large corporations, voured intoxicant, Marijuana has since doctors and governments, or people them- moved mainstream. It is no longer the nar- selves?” cotic of youthful rebellion for baby- My heartfelt thanks go out to ALEX KERSHAW boomers of non-inhaler Bill Clinton’s gen- who wrote this interesting and revealing eration. Mike Goodman insists more people article for the Guardian Newspaper Ques- now roll joints and eat Hash brownies than tions, Comments and mail would be much ap- attend football [soccer] matches, art gal- preciated. BTW it took me fucking ages to leries or church. A survey to be published type this in. by two Manchester criminologists next “Shall we take a trip down memory lane, month suggests that close to 50 per cent Head in the clouds into the acid rain, of teenagers aged 14-16 in urban areas use Time means nothing I can smell the trees, illicit drugs regularly [does this include Tastin’ the rainbows and the summer alcohol underage?], most commonly Canna- breeze”. Northside bis. According to Peter McDermott, editor of the International Journal On Drug Pol- icy: “Cannabis can no longer be regarded as deviant activity. It’s part of our national social life”. In a recent survey at a leading teaching hospital, the results of which one source admits to being asked to suppress, “over 60 per cent of medical students were found to be Marijuana users”. In the same survey, only 30 per cent admitted to smoking cigarettes. Even senior police officers, such as Commander John Grieve of the Metropolitan Police, have proposed licensing a network of drug suppliers and dealers. Brian Hil- liard, editor of Police Review, has called for the legalization of Cannabis for several years. “Legalising Cannabis wouldn’t do any harm to anybody”, he says “We should be concentrating on the serious business of heroin and amphetamines”. The conviction of 42,209 people in 1991 on Marijuana charges contributes to the clogging of the courts and the overcrowd- ing of prisons. Almost 90 per cent of drug offences involve Cannabis. Yet the British government spends 500 million pounds [750,000,000 dollars approx?] a year on “overall responses to drugs (international and national)” and receives no tax revenue from the UK’s estimated 1.8 billion pound [2.7 billion dollars?] illicit drugs market. Increasingly, those pressing for Mari- juana’s legalization mirror Grinspoon’s belief that, “since scientific scepticism of Marijuana has all but collapsed”, the chief opposition to Cannabis rests on a moral and political, not toxicological, foundation. The real damage that Cannabis causes, the argument goes, is to the body politic. In his recent book, Food Of The Gods, Terence McKenna neatly encapsulates dope’s lasting social potentcy: “It (Cannabis) dimishes the power of ego, has a mitigat- ing effect on competition, causes one to question authority, and reinforces the notion of merely relative importance of social values”. “It’s clear that the government’s war on drugs takes precedence over medical ra- tionality”, says Nick Partridge of the Terrence Higgins Trust [A national UK charity dealing with AIDS (I think)]. “At present we’re criminalising many people in massive pain at the end of their lives. Yet I don’t expect the medical arguments to break through the political dogma sur-

29 Absinthe Marijuana does not cause a loss of motivation. Amotivational While Marijuana does not specifically diminish motivation, it is clear that Can- nabis affects attention and memory, and Syndrome these are intellectual capacities usually considered necessary for success in educational institutions. We know that a sig- It has sometimes been observed that nificant tolerance develops to these ef- when a young person starts smoking Mari- fects and they can be suppressed voluntar- juana there are systematic changes in that ily at low doses, but consistent smoking person’s lifestyle, ambitions, motivation, of high doses of Marijuana must impede a and possibly personality. These changes successful academic career. In fact, have been collectively referred to as the achievement motivation must be high indeed amotivational syndrome, whose symptoms in any individual who combines high levels are: “… apathy, loss of effectiveness, and of Cannabis use with a successful academic diminished capacity or willingness to career. carry out complex, long-term plans, endure Since most reports of the amotivational frustration, concentrate for long periods, syndrome originated in the sixties in follow routines, or successfully master North America, what they seem to describe new material. Verbal facility is often im- is a tendency for college students to paired both in speaking and writing. Some ‘drop out’ and assume a lifestyle that re- individuals exhibit greater introversion, jects traditional achievement motivations become totally involved with the present of their parents’ generation. In an effort at the expense of future goals and demon- to understand this rejection it was very strate a strong tendency toward regres- easy to believe that it was pharmacologi- sive, childlike, magical thinking [1]”. cal and to dismiss it as ‘amotivational There is no doubt that many young indi- syndrome’. viduals have changed from clean, aggres- When I was a freshman at Harvard, long sive, upwardly mobile achievers into the before many people thought of smoking sort of person just described at about the Marijuana, there was plenty of amotiva- same time as they started smoking Mari- tion. juana. It took such forms as sleeping till What is not clear, however, is a causal dinner time and then playing Monopoly all relationship between the loss of middle night instead of working and was indistin- class motivations and Cannabis. Which guishable from amotivation now associated comes first, the Marijuana or the loss of with heavy Marijuana use. Heavy Marijuana motivations? This is not easy to answer. use is a convenient symptom for an amoti- In fact, there may be no clearcut answer. vated person to add to his list: it is To begin with, all we know about the amo- fun, can be done with other people, angers tivational syndrome is a result of a few grownups, and so on. If it is not too late case histories. to find a rural college where Marijuana is These data cannot answer questions still unknown, I would predict that the about: a) how common the syndrome is; b) amotivated people there would become the whether the Marijuana actually caused the heavy Marijuana smokers once the drug ap- change in behavior; or c) if the change is peared on campus. caused by Marijuana, if it is best de- If Marijuana were the cause of amotiva- scribed as a change in all motivations, tion, one would expect that amotivation specific motivations, or something other could be cured by taking away the Mari- than motivation, like ability or personal- juana, but this is not the case. There- ity. fore, it markes more sense to see amotiva- It does not appear as though the amoti- tion as a cause of heavy Marijuana smoking vational syndrome is all that common among rather than the reverse. Marijuana smokers. In one survey[2] a sample of almost 2000 college students was studied. There was no difference in grade point average and achievement between Marijuana users and nonusers, but the users had more difficulty deciding on career goals, and a smaller number were seeking advanced professional degrees. On the other hand, other studies have shown lower Literary fonts school averages and higher dropout rates among users than nonusers. In any case [1] McGlothin, W.H., & West, L.J. these differences are not great. If there (1968). The Marijuana problem: An over- is such a thing as amotivational syndrome, view. its affects appear to be restricted to a _American Journal of Psychiatry_, vol. few individuals, probably the small per- 125, 370-378. centage who become heavy users. Laboratory studies provide additional [2] Brill, N.Q., & Christie, R.L. information on the causal relationship be- (1974).Marijuana and psychosocial adjust- tween motivation and Marijuana. The Men- ment. delson[3] experiment, where hospitalized _Archives of General Psychiatry_, 31, volunteers worked on an operant task to 713-719. earn money and Marijuana for 26 days, found that the dose of Marijuana smoked [3] Mendelson, H.H., Kuehnle, J.C., did not influence the amount of work done Greenberg, I., & Mello, N.K. by either the casual-user group or the (1976). The effects of Marijuana use on heavy-user group; all remained motivated human operant behavior: Individual data. to earn and take home a significant amount In M.C. Broude & S. Szara (eds.), of money in addition to the work they did _Pharmacology of Marijuana_, vol. 2 (pp. for the Marijuana. It seems clear that 643-653). New York: Academic Press.

30 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. only smoke until high and then stop, he said. The opinion of a Attitudes are changing, Grinspoon said. Massachusetts last year became the 35th state to legalize the medical use of Mari- psychiatrist juana. Oregon reduced penalties for Marijuana use to a fine in 1973. In the Netherlands, Tsk. Those foolish kids, throwing their Marijuana is easily available and seldom lives away on that dangerous drug Mari- penalized, Grinspoon said. He believes the juana. Maybe they would pay attention to U.S. government will eventually decrimi- nalize the plant. another voice, one based on scientific re- From today’s local [Boulder] paper, by search, psychiatrist Lester Grinspoon rea- Linda Cornett, w/o permission. soned.

Fired with his mission, Grinspoon embarked on a three-year investigation of Cannabis, emerging with a changed perspective. “I came to understand that I had been brainwashed like the rest of the country”, said Grinspoon, who is now on the staff of the Harvard Medical School. Grinspoon wrote a widely discussed book in 1971 about the conversion of his thinking and in May his latest book, “Marijuana, The Forbidden Medicine”, was released by Yale University Press. [stuff about his speech and a free, public conference in Denver this weekend deleted] Although the (Colorado) state law allows Cannabis to be used for medical reasons, federal law prohibits its sale in any form but a derivative capsule. It is prescribed to reduce the nausea of cancer paitents undergoing chemotherapy, to reduce the nausea of AIDS patients and to relieve the symptoms of glaucoma. Although there is little medical use of Marijuana in Colorado, that is because other, more effective drugs are available and not because regualtions make the drug unavailable, said Donn Fox, spokesman for the Drug Enforcement Administration office in Denver. The DEA has completed a three-year study on whether to loosen restrictions on Cannabis, Fox said, and found no support from any “bona fide” medical association in the U.S. “The argument could be made that groups such as NORML are using the medicinial Marijuana issue in an attempt to legitimize Marijuana in our society”, Fox said. Grinspoon responds that Cannabis should be legitimized, but that takes nothing from its medical value. If the pill derivative is less effective than other drugs, he said, that is because it works better as a cigarette than a pill. Now, he said, he is convinced the only rational approach is to treat Marijuana like alcohol. “If I had to make a choice, I would far rather have someone use Mari- juana than alcohol”, Grinspoon said. “It’s less toxic physically and its behaviorial toxicity is vastly different people don’t get aggressive and abusive when they use Marijuana. “There is no such thing as a harmless drug”, Grinspoon said, “but Mari- juana is far less harmful than either alcohol or tobacco. I believed rather na- ively that once people understood that, it would be legalized within 10 years. Mari- juana doesn’t make its users behave irrationally, but it certrainly makes nonusers behavior irrationally”. [great line!] Grinspoon said he does not believe Marijuana is addictive, although it is more harmful to the lungs than tobacco smoke. Studies of users, however, have shown that unlike cigarette smokers, they

31 Absinthe on drugs”. Recently James Masin, head of the PHS said he feared that AIDS patients, Medical Marijuana, crazed on Marijuana, would be more likely to practise unsafe sex. Some sick people who would benefit from the last smoke… Marijuana will be deterred by the ban others, desperate, will smoke it anyway. So far, 35 states have endorsed medical Mari- Medicines often produce side-effects. juana. In San Francisco police have agreed Sometimes they are physically unpleasant. to turn a blind eye to it. Unless the gov- Many doctors consider Marijuana effective ernment does something similar, smoking Marijuana to relieve intolerable discom- in relieving the nause of chemotherapy, fort will remain, incredibly, a crime. treating glaucoma and helping AIDS pa- …I heard that George Herbert Walker tients gain weight. It too has discomfort- Bush has glaucoma. Marijuana (allegedly) ing side-effects, but these are not physi- relieves the vision impairing symtoms of cal. glaucoma. Do you think George’s doctors They are political. would “advise him to smoke Marijuana to despite the possibility of prosecution”? On March 18th the Drug Enforcement Taken from the March 28 April 1992 Agency (DEA) rejected the pleas of medical “The Economist” without permission. Marijuana advocates to reclassify the drug so that it could be prescribed by doctors. At present, Marijuana is grouped with the most disapproved-of drugs such as LSD and heroin; cocaine and morphine, just as illegal, may be used medically. Two weeks earlier, the Public Health Service (PHS) had said it was curtailing a tiny “compassionate use” programme that supplies Mari- juana, despite the law, to 13 patients. They will go on getting their; no one else will. The decisions come after a year of to- ing and fro-ing. Last June the PHS hinted it might limit the compassionate-use programme because of a surge of applications from AIDS patients. After loud protests from AIDS activists, the PHS decided to review its policy. Pressure on the DEA came from elsewhere. In 1988 a federal ad- ministrative-law judge recommen-ded that Marijuana be re-classified. The DEA dis- agreed, saying the drug had no “currently accepted medical use”. Last April a federal appeals court ordered the agency to think again. Now the government has in effect aban- doned the “current acceptance” standard It had little choice. A recent study by two Harvard drug-policy researchers found that almost half of 1,035 oncologists surveyed said they would prescribe Marijuana if it were legal. Indeed, 44% of them said they had advised patients to smoke pot despite the possibility of prosecution. The government’s case against medical Marijuana rests on an alleged lack of systematic studies of its safety and efficacy. Pot smoke contains carcinogens, says the PHS; it may harm the immune systems of AIDS patients; they may not like the “high”. Besides, Marijuana’s main active ingredient, THC is already sold in pill form, as Marinol. According to the Harvard group study, however, 77% of those oncologists who had an opiniopn on the matter say smokeable Marijuana is more effective than oral THC. Because puffs are easier for parients to measure than pills, it is also less likely to get them uncomfortably high. True, Marijuana may be a carcinogen (though that has not been proved). But AZT, the most effective AIDS treatment, causes cancer in animals; and AIDS patients, in any case, are willing to risk anything. These concerns do not seem to bother the PHS or the DEA. They have other things on their minds. Last year a PHS spokesman admitted that for the government to say Marijuana could ever be therapeutic would be and unwise signal to send during a “war

32 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. is that Marijuana tends to substitute for the much more dangerous hard drugs like Marijuana miths alcohol, cocaine, and heroin.

4. Marijuana suppresses the immune system by Paul Hager Chair, Like the studies claiming to show dam- ICLU Drug Task Force age to the reproductive system, this myth is based on studies where animals were 1. Marijuana causes brain damage given extremely high, in many cases, near- lethal, doses of Cannabinoids. These re- The most celebrated study that claims sults have never been duplicated in human to show brain damage is he rhesus monkey beings. Interestingly, two studies done in study of Dr. Robert Heath, done in the 1978 and one done in 1988 showed that late ‘70s. This study was reviewed by a Hashish and Marijuana may have actually distinguished panel of Scientists spon- stimulated the immune system in the people sored by the Institute of Medicine and the studied. National cademy of Sciences. Their results were published under the title, “Marijuana 5. Marijuana is much more dangerous than and Health” in 1982. Heath’s work was tobacco sharply criticized or its insufficient sample size (only four monkeys), its fail- Smoked Marijuana contains about the ure o control experimental bias, and the same amount of carcinogens as does an misidentifica-tion of normal Monkey brain equivalent amount of tobacco. It should be structure as “damaged”. Actual studies of remembered, however, that a heavy tobacco human populations of Marijuana users have smoker consumes much more tobacco than a shown no evidence of brain damage. For ex- heavy Marijuana smoker consumes Marijuana. ample, two studies from 1977, published in This is because smoked tobacco, with a 90% the Journal of the American Medical Asso- addiction rate, is the most addictive of ciation (JAMA) showed no evidence of brain all drugs while Marijuana is less addic- damage in heavy users of Marijuana. tive than caffeine. Two other factors are That same year, the American Medical important. The first is that paraphernalia Association (AMA) officially came out in laws directed against Marijuana users make favor of decriminalizing Marijuana. That’s it difficult to smoke safely. These laws not the sort of thing you’d expect if the make water pipes and bongs, which filter AMA thought Marijuana damaged the brain. some of the carcinogens out of the smoke, illegal and, hence, unavailable. The sec- 2. Marijuana damages the reproductive sys- ond is that, if Marijuana were legal, it tem would be more economical to have Cannabis drinks like bhang (a traditional drink in This claim is based chiefly on the work the Middle East) or tea which are totally of Dr. Gabriel Nahas, who experimented non-arcinogenic. with tissue (cells) isolated in petri This is in stark contrast with “smoke- dishes, and the work of researchers who less” tobacco products like snuff which dosed animals with near-lethal amounts of can cause cancer of the mouth and throat. Cannabinoids (i.e., the intoxicating part When all of these facts are taken to- of Marijuana). Nahas’ generalizations from gether, it can be clearly seen that the his petri dishes to human beings have been reverse is true: Marijuana is much SAFER rejected by the scientific community as than tobacco. being invalid. In the case of the animal experiments, the animals that survived 6. Legal Marijuana would cause carnage on their ordeal returned to normal within 30 the highways days of the end of the experiment. Studies of actual human populations have failed to Although Marijuana, when used to in- demonstrate that Marijuana adversely af- toxication, does impair performance in a fects the reproductive system. manner similar to alcohol, actual studies of the effect of Marijuana on the automo- 3. Marijuana is a “gateway” drug, it leads bile accident rate suggest that it poses to hard drugs LESS of a hazard than alcohol. When a ran- dom sample of fatal accident victims was This is one of the more persistent studied, it was initially found that Mari- myths. A real world example of what hap- juana was associated with RELATIVELY as pens when Marijuana is readily available many accidents as alcohol. In other words, can be found in Holland. The Dutch par- the number of accident victims intoxicated tially legalized Marijuana in the 1970s. on Marijuana relative to the number of Since then, hard drug use, heroin and co- Marijuana users in society gave a ratio caine, have DECLINED substantially. If similar to that for accident victims in- Marijuana really were a gateway drug, one toxicated on alcohol relative to the total would have expected use of hard drugs to number of alcohol users. have gone up, not down. This apparent However, a closer examination of the “negative gateway” effect has also been victims revealed that around 85% of the observed in the United States. Studies people intoxicated on Marijuana WERE ALSO done in the early 1970s showed a negative INTOXICATED ON ALCOHOL. For people only correlation between use of Marijuana and intoxicated on Marijuana, the rate was use of alcohol. much lower than for alcohol alone. This A 1993 Rand Corporation study that com- finding has been supported by other re- pared drug use in states that had decrimi- search using completely different methods. nalized Marijuana versus those that had For example, an economic analysis of the not, found that where Marijuana was more effects of decriminalization on Marijuana available, the states that had decriminal- usage found that states that had reduced ized, hard drug abuse as measured by emer- penalties for Marijuana possession experi- gency room episodes decreased. In short, enced a rise in Marijuana use and a de- what science and actual experience tell us

33 Absinthe cline in alcohol use with the result that fatal highway accidents decreased. This This is true. It was put in to see if would suggest that, far from causing “car- you are paying attention. Animal tests nage”, legal Marijuana might actually save have revealed that extremely high doses of lives. Cannabinoids are needed to have lethal effect. This has led scientists to conclude 7. Marijuana “flattens” human brainwaves that the ratio of the amount of Cannabi- noids necessary to get a person intoxi- This is an out-and-out lie perpetrated cated (i.e., stoned) relative to the by the Partnership for a Drug-Free Amer- amount necessary to kill them is 1 to ica. A few years ago, they ran a TV ad 40,000. In other words, to overdose, you that purported to show, first, a normal would have to consume 40,000 times as much human brainwave, and second, a flat brain- Marijuana as you needed to get stoned. In wave from a 14-year-old “on Marijuana”. contrast, the ratio for alcohol varies be- When researchers called up the TV networks tween 1 to 4 and 1 to 10. It is easy to to complain about this commercial, the see how upwards of 5000 people die from Partnership had to pull it from the air. alcohol overdoses every year and no one It seems that the Partnership faked the EVER dies of Marijuana overdoses. flat “Marijuana brainwave”. In reality, Marijuana has the effect of slightly What is the ICLU drug task force? INCREASING alpha wave activity. Alpha waves are associated with meditative and The Indiana Civil Liberties Union relaxed states which are, in turn, often (ICLU) Drug Task Force is involved in edu- associated with human creativity. cation and lobbying efforts directed toward reforming drug policy. Specifically, 8. Marijuana is more potent today than in we support ACLU Policy Statement number the past 210 which calls for the legalization of Marijuana. We also support an end to the This myth is the result of bad data. drug war. In its place, we favor “harm re- The researchers who made the claim of in- duction” strategies which treat drug abuse creased potency used as their baseline the as what it is, a medical problem, rather THC content of Marijuana seized by police than a criminal justice problem. in the early 1970s. Poor storage of this The Drug Task Force also works to end Marijuana in un-air conditioned evidence urine and hair testing of workers by pri- rooms caused it to deteriorate and decline vate industry. These kinds of tests vio- in potency before any chemical assay was late worker privacy to no good purpose be- performed. Contemporaneous, independent cause they detect past use of certain assays of unseized “street” Marijuana from drugs (mostly Marijuana) while ignoring the early 1970s showed a potency equiva- others (e.g., LSD) and cannot detect cur- lent to that of modern “street” Marijuana. rent impairment. In situations where pub- Actually, the most potent form of this lic and worker safety is a legitimate con- drug that was generally available was sold cern, we advocate impairment testing de- legally in the 1920s and 1930s by the vices which reliably detect degradation of pharmaceutical company Smith-Klein under performance without infringing upon worker the name, “American Cannabis”. privacy.

9. Marijuana impairs short-term memory For more information about the activities of the Drug Task Force, call the ICLU This is true but misleading. Any im- at (317) 635-4059 or call Paul Hager at pairment of short-term memory disappears (812)333-1384 or e-mail to when one is no longer under the influence [email protected] on the InterNet. of Marijuana. Often, the short-term memory effect is paired with a reference to Dr. Sources Heath’s poor rhesus monkeys to imply that the condition is permanent. 1)Marijuana and Health, Institute of Medi- cine, National Academy of Sciences, 1982. 10. Marijuana lingers in the body like DDT Note: the Committee on Substance Abuse and Habitual Behavior of the “Marijuana This is also true but misleading. Can- and Health” study had its part of the fi- nabinoids are fat soluble as are innumer- nal report suppressed when it reviewed the able nutrients and, yes, some poisons like evidence and recommended that possession DDT. For example, the essential nutrient, of small amounts of Marijuana should no Vitamin A, is fat soluble but one never longer be a crime (TIME magazine, July hears people who favor Marijuana prohibi- 19,1982). tion making this comparison. The two JAMA studies are: Co, B.T., Goodwin, D.W., Gado, M., Mikhael, M., and Hill, S.Y.: “Absence of cerebral atrophy in chronic Cannabis users”, JAMA, 11. There are over a thousand chemicals in 237:1229-1230, 1977; and, Kuehnle, J., Marijuana smoke Mendelson, J.H., Davis, K.R., and New, P.F.J.: “Computed tomographic examination

of heavy Marijuana smokers”, JAMA, Again, true but misleading. The 31 Au- 237:1231-1232, 1977. gust 1990 issue of the magazine Science notes that of the over 800 volatile chemi- 2)See Marijuana and Health, ibid., for in- cals present in roasted COFFEE, only 21 formation on this research. See also, have actually been tested on animals and Marijuana Reconsidered (1978) by Dr. Les- 16 of these cause cancer in rodents. Yet, ter Grinspoon. coffee remains legal and is generally considered fairly safe. 3)The Dutch experience is written up in

“The Economics of Legalizing Drugs”, by 12. No one has ever died of a Marijuana Richard J. Dennis, The Atlantic Monthly, overdose Vol 266, No. 5, Nov 1990, p. 130. See “A

34 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. Comparison of Marijuana Users and Non- users” by Norman Zinberg and Andrew Weil 11)See “Too Many Rodent Carcinogens: Mito- (1971) for the negative correlation be- genesis Increases Mutagenesis”, Bruce N. tween use of Marijuana and use of alcohol. Ames and Lois Swirsky Gold, Science, Vol The 1993 Rand Corporation study is “The 249, 31 August 1990, p. 971. Effect of Marijuana Decriminalization on Hospital Emergency Room Episodes: 1975 - 12)Cannabis and alcohol toxicity is com- 1978” by Karyn E. Model. pared in Marijuana Reconsidered, ibid., p. 227. Yearly alcohol overdoses was taken 4)See a review of studies and their meth- from “Drug Prohibition in the United odology in “Marijuana and Immunity”, Jour- States: Costs, Consequences, and Alterna- nal of Psychoactive Drugs, Vol 20(1), Jan- tives” by Ethan A. Nadelmann, Science, Vol Mar 1988. Studies showing stimulation of 245, 1 September 1989, p. 943. the immune system: Kaklamani, et al., Paul Hager “Hashishsmoking and T-lymphocytes”, 1978; [email protected] Kalofoutis et al., “The significance of “The most formidable weapon against errors lymphocyte lipid changes after smoking of every kind is reason”. Hashish”, 1978. The 1988 study: Wallace, Thomas Paine, “The Age of Reason” J.M., Tashkin, D.P., Oishi, J.S., Barbers, R.G., “Peripheral Blood Lymphocyte Sub- populations and Mitogen Responsiveness in Tobacco and Marijuana Smokers”, 1988, Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, ibid.

5)The 90% figure comes from Health Conse- quences of Smoking: Nicotine Addiction, Surgeon General’s Report, 1988. In Health magazine in an article entitled, “Hooked, Not Hooked” by Deborah Franklin (pp. 39- 52), compares the addictives of various drugs and ranks Marijuana below coffeine. For current information on Cannabis drinks see Working Men and Ganja: Marijuana Use in Rural Jamaica by M. C. Dreher, Insti- tute for the Study of Human Issues, 1982, ISBN 0-89727-025-8. For information on Cannabis and actual cancer risk, see Mari- juana and Health, ibid.

6)For a survey of studies relating to Can- nabis and highway accidents see “Mari- juana, Driving and Accident Safety”, by Dale Gieringer, Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, ibid. The effect of decriminalization on highway accidents is analyzed in “Do Youths Substitute Alcohol and Mari- juana? Some Econometric Evidence” by Frank J. Chaloupka and Adit Laixuthai, Nov. 1992, University of Illinois at Chicago.

7)For information about the Partnership ad, see Jack Herer’s book, The Emperor Wears No Clothes, 1990, p. 74. See also “Hard Sell in the Drug War”, The Nation, March 9, 1992, by Cynthia Cotts, which reveals that the Partnership receives a large percentage of its advertizing budget from alcohol, tobacco, and pharmaceutical companies and is thus disposed toward ex- aggerating the risks of Marijuana while downplaying the risks of legal drugs. For information on memory and the alpha brainwave enhancement effect, see “Marijuana, Memory, and Perception”, by R. L. Dorn- bush, M.D., M. Fink, M.D., and A. M. Freedman, M.D., presented at the 124th annual meeting of the American Psychiatric Association, May 3-7, 1971.

8)See “Cannabis 1988, Old Drug New Dan- gers, The Potency Question” by Tod H Miku- riya, M.D. and Michael Aldrich, Ph.D., Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, ibid.

9)See Marijuana and Health, ibid. Also see “Marijuana, Memory, and Perception”, ibid.

10)The fat solubility of Cannabinoids and certain vitamins is well known. See Mari- juana and Health, ibid. For some information on vitamin A, see “The A Team” in Scientific American, Vol 264, No. 2, Feb- ruary 1991, p. 16.

35 Absinthe chemical changes in the immune cells in the lungs of monkeys that had inhaled THC. Three things However, Slikker’s group concluded that experimental exposure to Marijuana smoke “does not compromise the general health of Marijuana doesn’t do the rhesus monkey”.

Pot found not to cause fetal alcohol syn- from California NORML Reports, drome April 1992 A new study of children born to Mari- No brain damage seen in Marijuana-exposed juana-smoking mothers found no link be- monkeys tween Marijuana exposure and the birth defects of fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). The Two new scientific studies have failed new study, by Dr. Susan J. Astley of the to find evidence of brain damage in mon- University of Washington, published in the keys exposed to Marijuana, undercutting January, 1992 issue of Pediatrics, contra- claims that Marijuana causes brain damage dicted a 1982 study by Dr. Ralph Hingson, in humans. in which prenatal exposure to Marijuana The studies were conducted by two inde- was found to increase the risk of FAS. pendent research groups. The first, con- Hingson’s results, which have not been ducted by Dr. William Slikker, Jr. and replicated, have been questioned on vari- others at the National Center for Toxico- ous methodological grounds, in particular logical Research in Arkansas examined some the difficulty of controlling for combined 64 rhesus monkeys, half of which were ex- drinking and pot use. posed to daily or weekly doses of Mari- The new study looked for facial de- juana smoke for a year. The other, by formities symptomatic of FAS in 40 chil- Gordon T. Pryor and Charles Rebert at SRI dren whose mothers had smoked Marijuana International in Menlo Park, California, heavily during pregnancy and 40 controls. which is still unpublished, looked at over It found no association between Marijuana 30 rhesus monkeys that had inhaled Mari- and FAS, but deformities were observed in juana one to three times a day over peri- children of women who drank 2 ounces of ods of 6 to 12 months. Neither study found alcohol per day or took cocaine. evidence of structural or neurochemical changes in the brains of the monkeys when Pot doesn’t lower testosterone examined a few months after cessation of smoking. A new study by Dr. Robert Block at the The new results cast doubt on earlier University of Iowa disputes the commonly studies purporting to show brain damage in held notion that Marijuana alters the animals. The most famous of these was a level of testosterone and other sex hor- study by Dr. Robert Heath, who claimed to mones. find brain damage in three monkeys heavily The study contradicted a widely publi- exposed to Cannabis. Heath’s results cized 1974 study by Dr. R.C. Kolodony, failed to win general acceptance in the which reported decreased testosterone lev- scientific community because of the small els in men who smoked Marijuana chroni- number of subjects, questionable controls, cally. and heavy doses. The University of Iowa study found that Subsequent rat experiments by Dr. Slik- chronic Marijuana use had no effect on ker and others reported persistent struc- testosterone, luteinizing hormone, folli- tural changes in the brain cells of rats cle stimulating hormone, prolactin and chronically exposed to THC. The studies cortisol in men or women. did not show that pot kills brain cells, Noting that six other studies had as alleged by some pot critics, but they failed to show lowered testosterone levels did show degeneration of the nerve connec- in men, Dr. Block concluded: “It appears tions between brain cells in the hippocam- that Marijuana, even heavy use of the kind pus, where THC is known to be active. that’s typical in the United States, Although scientists have regarded the doesn’t alter testosterone levels”. animal evidence as inconclusive, some However, he cautioned that heavy use critics have cited it as proof that pot might have other adverse effects, includ- causes brain damage in humans. Thus Andrew ing “possible effects on reproductive Mecca, the director of California Depart- function and mild, selective cognitive im- ment of Alcohol and Drug Abuse, recently pairments associated with heavy, chronic stated on the Ron Reagan, Jr. talk show use”. (Sep. 2, 1991) that Marijuana “leaves a Block’s study is published in Drug and black protein substance in the synaptic Alcohol Dependence, Vol. 28: 121-8 (1991). cleft” of brain cells, a claim apparently based on Heath’s monkeys. When asked by a References: NORML member for his evidence, Mecca sent a list of three references, none of which William Slikker, Jr. et al, “Chronic Mari- turned out to have anything to do with juana Smoke Exposure in the Rhesus Mon- brain damage. key”, Fundamental and Applied Toxicology Although the new monkey studies found 17: 321-32 (1991) no physical brain damage, they did observe behavioral changes from Marijuana. Slik- Guy Cabral et al, “Chronic Marijuana Smoke ker’s group found that monkeys exposed Alters Alveolar Macrophage Morphology and once a day to the human equivalent of four Protein Expression, Pharmacology Biochem- or five joints showed persistent effects istry and Behavior throughout the day. Slikker says that the 40: 643-9 (1991) effects faded gradually after they were taken off Marijuana, and were not detect- Merle Paule et al., “Chronic Marijuana able seven months later, when they were Smoke Exposure in the Rhesus Monkey II: sacrificed. Autopsies did reveal lingering Effects on Progressive Ratio and Condi-

36 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. tioned Position Responding”, Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics 260: 210-22 (1992) Cannabinoids and appetite stimulation

by Richard D.Mattes, Karl Engelman, Leslie Shaw and Mahmoud A. Elsohly

Some interesting (and humorous) excerpts from a recent issue of Pharmacology Bio- chemistry and Behavior. I would tend to dispute some of their findings, conclusions and experimental design, however I give you these selected out-takes to draw your own conclusions.

Research conducted in Philadelphia, PA and sponsored by the Federal Government.

Summary of conclusions: …the present data demonstrate an appetite-stimulating action of THC in healthy, adult, light Marijuana users only when administered at a dose of 2.5 mg b.i.d. by rectal supposi- tory. Comparable oral dosing was less effective. Acute administration of the drug by various routes at levels often used to control nausea and emesis did not elicit an increment in energy intake. Under the conditions of these studies, subject age, gender, hunger status, reported “high”, and plasma drug level were not significantly associated with drug effects on food intake. However, different results may be obtained under varying conditions (i.e., a social setting conducive to positive drug-related effects on psychological and behavioral measures) or with selected clinical populations”.

Just what WERE the conditions?

Method--Study Protocols (4) “Data are presented from four studies, all of which had within-subject designs. The first was a double-blind, placebo-controlled, single oral dose study involving an age and gender stratified study population (acute oral study). In the second, subjects were monitored after single oral, sublingual, and smoked doses (multiroute study). The third involved administration of the THC either PO or PR b.i.d. for 3-day periods (chronic study), and a fourth assessed food intake following single oral dosing of subjects in fasted and fed states (satiety study). Different individuals were enrolled in each study. All subjects were recruited by public advertisements and received monetary compensation for their participation. Sub- jects were informed that each study’s aim was to document the physiological actions of the drug; dietary effects were never mentioned. The studies were approved by the Committee on Studies Involving Human Beings at the University of Pennsylvania.

1.Acute Oral Study

This study was designed to determine whether ingestion of the currently FDA- approved formulation of THC stimulates energy intake and alters the type, nutrient composition, or taste properties of selected foods. Protocol. Participants reported to the hospital at 0800 h after an overnight

37 Absinthe fast. Vital signs were collected, a die- This study was designed to provide pre- tary questionnaire was completed, and a liminary data on the appetite stimulating battery of chemosensory tests (described effects of THC following repeated low (2.5 elsewhere (27)) was administered. A stan- mg) doses by two (oral and rectal supposi- dard breakfast (421 kcal) comprised of one tory) routes. buttered (5 g) English muffin (57 g), or- Protocol. The types of measures as- ange juice (240 ml), and 2% milk (240 ml) sessed (e.g., sensory function, blood was consumed in its entirety. Immediately pressure, salivary function) were identi- afterwards, a single dose (15 mg for cal to those monitored in the acute oral males, 10 mg for females) of delta-9-THC study, but the timing of the activities in sesame oil (Marinol, Unimed, Inc, differed. Blood was drawn at 0800, 1200, Somerville, NJ) or matched placebo was 1600, 2000, and 2300 h each day. Sensory swallowed. At 1000 h a tray of pre-weighed testing was conducted at 0800 and 1600 h foods (sandwhich cookies, cupcakes, choco- the first day and only at 1600 h on the late candies, bananas, red apples, pud- subsequent two days. Eating opportunities ding, carrots, fruit punch, potato chips, included a self-selected breakfast (0800 corn chips, peanuts, cheese, crackers, h), lunch (1200 h), dinner (1730 h), and a dill pickles, V-8 juice, plain yogurt, snack tray (1000-2300 h) each day. A 2.5 green apple, sour hard candies, grape- mg dose of delta-9-THC was administered PO fruit, cranberry juice, bittersweet choco- or PR (as the hemisuccinate ester, sup- late, radishes, walnuts, celery, raw broc- plied by ElSohly Laboratories, Oxford, MS) coli, orange marmalade, bitter lemon at 0900 and 1700 h. The two tree day test drink) was made available for the rest of sessions were separated by a minimum of 3 the test day. This array of foods provided weeks. options that were rated by other subjects in previous studies as primarily sweet, 4.Satiety Study sour salty, or bitter. Vital signs were taken and the dietary In this study,the appetitive effects of questinnaire was completed at this time THC administration to subjects in a fed and hourly for the duration to the day. and fasted state were contrasted to deter- Sensory testing and blood draws were re- mine whether the drug alters satiety. peated at 1100, 1300, and 1500 h. Lunch Failure to compensate for the energy pro- was self-selected from a menu containing vided by the pretreatment breakfast would about 60 items plus condiments at 1100 h Indicate a disruption of satiety mecha- and the preweighed items were were pre- nisms. sented at 1200 h. Between scheduled acti- Protocol. The testing protocol was vities, subjects were free to engage in identical to that used in the oral study quiet recreational activities on the hos- except subjects either received no morning pital floor. Only one subject was tested meal or one containing 455 kcal comprised per day. Following subject release (at ap- of scambled eggs (87.3 g), bacon (14.3 g), proximately 1800 h), all foods were re- half of an English muffin (28 g) with 7.5 weighed to determine the amounts consumed g of margarine, orange juice (120 cc), and (i.e., no food was given to the other pa- milk (240 cc of whole milk). Immediately tients or hoarded for later consumption). after breakfast, a single dose (15 mg for A minimum of 3 weeks was interposed be- males, 10 mg for females) of delta-9-THC tween sessions to ensure that any drug ad- in sesame oil (Marinol, Unimed, Inc, ministered during a study day was cleared Somerville NJ) was swallowed. The 2 test before subsequent testing. days were separated by a minimum of 3 weeks. 2.Multiroute study Selected Results/Discussion This study explored the acute appetite stimulating effects of THC following dif- 1. There was a high level of variability ferent routes of administration. in plasma drug levels, especially among Protocol. The testing protocol was subjects after oral drug administration identical to that used in the acute oral coincident with a small standard break- study except multiple routes of drug de- fast. livery were tested. After breakfast, a 2. Snacks accounted for more energy than single dose (15 mg for males, 10 mg for the self-selected lunch during bothac- females) of delta-9-THC in sesame oil tive and placebo treatments. (Marinol, Unimed, Inc, Somerville, NJ) was 3. Intakes were also similar following swallowed, allowed to dissolve under the acute administration of the drug by- tongue or a single710-795 mg Marijuana oral, inhaled, and sublingual routes. cigarette (2.57 +/- 0.06% delta-9-THC) was 4. Two of the subjects who reported ex- smoked (supplied by the National Institute periencing a pronounced “high” 2 hfol- on Drug Abuse, Research Triangle Park, lowing inhalation of THC elected to NC). Smoking entailed inhaling for 3 s, sleep through lunch and had the lowest holding 12 s, exhaling, waiting 15 s and daily intakes (830 and 482 kcal). Omit- repeating until the cigarette was burned ting these subjects, mean energy intake down to a 2 cm stub. Each test session was after inhalation of THC was 2719 +/- separated by at least 3 weeks. Because of 359 kcal; 481 kcal more than oral dos- concern about lingering drug effects on ing and 603 kcal greater than sublin- behavior, subjects remained in the hospi- gual dosing effects. Due to the high tal until 2300 h. The snack tray was variance and small sample size, these available until 2000 h. Subjects were pro- difference were not statistically sig- vided a self-selected dinner at 1800 h nificant. (the nutrient content of which was meas- 5. Snack items (e.g., sweet pastries, ured). chocolate candy) were consistently the- largest contributors of energy. 6. Energy intake was not significantly re- 3.Chronic Study lated to reported “high” under anycon- dition. However, it should be noted that approximately 20% of participants

38 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. in the acute oral study who reported little of no “high” during the study day volunteered information that they Experiments on experienced a “high” later that evening and ate large amounts of food. 7. Analyses used intake scores computed as monkeys the difference between active and placebo treatment days. No significant association was observed between age and The Arkansas Times, difference in total energy intake (r = September 16, 1993 0.11), reported “high” (r = -0.11), AUC for parent drug (r = 0.02), or AUC for While courts send users to prison, scien- metabolite levels (r = -0.06). Inhala- tists at NCTR find little to support dan- tion of THC led to more consistent ele- vations of plasma drug concent-ration gers of pot. and tended, albeit not significantly, The investment: to promote in take. • Federal matching funds for the “war on 8. Anectodal reports Indicate that mari- drugs” in Arkansas totaled $4.6 million juan may also alter eating patters in 1992. and,in particular, stimulate a desire • State and local agencies kicked in an- for sweet items (12, 15, 20, 21). More other $1.8 million. frequent intake of snack foods ac- • The Arkansas National Guard received counted for much of the noted increase in total energy intake in several con- $1.3 million to assist in Marijuana trolled studies (12, 13, 15).Drug- eradication. induced behavioral changes resulting in • An unknown additional amount of money decreased energy expenditurehave been was generated for drug investiga-tions hypothesized to account for increased by the sale of confiscated property. energy intake (39). Shifts of fluid • No figures are available for the cost balance do not account for the findings of prosecuting drug cases and incarcer- (17, 39). Thus, our failure to document ating offenders. a THC-related increment in food intake • should not be interpreted as evidence The return: that THC will be ineffective in the • 42 percent of all arrests for the sale maintenance of adequate body weight in and manufacture of drugs in 1992 were clinical populations. for selling or growing Marijuana. • And 62 percent of all arrests for possession of drugs were for possession of Well, what do YOU think? Marijuana.

From The Iowa NORML News Letter, Fall 1994, pages 2-4 (reprinted with permission from The Arkansas Times).

By Mara Leveritt

The monkeys smoked a joint a day. Actually, they didn’t recline in their cages, puffing a hand-rolled reefer. This being a scientific experiment, funded by the powerful National Institute on Drug Abuse, the process was more carefully controlled. The monkeys were fitted with masks through which Marijuana smoke, machine-puffed in carefully measured doses, was passed into their nostrils. The experiment, performed at the Na- tional Center for Toxicological Research near Pine Bluff, was designed to test whether chronic Marijuana use caused brain damage. It lasted for several years, with the most intensive phase, during which monkeys were exposed to heavy doses of Marijuana smoke, occurring from 1984 to 1985. Reports on the study’s findings continue to be published in pharmacology and toxicology journals. But beyond those tight scientific circles, the results of the NCTR experiment, the most extensive of its kind yet conducted, have gone almost entirely unnoticed. That’s not surprising, perhaps. In a world where the political majority has shown little tolerance for Marijuana, the test results are explosive. The experiment discovered no adverse impact from Marijuana on monkeys’ general health, no sign that heavy exposure to Marijuana smoke caused lung cancer, and, with one exception, no long-term effects

39 Absinthe on the animals’ behavior from exposure to findings were not conclusive, they were Marijuana. “at variance with earlier work suggesting Before the NCTR study, the largest ex- that fractions of Marijuana smoke are periment examining the effects of Mari- highly genotoxic”. juana on primates was one conducted at the The seven authors noted that, “It has Stanford Research Institute. That experi- been suggested that Marijuana smoking is a ment, focusing on the brain’s electrical proximal cause of respiratory cancer. How- activity under the influence of Marijuana, ever, these intimations have not been involved 16 monkeys. borne out by epidemiological investiga- By contrast, the experiment at NCTR tions, which is surprising considering the used 62 monkeys, all rhesus males. In widespread use of Marijuana”. 1983, the animals were all approximately Moreover, the journal article noted: two to three years old, the monkey equiva- “The data presented here suggest that lent of teen-agers. seven months after the last smoke expo- For one year before the start of the sure, there is not evidence of increased experiment, the monkeys were trained to Marijuana smoke-induced carcinogen-DNA ad- play “games” designed to test their per- ducts in the lungs of exposed monkeys”. ception of the passage of time and their Paule’s informal interpretation: “If ability to discern left from right. Only it’s not there, it’s probably not too ter- after they were proficient did the expo- rible”. (The researchers discount the claim sure to Marijuana begin. that as Marijuana has become increasingly Toxicologists divided the monkeys into potent, due to refined horticultural tech- four groups. Every day for a year, 16 mon- niques, it has also become more dangerous. keys each received what Dr. Merle Paule, Other studies, they say, have demonstrated head of NCTR’s Behavioral Toxicology Labo- that smokers inhale only to the point of ratory and Primate Research Facility, inebriation, so that persons smoking called “a pretty heavy exposure” to Mari- stronger Marijuana smoke considerably less juana, the human equivalent, Paule said, of it). of “four or five joints a day”. Late last year, Paule himself was the Another group of 16 smoked the same lead author of a report published in The amount of Marijuana, but only two days per Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental week. Staffers called them the “weekend Therapeutics. It dealt with Marijuana’s smokers”. effect on behavior. A third group was administered smoke This report’s findings were more com- from cigarettes identical to the others, plex. Before the monkeys were started on except that the psychoactive component of their year-long smoke exposure, Slikker, THC had been removed. And a fourth group Paule and other scientists, conducted a received no smoke exposure at all. short-term study to determine the immedi- The monkeys smoked for a year, then ate effect of THC on the animals; in other they were monitored and tested for another words, how they reacted when they were year. “high”. Dr. William Slikker, acting director of They found two areas of apparent im- NCTR’s Division of Neurotoxicology, ex- pact. One was the monkey’s short-term mem- plained that the study generated so much ory. “That’s a function that’s very sensi- data, it has taken time to compile it and tive”, Paule explained, “but only on an the results have been released gradually, acute basis. If you test them the next in several reports since the experiment day, you see no residual effect on those was ended. behaviors”. In 1991, the journal Fundamental and The monkeys sense of time also appeared Applied Toxicology published a report on disrupted. Monkeys, it turns out, are as the effects of Marijuana on the monkeys’ good as humans at estimating the passage general health. Slikker was the lead of time. Members of both species to writer, with Paule (pronounced Paul) and equally well at a test that requires them, other NCTR researchers listed as collabo- for instance, to press down on a lever for rators. more than 10 seconds but not longer than That report concluded, “The general 14 seconds. health of the monkeys was not compromised Marijuana has been shown to affect hu- by a year of Marijuana smoke exposure as man’s ability to perform the test at nor- Indicated by weight gain, carboxy- mal levels, and the monkeys were no dif- hemoglobin and clinical chemistry- ferent. “That time-estimation behavior is hematology values. exquisitely sensitive to Marijuana”, Paule “Most clinical parameters… did not show said, “even at very low doses”. The any treatment-related changes, and those NCTR study corroborated human studies few that did were of small magnitude, showing that time seems to stretch out for transient in nature, and were not differ- many subjects under the influence of Mari- ent at the end of the five-month postdos- juana. In the monkeys’ response to the ing period”. time-perception test, Paule explained, Last week, in his office at NCTR, Paule “what they said was that eight seconds explained the health study’s results in feels like ten”. more casual terms. “There’s just nothing That phenomenon too, however, quickly there”, he said. “They were all fine”. dissipated. Testing the next day showed Last year, the journal Toxicology Let- the monkeys’ time perception restored to ters published a report by another group its normal acuity. of NCTR researchers on the effects of The main thrust of the study, however, Marijuana on the lungs of the monkeys who concerned the long-term effects of expo- smoked. Seven months after the last exposure to Marijuana. To study that, the ani- sure to Marijuana smoke, some of the mon- mals were tested for cognitive function keys were killed and their bodies autop- and motivation 23 hours after each Mari- sied. Scientists examined the lungs for juana exposure. signs of disturbances called “carcinogen- The cognitive test involved four lights DNA adducts”, considered to be one of the and two levers. The monkeys were taught early Indications of cancer. The writers that when they saw a red or a yellow of that study reported that although their light, they were to hit a lever on their

40 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. left in order to receive a food pellet. If standing of why. Everything else about him a blue or a green light came on, they tested normal”. would get the pellet by hitting a lever on That one monkey represents a warning. their right. As Paule cautioned, “There appears to be The researchers wanted to see if the tremendous individual variation in suscep- animals scored any differently 23 hours tibility to Marijuana”. after exposure to Marijuana than they had Also of interest in the NCTR study, in before receiving the drug. “On that test”, light of U.S. criminal sanctions against Paule said, “their performance was unaf- Marijuana, is the researchers’ observation fected”. that the animals exposed to Marijuana The test of motivation, however, showed never posed a threat to their handlers. a definite pattern of change. This test “I’ve never seen anything that suggests required the monkeys to put forth an in- Marijuana is responsible for an increase creasing amount of effort to get food. in any violent behavior”, Paule said, add- Since a decrease in motivation or “work ing, “I would say that the perceived risk ethic” has been described as one of the to Marijuana is probably overstated”. effects of smoking Marijuana, the re- That’s the scientist speaking. Here’s searchers wanted to see “how much effort the father. Asked what he would tell his the monkeys were willing to put out”, as 9-year-old son about the risks of smoking compared to the nonsmoking control group. Marijuana, this was Paule’s answer: “I’d Their paychecks were banana-flavored tell him he probably shouldn’t smoke dope food pellets. For the first pellet, the before he becomes an adult”. monkeys had only to depress a lever once. They had to hit it twice to get the second Pot research lid about to blow open pellet. And for a third pellet, they had to pump the lever three times. Dr. Don McMillan, chairman of the De- Here, the group exposed to THC showed a partment of Pharmacology at the University clear unwillingness to get worked up about of Arkansas at Little Rock, is also the work. Paule pointed out that during the school’s Wilbur D. Mills professor of Al- year the test was being conducted, the coholism and Drug Abuse Prevention. He led monkeys were passing from adolescence into a major study into human tolerance of adulthood, a time for them, as for humans, Marijuana in the early part of his career, he said, when “the work ethic normally and more recently served as an advisor to goes way up”. the researchers at NCTR in planning of But that improvement didn’t show up in their study of Marijuana’s effects on mon- the Marijuana-smokers. While the nonsmok- keys. ing monkeys showed a willingness to work After years during which he said Mari- harder and harder as the year progressed, juana research was “stalled”, McMillan is the Marijuana groups stayed at adolescent once again excited about developments in levels. the field. “Our interpretation of this is that “It looks like the whole lid on Mari- Marijuana smoking in monkeys does produce juana research is about to blow wide something akin to an amotivational syn- open”, he said in a recent interview. “I drome”, Paule said. He added, however, think we’re going to know a tremendous that the phenomenon may have occurred pre- amount more about the mechanism of action cisely because the monkeys were at the and how it works on the brain in the next critical and deliberately chosen stage of two years”. adolescence when the NCTR test was con- As Marijuana is studied further, its ducted. effects, especially relative to other, le- Because Marijuana use is high among gal drugs, will also become better under- teenagers, depressed motivation at that stood. For example, Marijuana is ranked stage in life can have serious effects. with heroin and LSD as a Schedule I drug. But Marijuana may not have the same effect The federal government rates its potential on adults. for abuse higher than the risk of abusing “We did a search of the literature”, cocaine, morphine, PCP, or methadone. Paule said, “and we found that those stud- Asked about that, McMillan said, “The ies that tried to find amotivational syn- thing you have to remember is that that drome in adults could not find one. It schedule is a legal classification, not a only appears in adolescence. Chances are, medical one”. if we’d done these studies in adults, we He said the medical understanding of wouldn’t have seen this effect. And the Marijuana is that it poses a lower risk to good news is that, even among adolescents, society and individual health than that of when the exposure to Marijuana was two legal drugs -- alcohol and tobacco. stopped, their motivation jumped right “Marijuana is probably less harmful than back up to normal levels”. either of those -- but of course, there’s “It took two to three months for them still a lot we don’t know about it”. to recover to full values, but they did recover and they recovered fully”. Paule The Arkansas Times, September 16, 1993, noted two other findings related to the pp. 11-12 motivational test. One was that the willingness to work appeared to be equally affected in both the daily and weekend smokers. “That totally surprised us”, he said. Another finding worthy of note was that, as in most areas of life, one monkey proved to be an exception. As Paule put it, he seemed to go “blooey” under the influence of Marijuana. “Unlike the others, we found that this one particular animal was severely disrupted by chronic Mari- juana exposure on the discrimination task. And he never recovered full from the amotivational syndrome. We have no under-

41 Absinthe ily extensor spasticity. THC was administered to eight other patients with spas- The forbidden ticity and other CNS lesions. Responses varied, but benefit was seen in three of three patients with “tonic spasms”. No medicine benefit was noted in patients with cere- bellar disease. SO - J Clin Pharmacol 1981 Aug-Sep;21(8-9 Dr. Grinspoon gave a speech last Friday Suppl):413S-416S in Denver about his new book Forbidden DP - 1981 Aug-Sep Medicine and medical Marijuana in general. TA - J Clin Pharmacol I got there late but enjoyed a good deal PG - 413S-416S of his talk, including a panel discussion IP - 8-9 Suppl with a doctor from the Colorado Health VI - 21 Sciences Center (Colorado’s Med School) -- IS - 0091-2700 uhm, Dr. Robinson(?), I think it was… The UI - 82053565 talk was very untechnical, and a lot of the data was anecdotal (Grinspoon acknowl- 2 edged this, and it’s understandable due to AU - Ungerleider JT the target audience). He really did im- AU - Andyrsiak T press me as being someone who knew what he AU - Fairbanks L was talking about, though. I hooked up AU - Ellison GW with him after and asked him a few ques- AU - Myers LW tions on his opinions about the ultimate TI - Delta-9-THC in the treatment of spas- dangers of Cannabis (respiratory system, ticity associated with multiple sclerosis. and its carcinogenicity), and his basic AB - Marijuana is reported to decrease response was that, once we can get it le- spasticity in patients with multiple scle- galized, this problem would be solved very rosis. This is a double blind, placebo quickly. (i.e., with vaporizers, etc.). controlled, crossover clinical trial of The doctor from CHSC was an oncologist, delta-9-THC in 13 subjects with clinical and he was fairly critical of Grinspoon, multiple sclerosis and spasticity. Sub- although, Grinspoon held his ground well. jects received escalating doses of THC in However, Dr. Robinson did seem in favor of the range of 2.5-15 mg., five days of THC making Cannabis available for medical pur- and five days of placebo in randomized or- poses. I asked Dr. Robinson what his opin- der, divided by a two-day washout period. ion is on the possible significance of Po Subjective ratings of spasticity and side 210 in tobacco carcinogenicity, and he effects were completed and semiquantita- said that the other agents in tobacco tive neurological examinations were per- probably override this danger… formed. At doses greater than 7.5 mg there Dr. Grinspoon’s book seems cool, al- was significant improvement in patient though, again, much of it is based on an- ratings of spasticity compared to placebo. ecdotal evidence he has received from per- These positive findings in a treatment sonal connections. It still appeared to failure population suggest a role for THC have a good number of references. I’m in the treatment of spasticity in multiple probably gonna pick it up in a few weeks sclerosis. when I get some money. AD - Department of Psychiatry One of the interesting things Grinspoon AD - U.C.L.A. School of Medicine 90024. talked about is Cannabis’ use in treating SO - Adv Alcohol Subst Abuse 1987;7(1):39- multiple sclerosis, of which, he mostly 50 talked about anecdotal results reported in DP - 1987 his book. I cross-ref’d Cannabis and mul- TA - Adv Alcohol Subst Abuse tiple sclerosis through paperchase and PG - 39-50 came up with a few refs which I’ll attach IP - 1 to this post. VI - 7 Oh, and btw: Dr. Grinspoon’s fax # is IS - 0270-3106 617-277-8423, for anyone interested in UI - 88160795 getting in touch with him. 3 - [email protected] AU - Clifford DB TI - Tetrahydrocannabinol for tremor in 1 multiple sclerosis. AU - Petro DJ AB - Based on one patient’s enthusiastic AU - Ellenberger C Jr report, eight patients with multiple scle- TI - Treatment of human spasticity with rosis, seriously disabled with tremor and delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol. ataxia, were given oral Tetrahydro- AB - Spasticity is a common neurologic cannabinol. Two demonstrated improved mo- condition in patients with multiple scle- tor coordination. rosis, stroke, cerebral palsy or an in- SO - Ann Neurol 1983 Jun;13(6):669-71 jured spinal cord. Animal studies suggest DP - 1983 Jun that THC has an inhibitory effect on poly- TA - Ann Neurol synaptic reflexes. Some spastic patients PG - 669-71 claim improvement after inhaling Cannabis. IP - 6 We tested muscle tone, reflexes, strength VI - 13 and performed EMGs before and after dou- UI - 83281524 ble-blinded oral administration of either 10 or 5 mg THC or placebo. The blinded ex- aminer correctly identified the trials in which the patients received THC in seven of nine cases. For the group, 10 mg THC significantly reduced spasticity by clinical measurement (P less than 0.01). Quad- riceps EMG interference pattern was reduced in those four patients with primar-

42 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. challenged by several studies (Block, 1991; Mendelson et al., 1974; Coggins et The health effects of al., 1976) that found no correlation at all. Marijuana and Health (Natl. Acad. Sciences, Inst. Medicine, 1982), also, af- Marijuana on ter reviewing literature at that time, concluded that “Due to conflicting and in- humans complete evidence, it is not possible to conclude at the present time whether Mari- juana smoking has a significant effect upon gonadotropic and testosterone concen- by Marc Anderson June 28, 1992 trations in humans”. Psychology 101 The most serious physical danger of using Cannabis is in smoking it. Inhaling Introduction any sort of burnt plant matter is not very good for the lungs. Tashkin et al. (1990) Marijuana has been used as a drug since reports decreased gas exchange capacity the beginning of time, yet there are still and the existence of particle residue in many mysteries about its health effects on the lungs of Marijuana smokers several humans. Marijuana, or Cannabis Sativa, is times greater than for tobacco smokers. Wu a preparation of the crushed flowers and et al. (1988) noted that Marijuana is sev- buds of female hemp plant. The existence eral times more carcinogenic than tobacco. of the plant has been reported as early as These findings, though, must be inter- 1500-1200 BC. in China, and Cannabis has preted with caution. In both studies, been described as an analgesic as early as smoked Marijuana was not filtered, while 200 AD (Walton, 1938). Since then, an smoked tobacco was. Tashkin et al. notes overwhelming number of studies have at- that, “these differences could largely ac- tempted to explain the physical and psy- count for more than two fold greater tar chological effects of Cannabis on humans. yield from Marijuana than tobacco that was measured using syringe-simulated puffs of Physical Effects similar volume and duration”. Smoking Can- nabis through a water-pipe will filter out Physically, Cannabis is relatively water soluble carcinogens and will also harmless. Studies have observed interes- greatly cool down the smoke. ting results, including that it causes Furthermore, Cannabis need not be structural changes in the brain, depresses smoked: In Middle Eastern countries, it male sperm counts, causes chromosome dam- has been consumed through teas and food age, lowers testosterone levels, and dam- for centuries, avoiding the carcinogeni- ages the lungs. Most of these claims, how- city of smoke altogether. ever, have been unreplicated in humans or Despite Cannabis’ known negative ef- have been contradicted by other work. This fects to lung function, it has never been section will address each of these re- reported to cause a single instance of ported negative side-effects. lung cancer. Tobacco, though, is expected Various studies have claimed that Can- to kill 400,000 people this year (Glenn, nabis destroys brain cells (Landfield et 1992). If Cannabis is so much more danger- al., 1988; Haper et al., 1977; Meyers and ous to a user’s lungs than tobacco and is Heath, 1979; Heath et al., 1980). so much more carcinogenic, why aren’t However, several other studies found no there stacks of reports of Cannabis- structural or neurochemical atrophy in the induced lung cancer? One interes-ting the- brain at all (Cabral et al., 1991; Paule ory is that it’s because tobacco tars are et al., 1992; Co et al., 1977; Kuehnle, significantly radioactive, while Marijuana 1977). Furthermore, it should be noted tars aren’t at all. Winters et al. (1982) that Heath’s work was sharply criticized found that a pack-and-a-half-a-day smoker for avoiding safeguards of bias and re- of tobacco is exposed to 8000 mrem of ra- porting “changes” that occur normally in diation a year, equal to the dose of 300 the mammalian brain (Natl. Acad. of Sci- chest x-rays. A more recent study Indi- ences, Inst. Medicine, 1982). cates that a pack-and-a-half-a-day smoker Wu et al. (1988) found a correlation receives 16000 mrem of radiation more than between Cannabis use and low sperm counts a non-smoker, annually (NCRP Report #95, in human males. This is misleading because 1987). It could also be noted that the a decrease in sperm count has not been mere contents of carcinoge-nic chemicals shown to have a negative effect on fertil- doesn’t necessarily Indicate an extreme ity and because the sperm count returns to health hazard. For example, roasted coffee normal after Cannabis use has stopped. contains 800 volatile chemicals, of which (Natl. Acad. Sciences, Inst. Medicine, only 21 have been tested on rodents, and 1982) of those, 16 were carcinogenic (Ames, Another claim made was that Cannabis 1990). Coffee has never been considered a causes chromosome breakage. The primary great cancer-causing substance, though. source for this are studies that were con- Cannabis has also been known for its ducted by Dr. Gabriel Nahas in the early many therapeutic uses, including the 1980s. Nahas observed abnormalities in so- treatment of open angle glaucoma, asthma, matic (not sex) cells of rhesus monkeys in and the nausea associated with chemothera- vitro (i.e., in test tubes and petri py. It has also been described as a tumor dishes) and then made the unjusti-fied retardant, an antibiotic, a sleep-inducer, conclusion that these changes would occur and a muscle relaxant (Cohen, 1980). in human bodies in vivo (in the body). Na- has’ work was criticized by his colleagues Psychological Effects and, in 1983, he backed away from his own conclusions. The psychological effects of Cannabis A widely held claim has also been that use have been described quite many years Cannabis lowers male testosterone levels before the physical effects, yet are as (Kolodny, 1974). This theory has been accurate today as they were 100 years ago. Following is an early account of its in-

43 Absinthe toxicating properties made by Dr. John than the company average, and were absent Bell in 1857: “I had taken the drug with 30 percent less (Morris, 1991). great skepticism as to its reputed action, or at any rate with the opinion that it Conclusion was grossly exaggerated, and I accordingly made up my mind not to be ‘caught napping’ Whether Cannabis use causes permanent in this way again, and to keep a careful physical or psychological changes in its watch over my thoughts. But while enforc- users is still under question. The most ing this resolution as I supposed, I found serious concern is its effects on the pul- myself, to my own astonishment, waking monary system, yet, studies have often from a reverie longer and more profound used poor controls (i.e., no filtration) than any previous. From skepticism, to the and their results can mislead an uncareful fullest belief of all I had read on the reader. Smoking the drug with a different subject, was but a step. Its effects so apparatus or ingesting it without smoking far surpassed anything which words can at all could greatly effect the results of convey, that I began to think I was on the these studies. verge of narcotic poisoning; yet, strange The acute psychological effects of Can- to say, there was not the slightest feel- nabis that cause its intoxicating proper- ing of inquietude on that account. I re- ties are no mystery, as any user can re- solved to walk into the street. While ris- port. Long term effects of Cannabis use ing from the chair, another lucid interval could possibly lead to the so-called “amo- showed that another dream had come and tivational syndrome”, but scientific evi- gone. While passing through the door, I dence is lacking. was aware of having wandered again, but how or when I had permitted myself to fall References Cited into the reverie I was perfectly uncon- scious, and knew only that it seemed to • Ames, B.N., Gold, L.S. Too many rodent have lasted an intermi-nable length of carcinogens: Mitogenesis increases time”. (Bell, 1857) The user of Cannabis mutagenesis. Science. Vol 149. Pg. 971. feels the onset of the “high” between 7 1990. seconds (when smoking) and up to 30 min- • utes (after eating). This involves a re- Bell, J. On the haschisch or Cannabis laxed and peaceful, yet sometimes euphoric Indica. The Boston Medical and Surgical state of mind. At high doses, it can cause Journal. Vol LVI, No. 11. April 16, hallucinations. The effects last from 2 to 1857. 4 hours after the drug is ingested, and it • Cabral, G. et al. Chronic Marijuana usually leaves the user in a relaxed state Smoke Alters Alveolar Macrophage Mor- for several hours after the high. One of phology and Protein Expression. Funda- the main intoxicating properties is that mental and Applied Toxicolgy. 17:321- short term memory is inhibited for the du- 32. 1991. ration of the high. Thoughts may seem un- • Coggins, W.J., Swenson, E.W., Dawson, clear, and it might be difficult for a W.W., et al. Health status of chronic user to con-centrate on logical- heavy Cannabis users. Ann. N.Y. Acad. complicated concepts like mathematics. Sci. 282:148-161. 1976. Long-term effects have been argued for • Co, B.T., Goodwin, D.W., Gado, M., Mik- many years. There are claims of an “amoti- hael, M., and Hill, S.Y. Absence of vational syndrome” where users are said to cerebral atrophy in chronic Cannabis withdraw from society and lose ambition. users. JAMA. 237:1229-1230. 1977. In reviewing evidence for and against the • Cohen, S. Therapeutic Aspects. Mari- theory of this “syndrome”, however, Mari- juana Research Findings: 1980. NIDA Re- juana and Health (Nat. Acad. Sciences, search Mongraph 31. 1980. Inst. Medicine, 1982) concluded that: • Glenn, Reed. Daily Camera. Jan. 2, “Such symptoms have been known to occur in 1992. the absence of Marijuana. Even if there is an association between this syndrome and • Harper, J.W., Heath, R.G., and Myers, the use of Marijuana, that does not prove W.A. Effects of Cannabis Sativa on ul- that Marijuana causes the syndrome. Many trastructure of the synapse in monkey troubled individuals seek an ‘escape’ into brain. J. Neurosci. Res. 3:87-93. 1977. use of drugs; thus, frequent use of Mari- • Heath, R.G., Fitzjarrell, A.T., Garey, juana may become one more in a series of R.E., and Myers, W.A. Chronic Marijuana counterproductive behaviors for these un- smoking: Its effects on function and happy people”. Other studies have found structure of the primate brain. another interesting correlation: Shedler • In Nahas, G.G. and Paton, W.D.M. (eds) et al. (1990) reported these results in a Marijuana: Biological Effects. Analy- longitudinal survey of adolescents: “Ado- sis, Metabolism, Cullarlar Responses, lescents who engaged in some drug experi- Reproduction and Brain. Pergamon Press: mentation (primarily with Marijuana) were Oxford. 1979. the best adjusted in the sample. Adoles- • Heath, R.G., Fitzjarrell, A.T., cents who used drugs frequently were mal- Fontana, C.J., and Garey, R.E. Cannabis adjusted, showing distinct personality Sativa: Effects on brain function and syndrome marked by interpersonal alien- ultrastructure in Rhesus monkeys. Bio- ation, poor impulse control, and manifest logical Pschiatry. 15:657-690. 1980. emotional distress. Adolescents who, by • Kolodny, R.C., Masters, W.H., Kolodner, age 18, had never experimented with any R.M., and Toro, G. Depression of plasma drug were relatively anxious, emotionally testosterone levels after chronic in- constric-ted, and lacking in social tensive Marijuana use. NEJM. 290:872- skills”. Among other findings, Utah Power 874. 1974. and Light spent $215.00 per year less on health insurance benefits for drug users • Kuehnle, J., Mendelson, J.H., Davis, than on the control group, and employees K.R., and New, P.F.J. Computed tomo- who tested positive for Cannabis at Geor- graphic examination of heavy Marijuana gia Power Co. had a higher promotion rate smokers. JAMA. 237:1231-1232. 1977.

44 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science.

• Landfield, P., Cadwallader, L. B., and Vinsant, S. Quantitative changes in hippocampal structure following long- About Cancer term exposure to delta-9- tetrahydrocannabinol: possible media- tion by glucucorticoid systems. Brain A comparison between Marijuana and tobacco Research. Vol 443. 1988. • Mendelson, J.H., Kuehnle, J. Ellingboe, Think again. Cigarette companies will J., and Babor, T.F. Plasma testosterone have you believing anything just as long levels before, during, and after as you continue to buy their products. The chronic Marijuana smoking. NEJM. fact is, although insoluble tars are a 291:1051-1055. 1974. contributing factor to the lung cancer • Morris, D. Saint Paul Pioneer Press. danger present in today’s cigarettes, the May 6, 1991. real danger is radioactivity. According to • National Academy of Sciences, Institute U.S. Surgeon General C. Everette Koop (on of Medicine. Marijuana and Health. Na- national television, 1990) radioactivity, tional Academic Press: Washington D.C. not tar, accounts for at least 90% of all 1982. smoking related lung cancer. • NCRP Report #95. Radiation Exposure of Tobacco crops grown in the United the U.S. population from consumer prod- States are fertilized by law with phos- ucts and miscellaneous sources. Na- phates rich in radium 226. In addition, tional Council on Radiation Protection many soils have a natural radium 226 con- and Measurement. Dec 30, 1987. tent. Radium 226 breaks down into two long • lived ‘daughter’ elements -- lead 210 and Paule, M. et al. Chronic Marijuana polonium 210. These radioactive particles smoke exposure in the rhesus monkey II: become airborne, and attach themselves to Effects on progressive ratio and condi- the fine hairs on tobacco leaves. tioned position responding. Journal of Studies have shown that lead 210 and Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeu- polonium 210 deposits accumulate in the tics. 260: 210-22. 1992. bodies of people exposed to cigarette • Shedler, J., Block, J. Adolescent drug smoke. Data collected in the late 1970’s use and psychological health: A longi- shows that smokers have three times as tudinal inquiry. American Psychologist. much of these elements in their lower Vol 45(5) 612-630. 1990. lungs as non smokers. Smokers also show a • Tashkin, D.P., Fligiel S., Wu, T-C., greater accumulation of lead 210 and polo- Gong, H. Jr., Barbers, R.G., Coulson, nium 210 in their skeletons, though no A.H., Simmons, M.S., Beals, T.F. Ef- studies have been conducted to link these fects of habitual use of Marijuana deposits with bone cancer. Polonium 210 is and/or cocaine on the lung. Research the only component of cigarette smoke Findings on Smoking of Abused Sub- which has produced tumors by itself in in- stances. NIDA Monograph 99. 1990. halation experiments with animals. • Walton, R.P. Marijuana: America’s New When a smoker inhales tobacco smoke, Drug Problem. J.B. Lippincott: Phila- the lungs react by forming irritated areas delphia. 1874. in the bronchi. All smoke produces this • Winters, T.H., Franza, J.R. Radioactiv- effect. However, although these irritated ity in Cigarette Smoke. NEJM. 306(6): spots are referred to as ‘pre-cancerous’ 364-365. 1982. lesions, they are a perfectly natural de- • fense system and usually go away with no Wu, T-C., Tashkin, D.P., Djahed, B., adverse effects. Insoluble tars in tobacco and Rose, J.E. Pulmonary hazards of smoke can slow this healing process by ad- smoking Marijuana as compared with to- hering to lesions and causing additional bacco. NEJM. 1988. irritation. In addition, tobacco smoke causes the bronchi to constrict for long periods of time, which obstructs the lung’s ability to clear itself of these residues. Polonium 210 and lead 210 in tobacco smoke show a tendency to accumulate at lesions in specific spots, called bifurcations, in the bronchi. When smoking is continued for an extended period of time, deposits of radioactivity turn into radioactive ‘hot spots’ and remain at bifurcations for years. Polonium 210 emits highly localized alpha radiation which has been shown to cause cancer. Since the polonium 210 has a half life of 21.5 years (Due to the presence of lead 210), it can put an ex-smoker at risk for years after he or she quits. Experiments measuring the level of polonium 210 in victims of lung cancer found that the level of ‘hot spot’ activity was virtually the same in smokers and ex-smokers even though the ex-smokers had quit five years prior to death. Over half of the radioactive materials emitted by a burning cigarette are released into the air, where they can be inhaled by non-smokers. In addition to lead 210 and polonium 210 it has been proven that tobacco smoke can cause airborne radioactive particles to collect in the

45 Absinthe lungs of both smokers and non-smokers ex- carcinogenic as tobacco”. This finding was posed to second hand smoke. Original stud- based solely on the tar content of Canna- ies conducted on uranium miners which bis leaves compared to that of tobacco, showed an increased risk of lung cancer and did not take radioactivity into con- due to exposure to radon in smokers have sideration. (Cannabis tars do not contain been re-run to evaluate the radioactive radioactive materials). In addition, it lung cancer risk from indoor air radon. It was not considered that: turns out that tobacco smoke works as a 1. Most Marijuana smokers smoke the bud, kind of ‘magnet’ for airborne radioactive not the leaf, of the plant. The bud particles, causing them to deposit in your contains only 33% as much tar as to- lungs instead of on furniture. (Smoking bacco. indoors increases lung cancer risks 2. Marijuana smokers do not smoke anywhere greatly). near as much as tobacco smokers, due to It has been estimated that the total the psychoactive effects of Cannabis. accumulated alpha radiation exposure of a 3. Not one case of lung cancer has ever pack-a-day indoor smoker is 38 to 97 rad been successfully linked to Marijuana by age 60. (Two packs a day yields up to use. 143 rad, and non-smokers receive no more 4. Cannabis, unlike tobacco, does not than 17 rad). An exposure of 1 rad per cause any narrowing of the small air year yields a 1% risk of lung cancer (at passageways in the lungs. the lowest estimate). In fact, Marijuana has been shown to be Don’t smoke. Or if you do, smoke an expectorant and actually dilates the lightly, outdoors, and engage frequently air channels it comes in contact with. in activities which will clear your lungs. This is why many asthma sufferers look to Imported India tobacco has less than half Marijuana to provide relief. Doctors have the radiation content of that grown in the postulated that Marijuana may, in this re- U.S. spect, be more effective than all of the Kicking the nicotine habit is not easy, prescription drugs on the market. and nobody has the right to expect it of Studies even show that due to Mari- you. Often physical addictions are rein- juana’s ability to clear the lungs of forced by emotional and psychological smog, pollutants, and cigarette smoke, it needs. Filling or coming to terms with may actually reduce your risk of emphy- those needs can give you the inspiration sema, bronchitis, and lung cancer. Smokers and added freedom to succeed. of Cannabis have been shown to outlive Most of all, inform yourself, even if non-smokers in some areas by up to two the information is disturbing. You are a years. Medium to heavy tobacco smokers lot less likely to be taken in by tobacco will live seven to ten years longer if advertising once you know the facts. they also smoke Marijuana. Nicotine, the active ingredient in to- Cannabis is also radically different bacco smoke, has long been known to be from tobacco in that it does not contain highly addictive. In fact, doctors and nicotine and is not addictive. The psy- pharmacologists are not in consensus as to choactive ingredient in Marijuana, THC, which is more addictive -- nicotine, or has been accused of causing brain and ge- heroin. Physical addiction occurs when a netic damage, but these studies have all chemical becomes essential for the body or been disproven. In fact, the DEA’s own Ad- metabolism to function. In other words, a ministrative Law Judge Francis Young has substance is said to be physically addic- declared that “Marijuana in its natural tive if extended use results in a build up form is far safer than many foods we com- of tolerance in the body to the extent monly consume”. that discontinuing use of the substance The disturbing thing about all of this results in negative side effects. Called information is that the majority of Ameri- “withdrawal symptoms”, these consequences cans are as yet unaware of the radioactive can include anxiety, stress, trauma, de- risk in cigarettes. In fact, many profes- pression and physical conditions such as sionals: doctors, scientists and health shakes or nausea. It is to avoid these administrators, either have never heard of consequences that an addict will keep us- polonium 210 or consider it to be just an- ing his or her substance. other scare story. In addition to being addictive, nico- Why is this information so hard to come tine is also a toxin (i.e. lethal if in- by? When the studies were first released gested in sufficient quantities). Nicotine in the late 70’s, many magazines were un- has been shown to have a negative effect able to print articles because their main on the heart and circulatory systems, advertisers, cigarette companies, threat- causing a constriction in veins and arter- ened to pull support if they published the ies which may lead to a stroke or heart facts. Although network news did pick up attack. In fact, nicotine is so poisonous the story, virtually nothing came out in that smokers who ignore their doctor’s ad- print. Those who heard were hard pressed vice and continue to smoke while using to produce collaborating evi-dence, and dermal nicotine patches have managed to were eventually convinced it was nothing overdose and die of heart seizure. to worry about. Many people think smoking Marijuana is The power of the cigarette industry to just as harmful as smoking tobacco, but suppress information goes far beyond maga- this is not true. Those who hold that zines, however. A well financed tobacco Marijuana is equivalent to tobacco are lobby has been very active in the United misinformed. Due to the efforts of various States Congress for decades procuring sub- federal agencies to discourage use of sidies and fighting laws and proposed re- Marijuana in the 1970’s the government, in search which could hurt the American to- a fit of “reefer madness”, conducted seve- bacco industry. Tobacco inte-rests practi- ral biased studies designed to return re- cally own Senate and House seats, as many sults that would equate Marijuana smok-ing campaign contributions come from cigarette with tobacco smoking, or worse. profits. Tobacco pay-offs also go to fund For example the Berkeley carcinogenic organizations such as the Partnership For tar studies of the late 1970’s concluded A Drug Free America, which adopt a harsh that “Marijuana is one-and-a-half times as

46 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. anti-drug agenda yet seem to omit alcohol Risk Factor in Smoking Related Carcin- and tobacco (claiming they are harmless). genisis”. As an example, a 1984 law which was in- • “Radiactivity: the New-Found Danger in tended to require tobacco companies to re- Cigarettes”, Reader’s Digest, March lease to the public a list of additives 1986. used in the manufacture of cigarettes was • “Would You Still Rather Fight Than watered down to the extent that the list Switch?”, Whole Life Times, Mid- is now released only to the Department of April/May 1985. Health and Human Services on the condition that it not be shown to anyone else. Com- (secret ingredients) panies have been known in the past to add chemicals to cigarettes for flavor, and, • many assert, for their addictive proper- “What Goes Up In Smoke?”, Nation, De- ties. In Britain such chemicals have in- cember 23, 1991. cluded acetone and turpentine, as well as an assortment of known carcinogens. (Marijuana) Tobacco companies argue that revealing their ‘secret ingredients’ would hurt • “The Emperor Wears No Clothes”, Jack their competitiveness. In fact, when Can- Herer, HEMP/Queen of Clubs Publishing, ada passed legislation forcing additive 1992 lists to be released, one large company reformulated its recipe for its Canadian More Reasearch distribution; another took its product out of Canada entirely. • Winters-TH, Franza-JR, Radioactivity in Tobacco companies do not have the right Cigarette Smoke, New England Journal of to poison the public. Don’t trust them. Medicine, 1982; 306(6): 364-365 (repro- Get the information you need to make your duced w/o permission) own decisions, and restore government to the people. To the Editor: During the 17 years Another destructive aspect of the Drug since the Surgeon General’s first report War is the unreasonable measures taken as on smoking, intense research activity has a result of “reefer madness”. Because of been focused on the carcinogenic potential the long standing anti-pot-smoking para- of the tar component of cigarette smoke. noia begun in the 1930’s, many law en- Only one definite chmical carcinogen -- forcement agencies have taken it upon benzopyrene -- has been found. Conspicuous themselves to censor and limit the Mari- because of its absence is research into juana culture through whatever channels the role of the radioactive component of they can find. This includes the banning cigarette smoke. of various forms of drug “paraphernalia” The alpha emitters polonium-210 and (pipes, clips, rolling papers, etc.). lead-210 are highly concentrated on tobac- Water pipes, or “bongs”, are quite of- co trichomes and insoluble particles in ten the target of such efforts. Claiming cigarette smoke (1). The major source of that water pipes are constructed to allow the polonium is phosphate fertilizer, Marijuana smokers to inhale “dangerous” which is used in growing tobacco. The Marijuana smoke deeper into their lungs, trichomes of the leaves concentrate the many states and towns have passed laws polonium, which persists when tobacco is controlling the sale, manufacture, and dried and processed. possession of these items for “health” Levels of Po-210 were measured in ciga- reasons. rette smoke by Radford and Hunt (2) and in The sad fact is, water pipes have been the bronchial epithelium of smokers and shown to be extremely effective in remov- nonsmokers by Little et al. (3) After in- ing harmful materials from smoke before it halation, ciliary action causes the in- reaches the lungs. They also cool the soluble radioactive particles to accu- smoke and prevent injury and irritation to mulate at the bifurcation of segmental lung passages. In effect, laws against wa- bronchi, a common site of origin of bron- ter pipes hurt all smokers, Cannabis and chogenic carcinomas. tobacco, by preventing the development of In a person smoking 1 1/2 packs of safer forms of consumption. cigarettes per day, the radiation dose to the bronchial epithelium in areas of bi- Produced as a public service by the Uni- furcation is 8000 mrem per year -- the versity of Massachusetts at Amherst Canna- equivalent of the dose to the skin from bis Reform Coalition Researched and writ- 300 x-ray films of the chest per year. ten by Brian S. Julin Corrections, com- This figure is comparable to total body ments, inquiries should be addressed to: exposure to natural background radiation containing 80 mrem per year in someone UMASS CANNABIS living in the Boston area. S.A.O. Box #2 It is a common practive to assume that Student Union the exposure received from a radiation UMASS Amherst, MA source is distributed throughout a tissue. 01003 In this way, a high level of exposure in a localized region -- e.g. bronchial epithe- Sources: lium -- is averaged out over the entire (radioactivity) tissue mass, suggesting a low level of exposure. However, alpha particles have a • range of only 40 um in the body. A cell E.A. Martel, “Alpha Radiation Dose at nucleus of 5 to 6 um that is traversed by Bronchial Bifurcations From Indoor Ex- a single alpha particle receives a dose of posure to Radon Progeny”, Proceeds of 1000 rems. Thus, although the total tissue the National Academy of Science, Vol. dose might be considered negligible, cells 80, pp. 1285-1289, March 1983. close to an alpha source receive high • Naoimi H. Harley, Beverly S. Cohen, and doses. The Po-210 alpha activity of ciga- T.C. Tso, “Polonium 210: A Questionable rette smoke may be a very effective car-

47 Absinthe cinogen if a multiple mutation mechanism is involved. Radford and Hunt have determined that Interactions between 75 per cent of the alpha activity of cigarette smoke enters the ambient air and is unabsorbed by the smoker, (2) making it Marijuana and other available for deposit in the lungs of others. Little et al. have measured levels of drugs Po-210 in the lungs of nonsmokers that may not be accounted for on the basis of natural exposure to this isotope. The detrimental effects of tobacco Interactions can be expected between smoke have been considerably underesti- Cannabis and a wide range of drugs. Nor- mated, making it less likely that chemical triptyline is a tricyclic anti-depressant. carcinogens alone are responsible for the Cannabis interacts adversely with tri- observed incidence of tobacco-related car- cyclic andidepressants. Cannabis, on its cinoma. Alpha emitters in cigarette smoke own, produces tachycardia as a side- result in appreciable radiation exposure effect. Tricyclics do the same. Com-bined, to the bronchial epithelium of smokers and there is an additive effect, with a bigger probably secondhand smokers. Alpha radia- increase in heart rate. I have seen this tion is a possible etiologic factor in to- with Cannabis + doxepin (heart rate >150, bacco-related carcinoma, and it deserves as well as BP 99/75, dizziness and severe further study. anxiety). In this case, doxepin’s hypoten- sive (blood pressure-lowering) effect (an- Thomas H. Winters, M.D. other common side-effect of tricyclics) Joseph R. Di Franza, M.D. was also potentiated. Tricy-clic antide- University of Massachesetts pressants have a certain effect on the Worcester, Ma 01605 Medical Center heart. This effect can be described as cardiotoxicity. In normal dosage, in indi- 1. Mertell EA. Radioactivity of tobacco viduals with no heart disorder, this trichomes and insoluble cigarette smoke causes no problems at all. (In overdosage, particles. Nature. 1974; 249:215-7. tricyclics can produce serious cardiac ar- 2. Radford EP Jr, Hunt VR. Polonum-210 a rhythmias). I suspect that in the interac- volatile radioelement in cigarettes. Sci- tion with Cannabis, the cardiotoxic effect ence. 1964; 143:247-9 of tricyclics is somewhat poten-tiated. (I 3. Little JB, Radford EP Jr, McCombs HL, don’t know if this has produced hazardous Hunt VR. Distribution of polonium-210 in changes in ECG rhythm). The effects of pulmonary tissues of cigarette smokers. N Cannabis + nortriptyline in particular Engl J Med. 1965; 273:1343-51. have been documented. I remember seeing a couple of references to all of this in Martindale’s “Ex- tra Pharmacopoeia”, 29th edition, under ‘Cannabis’, but I haven’t read them.

48 Marijuana: Prejudice VS Science. What is THC Latest research about Marijuana There has been considerable research into the synthesis of THC and its analogues. A prominent figure in the early work in the 40’s is Roger Adams. Many THC A complete bibliography of all the latest analogues have been synthesized, some with books about studies and research on Mari- potencies (supposedly) 512 times that of juana: the natural THC. The two areas on the structure that are the pharmacological • Scallet, A.C. Neurotoxicology of Canna- functional groups are the long alkyl chain bis and THC - a review of chronic expo- on the aromatic ring and variations on the sure studies in animals Pharmacol. Bio- nonaromatic ring. Acetylation of the hy- chem. Behav. 1991 40 671 676 droxyl usually produces a more potent com- • Schwartz, R.H. Heavy Marijuana use and pound. Look in the Merck Index under Na- recent memory impairment Psychiatric bilone, Synhexyl, Tetrahydrocannabinol, Annals 1991 80 82 Cannabinol, and Cannabidiol. This is a • good start on Cannabinoid chemistry, but Iversen, L.L. Medical uses of Marijuana there seem to be myriad articles on nitro- Nature 1993 365 12 13 gen analogues of all sorts and other het- • Thomas, H. Psychiatric symptoms in Can- eroatoms like sulfur. Too many for me to nabis users Br. J. Psychiat. 1993 163 mention all of the references. 141 149 • Kelly, P. and Jones, R.T. Metabolism of Tetrahydrocannabinol in frequent and infrequent Marijuana users J. Anal. Toxicol. 1992 16 228 235 • Block, R.I. and Ghoneim, M.M. Effects of chronic Marijuana use on human cognition Psychopharmacology 1993 110 219 228 • Block, R.I., Farinpour, R. and Braverman, K. Acute effects of Mari- juana on cognition relationships to chronic effects and smoking techniques Pharmacol. Biochem. Behav. 1992 43 907 917 • Block, R.I., Farnham, S., Braverman, K. Noyes, R. and Ghoneim, M.M. Long-term Marijuana use and subsequent effects on learning and cognitive functions related to school achievement: preliminary study In: Residual Effects of Drugs on Behavior, Spencer, J.W. and Boren, J.J., eds. NIDA Research Mono- graph 101 1990 101 96 111 The last three by Block and colleagues may be the best *chronic* studies available. Also, given that you are neighbors, you might want to get in touch with the folks at UNTHSC (used to be TCOM) Department of Pharmacology in Fort Worth. They have a significant presence in Substance Abuse Research and are heading up the Substance Abuse Insitute of North Texas (SAINT).

The Joy of Growin’ by Yourself

The Joy of Growing by Yourself.

• FOLAIR FEEDING The joys of an herb • CO2 • VENTING • TEMPERATURE garden at home • PESTS • TRANSPLANTING • EARLY SEXING by Legal Lie Zitt • REGENERATION • PRUNING Statement of Intent: GROW POT! • HARVESTING AND DRYING

• REMEMBER, it’s up to you to inform your CLONING friends, family, neighbors and o-workers • BREEDING that we have been lied-to, cheated, re- • SINSEMILLIA lieved of freedoms, happiness, privacy, • SINSE SEEDS civil rights and liberties by the WOD. • ODORS AND NEGATIVE IONS Hemp prohibition is a political issue • OXYGEN driven by big business interests and it’s • SAFETY AND PRIVACY damn well time we turn these policies • DISTILLED WATER around through extreme civil-disobedience. • Grow it everywhere, they can’t get it all… BIRTH CONTROL PILLS Hemp laws are immoral. Hemp can save the • SEED AND BUD STORAGE forests, the planet and us. Prohibition • REVIEW laws create crime and black markets. Tax- ing drugs would pay for treatment of ad- Overview dicts. There are few things in life as good as your own herb, grown by yourself at home • 350,000 people die every year from out in the garden and indoors in pots… smoking tobbacco. Oregano, Dill, Basil, Sage and other herbs • 150,000 people die every year from are all easy to grow. Mint will take over drinking alcohol. the whole yard if you let it. Fresh mint • 0 people die every year from smoking and celantro are incredible in salads and pot. oriental dishes. But it all comes down to • Cannabis could potentially save 5 mil- a truly motivational herb that is your friend and mine, a great healer and lion lives every year in the US alone. teacher to those that know it well. Most people think of gardens as a sea- The CIA is the worlds’ biggest cocain sonal, yearly project, but it’s actual-ly dealer. less time consuming and more rewarding to The CIA would rather you smoke crack than keep the garden going year round. If one pot. were to attempt to grow year round, indoor The War on Drugs is a campaign of fear and gardening techniques will be needed at mind control; a war on civil liberties. least during winter to keep the garden producing. You will have herb fresh at all Stop political prison sentences in our times, there is no worry of mass storage time. thru the winter and spring, it requires less space, and once established, requires Stop the promotion of poisons and the pro- only minimal attention every week to keep hibition of medicines. it producing at optimal levels. The best part of being a gardener is it connects you to the earth. It connects you Stop the lies. with nature, and is spiritually enriching. Tell the truth. Try giving your plants energy by beaming good thoughts and energy at them every time you visit them. I find this helps me Table of contents: as much as it helps them; my plants seem to respond to it favorably. • OVERVIEW • GENETICS AND THE PLANT Genetics and the plant • INDOORS & OUTDOORS CONSTANT HARVEST STRATEGY It’s very important to start with good • genetics. You should attempt to find seeds PLANTING INDOORS from local gardeners that are acclimated • SHELF GROWING and bred for local climate and best floral • RECYCLING characteristics. Potency, aroma, fast • LIGHT growth, early maturation, resistance to • SEA OF GREEN fungus and pests. All of these factors are • considered by the seasoned gardener and GERMINATION you will benefit enormously by finding a • VEGETATIVE GROWTH friend to get you started on the journey • FLOWERING that never ends… • HYDROPONICS Attempt to find an Indica/Sativa hybrid • PLANTING OUTDOORS if possible, as this will have the best • high and good characteristics for indoor GUERRILLA GARDENING growth as well. Indica plants have a • SOIL GROWING heavy, stony high that is tiresome, and • SECURITY Sativas’ are hard to grow indoors due to • PLANT FOOD AND NUTRIENTS high light requirements, and late flower- • PH AND FERTILIZERS ing traits, so a hybrid can be bread that

53 Absinthe will have the energetic, cerebral high of the plants to flower. See FLOWERING chap- the Sativa and the early maturation ten- ter). dencies of the Indica plant. Moving the plants to 10-13 hour light The Indica plant is easily recognized periods (moving it outside) with uninter- by its extremely broad leaves that are rupted darkness (no bright lights nearby) very rounded on the sides. The Sativa has will force the plant to flower. It will very narrow, finger-like leaves. A hybrid ripen and be 2-3’ when ready to harvest. will have qualities of both and have When a plant is moved from continuous in- leaves that are a cross of these two door light to a 10-13 hour day outside, it types, thinner than an Indica, but much will start to flower in anticipation of broader than a Sativa. It is possible to oncoming winter. Vegetati-ve starts moved recognize a good hybrid by the leaves once outside March 1st, will be ripe by May 1. you know what to look for. Vegetative starts moved outside on May 1 Look for seeds that are dark brown or will be ripe by July 1. Starts moved out- light grey. Some may have dark lines inset side Sept 1 are picked by Nov. 1st. In into these colors, like tiger stripes. Winter, operations are moved indoors and White, small seeds are immature and should acrop is planted for seed in anticipation not be planted. of planting outdoors the next summer, or just for some extra winter stash. Indoor and outdoors constant harvest Keep in mind that the “man” is looking strategy for plants in the Sept./Oct./Nov. time- frame, and may never notice plants placed One of the best solutions to energy outside to flower in April. Be smart, make verses output for most home gardeners is your big harvest in May, not October! to use outdoor light for flowering and use continuous light indoors for germination Planting indoors and vegetative growth. This will take advantage of the natural light/dark cycle A small indoor space should be found and cut your energy use in half compared that can be used to germinate seeds; these to the same operation indoors. A small vegetative starts are placed outside to greenhouse can be built of Filon fiber- mature in the spring after last freezes glass or PVC sheets that is innocuous and are over. The space can be a closet, a looks much like a storage shed or tool section of a bedroom, a basement area, an shed so it’s not likely to raise suspi- attic or unused bathroom. Some people de- cions. vote entire bedrooms to growing. In fact, a large shed of metal or ply- The space must be light leak proofed, wood can be modified with a luminous roof so that no suspicious light is seen from of PVC, glass, fiberglass or plastic outside the house. This could invite fuzz sheet, and some strains that do not re- or rip-offs. quire a great deal of light will grow The space should be vented. Opening the well. Such a shed will discourage fly-by door of a closet can be enough ventilation sightings and keep your business your own! if the space is not lit by big lights that It also allows you to keep out rats and generate a lot of heat. Separate exhaust gophers, keeps out the neighbor kids, and and incoming air vents are best. One at can be easily locked up. It will also give the top of the room to exhaust air into you an opportunity to actually plant in the attic or out the roof, and one to the ground if you desire, and this is the bring in air from an outside wall or un- best way to avoid root-bound plants (if der-floor crawl space. Use fans from old your not using hydroponics), and get big- computer cabinets, available from elec- ger harvests. tronic liquidators for $5 each. Dimmer In winter, indoor space is used to swithes can be used to regulate the start new seedlings or cuttings to be pla- speed/noise of the fans. Use silicon to ced outside in the spring, using natural secure the fans to 4”-6” PVC pipe pushed sunlight to ripen the plants. thru a round hole cut in the floor and This routine will provide at least 3 ceilings. Use lots of silicon to damp the outdoor/greenhouse harvests per year. If fans vibrations, so that the walls do not more space is available to constantly be resonate to the fans’ ocsilations. starting indoors and flowering 2nd harvest Line the walls with aluminum foil, dull plants outdoors, harvests are possible side out to diffuse the light and prevent every 60 days in many areas, with a small hot-spots, or paint the walls bright white indoor harvest in the winter as a possi- to reflect light. Aluminized mylar, 1 mil bility as well. thick is best.($20 for 25 feet of a 4’ The basic strategy of year round pro- wide roll). Mirrors are not good to use, duction is to understand the plant has two since the glass eats light! growth cycles. At germination the plant Line the floor with plastic in case of enters into a vegetative state and will be water spills, etc. Set up a voltage inter- able to use all the continuous light you rupt socket and be sure the electri-cal can give it. This means there is no dark wiring will handle the lamps your going to cycle required. The plant will photosyn- use. Always place ballasts for HID lamps thesis constantly and grow faster than it on a shelf, so they are above floor level, would outdoors with long evenings. Photo- in case of water spills. Spacers place on synthesis stops during dark periods and the floor under a ballast will work too. the plant uses sugars produced to build A shelf above the main grow area can be during the evening. This is not a require- used to clone cuttings and germinate seed- ment and the plant will grow faster at lings. It will allow you to double the this stage with continuous photosyn-thesis area of your grow space and is an invalu- (constant light). able storage area for plant food, spray Once the plant is 12”-18” tall, weather bottles and other gardening sup-plies. permitting, it can be forced to start This area stays very warm, and no germina- flowering by placing it outside in the tion warming pad will be needed, so this Spring or Fall. (For Summer outdoor flow- arrangement saves you $. ering, the night must be artificially Hang a light proof curtain to separate lengthened in the greenhouse to “force” this shelf from the main area when used

54 The Joy of Growing by Yourself. for flowering. This will allow constant rary shelf, box or table to get them lights on the shelf and dark periods in closer to the lamp. the main grow area. Velcro can be used to A shelf is all that is necessary with keep the curtain in place and ties can be this type of setup, preferably at least used to roll it up when tending the gar- 18” wide, up to about 24” maximum. This den. Black vinyl with white backing works area must be painted a very bright white, best. or covered with aluminum foil, dull side Now you need light. A couple of shop out to reflect light back to the plants. lights will be fine if you just want to (Dull side out prevents hot-spots; dif- start plants inside and then take them fuses light better). Paint the shelf white outside to grow in a small greenhouse. too. Or, use aluminized mylar, a space They can be purchased with bulbs for about blanket, or any silvery surface material. $10 each, or without bulbs for around $8. Do not use mirrors, as the glass soaks up Try to find them on sale. Use one Cool light. White and one Warm Light type bulb in each Hang shop lamps from chains and make to get the best light spectrum possible sure you can adjust them with hooks or for plant growth. Do not use expensive some other type of mechanism so they can Grow Lux type bulbs, as they do not put be kept as close to the plants as possible out as much light, and therefor do not at all times (1-2”). If the lamps are too work as well in most situations (go fig- far from the plants, the plants could grow ure). If Cool White is all you can find, long, spindly stems trying to reach the or afford, use them. They work fine, and lamp, and will not produce as much bud at are by far the cheapest.(About $1-2 each). maturity. This is due to internode length being much longer. This is the length of Shelf growing stem between each set of leaves. If it is shorter, there can be more internodes, Shelf gardening with fluorescents may thus more branches, thus a plant that probe the trend of the future, since the ma- vides more buds in less space at harvest terials are so inexpensive, and easy to time. obtain. Fluorescent lamps are great for Shelf gardening is sometimes referred shelf gardening. In this system, many to as Sea of Green, because many plants shelves can be placed, one above the are grown close together, creating a green other, and fluorescent lamps are used on canopy of tops that are grown and matured each shelf. Some shelves have 24 hour quickly, and the next crop is started and lighting, some have 12 hour lighting (for growing concurrently in a separate area of flowering). Two areas are best, perhaps continuous light. Clones are raised in a with one other devoted to cloning and ger- constant light shelf, until they start to mination of seed. grow well vegetatively, then placed on a Shelf gardening assumes your going to 12 hour per day shelf to flower. keep all plants 3’ or shorter at maturity, so all shelves are 3-4 feet apart. Less Light light is necessary when you have plants that are this short and forced to mature Indoors, 2000 lumens per sq. ft. is early. about as low as you want to go indoors. If One drawback to a shelf garden like you get under this mark, plant growth will this is that it is very time consuming to certainly not go as fast as possible, and adjust the lamp height every day, and it internode/stem length will increase. Also, is harder to take a vacation for even a light distance to plants will be much more week with no tending of the garden. This critical. Daily adjustments to the lamps applies mostly to the vegetative stage, will be necessary, meaning you get no va- when plants are growing as much as an inch cations. per day. Lamps on the flowering shelves 2500 lumens psf should be a good tar- are not adjusted nearly as often. get, and 3000 is optimal if your going Normally, the lamps should be kept to inject or enrich CO2 levels (more on within 2 inches of the tops of the plants, that later). with the plants arranged such that they High Intensity Discharge lamps are the get progressively taller as the end of the best solution for most indoor growers. HID lamps go up, so that all plants are within lamps come in 3 basic flavors: High Pres- this 2” range. This is an ideal however, sure Sodium (HPS), Metal Halide (MH) and and if you do go on vacation, adjust the Mercury Vapor. Metal Halide is an improved lamps so that your sure the plants will spectrum, higher intensity Mercury Vapor not be able to grow up to the lamps within design. HPS is a yellowish sort of light, that length of time. If enough flourecents maybe a bit pink or orange. Same as some are used to completely saturate the shelf street lamps. with light, the spacing issue will not HPS lamps can be used to grow a crop create spindly plants. They will mearly from start to finish. Tests show that the grow a little slower if the lamps are not HPS crop will mature 1 week later than a very close to them. similar crop under MH, but it will be a An alternative is to use fluorescent bigger yield, so it’s better to wait the lamps for cloning, germination and early extra week. seedling growth on the top shelf of a The easiest HID to buy, and least ex- closet, then switch over to HPS for heavy pensive initially are the flourescent and vegatative growth and/or flowering in the mercury vapor lamps. MV will put out about main closet area. 8000 lumens per 175 watts, and 150 watts Position the HPS such that it won’t of HPS puts out about 15k lumens, so HPS need adjustment, at the top most possible is almost twice as efficient. But the point in the closet or room. Most HPS in- color spectrum from MV lamp output is not stallations will not require lamp height as good. HPS is high in reds, which works adjustment. Just attach the lamp to the well for flowering, while the Metal Halide underside of shelf or ceiling as high as is rich in blues, needed for the best possible, and if you want to get a few vegetative growth. Unfortunately, MV lamps plants closer to it, put them on a tempo- provide the worst spectrum for plant growth, but are very inexpensive to pur-

55 Absinthe chase. They are not recommended, unless vegetative growth, but is much less effi- you find them free, and even then, the cient than HPS. It is possible to purchase electricity/efficiency issues outweigh the conversion bulbs for a MH lamp that con- initial costs saved. vert it to HPS, but the cost of the con- 400 watt HPS will output around 45k lu- version bulb is more expensive than the mens. For every 500 watts of continuous color corrected Son Agro bulb, so I would use, you use about $20 a month in elec- recommend just buying the Son Agro HPS. tricity, so it is evident that a lamp tak- Even though it costs more initially, you ing half the power to output the same lu- get more for your energy dollar later, and mens (or twice the lumens at the same it’s much easier to hang than 10 fluores- power level) will pay for itself in a year cent tubes. or so, and from then on, continuous sav- If you have a MH 36k lumen lamp burning ings will be reaped. This is a simple ini- at 400 watts and a 53k lumen HPS burning tial cost vs. operating costs calcu- at 430 watts, which is better efficiency lation, and does not take into account the wise? Which will provide a better yield? faster growth and increased yield the HPS Obviously, the Son Agro HPS, but of lamp will give you, due to more light be- course, the initial cost is higher. Actu- ing available. If this is factored into ally, the ballast will add about 10% to the calculation the HPS lamp will pay for these wattage numbers. itself with the first crop, when compared The Son Agro bulb will prove much bet- to MV or fluorescent lamps, since it is ter than the MH for any purpose. The MH easily twice as efficient and grows flow- bulb does not last as long, but is ers faster and bigger. cheaper. Compare $36 for a 400 watt MH bulb vs. $40 for the HPS bulb. Add $15 for the Son Agro HPS. The HPS bulb life is Lamp Total effi- Watts Lumens twice as long. 10k hours vs. 21k-hours. type ciency per bulb The Son Agro is 16k hours or so. Still, fluorescence 3000 400 watts longer bulb life and more light add up to buld 40 ~30k-lumens more for your energy dollar long term. Horizontal mounting of any HID is a mercury va- 8000 400 watts good idea, as this will boost by 30% the por 175 ~20k-lumens amount of light that actually reaches the metal halide 35000 400 watts plants. Most HID’s sold forindoor garden 400 ~35k-lumens use these days are of this horizontal high 45000 400 watts mounting arrangement. p.sodium 400 ~45k-lumens HPS is much less expensive to operate than any other type of lamp, but comes in the 70 watt size at the home improvement Notice the Mercury Vapor lamps are less stores. This size is not very efficient, efficient than the fluorescent (FL), and but blows away FL in efficiency, so they can not be positioned as close to the might be an alternative to FL for very plants, so the plants will not be able to small operations, like 9 sq. feet or less. use as much of the MV light. The light Over 9 sqr. feet, you need more light than distribution is not as good either. MV one of these lamps can provide, but you lamps simply are not suitable for indoor could use two of them. 70 watt HPS lamps gardening. Use flourecent, MH, or HPS cost about $40 each, complete. Two lamps lamps only. Halogen arc lamps generate too would be 140 watts putting out about 12k much heat and not very much light for the lumens, so it’s better than FL, but a 150 wattage they use, and are also not recom- watt HPS puts out about 18k lumens, the mened, even though the light spectrum is bulb life is longer, bulbs are cheaper and suitable for decent growth. the lamp more efficient to operate. The There is a new type of HPS lamp called biggest problem is that the mid size lamps Son Agro, and it is available in a 250, like the 150 and 250 watt HPS are almost 1000, and 400 watt range. The 400 is actu- as expensive to buy as the larger 400’s. ally 430 watts; they have added 30 watts For this reason, if you have room for the of blue to this bulb. It is a very bright larger lamp, buy the 400. If your going lamp (53k lumens) and is made for green- pro, a 1080 watt model is available too, house use. These bulbs can be purchased to but you might find there is better light replace normal HPS bulbs, so they are an distribution from two 400’s rather than option if you already own a HPS lamp. The one large lamp.Of course, the two smaller beauty of this bulb is that you do not lamps are more expensive to purchase than give up most of the advantages of MH onelarge lamp, so most people choose the lamps, such as minimal internode spacing larger lamp for bigger operations.Heat and early maturation, like most HPS users buildup in the room is a factor with HID do, and you have all advantages of a HPS lamps, and just how much light the plants lamp. One bulb does it can use is determined by temperature, CO2 all. levels, nutrient availability, PH, and Internodal length of plants grown with other factors. Too big of a lamp for a the Son Agro are the shortest ever seen space will make constant venting neces- with any type of lamp. Plants grown under sary, and then there is no way to enrich this lamp are incredibly bushy, compact CO2, since it’s getting blown out of the and grow very fast. Son Agro bulbs how- room right away. ever, do not last as long as normal HPS Bulb Costs: the bulb cost on the 70 bulbs. There is something like a 25% dif- watt HPS is $24, the 150 is only $30, and ference in bulb life. the 400 is only $40. So you will spend Metal Halide (MH) is another option, more to replace two 70 watt bulbs than you and is available in both a 36k and 40k lu- will to replace one 400 watt HPS. (Go fig- men bulbs for the 400 watt size. The Super ure). Add that up with the lower resale Bulb (40k) is about $10-15 more, and pro- value on the 70’s (practically nothing) vides an extra 4000 lumens. I think the and the fact that they are being modified Super Bulb may last longer; if so, that and are not suited to this application, makes it the way to go. Halide light is and it becomes evident that $189 for a 250 more blue and better than straight HPS for HPS lamp, or $219 for a 400, might just be

56 The Joy of Growing by Yourself. worth the price. Keep in mind that for $30 stall for plants in the middle and back of more, you can have the larger lamp the room, where reach is more difficult. (400watt) and it puts out 20k lumens more It’s easy to want big plants, since light than the smaller lamp. Not a bad they will produce more yield per plant, deal! but it’s usually better with limited space to grow smaller plants that mature faster Here is the breakdown on prices (from and pack into smaller spaces. Sea of Green memory…): was developed in Holland. Instead of fit- Type Complete Bulb Bulb Lumens ting 4 large plants in that small room, cost cost life fit 12 small ones on a shelf above 12 HPS 400 $219 $40 10k- 50k other small plants. These plants take only hours 3-4 months to mature from germination to ripe buds, and harvesting takes place con- MH 400 $175 $37 10k- 36k stantly, since there is both a vegeta-tive hours and flowering area devoted to each, with Son Agro $235 £55 15k- 53k harvests every 45-60 days. 400 hours It’s not the size of the plant, but the Super $190 $45 ?? 40k maturity and quality of the product that MH 400 counts. Twice as many plants grown half as MH 250 $149 $32 ?? 40k big will fill the grow space twice as fast, so harvests take place almost twice HPS 250 £165 $36 ?? 27k as often. Get good at picking early flowering plants, and propagate only those HPS agro $180 $53 ?? 30k that are of the best quality. 250 6” square containers will allow for 4 MH 150 $139 $25 ?? 14k plants per square foot. You may also gauge by the size of your growing tray (for pas- HPS 175 $150 $30 ?? 17k sive hydroponics); I like kitty litter boxes. ($3 each at Target) Planted 4 per square foot, (for vegatative seed-lings) a If your looking for these types of lamps, 12 sq. ft. closet will hold 48 seedlings look in the Yellow Pages under gardening, on one shelf. In my case, I use 4” rock- nursuries, and lighting for indoor garde- wool cubes that fit into kitty litter pans ning stores in your area. @ 12 cubes per pan. I can get 5 pans onto a 12 sq. ft. closet upper shelf, so that Sea of green is 60 seedlings on one small shelf! For flowering indoors, 1 plant per sq. Sea of Green (SOG) is the theory of ft. is a good rule of thumb for SOG. If harvesting lots of small plants, matured less plants are grown in this size space, early to get the fastest production of it will take them longer to fill the buds available. Instead of growing a few space, thus more electricity and time will plants for a longer period of time, in the be used to create the same amount of prod- same space many smaller plants are grown uct. If more than one plant p.s.f. is at- that mature faster and in less time. Thus, tempted, the grower will soon find that less time is required between crops. This plants thus crowded tend to be more stem is important to you when the electricity than bud, and the total harvest may be re- bill comes each month. One crop can be duced, so be cautious. started while another is maturing, and a It’s good to avoid “topping” your continuous harvest, year round can be plants if you want them to grow as fast as maintained. 4 plants per square foot will possible. It’s better just to grow 2 or 4 be a good start for seedlings. 1 plant per times more plants, since they will produce square foot will allow plenty of room for more, faster, in the same space. Also, each plant to grow a large top cola, but “training” plants with twist-ties is a will not allow for much bottom branching. great way to get them to bush out a bit. This is OK since indoors, these bottom Just take any type of plastic or paper branches are always shaded anyway, and twist tie and wrap it around the top of will not grow very well unless given addi- the plant, then pull it over until the top tional light and space. The indoor grower is bent over 90-180 degrees and then at- quickly realizes that plants that are too tach this to the main stem lower on the tall do not produce enough at the bottom plant. Do this for one week and then re- to make the extra growing time used worth lease the plant from it’s bond. The plant while. An exception to this rule would be can be trained in this fashion to take if it is intended the plants are to go less vertical space and to grow bushier, outside at some point, and it is expected to fill the grow space and force lower that the light/shading issue will not be a limbs to grow upward and join the green factor at that point. canopy. This technique takes advan-tage of The plants, if started at the same the fact that if the top is pulled over, time, should create what is called a it creates a hormonal condition in the “green canopy” that traps most of the plant that makes it bush out at all lower light at the top level of the plants. Lit- internodes. tle light will penetrate below this level, Sea of Green entails growing to harvest since the plants are so close together. the main cola (top) of the plant. Bottom The gardener is attempting to concentrate branches are trimmed to increase air flow on the top of the plant, and use the light under the “blanket” of growing tops. Use and space to the best advantage, in as these cuttings for clones, as they are the little time as possible. Use of nylon easiest part of the plant to root. It’s poultry fence or similar trellising laid also the fastest part of the plant to re- out over the green canopy will support the generate after flowering has occurred. plants as they start to droop under the weight of heavy fruiting tops. Stakes can Germination be used too, but are not as easy to in- Germinate seeds in sterile soil (for planting outdoors) or a hydroponic medium

57 Absinthe of rockwool or vermiculite. DO NOT (!) use used to get extra oxygen to the plants a Jiffy cube #7 to germinate seeds. Infor- when the pans are kept continuously full. mal tests and experience show these peat The water can be allowed to recede each cubes do not work well and stunt the time after watering, before new solution plants growth. Planting in vermiculite is added. This allows the plants roots to gives the seedling so much oxygen, and are dry somewhat, and make sure they are get- so easy for roots to grow in, that the ting enough oxygen. plants look large 1 week after germina- Use SuperSoil brand potting soil, as it tion! is excellent and sterilized. If you insist Keep them moist at all times, by plac- on using dirt from the yard, sterilize it ing seeds in vermiculite filled 16oz cups in the microwave or oven until it gets with holes in the bottom, placed in a tray steamy.(NOT RECOMMENDED) Sterilize the of weak nutrient solution, high in P. containers with a bleach solution, espe- Rockwool cubes also work extremely well. cially if they have been used a previous When the seed sprouts, place the rockwool season for another plant. cubes into larger rockwool cubes. No repotting or transplanting, and no soil mix- Vegetative growth ing! You can germinate seeds in a paper Once sprouted, the plant starts vegeta- towel. This method is tricky; it’s easy to tive growth. This means the plant will be ruin roots if they dry out, or are planted photosynthesizing as much as possible to too late after germinating. Paper towels grow tall and start many grow tips at each dry out REAL FAST! Place paper towel in a pair of leaves. A grow tip is the part bowl, saturated with weak nutrient solu- that can be cloned or propagated asexu- tion (not too much!), and cover with plas- ally. They are located at the top of the tic wrap to keep it from drying out. Put plant, and every major internode. If you bowl in a warm area; top of the gas stove, “top” the plant, it then has two grow tips water heater closet, or above warm lamps. at the top. If you top each of these, you Cover with black paper to keep out light. will have 4 grow tips at the top of the Check every 12 hours and plant germinated plant. (Since it takes time for the plant seeds with the grow tip up (if possible) to heal and recover from the trauma of be- in a growing medium as soon as the root ing pruned, it faster to grow 4 smaller coming out of the seed is 1/16” or longer. plants and not top them at all. Or grow 2 Use tweezers, and don’t touch the root plants, and “train” them to fill the same tip. Transplant as little as possible by space. Most growers find) germinating in the same container you in- All plants have a vegetative stage tend to grow the plant in for a signifi- where they are growing as fast as possible cant period of time. Just plant in ver- after the plant first germinates from miculite or rockwool. You will be amazed seed. It is possible to grow plants with at the results! 90% germination is common no dark period, and increase the speed at with this method, as compared to 50% or which they grow by 15-30&. Plants can be less with Jiffy Cubes. (Your milage may grown vegetatively indefinitely. It is up vary). to the gardener to decide when to force 5-55-17 plant food such as Peter’s Pro- the plant to flower. A plant can grow from fessional will stimulate root growth of 12” to 12’ before being forced to flower, the germinating seed and the new seed- so there is a lot of latitude here for lings. Use a very dilute solution, in dis- each gardener to manage the garden based tilled water, about 1/3 normal strength, on goals and space available. and keep temperatures between 72-80 de- A solution of 20-20-20 with trace min- grees. Warm temperatures are very impor- erals is used for both hydroponic and soil tant. Many growers experience low germina- gardening when growing continuously under tion rate if the temperatures are out of lights. Miracle Grow Patio or RapidGrow this range. A heating pad set to low or plant food is good for this. A high P medium may be necessary, or a shelf con- plant food such as Peter’s 5-50-17 food is stantly warmed by a light may do, but test used for blooming and fruiting plants when it with a few seeds first, before devoting beginning 12 hour days. Epsom salts (1tsp) next years crop to it. No light is neces- should be used in the solution for magne- sary and may slow germination. Cover ger- sium and sulfur minerals. Trace minerals minating seeds with black paper to keep are needed too, if your food does not in- out light. Place seedlings in the light clude them. Miracle Grow Patio includes once they sprout. these trace elements, and is highly recom- Plan on transplanting only once or mended. twice before harvest. Use the biggest con- Keep lights on continuously for tainers possible for the space and number sprouts, since they require no darkness of seedlings you plan to start. Plants period like older plants. You will not will suffer if continuously transplanted need a timer unless you want to keep the and delay harvesting. You will suffer too, lamps off during a certain time each day. from too much work! 13 2-liter plastic Try to light the plants for 18 or more soda bottles filled with vermicu- hours, or continuously at this point. lite/pearlite will fit in a cat box tray, Bend a young plant’s stem back and and will not require transplanting for the forth to force it to be very thick and first harvest, if you intend to grow hy- strong. Spindly stems can not support droponically. Transplant them for a second heavy flowering growth. An internal oscil- regenerated harvest. lating fan will reduce humidity on the Cut holes in the bottom of containers leave’s stomata and improve the stem and fill the last few inches at the top strength as well. The importance of nter- with vermiculite only, to start seeds or nal air circulation can not be stres-sed accept seedling transplants. Since ver- enough. It will excersize the plants and miculite holds water well, wicks water make them grow stronger, while reducing well, but does not hold too much water, many hazards that could ruin your crop. roots always have lots of oxygen, even if they are sitting in a tray full of water. Hidroponic vegetative solution, A hydrogen peroxide based plant food is (per gallon):

58 The Joy of Growing by Yourself. 12-13 hours, and one is lit continuously. Solution Notes Doses Plants are started in continuous light, type and are moved to the other shelf to flower Miracle contains trace 1 to maturity after several weeks. This Grow Patio elements teaspoon flowering shelf should be bigger than the “starting” or “vegetative” shelf, so that Epsom // 1\2 it can accommodate larger plants. Or, some salts teaspoon plants can be taken outside if there is Human Urine Optional, may 1/4 not enough space on the flowering shelf create bad odors cup for all of them near harvesting. Oxigen plus optional 1 A light tight curtain can be made from plant food teaspoon black vinyl, or other opaque material, with a reflective material on the other This mixture will insure your plants side to reflect light back to the plants. are getting all major and minor nutrients This curtain can be tied with cord when in solution, and will also be treating rolled up to work on the garden, and can your plants with oxygen for good root be velcroed down in place to make sure no growth, and potassium nitrate for good light leaks in or out. If the shelf is burning qualities. Another good GROWTH placed up high, it will not be very no- PHASE mix is 1/4 tsp Peter’s 20/20/20 fer- ticeable, and will fit in any room. Visi- tilizer per gallon of water, with trace tors will never notice it unless you point elements and oxygen added, or fish emul- it out to them, since it is above eye sion. level, and no light is being emitted from Fish emulsion is great in the grean- it. house or outdoors, where smells are not an Flowering plants like very high P level issue, but is not recommended for indoors, foods, such as 5-50-17, but 10-20-10 due to its strong odor. should be adequate. Nutrients should be provided with each watering when first Flowering flowering. Trace elements are necessary too; try The the plant will be induced to fruit to find foods that include these, so you or flower with dark cycles of 11-13 hours don’t have to use a separate trace element that simulate the oncoming winter in the food too. Home improvement centers sell fall as the days grow shorter. As a conse- trace element solutions rich in iron for quence, it works out well indoors to have lawn deficiencies, and these can be two separate areas; one that is used for adapted for use in cultivating the herb. the initial vegetative state and one that Prices for these mass produced fertilizers is used for flowering and fruiting. There are significantly cheaper than the specia- is no other requirement other than to keep lized hydroponic fertilizers sold in in- the dark cycle for flowering very dark door gardening shops, and seem to work with no light interruptions, as this can just fine. stall flowering by days or weeks. Once a plant is big enough to mature Hidroponic flowering solutions (12” or over), dark periods are required (per gallon): for most plants to flower and bear fruit. This will require putting the lamp on a • 1 tspn high P plant food, such as 15- timer, to create regular and strict dark 30-15, or 5-50-17, etc. periods of uninterrupted light. In the • greenhouse, the same effect can be created 1/2 tspn epsom salts in the Summer (long days) by covering it • 1 tspn Oxygen Plus Plant Food (Op- with a blanket to make longer night peri- tional) ods. A strict schedule of covering the • 1 tspn Trace Element food plants at 8pm and uncovering them at 8am I cannot stress enough that during the for 2 weeks will start your plants to FLOWERING PHASE, the dark period should flowering. After the first 2 weeks, the not be violated by normal light. It delays schedule can be relaxed a little, but it flower development due to hormones in the will still be necessary to continue this plant that react to light. If you must routine for the plants to completely work on the plants during this time, allow flower without reverting back to vegata- only as much light as a VERY pale moon can tive growth. provide for less than 5 minutes. Keep Outdoors, Spring and Fall, the nights pruning to a minimum during the entire are sufficiently long to induce flowering FLOWERING PHASE. at all times. Merely bring the plants from A green light can be used to work on indoors to the outside at these times, and the garden during the dark period with no the plants will flower naturally. In late negative reactions from the plants. These Summer, with Fall approaching, it may be are sold as nursery safety lights, but any necessary only to force flowering the green bulb should be OK. It is best to first two weeks, then the rapidly length- keep the dark hours a time when you would ening nights will do the rest. normally not wish to visit the garden. Give flowering plants high P plant food Personally, I like my garden lit from 7pm and keep them on a strict light regimen of to 7am, since it allows me to visit the 12 hours, with no light, or no more than a garden at night after work and in the full moon during the dark cycle. 13 hours morning before work, and all day long, light, 11 dark may increase flower size while I’m too busy to worry about it, it while still allowing the plant to go into lies unlit and undisturbed, flowering the flowering mode. Use longer dark peri- away… ods to speed maturity toward the end of Flowering plants should not be sprayed the flowering cycle if speed is of the es- often as this will promote mold and rot. sence. (8-10 days) This will however, re- Keep humidity levels down indoors when duce total yield. flowering, as this is the most delicate Two shelves can be used, one identical time for the plants in this regard. to the other, if strictly indoor gardening Early flowering is noticed 1-2 weeks is desired. One shelf’s lights are set for after turning back the lights to 12 hour

59 Absinthe days. Look for 2 white hairs emerging from inside the other, or a kiddie pool with a small bulbous area at every internode. bricks in it that the pots rest on, ele- This is the easiest way to verify females vating them out of the nutrient solution. early on. You can not tell a male from a I find the wick setup to be more work female by height, or bushiness. than the reservoir system. Initial setup 3-6 weeks after turning back the is a pain with wicks, and the plants sit lights, your plants will be covered with higher in the room, taking up precious these white pistils emerging from every vertical space. The base the pot sits on growtip on the plant. It will literally be may not be very stable compared to a res- covered with them. These are the mature ervoir system, and a knocked over plant flowers, as they continue to grow and will never be the same as an untouched cover the plant. Some plants will do this plant, due to stress and shock in recov- indefinately until the lights are turned ery. back yet again. At the point you feel your The reservoir system needs only a good ready to see the existing flowers become medium suited to the task, and a pan to ripe ( you feel the plant has enought sit a pot in. If rockwool slabs are used, flowers), turn the lights back to 8-10 a half slab of 12” rockwool fits perfectly hours. Now the plant will start to ripen into a kitty litter pan. The roots spread quickely, and should be ready to harvest out in very desirable horizontal fashion in 2-3 weeks. The alternative, is to allow and have a lot of room to grow. Plants the plant to ripen with whatever natural grown in this manner are very robust be- day length is available outside, or keep cause they get a great deal of oxygen at the plants on a constant 12 hour regimen the roots. Plants grown with reservoir hy- for the entire flowering process, which droponics grow at about the same rate as may increase yield, but takes longer. wicks or other active hydroponic methods, Plants can be flowered in the final with much less effort required, since it stages outdoors, even if the days are too is by far the simplest of hydroponic meth- long for normal flowering to occur. Once ods. Plants can be watered and feed by the plant has almost reached peak floral merely pouring solution into the reservoir development, it is too far gone to revert every few days. The pans take up very lit- quickly to vegatative growth, and final tle vertical space and are easy to handle flowering will occur regardless. This will and move around. free up precious indoor space sooner, for In a traditional hydroponic method, the next batch of clones to be flowered. pots are filled with lava/ vermiculite mix Look for the white hairs to turn red, of 4 to 1. Dolite Lime is added, one orange or brown, and the false seed pods ( Tblspn. per gallon of growing medium. This you did pull the males, right?) to swell medium will wick and store water, but has with resins. When most of the pistils have excellent drainage and air storage capac- turned color (~80%), the flowers are ripe ity as well. It is however, not very resu- to harvest. able, as it is difficult to recapture and Don’t touch those buds! Touch only the sterilize after harvest. Use small size large fan leaves if you want to inspect lava, 3/8” pea size, and rinse the dust the buds, as the THC will come off on your off it, over and over, until most of it is fingers and reduce the overall yield if gone. Wet the vermiculite (dangerous dry, mishandled. wear a mask) and mix into pots. Square pots hold more than round. Vermiculite Hidroponics will settle to bottom after repeated watering from the top, so only water from Most growers report that a hydroponic the top occasionally to leach any mineral system will grow plants faster than a soil deposits, and put more vermiculite on the medium, given the same genetics and envi- top than the bottom. Punch holes in the ronmental conditions. This may be due to bottom of the pots, and add water to the closer attention and more control of nu- pan. It will be wicked up to the roots and trients, and more access to oxygen. The the plants will have all they need to plants can breath easier, and therefor, flourish. take less time to grow. One report has it The reservoir is filled with 1 1/2 - 3 that plants started in soil matured after inches of water and allowed to recede be- hydroponic plants started 2 weeks later! tween waterings. When possible, use less Fast growth allows for earlier matura- solution and water more often, to pull tion and shorter total growing time per more oxygen to the roots faster over time. crop. Also, with soil mixtures, plant If you go away on vacation, simply fill growth tends to slow when the plants be- the reservoirs full to the top, and the come root-bound. Hydroponics provides plants will be watered for 2 weeks at even, rapid growth with no pauses for least. transplant shock and eliminates the la- One really great hydroponic medium is bor/materials of repotting if rockwool is Oasis floral foam. Stick lots of holes used. (Highly recommended!) into it to open it up a little, and start By far the easiest hydroponic systems plants/clones in it, moving the cube of to use are the wick and reservoir systems. foam to rockwool later for larger growth These are referred to as Passive Hydro- stages. Many prefer floral foam, as it is ponic methods, because they require no wa- inert, and adds no PH factors. It’s expen- ter distribution system on an active scale sive though, and tends to crumble easily. (pump, drain, flow meter and path). The I’m also not sure it’s very reusable, but basis of these systems is that water will it seems to be a popular item at the in- wick to where you want it if the medium door gardening centers. and conditions are correct. Planting can be made easier with hydro- The wick system is more involved than ponic mediums that require little setup the reservoir system, since the wicks must such as rockwool. Rockwool cubes can be be cut and placed in the pots, correct reused several times, and are premade to holes must be cut in the pots, and a use for hydroponics. Some advantages of spacer must be created to place the plants rockwool are that it is impossible to over up above the water reservoir below. This water and there is no transplanting. Just can be as simple as two buckets, one fit place the plant’s cube on top of a larger

60 The Joy of Growing by Yourself. rockwool cube and enjoy your extra leisure strictly control what nutrients are avail- time. able to the plants at the different stages Some find it best to save money by not of plant growth. Watering can be automated buying rockwool and spending time planting to some degree with simple and cheap drip in soil or hydroponic mediums such as ver- system apparatus, so take advantage of miculite/lava mix. Pearlite is nice, since this when possible. it is so light. Pearlite can be used in- Hydroponics will hasten growing time, stead of or in addition to lava, which so it takes less time to harvest after must be rinsed and is much heavier. planting. It makes sense to use simple But rockwool has many advantages that passive hydroponic techniques when possi- are not appreciated until you spend hours ble. Hydroponics may not be desirable if repotting; take a second look. It is not your growing outdoors, unless you have a very expensive, and it is reusable. It’s greenhouse. more stable than floral foam, which CAUTION: it is necessary keep close crunches and powders easily. Rockwool watch of plants to be sure they are never holds 10 times more water than soil, yet allowed to dry too much when growing hy- is impossible to over-water, because it droponically, or roots will be damaged. If always retains a high percentage of air. you will not be able to tend to the garden Best of all, there is no transplanting; every day, be sure the pans are filled just place a starter cube into a rockwool enough to last until next time you return, grow cube, and when the plant gets very or you can easily lose your crop. large, place that cube on a rockwool slab. More traditional hydroponic methods Since rockwool is easily reused over and (active) are not discussed here. I don’t over, the cost is divided by 3 or 4 crops, see any point in making it more diffucult and ends up costing no more than vermicu- than it needs to be. It is necessary to lite and lava, which is much more diffi- change the solution every month if your cult to reclaim, sterilize and reuse (re- circulating it with a pump, but the reser- pot) when compared to rockwool. Vermicu- voir system does away with this problem. lite is also very dangerous when dry, and Just rinse the medium once a month or so ends up getting in the carpet and into the to prevent salts build up by watering from air when you touch it (even wet), since it the top of the pot or rockwool cube with drys on the fingers and becomes airborne. pure water. Change plant foods often to For this reason, I do not recommend ver- avoid deficiencies in the plants. I recom- miculite indoors. mend using 2 different plant foods for Rockwool’s disadvantages are rela- each phase of growth, or 4 foods total, to tively few. It is alkaline PH, so you must lessen chances of any type of deficiency. use something in the nutrient solution to Change the solution more often if you make it acidic (5.5) so that it brings the notice the PH is going down quickly (too rockwool down from 7.7, to 6.5 (vinagar acid). Due to cationic exchange, solution works great). And it is irritating to the will tend to get too acid over time, and skin when dry, but is not a problem when this will cause nutrients to become un- wet. available to the plants. Check PH of the To pre-treat rockwool for planting, medium every time you water to be sure no soak it in a solution of fish emulsion, PH issuesare occuring. trace mineral solution and phosphoresic Algae will tend to grow on the medium acid (PH Down) for 24 hours, then rinse. with higher humidities in hydroponics. It This will decrease the need for PH worries will turn a slab of rockwool dark green. later on, as it buffers the rockwool PH to To prevent this, use the plastic cover the be fairly neutural. rockwool came in to cover rockwool slab Hydroponics should be used indoors or tops, with holes cut for the plants to in greenhouses to speed the growth of stick out of it. It’s easy to cut a pack- plants, so you have more bud in less time. aged slab of rockwool into two pieces, Hydroponics allows you to water the plants then cut the end of the plastic off each daily, and this will speed growth. The piece. You now have two pieces of slab, main difference between hydroponics and each covered with plastic except on the soil growing is that the hydroponic soil very ends. Now cut 2 or 3 4” square holes or “medium”is made to hold moisture, but in the top to place cubes on it, and place drain well, so that there are no over- each piece in a clean litter pan. Now your watering problems associated with continu- ready to treat the rockwool as described ous watering. Also, hydroponically grown above in anticipation of planting. plants do not derive nutrients from soil, If growing in pots, a layer of gravel but from the solution used to water the at the top of a pot may help reduce algae plants. Hydroponics reduces worries about growth, since it will dry very quickly. mineral buildup in soil, and lack of oxy- Algae is merely messy and unsightly; it gen to suffocating roots, so leaching is will not actually cause any complications usually not necessary with hydroponics. with the plants. Hydroponics allows you to use smaller containers for the same given size plant, Recycling when compared to growing in soil. A 3/4 gallon pot can easily take a small hydro- Use pots made from squarish containers ponically grown plant to maturity. This such as plastic water jugs, etc. More would be difficult to do in soil, since plants will fit in less space and have nutrients are soon used up and roots be- more rooting area if square containers are come cut-off from oxygen as they become used. This makes your garden a recycling root-bound in soil. This problem does not center, and saves you tons of money. seem to occure nearly as quickly for hy- 2-liter soda bottles work great, but droponic plants, since the roots can still are not square. 13 will fit in a kitty take up nutrients from the constant solu- litter box, and these will take a 3 foot tion feedings, and the medium passes on plant to maturity hydroponically. If you oxygen much more redily when the roots be- can get 4 litter boxes in a closet, you come bound in the small container. can grow 52 plants like this vegatatively. Plant food is administered with most Spread them out more for flowering. waterings, and allows the gardener to

61 Absinthe Old buckets, plastic 3-5 gallon con- to look like metal. Try to make it appear tainers (food and paint industries, try as if it has always been there, with painters’ and resturant dumpsters), paper plants and trees that grow around it and paint buckets, old plastic garbage cans of mask it from view while allowing sun to all sizes, and garbage bags have all been reach it. used successfully by growers. Filon (corrugated fiberglass)or PVC Do not use paper milk cartons and juice plastic sheets can be used outside to cartons for reservoir hydroponics, since cover young plants grown together in a these are difficult to sterilize, and they garden. Buy the clear greenhouse sheets, introduce fungus into your reservoir and opaque them with white wash (made from trays. Inert materials, such as plastic is lime) or epoxy resin tinted white or grey best. and painted on in a thin layer. This will Be sure to sterilize all containers be- pass more sun than white PVC or Filon, and fore each planting with a clorine bleach still hide the plants. Epoxy resin coats solution of 2 tbspn. of bleach to one gal- will preserve the Filon for many more sea- lon of water. Let container and meduim sons than it would otherwise last. It will such as rockwool soak for several hours in also allow you to disguise the shed as the solution before rinsing thouroghly. metal, if you paint the clear filon sheets with a thin layer of resin tinted light grey. Paint will work as well, but Planting outdoors may not protect as much. Be careful to use only as much as needed, to reduce sun Outdoor growing is the best. Outdoor blockage to a minimum. pot by far is the strongest, since it gets Dig a big hole, don’t depend on the more light, it’s naturally more robust. No plant to be able to penetrate the clay and light leak problems. No dark periods that rubble unless your sure of the quality of keep you out of your grow room. No elec- topsoil in the area. Grassy fields would tricity bills. Sunlight tends to reach have good top soil, but your back yard may more of the plant, if your growing in the not. This alone can make the difference direct sun. Unlike growing indoors, the between an average 5’ tall plant, and a bottom of the plant will be almost as de- 10’ monster by harvest time. Growing in veloped as the top. the ground will always beat a pot, since Outdoors, outside of a greenhouse, the plant will never become root bound in there are many factors that can kill your the ground. Plants grown in the ground crop. Deer will try to eat them. Chipmonks should grow much larger, but will need and rodents too. Bugs will inhabit them, more space for each plant, so plan accord- and the wind and rain can whip your little ingly, you can’t move them once they’re buds to pieces if they are exposed to in! strong storms. For this reason, indoor pot You may want to keep outdoor plants in can be better than outdoor, but the best pots so they can be easily moved. A big smoke I ever tasted was outdoor pot, so hole will allow the pot to be place in it, that tells you something; nothing beats thus reducing the height of the plant, if the sun. fence level is an issue. Many growers find Put up a fence and make sure it stays pots have saved a crop that had to be up. Visit your plot at least once every moved for some unexpected reason (repair- two weeks, and preferably more often if man, appraiser, fire, etc.). water needs demand. It’s always best to put a roof over It’s a good idea to use soil if you your plants outdoors. When I was a lad, we don’t have a green house, since hydropon- had plants growing over the fence line in ics will be less reliable outside in the the back yard. We started to build a open air, due mostly to evaporation. greenhouse roof for them, and a cop saw us Light exposure is all important when hauling wood, thought we were stealing it locating a site for a greenhouse or out- (which we were not) and looked over the door plot. A backyard grower will need to fence at us and our lovely plants. We were know where the sun shines for the longest busted, because he saw them. If he had period; privacy and other factors will en- seen a shed roof instead, there would ter in as well. Try to find an innocuous never have been a problem. Moral of the spot that gets full winter sun from mid Story: build the roof BEFORE the plants morning to mid afternoon, at least from are sticking over the fence! Or train them 10-4, preferably 8-5. This will be really to stay well below it. Live and learn… asking for a lot if you live north of 30 When growing away from the house, in degrees latitude since days are short in the wild, water is the biggest determining winter. Since most gardeners will not want factor, after security. Water must be to use the greenhouse in the middle of the close by, or close to the soil surface, or winter, you can still use winter sun as an you will have to pack water in. Water is Indicator of good spring and fall lighting heavy and this is very hard work. Try to exposures. Usually the south side of a find an area close to a source of water if hill gets the most sun. Also, large areas possible, and keep a bucket nearby to open to the sun in the north side of the carry water to your plot. property will get good southern exposures. A novel idea in this regard is to find East and West exposu-res can be good if high water in the mountains, at altitude, they get the full morning/afternoon sun and then route it down to a lower spot and midday sun as well. Some books say the close by. It is possible to create water plants respond better to morning-only sun, presure in a hose this way, and route it verses after-noon-only sun, so if you have to a drip system that feeds water to your to choose between the two, morning sun may plants continuously. Take a 5 gallon gas be better. can, and punch small holes in it. Run a Disguise your greenhouse as a tool hose out of the main orifice and secure it shed, or similar structure, by using only somehow. Bury the can in a river or stream one wall and a roof of white opaqued plas- under rocks, so that it is hidden and sub- tic, PVC, Filon, or glass, and using a merged. Bury the hose coming out of it, similar colored material for the rest of and run it down hill to your garden area. the shed, or painting it white or silvery, A little engineering can save you a lot of

62 The Joy of Growing by Yourself. work, and this rig can be used year after garden. A barrier of fishing line, one at year. 18” and another at 3’ will keep most deer away from your crop. Guerrilla farming Gopher Granola is available for areas such as the N. CA mountains, where wood Guerrilla farming refers to farming rats and gophers will eat your crop if g away from your own property, or in a re- iven any opportunity to do so. The best mote location of your property where peo- fence in the world will not keep rats away ple seldom roam around. It is possible to from your plants! Do not use soap to keep find locations that for one reason or an- dear away, it will attract rats! (The fat other are not easily accessible or are in the soap is edible for them). Put the privately owned. poison grain in a feeder than only small Try to grow off your property, on adja- rodents can enter, so that birds and deer cent property, so that if your plot is can’t eat it. Set out poison early, before found, it will not be traceable back to actual planting. The rats must eat the you. If it’s not on your property, nobody grain for several days before it will have has witnessed you there, and there is no any effect on them. Ultimately, you may physical evidence of your presence (foot- find it’s easier to grow in a greenhouse prints, fingerprints, trails, hair, etc.), shed in your own backyard rather than try then it is virtually impossible to prose- to keep the rats from eating your outdoor cute you for it, even if the cops think plot. they know who it belongs to. When growing away from the house, in Never admit to growing, to anyone. Your the wild, water is the biggest determining best defence is that your just passing factor, after security. The amount you can thru the area, and noticed something you grow is directly proportional to the water decided to take a look at, or carry a available. If you must pack-in water, fishing pole or binoculars and claim fish- carry it in a backpack in case your seen ing or bird watching. inroute to your garden; you will appear to Never tell anyone but a partner where be merely a hiker, not a grower. the plants are located. Do not bring visi- Transporting vegatative starts to the tors to see them, unless it is harvest growing area is a most tricky aspect of time, and the plants will be pulled the growing outdoors. Usually, you will want same or following day. to start plant indoors, or outside in your Make sure your plants are out of sight. garden, then transport them to the grow Take a different route to get to them if site once they are firmly established. It they are not in a secure part of your may be desirable to first detect and sepa- property, and cover the trail to make it rate males from females so that no effort look as if there is no trail. Make cut of transporting-transplan-ting-watering backs in the trail, so that people on the males is incurred. main trail will tend to miss the cut-back One suggestion is to use 3” rockwool to the grow area. Don’t park on the main cubes to start seedlings in, then put 20 road, always find a place to park that of them in a litter pan, cover it with an- will not arouse suspicion by people that other pan, and transport this to the grow pass on the road. Have a safe house in the site. The cubes can be planted directly area if you are not planting close to into soil. If spotted inroute to the grow home. Always have a good reason for being area, burying a dead cat may be a good ex- in the area and have the necessary items cuse for being in the area. Few people to make your claim believable. would demand to see the rotting corpse! Briar and poison oak patches are per- One outdoor grower we know has given up fect if you can cut through it. Poison Oak on seeds. He has several strains he likes must be washed away before an allergic re- to clone, so he starts 200 clones in his action takes place. Teknu is a special closet, then transports them outdoors in soap solution that will deactivate poison boxes to the grow site. No males, no dif- oak before it has time to create a reac- ferentiation, no weeding, no germinating tion. Apply Teknu immediately after con- seeds, no genetic uncertain-ties, no crops tact and take a shower 30 mins. later. grown for seed, no transport- Try to plant under trees, next to ing/transplanting/watering plants your bushes and keep only a few plants in any just going to pull up later, no pol- one spot. Train or top the plants to grow lination nightmares, no wasted effort! sideways, or do something to prevent the classic christmas tree look of most plants Soil growing left to grow untrained. Tying the top down to the ground will make the plants Use Super Soil brand in California, as branches grow up toward the sun, and in- this is the only known soil on the West crease yield, given a long enough growing Coast that is guaranteed to be good. Many season. Plants can be grown under trees if other brands are mostly wood products and the sun comes in at an angle and lights have very few nutrients, are too moist, the area for several hours every day. etc. Add vermiculite, pearlite or sand to Plants should get at least 5 hours of di- Super Soil to increase it’s drainage and rect sun every day, and 5 more hours of aeration. indirect light. Use shoes that you can Organic gardeners use their own compost dispose of later and cover your foot prepaired from a mixture of chicken, cow prints. Use surgical gloves and leave no or other manure and household food waste, fingerprints on pots and other items that leaves, lawn clippings, dog hair and other might ID you to the fuzz…in case your plot waste products including urine, which is is discovered by passers by. high in nitrogen. Dog hair is not recom- Put up a fence, or the chipmonks, mended for guerilla gardeners planting off squirles and deer will nibble on your ba- their property where police could find it. bies until there is nothing left. Green DNA tests could prove it was YOUR dog’s wire mesh and nylon chicken fencing net hair! work great and can be wrapped around trees Use P4 water crystals in the soil to to create a strong barrier. Always check give the plants a few days worth of emer- it and repair every visit you make to the gency water reserves. This substance

63 Absinthe swells up with water and holds it like a Some growers top the plant when it is sponge, so that roots will have a reserve 12” high, and grow the 2 tops horizontally if harsh drought makes constant watering along a trellis. The plant will never be necessary. Go real easy on this stuff over 3 feet tall, and never arouses suspi- though, it tends to sink to the bottom of cion from neighbors. This type of plant the pot and suffocate bottom roots (new can even be grown in your yard in full growth roots) and stunts the plant. Use in view. Many stories abound of having the extreme moderation, let it swell up for at neighbors over for a BBQ and nobody ever least an hour before mixing with other noticed the nice plants over by the fence… soil. Plant size in soil is directly related Plant food and nutrients to pot size. If you want the plant to grow bigger, put it in a bigger pot. Usually, Plant foods have 3 main ingredients 1/2 gallon per foot of plant is suffi- that will be the mainstay of the garden, cient. A six foot plant would require a Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium. These minimum of a 3 gallon pot. Remember, 3 ingredients are usually listed on the square containers have more volume in a front label of the plant food in the order square space (like a closet). of N-P-K. A 20-20-20 plant food has a Ni- Planting in the ground is always pref- trogen level of 20%. erable when growing in soil. The plants Secondary nutrients are Calcium, Sul- can then grow to any size, unlimited by phur and Magnesium. In trace quanti-ties, pot size. boron, copper, molybenum, zink, iron, and Bat Guano, chicken manure, or worm manganese. castings can all be used to fertilize or- Depending on stage of growth, different ganically in soil. Manures can burn, so nutrients are needed at different times. they should be composted with the soil For rooting and germination, levels of first, before planting, over several high P nutrients with less N/K are needed. weeks. Sea weed is available to provide a Vegetative growth needs lots of N, and hu- rich trace mineral source that breaks down man urine is one of the better sources, slowly and constantly feeds the plants. (mix 8 ounces to 1 gallon water), although If growing outdoors in available soil, it is not a complete fertilizer unto it- look around for leaves and other natural self. 20-20-20 with trace elements should sources of nitrogen and work them into the do it; I like Miracle Grow Patio food. soil, along with some dolmite lime and Watch for calcium, magnesium, sulfur and composted organic fertilizer. Even small iron levels too. These are important. One amounts of plant food such as Miracle Grow tablespoon of dolomite or hydrated lime is can be added to soil at this time. (Or- used per gallon of growing medium when a ganic gardeners frown upon this practice, hydroponic medium is first brought on- however. Toxic wastes are produced by com- line, to provide nitrogen, calcium and mercial fertilizer produc-tion). Mulch can magnesium. Epsom salts are used to enhance be made from leaves and spread out over magnesium and sulphur levels in solution. the garden area to hold in moisture and Tobacco grown with potassium nitrate keep down weeds near the plants. burns better. Plant foods with PN (P2N3) are foods such as Miracle Grow. This is an Subterfuge excellent fertilizer for vegetative growth, or through the flowering cycle as Its interesting that pot plants really well. Consider however, potassium nitrate do blend in with other plants to the point is also known as Salt Peter, and is used that they are unidentifiable by all but to make men have less sexual desire or im- the most observant. I remember a relative potent, such as in mental institutions. So of the family on a visit to Texas showed if certain plants are destined for cook- me his corn in the garden and I was standing, you might use Fish Emulsion or some ing 3’ away from several pot plants before other totally organic fertilizer on these I recognized them for what they were. plants, at least in the last weeks of Plants started outdoors late in the flowering. season never get very big and never at- Most hydroponic solutions should be in tract the least bit of attention when the range of 150-600 parts per million in placed next to plants of similar or taller disolved solids. 300-400 ppm is optimum. stature. Even tall plants grown among sev- It is possible to test your solution or eral trees will be almost invisible in soil with a electrical conductivity meter their camouflage. if your unsure of what your giving your Outdoors the object is to control ac- plants. cess to an area, and not to arouse suspi- Keep in mind most disolved solids read- cion. Tuck them here and there, never in a ings are usually on the low side, and ac- recognizable pattern. Space them out, and tual nutrient levels are usually higher. fit them in to the existing landscape such It is possible with passive hydroponics, that they get full sun, but they’re hidden to get nutrient build-up over several or blend in. Fence lines and groups of feedings, to the point the medium is over several together are best. Try to find saturated in nutrients. Just feed straight strains that seem to match the surrounding water now and again, until you notice the plants. Feed nitrogen to your plants if plants are not as green (slightly), then they need to be greener to blend in. Some resume normal feeding. growers even use plastic red flowers, “Pumping” is when you use more water- pinned to a plant, disguising it as a ings to make the plants grow faster. This flower bush. is dangerous if you proceed in a reckless Visit the plants at night on full manner, due to potential over-watering moons, and if your visible to neighbors, problems. You must go slowly and watch the appear to be pruning a tree, mowing the plants daily and even hourly at first to lawn, or doing something in the yard that be sure your not over-watering the plants. makes you invisible. Use weaker plant food mixtures than nor- Dig a hole and put a potted plant in mal, maybe 25%, and be sure your leaching it. The plant’s height will be reduced by once a month and running straight water at least a foot. through the plants at least every other

64 The Joy of Growing by Yourself. time you water. This applies mainly to mulation of these salts in your soil and plants grown in soil mediums. to ensure that your plant is getting all Use of light strength Oxygen Plus plant of the food it needs you can begin leaf food (or Food Grade Hydrogen Peroxide) al- feeding your plant at the age of about 1.5 lows the roots to breath better and pre- months. Dissolve the fertilizer in worm vents problems with over-watering. Check water and spray the mixture directly onto soil to be sure there are no PH anomalies the foliage. The leaves absorb the fertil- that might be due to Hydrogen Peroxide in izer into their veins. If you want to con- the solution. (One experienced grower told tinue to put fertilizer into the soil as me he would not use H2O2 (HP) due to pos- well as leaf feeding, be sure not to over- sible PH problems. This should not be a dose your plants. problem if your checking PH and correcting for it in watering solutions). Folair feeding Be sure your medium has good drainage. At this point, if your watering soil based Folair feeding seems to be one of the plants once a week, you can water every 3- easiest ways of increasing yield, growth 5 days instead if you plant them in a me- speed, and quality in a well vented space, dium with better drainage. Pearlite or with or without elevated CO2 levels. Just lava rock will greatly increase the drain- prepare a tea of worm castings, fish emul- age of the medium and make watering neces- sion, bat guano, or most any other plant sary more often. This will pump the food right for the job and feed in vegeta- plants; they will tend to grow faster be- tive and early flowering stages. It is not cause of the enhanced oxygen to the roots. recommended for late flowering, or you Make sure the plant medium is almost dry will be eating the sprayed-on material before watering again, as the plant grows later. Stop foliar feeding 2-3 weeks be- faster this way. fore harvesting. Wash off the leaves with An alternative is to use a standard straight water every week to prevent clog- plant food mixture (stronger) once every 3 ging the stomata of the leaves. Feed daily waterings. The nutrients are suspended in or every other day. the medium and stored in the soil for Best times of day to Foliar feed are 7- later use. The nutrients are washed out by 10Am and after 5 in the evening. This is 2 straight waterings afterward and there because the stomata on the underside of is no salts build up in the soil. (Does the leaves are open then. Also, the best not apply to hydroponics). temperature is about 72 degrees, and over Stop all plant food 2 weeks before har- 80, they may not be open at all. So find vesting, so that the plants don’t taste the cooler part of the day if it’s hot, like plant food. (This applies to hydro- and the warmer part of the day if it’s ponics as well). cold out. You may need to spray at 2AM if WARNING: Do not over-fertilize. It will that’s the coolest time available. The kill your plants. Always read the instruc- sprayer used should atomize the solution tions for the fertilizer being used. Use to a very fine mist; find your best 1/2 strength if adding to the water for sprayer and use it for this. Make sure the all feedings in soil or hydroponics if you PH is between 7 and 6.2. Use baking soda are unsure of what your plants can take. to make the solution higher PH, and vine- Build up slowly to higher concentrations gar to make the solution lower PH. It’s of food over time. Novice soil growers better to spray more often and use less, tend to over-fertilize their plants. Min- than to drench the plants infrequently. eral salts build up over time to higher Use a wetting agent to prevent the water levels of disolved solids. Use straight from beading up, and thereby burning the water for one feeding in hydroponics if it leaves as they act as small prisms.Make is believed the buildup is getting too sure you don’t spray a hot bulb; better great. Leach plants in pots every month. yet, spray only when the bulb has cooled. If your plants look REALLY green, withhold Perhaps the best foliar feeding in- food for a while to be sure they are not cludes using seltzer water and plant food being over-fed. at the same time. This way, CO2 and nutrients are feed directly to the leaves in Ph and pertilizers the same spray. Foliar feeding is recognized in most of PH can make or break your nutrient solu- the literature as being a good way to get tion. 6.7-6.2 is best to ensure there is nutrients to the plant later when nutrient no nutrient lock-up occurring. Hydro- lockup problems could start to reduce in- ponics requires the solution to be PH cor- take from the roots. rected for the medium before exposing to WARNING!: It is important to wash the plants. Phosphoresic acid can make the leaves that are harvested before they are PH go down; lime or potash can take it up dried, if you intend to eat them, since when it gets too acid. Buy a PH meter for they may have nitrate salts on them. $10 and use it in soil, water, and hydro- NOTE: One grower who reviewed this ponic medium to make sure your not going document comments: “Fish emulsion smells. alkaline or acid over time. Most neutral Bat guano could be highly unsanitary. mediums can use a little vinegar to make Stick to the Rapid-Gro, MgSO4 (epsom them just this side of 7 ph to 6.5 or so. salts), hydroponic trace element solution. Most fertilizers cause a ph change in Nitrate salts (The “N” in NPK) are un- the soil. Adding fertilizer to the soil healthy to smoke. Personally, I never almost always results in a more acidic ph. foliar feed”. As time goes on, the amount of salts Above is a great comment, and there is produced by the breakdown of fertilizers great wisdom in an organic, non-toxic gar- in the soil causes the soil to become in- den. Personally, I use only CO2 on my increasingly acidic and eventually the con- door hydroponic plants, and never folar centration of these salts in the soil will feed. It simply does not seem to be neces- stunt the plant and cause browning out of sary when using hydroponics. the foliage. Also, as the plant gets older its roots become less effective in bring- CO2 ing food to the leaves. To avoid the accu-

65 Absinthe Elevating carbon dioxide levels can in- will work well, as long as the gases can crease growth speed a great deal, perhaps be vented to the grow area, and a fan is even double it. It seems that the plant used to keep the hot CO2 (that will rise) evolved in primordial times when natural circulating and available below at the CO2 levels were many times what they are plants level. Fire and exhaust venting of today. The plant uses CO2 for photosynthe- the heat are issues as well. A room that sis to create sugars it uses to build must be vented 50% of the time to rid the plant tissues. Elevating the CO2 level environment of heat from a lamp and heater will increase the plants ability to manu- will not receive as much CO2 as a room facture these sugars and plant growth rate that can be kept unvented for hours at a is enhanced considerably. time. However, CO2 generators are the only CO2 can be a pain to manufacture way to go for large operations. safely, cheaply, and/or conveniently, and Fermentation or vinegar over baking is expensive to set up if you use a CO2 soda will work if you don’t have many vent tank system. CO2 is most usable for flow- cycles, but if you have enough heat to ering, as this is when the plant is most make constant or regular venting neces- dense and has the hardest time circulating sary, these methods become impractical. air around its leaves. If your strictly Just pour the vinegar on baking soda and growing vegetatively indoors, (transfer- close the door, (you lose your CO2 as soon ring your plants outdoors to flower), then as the vent comes on). This method leaves CO2 will not be a major concern unless you a great deal to be desired, since it is have a sealed greenhouse, closet or bed- not easy to regulate automatically, and room, and wish to increase yield and de- requires daily attention. It is possible crease flowering time. however, to create CO2 by fermentation, For a medium sized indoor operation, let the wine turn to vinegar, and pour one approach is to used CO2 canisters from this on baking soda. It’s the most cost- wielding supply houses. This is expensive effective setup for most closet growers, initially, but fairly inexpensive in the for whom $400 in CO2 equipment is a bit long run. These systems are good only if much to swallow. your area is not too big or too small. In fermentation, yeast is constantly The basic CO2 tank system looks like killing itself; it takes a lot of space. this: You need a big bin to constantly keep adding water to, so that the alcohol levels 20 lb tank $100 will not rise high enough to kill the Regulator $159 yeast. Sugar is used quickly this way, and Timer or controller $10-125 a 10 pound sack will run $3.50 or so and Fill up $15-20 last about 2-3 weeks. This is also difficult to gauge what is happening as far as Worst case $395 amounts actually released. A tube out the top going into a jar of water will bubble for CO2 tank setup synced to a exhaust fan and demonstrate the amount of CO2 being with a thermostat. produced. CO2 is cheaply produced by burning Try sodium bicarbonate mixed with vine- Natural Gas. However, heat and Carbon Mon- gar, 1 tsp: ~30cc- this will gush up all oxide must be vented to the outside air. frothy as it releases CO2. do it just be- CO2 can be obtained by buying or leasing fore you close the door on your plants. A cylinders from local welding supply MUCH cheaper way to provide CO2 is 2 Oz houses. If asked, you can say you have an sugar in 2 liters of water in a bottle old mig welder at home and need to patch [sterilized 1st with bleach and water, up the lawnmower (trailer, car, etc.). then rinsed], plus a few cc urine[!] or if For a small closet, one tank could last you insist, yeast nutrient from a home 2 months, but it depends on how much is brewing supplier. Add a brewing yeast, released, how often the room is vented, shake up and keep at 25 deg celsius[~70 hours of light cycle, room leaks, enrich- F]. Over next 2 weeks or so it will brew ment levels and dispersion methods. This up about 1/2 Oz CO2 for every Oz sugar method may be overkill for your small used. Keep a few going at once, starting a closet. new one every 3 days or so. With added CO2 It is generally viewed as good to have growth is phenomenal!!! I personally meas- a small constant flow of CO2 over the ured 38cm growth in 8 days under a 250watt plants at all times the lights are on, HPS bulb[tubular clear, Horizontal mount]. dispersed directly over the plants during A good container is a 1 gallon plastic the time exhaust fans are off. milk jug, with a pin-hole in the cap. Opportunities exist to conserve CO2, Also, the air-lock from a piece of clear but this can cost money. When the light is tube running into a jar filled with water off you don’t need CO2, so during flower- will keep microbes out and demonstrate the ing, you will use half as much if you have fermentation is working. the CO2 solenoid setup to your light A variation is to spray seltzer water timer. When the fan is on for venting, CO2 on the plants twice a day. This is not is shut off as well. This may be up to recommended by some authorities, and re- half the time the light is on, so this ceives great raves by people who seem to will affect the plants exposure times and feel it has enhanced their crop. It stands amount of gas actually dispensed. to reason this would work for only a small Environmentally, using bottled gas is unvented closet, but may be right for some better, since manufacturing it adds to situations. It could get expensive with a greenhouse effect, and bottled CO2 is cap- lot of plants to spray. Use seltzer, not tured as part of the manufacturing process club soda, since it contains less sodium of many materials, and then recycled. Fer- that could clog the plants stomata. Wash menting, CO2 generators, and baking soda your plants with straight water after 2 or and vinegar methods all generate new CO2 3 seltzer sprays. It’s a lot of work, and and add to greenhouse effect. you can’t automate it, but maybe that’s CO2 generation from fermentation and good! Remember, being with the plants is a generators is possible. A simple CO2 gen- beautiful experience, and brings you erator would be a propane heater. This closer to your spiritual self and the

66 The Joy of Growing by Yourself. earth. Seltzer is available at most gro- would be a possible inexpensive solution. cery stores (I get it at Lucky’s @.79 for $20 for two of these timers. a 2 litter bottle). Club soda will work if Fans are expensive to buy for venting, seltzer water is not available; but it has but I just go down to the local electronic twice as much sodium in it. A very diluted parts liquidators and they have muffin solution of Miracle Grow can be sprayed on fans for $5-10, so that’s a real savings the plant at the same time. One factor of over the $50-70 these fans cost new at the using selzter water is it raises humidity indoor garden stores. A good vent fan will levels. Make sure your venting humidity keep the humidity and temperature down, during the dark cycle, or you could risk and distribute CO2 to your plants from new fungus and increased internode length. incoming air. CAUTION: Don’t spray too close to a hot Internal air movement is very necessary bulb! Spray downward only, or turn off the as well. An oscillating fan should be used lamp first. to circulate air within the growroom, to Even though CO2 enrichment can mean 30- help circulate CO2. It will also keep the 100% yield increases, the hassle, expense, humidity down, allowing the air to absorb space, danger, and time involved can make more moisture, and reduce risk of fungus. constant or near constant venting a desir- A wall mount oscillating fan will not take able alternative to enrichment. As long as valuable floor space. The best grow rooms the plant has the opportunity to take in have the most internal air circulation. new CO2 at all times, from air that is over 200 ppm CO2, the plants will have the Temperature required nutrients for photosynthesis. Most closets will need new CO2 coming in Proper temperature is one highly vari- every two or three hours, minimum. Most able factor. Most books state optimum grow citys’ will have high concentrations of temperature to be 70-80 degrees, but many CO2 in the air, and some growers find CO2 list extenuating circumstances that allow injection unnecessary in these circum- temperatures to go higher. Assuming genet- stances. ics is not a factor, plants seem to be Some growers have reported to High able to absorb more light at higher temps, Times that high CO2 levels in the grow perhaps up to 90 degrees. High light and room near harvest time lower potency. It CO2 levels could make this go as high as may be a good idea to turn off CO2 2 weeks 95 degrees for increased growth speed.* An before harvesting. optimum of 95 degrees is new data that assumes very-high light, CO2 enrichment of Venting 1500 ppm and good regular venting to keep humidity down. It is not clear if these You have to vent a lot with a HID lamp, temperature will reduce potency in flow- less so for fluorescents. Also, humidity ers. It may be a good idea to reduce tem- build up requires that you vent at least a peratures once flowering has started, to few times per day. For a room with a hot preserve potency, even if it does reduce lamp that builds up heat quickly, the best growth speed. But higher temperatures will vent would be one that cleared the room in make plants grow vegetatively much faster, 5 minutes, then would stop for 25 minutes by exciting the plants metabolism, assum- before venting again, or similarly, vent 3 ing the required levels of CO2 and light minutes, shut off 12 minutes, etc. The are available, and humidity is not allowed trick is to find a timer that will do this to get too high. sort of thing. Not easy to find and not With normal levels of CO2, in a well cheap. Once you need to regulate CO2 on vented space, 90 degrees would seem to be and off inversely with the fan, your look- the absolute max, while 85 may be closer ing at a $100 climate controller. to optimum, even with a great deal of Alternatives are a thermostat that light available. Do not let the room tem- turns on a fan when a certain temperature perature get over 35 C (95 F) as this is reached, and turns it off when the temp hurts growth. Optimal temperature is 27-30 recedes 4 degrees. But it is a bitch to C (80-86 F) if you have strong light with coordinate CO2 release with this one, no CO2 enrichment. Less than 21 C (70 F) since you don’t know when the fan goes on. is too cold for good growth. $39 for this thermostat, but to sync it to Low temperatures at night are OK down CO2 with a voltage sensing relay is $100 to about 60 degrees outdoors, then start for the ready-made switch, so then the en- to effect the growth in a big way. Mid vironment controller at $100 is cheaper. 50’s will cause mild shock and 40’s will All you really want is a fan that clears kill your plants with repeated exposure. the air in a few minutes, a temperature Keep your plants warm, especially the switch that turns on and off the fan, and roots. Elevate pots if you think the an inverse switch that turns off and on ground is sucking the heat out of the the CO2. If you can vent the room really roots. This is an issue if you have a slab quick and the heat does not build up too or other type of cold floor. quickly, the CO2 could be run in a slow, As temperature goes up, so does the continuous fashion, and would build up inability of the air to hold water, thus re- between the occasional quick exhaust cy- ducing humidity, so a higher average tem- cles. perature should reduce risk of fungus. Two timers synced can be used, but the Contrary to many reports, high humidity only ones cheaply available are the 30 min is not good for plants except during ger- interval, 48 trips per 24 hours. So I mination and rooting. Lower humidity lev- could have a fan run 30 mins on, then 30 els help the plant transpire CO2 and re- mins off. I could also sync it to the duce risk of molds during flowering. light so that I don’t vent when the lamp Studies Indicate the potency of buds is off. I can sync this to an identical goes down as the temperature goes up, so timer that will turn on CO2 during the it is important to see that the plants do time that the fan is not on, and vise not get too hot during flowering cycles. versa. It would be difficult to sync them * D. Gold: CO2, Temperature and Humid- closer that 5-10 mins, but at least there ity, 1991 Edited by E. Rosenthal.

67 Absinthe Spider mites are by far the worst of- Pests fender in my garden. I have finally learned not to bring plants from outside You really have to watch pests, or all into the indoor space. They are always in- your efforts could result in little or fected with pests and threaten to infect nothing in return. Mites and Aphids are the entire indoor grow space. It is much the worst; whiteflies, caterpillar and more practical to work WITH the seasons fungi are the ones to watch out for long and regenerate plants outdoors in the Sum- term. Pyrethrum bombs can start you with a mer, rather than bringing them indoors to clean slate in the room, and then homemade regenerate under constant light. Start a or commercial soap sprays will do most of plant indoors, take it outside in Spring the rest. When bringing in plants from to flower. Take a harvest or two, feed it outside, pyrethrum every broad leaf top nitrogen all Summer and it will regenerate and bottom and the soil too. Then watch naturally, to be flowered again in the them closely for a week or two, and soap Fall. down any remaining bug life you find from Once a plant has been taken outside, eggs being hatched. This should do the leave it outside. trick for a month or two, long enough it won’t be an issue before harvesting. Transplanting Fungus is another obstacle in the path of a successful growing season. When the There will be little or no shock if you flowers are roughly half developed they are quick and tender in your handling of become susceptible to a fungus or bud rot. the plants. Make sure you only need to It appears that growing conditions for the transplant twice, or better yet, once if fungus are best when temperatures are be- possible, through the entire growth cycle. tween 60 and 80 degrees and the humidity Transplanting slows you down. It takes is high. The fungus is very destructive time, it’s tricky, it’s hard work, and and spreads quickly. It is a spore type of threatens the plants. Start in as large a fungus that travels to other buds via the container as possible, square is best. 16 wind so it is impossible to prevent or ounce plastic cups work OK, and 2 litter stop if weather conditions permit it to soda bottles cut down may be big enough grow. If things should go badly and the for the first harvest when growing hydro- fungus starts to attack your plants, you ponically. One-gallon plastic milk or wa- must remove it immediately or it will ter containers (squarish) will work too. spread to other areas of the plant or Or start seeds and rooted cuttings in plants. 16oz plastic cups. It’s better to have Some growers will remove just the sec- less seedlings than it is to have many tion of the bud that is infected whereas seedlings that need constant transplan- other growers will remove the entire ting. These larger cups take only a little branch. Removal of the entire branch bet- more space, and allow you to transplant ter insures that the fungus is totally re- only one time before harvesting the first moved, and also enables the grower to sam- crop. Transplant into a gallon water jugs ple the crop a few weeks ahead of time. (cut down to 3/4 gallon) before forcing Fungi can wipe your crop quick, so in- flower growth. To regenerate this plant vest in some SAFE fungicide and spray down after harvesting, transplant it into a the plants just before flowering if you larger pot after it goes into vegetative think fungus may be a problem. Don’t spray growth once again, 5 gallon paint buckets the plants if you have never had problems work pretty well if you can spare the with fungus before. Keep humidity down, space, and a 2-3 gallon container would circulate air like crazy in the grow space make this plant’s 2nd harvest better than and keep unquarantined outdoor plants out the first, given enough vegetative re- of the indoor space. Don`t wait until af- growth first. ter flowering, since it’s not a good idea One more tip: a Russian study showed to apply the fungicide directly to flow- that seedlings with at least 4” of soil to ers. Instead, flowers must be cut off when grow the tap root were more likely to go they are infected. female. The source I’m quoting says “This Most fungicides are very nasty, and you may be why some farmers get female/male won’t want to ingest them, so it is neces- ratios as great as 80%/20%”. sary to use one that is safe for vegetables. Safer makes a suitable product that Early sexing is available at most nurseries; it contains only sulfer in solution. It’s possible to tell the sex of a Use soap solution like Safer Insecti- plant early, and thus move male plants out cidal Soap to get rid of most aphid prob- of the main growing area sooner by cover- lems. Use some tobacco juice and chili ing a plant’s lower branch for 12 hours a pepper powder added to this for mites. Dr. day while it’s in a constant light vegeta- Bronnars Soap can be used with some dish tive state. Use a black paper bag or detergent in a spray bottle if you want to equivalent to allow for air flow while save money. keeping out light. Be sure to set up a Pyrethrum should only be used in ex- regular cycle for these covered branches. tream circumstances directly on plants, If light is allowed to reach them during but can be used in a closet or greenhouse the dark period, they may not Indicate in the corners to get rid of spiders and early at all. such. It breaks down within a week to non- Use a magnifying glass to look at the toxic elements, and can be washed from a early flowers sex type. A male plant will plant with detergent solutions and then have a small club (playing card) looking clear water. I find Pyrethrum to be the preflower with a small stem under it. A best solution for spider mites, if it is female flower is usually a single or dou- sprayed on young plants up to early flow- ble pistil, white and wispy, emerging from ering. Into later flowering, the tobacco an immature calyx. and pepper/soap solution is your best bet, Some people like to pre-force plants on a daily basis, on the under-sides of when they are 8” tall, in order to weed all infected leaves. out the males. When growing outdoors, many

68 The Joy of Growing by Yourself. growers do not wish to devote time, space remain healthy. Pruning the lower limbs or energy to male plants. Just put the creates more air-flow under the plants in plants on a 12 hours light cycle for 2 an indoor situation and creates cuttings weeks, separate the females from the for cloning. It also forces the plant’s males, then revert the light cycle back to effort to the top limbs that get the most 18-24 hours to continue vegatative growth light, maximizing yields. for the females. Keep in mind, this is a Plants that are regenerated need to time consuming process and can put the have minor growth clipped so that the main plants back 2 weeks in growth. Don’t pre- regenerated growth will get all the force plants unless you have lots of time. plant’s energy. This means that once the Just cover one branch per plant with black plant has started to regenerate lots of paper (light tight, breaths air) 12 hours growth, the lower limbs that will be every day under constant light to force shaded or are not robust should go. The pre-flowers and differentiate early. growth must be thinned on top branches such that only the most robust growth is Regeneration allowed to remain. Once nice aspect of regenerating plants It is possible to harvest plants and is that some small buds left on the plant then rejuvenate them vegetatively for a in anticipation of regeneration will not 2nd and even 3rd harvest. A second harvest sprout new growth and may be collected for can be realized in as little as 6-8 weeks. smoke. The plant may provide much smokable Since the plant’s stalk, and roots are al- material if it is caught before all the ready formed, the plant can produce a sec- old flowers dry up and die with the new ond, even third harvest of buds in a lit- vegatative growth occuring. tle more than half the time of the origi- Try to trim a regenerated plant twice. nal harvest. When harvesting, take off the Once as it is starting to regenerate, col- top 1/3rd of the plant. Leave most healthy lect any bud that is not sprouting with fan leaves in the middle of the plant, new growth and smoke it. Then later, prune cutting buds off branches carefully. On again to take lower clippings to clone and the lower 1/3rd of the plant, take off end thin the upper growth so that larger buds flowers, but leave several small flowers will be produced. on each branch. These will be the part of If a regenerated plant is not pruned at the plant that is regenerated. The more all, the resulting plant is very stemmy, buds you leave on the plant, the faster it does not create large buds and the total will regenerate. Feed the plant some Mira- yield will be significantly reduced. cle Grow or any high nitrogen plant food immediately after harvest. When you intend Harvesting and drying to regenerate a plant, make sure it never gets too starved for nitrogen as it is ma- Harvesting is the reaping of the turing, or all the sun leaves will fall bounty, and is the most enjoyable time you off, and your plant will not have enough will spend with your garden. leaves to live after being harvested. Plants are harvested when the flowers Harvested plants can come inside for are ripe. Generally, ripeness is defined rejuvenation under continuous light or are as when the white pistils start to turn left outside in Summer to rejuvenate in brown, orange, etc. and start to withdraw the natural long days. It will take 7-14 back into the false seed pod. The seed days to see signs of new growth when re- pods swell with resins usually reserved generating a plant. As stated before, and for seed production, and we have ripe in contrast to normal growth patterns, sinse buds with red and golden hairs. lower branches will be the first to sprout It is interesting that the time of har- new vegetative growth. Allow the plant to vest controls the “high” of the buds. If grow a little vegetatively, then take out- harvested “early” with only a few of the side again to reflower. Or keep inside for pistils turned color, the buds will have a vegetative cuttings. You now have two or more pure THC content and will have less three generations of plants growing, and THC that has turned to CBD and CBN’s. The will need more space outside. But you will lessor psychoactive substances will create now be harvesting twice as often. As often the bouquet of the pot, and control the as every 30 days, since you have new amount of stoneyness and stupidness asso- clones or seedlings growing, vegetative ciated with the high. A pure THC content plants ready to flower, and regenerated is very cerebral, while high THC, high plants flowering too. CBD, CBN content will make the plants more Regenerating indoors can create prob- of a stupid, or hazy buzz. Buds taken lems if your plants are infected with later, when fully ripened will normally pests. It may be best to have a separate have these higher CBN, CBD levels and may area indoors that will not allow your not be what you prefer once you try dif- plants to infect the main indoor area. An ferent samples picked at different times. alternative to regenerating indoors is to Don’t listen to the experts, decide your- regenerate outdoors in the Summer. Just self based on what you come to like your- take a harvest in June, then allow the self. plant to regenerate by leaving some lower Keep in mind, a bud weighs more when buds on the plant, and leaving the middle fully ripe. It is what most growers like 1/3rd of the plant’s leaves at harvest. to sell, but take some buds early for Feed it nitrogen, and make sure it gets yourself, every week until you harvest, lots of sun. It will regenerate all Summer and decide how you like it for yourself. and be quite large by Fall, when it will Grow the rest to full maturity if you plan start to flower again naturally. to sell it. Most new growers want to pick early, Prunung because they are impatient. That’s OK! Just take buds from the middle of the Plants that are regenerated, cloned and plant or the top. Allow the rest to keep even grown from seed will need to be maturing. Often, the tops of the plants pruned at some point to encourage the will be ripe first. Harvest them and let plant to produce as much as possible and the rest of the plant continue to ripen.

69 Absinthe You will notice the lower buds getting based on health, growth rate, resistance bigger and fuzzier as they come into full to pests, and potency. The quality of the maturity. With more light available to the high, and the type of buzz you get will be bottom portion of the plant now, the plant a very important determining factor. yields more this way over time, than tak- Take cuttings for clones before you ing a single harvest. move plants from vegetative grow area to Use a magnifier and try to see the the flowering area. Low branches are cut capitated stalked trichomes (little THC to increase air circulation under the crystals on the buds). If they are mostly green canopy. Rooted clones are moved to clear, not brown, the peak of floral bou- the vegetative growth area, and new clones quet is near. Once they are mostly all are started in the cloning area using the turning brownish in color, the THC levels low branch cuttings. Each cycle of growth are dropping and the flower is past opti- will take from 4-8 weeks, so you can con- mum potency, declining with light and wind stantly be growing in 3 stages, and har- exposure rapidly. vesting every 6-8 weeks. Don’t harvest too late! It’s easy to be Some types of plants are more difficult too careful and harvest late enoughpotency to clone than others. Big Bud is reported has declined. Watch the plants and learn to not clone very well. One of my favorite to spot peak floral potency. plants, Mr. Kona, is the most amazing pot Do not cure pot in the sun, it reduces I ever smoked, but it is hard as hell to potency. Slow cure hanging buds upside clone. What a challenge! I noticed other down in a ventilated space. That is all varieties that were rooting much quicker, that is needed to have great sensi. Drying but it was the stone I was after! Once you in a paper bag works too, and may be much find the psychoactive, almost hallucino- more convenient. Bud tastes great when genic properties of some Indica/Sativa hy- slow dried over the course of a week or brids, you never want to smoke a pure In- two. dica again. Indica is however, great med- If your in a hurry, it’s OK to dry a icinally, so I like to grow a few pure small amount in-between paper sheets or a strains too. paper bag in a microwave oven. Go slow and If a plant is harvested, you can sample check it, don’t burn it. Use the defrost it, and decide if you want to clone it. power setting for a slower, better drying. Pick your favorite 2 or 3 distinctly dif- It will be harsh smoking this way though. ferent types of plants to clone, based on A food dehydrator or food preserver trying the harvested plants. The plants will dry your pot in a few hours, but it you want to clone can be regenerated by will not taste the same as slow-dried. putting them in constant light. In a few Very close though. And this will speed weeks, you will have many vegetative cut- your harvest time (which can be nerve- tings available for cloning and preserving wracking, with all this pot hanging around your favorite plants. Always keep a mother drying). plant in vegatative mode for any strain Dry buds until the stems are brittle you want to keep alive. If you flower all enough to snap, then cure them in a sealed your clones, you may end up killing off a tupperware container , burping air and strain if you don’t have any plant devoted turning the buds daily for two weeks. to being a mother. I killed off a sacred Once experienced grower told me to dry strain accidentally this way; my harvested in an uninsulated area of the house (like plants failed to regenerate and the strain the garage) so that the temperature will would have died completely had not previ- rise and fall each night, as the plant is ously igven it to friends to grow it as drying. If you treat the plant as if it well. I was in luck, and a buddy set me up were still alive, it will use some of it’s with another clone of this strain to grow chlorophyll while it is drying, and the as a mother plant for a new crop of smoke will be less harsh. clones. After two months, any Marijuana plant Cloning can be cloned. Flowering plants can be cloned, but the procedure may take consid- Cloning is asexual reproduction. Cut- erably longer. Its best to wait, and re- tings are taken from a mother plant in ve- generate vegetatively plants that have gatative growth, and rooted in hydroponic been harvested. A single regenerated- medium to be grown as a separate plant. harvested plant can generate hundreds of The offspring will be plants that are cuttings. Before taking cuttings, starve identical to the parent plant. the plant for nitrogen for a week at Cloning preserves the character of your least, so that the plant is not extreamly favorite plant. Cloning can make an ocean green, as this will make rooting take of green out of a single plant, so it is a longer. Take cuttings from the bottom 1/3 powerful tool for growing large crops, and of the plant, when doing ordinary pruning. will fill a closet quickly with your fa- Cut young growth tips from a vegetative vorite genetics. When you find the plant stage, mature plant 3-5 inches long with a you want to be your “buddy” for the rest stem diameter 1/5-1/10 inch. Cut with a of your life, you can keep that plant’s sterile razor blade or X-acto knife genetic character alive for decades and (flamed) and immerse the cut end of the pass it on to your children’s children. clone into a tub of distilled water mixed Propagate and share it with others, to with 1/4 tspn Peters 5-50-17 per gallon. keep a copy, should your own line die out. Next, cut the bottom.2 inch off the end A clone can be taken from a clone at least while it is submerged, using a diagonal 20 times, and probably more, so don’t cut. Remove the clone from the tub and dip worry about myths of reduced vigor. Many into a liquid cloning solution following reports Indicate it’s not a problem. instructions on the label. Dust with Root- Cloning will open you to the risk of a ToneF and place in cloning tray or medium. fungus or pests wiping out the whole crop, Flowering plants can be cloned too, but so it’s important to pick plants that ex- may take longer, and may not have as high hibit great resistance to fungus and a success rate. pests. Pick the plant you feel will be the Cloning goes quickest with the liquid most reliable to reproduce in large scale, rooting solutions, in a warmed, aerated

70 The Joy of Growing by Yourself. tray, with subdued lighting and high hu- dicate results were not good for rooting midity. Placing cuttings into 1” rockwool clones. Place starter cubes in tray of so- cubes in a covered tray works great too. lution. Check twice a day to be sure cubes In a closet, you can make space above the are moist, not drenched, and not dry. Af- grow area so that the heat of the lamp ter about 2-3 weeks, rootlets will appear warms the tray (passive collecting) and at the bottom of the pods. Transplant at spare the expense and hassle of the aquar- this point to growing area, taking care ium heater ($24) or agricultural heating not to disturb any exposed roots. pad w/ thermostat (pricey). A double 4” One grower writes us: fluorescent lamp will be perfect. Leave I have had virtually all attempted clones lamps on for 24 hours a day. Cuttings root with the following scheme: should root in 2-3 weeks. 1. Prep cutting by removing large leaves I found only one liquid rooting hormone on tip to be cut, allow to heal. solution that was not over $10. (Olivia’s 2. While holding underwater, take final Gel was $12 for a 1.6 ounce bottle. Geez, diagonal cut on stem to be rooted. what is this stuff, gold?) I found some 3. Dip in Rootone, then spear stem about dipNgrow for $9, considered myself lucky, 2” deep in 16 oz. cups of 1/2 vermicu- and got a tray and clear cover for $7. A lite, 1/2 perlite, which are kept in a clear tray cover or greenhouse encloser is stryrofoam cooler. needed to bring up humidity to 90% (green- 4. Spray cuttings with a VERY mild com- house levels). Liquid rooting hormone plete fert. soln. seems to be much more effective than pow- 5. Cover top of cooler with Saran Wrap, ders. Some types available are Olivia’s, then punch holes for ventilation. Woods, and dipNgrow. 6. Keep cooler in relatively mild temps, Mix a weak cloning solution of high P low light, and spray cuttings daily. plant food (such as Peter’s 5-50-17), 7. Cuttings should root in about 3 weeks. trace elements, and epsom salts and then Cloning is not as easy as starting from dip plants in rooting solution per in- seed. With seeds, you can have 18” tall structions on label. All of the above nu- plants in 6 weeks or less. With clones, it trients should be added in extremely small may take 6 weeks for the plant to sprout amounts, 25% of what would normally be roots and new growth. Seeds are easily used on growing plants. Or use a premade twice as fast if you have empty indoor solution such as Olivia’s Rooting Solu- space being wasted that needs to be put to tion. Corn syrup has been reported to sup- use quickly. Always breed a few buds for plement the sugars needed by the plant seeds, even if you expect to be cloning during cloning, since it consists of plant most of the time, you could get wiped out, sugars. and have nothing but your seeds left to Use a powder fungicide too, like Root- start over. toneF to be sure you don’t spoil the Cloning in rockwool seems to work clones with fungus. This is important, great, and no airpump is needed. I paid $9 since clones and fungus like the condi- for 98 rockwool starter cubes. A plastic tions you will be creating for good root- tray is available ($.95) that holds 77 ing: cubes in pockets allowing the cubes to be 1. mild light held in a tray of nutrient solution. They 2. degrees are easily removed and placed in a larger 3. high humidity rockwool growing cube when rooted. In rockwool, there is no need for airating the solution, just keep the cubes in 1/4” Breeding of solution so they wick and stay moist at all times. Try to keep clones evenly It is possible to breed and select cut- spaced, and spray them with water once a tings from plants that grow, flower, and day to keep them moist and fresh. Pull out mature faster. Some plants will naturally clones if they are diseased and dying, to be better than others in this regard, and keep them away from healthy starts. it is easy to select not only the most po- Another method is to float cutings in a tent plants to clone or breed, but the tray full of solution on polystyrene dis- fastest growing/flowering plants as well. posable plates, or styrene sheets (ship- Find your fastest growth plant, and breed ping/packing material) with holes punched, it with your “best high” male for fast so the tops and leaves are out of the wa- flowering, potent strains. Clone your ter. Take off all large leaves, leaving fastest, best high plant for the quickest only smaller top leaves to reduce demand monocrop garden possible. Over time, it on the new rooting stalk. Aerate the tray will save you a lot of waiting around for solution with an air pump and bubble your plants to mature. stone. Keep solution at 72-80 degrees for When a male is starting to flower (2-4 best results. Change the solution daily if weeks before the females) it should be re- not using an air stone and pump, so that moved from the females so it does not pol- oxygen is always available to the cut- linate them. It is taken to a separate tings. A week later, clip yellowing leaves area. Any place that gets just a few hours from cuttings to reduce water demands as of light per day will be adequate, includ- the cuttings start to root. ing close to a window in a separate room Buy a tray with a clear cover made for in the house. Put newspaper or glass under rooting at an indoor gardening supply it to catch the pollen as the flowers drop house. You must keep humidity very high it. for the clones. Put cuttings in an ice Keep a male alive indefinitely by bend- chest with cellophane over the top and a ing it’s top severely and putting it in light shining down if you don’t want to mild shock that delays it’s maturity. Or pay for the grow tray and cover. take the tops as they mature and put the It’s also possible to directly place a branches in water, over a piece of plate dipped cutting in a moist block of floral glass. Shake the branches every morning to foam with holes punched, or vermiculite in release pollen onto the glass and then a cup; be sure to root cuttings in a con- scrap it with a razor blade to collect it. stantly moist medium. Jiffy peat cubes are A male pruned in this fashion stays alive not recommended, as published reports In- indefinately and will continue to produce

71 Absinthe flowers if it gets suitable dark periods. Sinsemillia This is much better than putting pollen in the freezer! Fresh pollen is always best. When the female plant is not allowed to Save pollen in an air tight bag in the pollinate, it grows full of resin that was freezer. It will be good for about a intended to make seeds. False seed pods month. It may be several more weeks before swell with THC laden resin and the pistils the females are ready to pollinate. Put a turn red and orange and withdraw into the paper towel in the bag with it to act as a pods. Then the plant is harvested. Seeds desecant. are not part of the bud when the flowers A plant is ready to pollinate 2 weeks mature. This is called Sinsemillia, and after the clusters of female flowers first simply means “no seeds”. appear. If you pollinate too early, it may not work. Wait until the female flowers Sinse seeds are well established, but still all while hairs are showing. It is possible to cross your favorite two Turn off all fans. Use a paper bag to female plants to create a new strain of pollinate a branch of a female plant. Use seeds that will produce all female plants. different pollen from two males on sepa- Preferably, these two plants will be dif- rate branches. Wrap the bag around the ferent types of plants, not from the same branch and seal it at the opening to the mother’s seeds. This will create the best branch. Shake the branch vigorously. Wet offspring, since it will not lead to in- the paper bag after a few minutes with a breeding. It is easier to gauge the qual- sprayer and then carefully remove it. ity of female plants than male plants, Large plastic zip-lock bags also. Slip the since the smoke is more potent and easier bag over the male branch and shake the to judge it’s finer qualities. Plants from pollen loose. Carefully remove the bad and seeds created in this fashion will be all zip it up. It should be very dusty with female plants since there will be no pollen. To pollinate, place it over a sin- chance of male chromosomes from female gle branch of the female, zipping it up parents. sideways around the stem so no pollen Use Gibberellic Acid on one branch of a leaks out. Shake the bag and the stem at female plant to induce male flowers. Gib- the same time. Allow to settle for an hour berellic Acid is sold by nursery supply or two and shake it again. Remove it a few houses for plant breeding and hybridizing. hours later. Your branch is now well pol- Spray the plant once every day for 10 days linated and should show signs of visible with 100 ppm gibberellic acid. When the seed production in 2 weeks, with ripe male flowers form, pollinate the flowers seeds splitting the calyxes by 3-6 weeks. of your other target female plant you have One pollinated branch can create hundreds selected. Just pollinate one branch unless of seeds, so it should not be necessary to you want lots of seeds! pollinate more than one or two branches in Once the branch has male flowers, cut many cases. the branch and root it in water, with When crossing two different varieties, glass under it to catch the male pollen a third variety of plant will be created. when it drops. Use a rooting solution If you know what characte-ristics your similar to the above cloning solution. looking for in a new strain, you will need Collect the pollen with a plastic bag over several plants to choose from in order to the branch and shake it. Use a razor blade have the best chance of finding all the to scrap up fallen pollen and add it to qualities desired. Sometimes, if the two the bag too. plants bred had dominant genes for certain It is also possible to pollinate the characteristics, it will be impossible to flowers of the plant you create the male get the plant you want from one single flowers on, crossing it with itself. This cross. In this case, it is necessary to is used to preserve a special plants char- interbreed two plants from the same batch acteristics. Cloning will also pre-serve of resultant seeds from the initial cross. the plants characteristics, but will not In this fashion, recesive genes will be- allow you to store seeds for use later. come available, and the plant character Crossing a plant with itself can lead to you desire may only be possible in this inbreeding problems, so it may not be the manner. optimum solution in many cases. Usually, it is desirable only to cross I once tried using Gibberellic Acid, two strains that are very different. In sprayed on a healthy female, every day for this manner, one usually arrives at what over a week. No male flowers appeared on is refered to as “hybrid vigor”. In other the plant. Your milage may vary. words, often the best strains are created by taking two very different strains and Odors and negative ions mating them. Less robust plants may be the result of interbreeding, since it opens up Negative ion generators have been used recesive gene traits that may lead to re- for years now to cut down on odors in a duced potency. grow room, but reports are coming in that Hybrid offspring will all be very dif- a negative ion generator will increase ferent from each other. Each plant grown growth speed and yield. No true evidence from the same batch of seeds collected to support this, however it does make from the same plant, will be different. It sense, due to the fact that people and is then necessary to try each plant sepa- animals seem to be altered in a positive rately and decide it’s individual merits way by negative ions in the air, so plants for yourself. If you find one that seems may “feel” better too. Try putting one in to be head and shoulders above the rest in the grow room. You may notice the buds terms of early flowering, high yield and don’t have as much scent when picked, but get buzz, that’s the plant to clone and that may be desirable in some cases. continue breeding. A negative ion generator can be pur- In depth genetics is beyond the scope chased for $15 to $100 depending on the of this work. See Marijuana Botany; Smith, type and power involved. Some have re- for more detailed info in this area. versed cycles that collect the dust to a charged plate. It is also possible to use

72 The Joy of Growing by Yourself. grounded aluminum foil on the wall and metals found in hard water that are not shelf where the ionizer sits, to collect present in purified water. Hard water these particles. Just wipe the foil clean tends to build up alkaline salt deposits once a month. It should be grounded to an in soil that lockup trace minerals, and electrical outlets ground wire. If you cause iron, copper and zinc deficiencies. don’t cover the wall and shelf with paper There are several types of purified water, or foil, the wall will turn dark with dust but many are not free of minerals that taken from the air, and you will have to could be causing salt buildup over an ex- repaint that wall later. tended period of time. Tap water comes in two flavors. Hot and Oxigen cold. The cold pipe has less calcium and sodium buildup in it, and should be freer O2 to the roots is a big concern, since of sediment once the water has been turned the plant requires this for nutrients to on and allowed to flow for 30 seconds. Hot be available, and to rid itself of toxins, water will have rust, lead deposits, and etc. One of the easiest things to do is lots of sodium and calcium, so much so, use food grade hydrogen peroxide in the you will see it easily. Use only the water to increase the availability of oxy- amount of hot water needed to make the wa- gen in the water. H2O2 has an extra oxygen ter the correct temperature (70-80 F). Tap atom that will easily break away and can water filtered through a carbon (charcoal) be used by the plant. Oxygen Plus is a filter will be free of chlorine and most plant food that contains 25% hydrogen per- large particles, but will still contain oxide and is perfect for this use. dissolved solids such as sodium and heavy Using a planting medium that allows for metals (lead, arsenic, nickel, etc.). plenty of aeration is also really impor- Purified bottled water will be either tant. Be sure you have good drainage by Reverse Osmosis or some form of car- using Perlite, sand, or gravel in your mix bon/sediment filtered water. When purchas- and at the bottom of pots. Don’t use a me- ing water at a store, unless it says RO or dium that holds too much water, or you may Distilled, don’t bother buying it. It significantly reduce the oxygen available could still have the same dissolved solids to the plant. More on that in the section and heavy metals your tap water has. on hydroponics. Aerating the water before watering is Birth control pills also a good idea. In the case of soil potted plants, use an airpump to aerate the A solution of one pill to one gallon of water overnight before watering your water has been reported to cause increased plants, or put the water in a container growth speed in tomato plants. It is pos- with a cap and shake it up real good be- sible this will help herb plants too. One fore giving to the plants. treatment administered before flowering and one administered a few weeks before Safety and privacy harvesting might help the plant mature faster. Utility companies can tell your bill is One grower told a story of the same way off from the same time last year, and type of plants, one administered the es- police are finding growers this way. More trogen grew to 20 feet, while the other than 500 watts in the family home running was 7 feet. This may be purely anecdotal, constantly will show up as a regular but it may work. Try it and report back to monthly increase in electricity use. You us on results. can claim space heaters, more people living on the premises, too many television Seed and bud storage sets, and late hours, if they happen mention it to you (innocently). If the police Use a seal-a-meal to hermetically seal knock and ask you about it, don’t let them the bag with no air inside. Freeze or rein, and move your plants to another loca- frigerate, and bud and seed can be kept tion during the wee hours in a vehicle not for years this way. your own. Rap seeds in a paper towel to absorb Upon moving into a new place, it may be moisture. Keep them in the freezer, and desirable to immediately establish high pull out only as many seeds as you need, electricity use, so that your electrical then pop them back in the freezer quickly. use history won’t reveal your activities in the future… A final comment: Light leaks, open windows, heat ex- pelled from rooms that would normally be Good results can be had even in what cool, and rip-offs are all serious issues appear to be rather marginal situations. to be concerned about. Don’t use a burglar (i.e.: a four inch pot in a room with a alarm on when your away from the house. skylight). With the minimum of: well People are busted this way when the kids drained medium, good light with ventila- try to rip off the garden and the police tion, regular application of a complete come. Lock the house up well, and let them fertilizer, pest control, and avoidance of take it if they need it so bad. It’s not detection, anyone can take a viable seed worth getting busted for a burglary… to maturity. Think ahead to any situation that will One need not have a lot of money, or require outsiders to visit sensitive areas even know-how to grow good plants. of the house. Repairmen, solicitors, meter readers, neighbors, appraisers, and pets should all be considered and contingency plans made in advance.

Distilled water

Some growers report purified or distilled water helps their plants grow faster. Perhaps due to sodium and heavy

73 Absinthe ums and other large areas. They come in two basic flavors: METAL HALIDES or MH Lamps for the best lamps emit a white light that looks slightly bluish. They are used to light stadiums, convention centers, gymnasiums, growing and other large areas where a natural looking light is desired. HIGH PRESSURE SODIUM or HPS lamps emit a pink or amber (Last update, May 15th, 1994) light. They are used for lighting parking lots and other areas where the color of The purpose of this FAQ is to help limit the light is not important. HPS units are the spread of misinformation regarding ef- much more efficient than MH ones, produc- fective artificial lighting systems, and ing more light and less heat per watt of energy consumed. They are often used alone help those who choose to grow plants under with no detrimental effect on the plants, artificial lighting make an informed deci- and will promote faster plant growth than sion before buying a lamp. Most of the in- MH lamps during both vegetative growth and formation contained in this FAQ comes from flowering. Combinations of bulbs are _NOT_ printed sources, and some from electroni- required, as the HPS lamp does produce all cally distributed files. Very little comes of the light spectrums necessary for from my own experience, as I have not healthy growth. MH lamps are available in owned, used or examined most of the sys- 175,200, 400 and 1000 watt sizes. HPS tems discussed here. This FAQ is not going lamps come in 50, 75, 150, 400 and 1000 to tell you how to use your lamp, that in- watt sizes. Each lamp requires its own formation can be found in most grower’s ballast, which comes with the fixtures guides. that are designed to use these lamps, and are also available separately. Introduction: The following chart shows how much light each lamp emits, and the area that There are three major types of lighting it covers adequately: systems available right now: incandescent, fluorescent, and high intensity discharge. Lamp Number of lu- Sq. Ft Incandescent lights are horribly ineffi- mens cient (especially the screw-in “grow bulb” 4’FL (cool 2960 1-2 type) and really not an acceptable option white) 40W for plant growth. Although they are inex- 8’FL (cool 5800 2-4 pensive to purchase, their cost of opera- white) 75W tion makes them the costliest source of MH 175W 14000 5.10 light. MH 400W 40000 12-20 Flurescents HPS 70W 7600 3-6 Until the early 1980’s most indoor growers used fluorescent lights to illumi- HPS 150W 16000 6-11 nate their garden. These tubes have tremendous advantages over incandescents. HPS 400W 50000 15-30 They emit about 3 times as much light as an incandescent (given the same wattage), and the light spectrum is one that plants con use more effectively. Gardens should receive 1000-3000 lumens However, they do certainly have their per square foot. Successful gardens usu- limitations. Light is emitted over a large ally are lit at around 2,000 lumens per area, so it is not concentrated. Because square foot. During the vegetative stage, of this, the lights have to be hung very plants stretch out when they receive low close to the plants, and constantly moved levels of light. During flowering, the to accommodate plant growth. This makes flowers are looser and sparse. garden maintenance rather difficult. So what is the best lamp for growing? Florescents are, however, very useful It depends on your budget. HPS lamps are in cloning, and starting seedlings. Be- by far the best overall, but they are also cause in these stages, a plant is not the most costly to purchase and setup (al- growing vertically very quickly, the dis- though some less honest growers have a advantages of moving the lights are re- tendency to steal them from college cam- duced. They also put out a more gentle puses and the like). However, they are the light than the HID lamps, and release less cheapest to operate, and the utility sav- heat. ings does eventually add up. If you choose to use fluorescents, it A quick warning: At least in the US, is best to purchase the ‘cool white’ vari- there are large government agencies whose ety. The ones that are sold as grow lamps only purpose is to eliminate the growth of (including grow-lux, vitalite, etc.) are Marijuana. Although purchasing a high pow- much less efficient than a standard fluo- ered lighting system does not mean that rescent, and just do not put out enough you will be growing pot (and many people light to be useful. The slightly different grow other things artificially), it is spectrum produced by these lamps does still not a really good idea to link your nothing for most plants. name with the purchase of one of these lamps (especially the larger ones). Go High Intensity Discharge Lamps (HID’s) into the store knowing exactly what you want, pay for it in cash, and do not give High intensity discharge lamps are eas- them your name (or give them a false one ier to use, and more efficient. Low watt- if they even ask). Most lighting distri- age HIDs are sometimes sold for household butors will not ask any questions. outdoor use. Large Wattage lamps are used I wish you a healthy and happy crop. for lighting streets, parking lots, stadi-

74 The Joy of Growing by Yourself. growers report that clones (cuttings) can be forced to bloom prior to 60 days old, When to harvest perhaps since the cutting itself is somewhat mature at the time it is rooted.

Male Versus Female Disclaimer: The author does not condone any illegal activity. The facts presented Almost always, male flowers will show do not necessarily represent the opinion prior to female buds. Thus, once the males of the author. in the garden are detected, you can be sure that that the female budding process Mr.Brown -- 10/15/94. will start soon - usually within 1-2 weeks. The question of when to harvest ten- derly cared-for plants is a question that Different Varieties puzzles many new growers. Most farmers’ goal is to pluck the fruit at the exact Many gardeners report that certain can- moment when the potency of the bud is at nibis varieties take longer to mature than is peak. Realistically, the skills needed others. In particular, the narrow-leafed to detect the specific day (or even hour) Sativas are said to take signifi-cantly when a plant is at its peak can only be longer to initiate and complete budding, acquired through years of experience. How- as compared to the wide-leafed Indicas. ever, even the novice grower should be Under some conditions, Sativas will re- able detect the window of time during quire an additional month or more to ma- which the harvest results in premier crop ture after the Indicas have been har- of outstanding bud. vested.

Maturity and THC Time of Year

Although some growers are interested in Obviously, indoor growers cannot use fiber content, most people consider the the seasons as a guide to harvesting plant to be mature when the percentage of (though a cold winter-time grow room can THC found in the plant reaches its maxi- significantly retard the growth of the mum. It is not practical for the average plants). Outdoor growers on the other hand grower to actually measure THC in a plant, can use the seasons as a predictor of the as the chemistry is somewhat complex. In a ideal harvest t ime. In the Fall, once the growing plant, each successive pair of length of day drops below 12 hours, the leaves contains more THC than the previous count-down to harvest will be begin. pair. The budding tips of the plant con- Weather conditons will affect the exact tain the most THC of all. harvest day from year to year, but gener- Both male and female plants contain ally you can expect to harvest within the THC. In fact, some research has shown that same two-week window each year. If you can in the early stages of growth the males avoid it, don’t harvest during or immedi- actual ly contain more THC than the fe- ately after a rainy spell. males (Frank and Rosenthal, Marijuana Grower’s Guide, p. 66). Monitoring Buds Even conniseurs believe it is worth cutting and sampling shoots before the THC The best way to tell if the plant is has reached its maximum. Clarke suggests ready is to examine the bud. In the para- that the best bioassy for pot is to roll graphs below, the terms “pistal” and joints of several different strains, in- “stigma” refer to the white hairs in the vite all your friends over, and see which center of the female bud. The term “calyx” pile of joints disappears first (Marijuana refers to the pod that would surround the Botany, p. 94) seed (were the plant to be fertilized). Many growers elect to pick each bud indi- Plant Size vidually, as it reaches it prime. “Buds are at their peak potency about The size of the plant has little to do one week after flower formation slows… with its maturity. Outdoors, a plant might Harvest the plants when about half the reach a height of over eight feet (2.5m) stigmas in the buds have withered… When and still not be ready for harvest. In- the plants are left in the ground, the doors, mature, budding plants can be under resinous qualities of the plant may become 18” (.5m) high. more apparent. The bracts and tiny leaves may swell in size…The resin content of Photoperiod: The Key to Maturation these buds may be higher, [but] the grass will smoke more harshly than if the buds The chronological age of the plant has were younger when picked”. little to do with its maturity. How Frank and Rosenthal “Marijuana Growers quickly a plant matures is mostly depend- Guide” pg 289, pg 295. ent on the amount of light the plant re- “In the primordial calyxes the pistils ceives each day (photoperiod). Typical-ly, have turned brown; however, all but the a plant will transition from the growing oldest of the flowers are fertile and the (vegitative) stage to the budding stage floral clusters are white…Many cultivators when the light per day drops below 12 prefer to pick some of their strains dur- hours. This is not to say that a 3-week- ing this stage in order to produce Mari- old seedling will begin to bloom when the juana with a clear cerebral, psychoactive light is cut. As a general rule, a plant effect”. must be a minimum of 60 days old before it Robert Connell Clarke “Marijuana Botany”, is mature enough to respond appropriately pg 140. to decreased light. For indoor growers, “Eventually the pistils start to turn the decision on when to cut the photope- color from pale white to red or brown… riod depends on available growing space, When the glands have swelled and the pis- as well as the need to harvest weed. Some til has receded into the false pod, the

75 Absinthe bud is ready to pick”. Ed Rosenthal, “The Closet Cultivator”, pg 100. “At the peak of florescence, all but Nomadic, hydro- the oldest of flowers have white pistil development…Another Indicator is bouquet. When a plant is at the peak of flores- ponic gardens on a cence, it has a sweet and musky fragrance. Later, it loses the sweetness”. Kayo, “The limited budget Sinsemilla Technique”, pg 125. “The best way to harvest is to examine the resin glands on each bud. As they turn from clear to amber, that is the optimum Written, Maintained and posted occasio- time to pick. Buds usually mature from the nally to rec.gardens and alt.hemp y Jeff top down, if grown under artificial light, Burchell ([email protected]) and you will end up with more high-quality p ot if you pick each bud when ready. How- Introduction: ever, the plant will not just continue to produces buds at the same rate. Like any These are plans to make a fairly port- other plant, the flowering cycle lasts a able, and very inexpensive water culture specific period of time. If you wanted a (advanced hydroponic) system. These plans further harvest of buds, the plant would only explain how to make the garden it- need a second cycle of vegetative growth. self, and do _not_ explain how to This can be achieved indoors by simply use/maintain it. If you plan on using this turning the lights back up to a 24 hour garden, you should get yourself a good cycle for a few weeks. Outdoors though, book on hydroponics, and look it over (es- you are dependent on the seasons. Frost pecially the parts about what nutrient so- and long nights will usually kill the lutions to use, your garden vareity Mira- plant. Of course, such a strategy is only cle-Gro won’t do the trick). variable if growing a few plants. If your operation runs on an in- Disclaimer: dustrial scale, just drive the combine harvester through the field”. (-peter I am intentionally leaving out those alt.hemp posting) parts about plant nutrition, light cycles, etc. so as not to appear to be writing a guidebook for growing Marijuana. It is also to make you seek out _another_ source of information so your knowlege of hydroponics comes from more than just this file. I do not grow Marijuana, and never have. I’m just a high-tech home gardener with information to share. If you are caught growing Marijuana while using the system described herein, don’t even think of running to me, I didn’t tell you to grow Marijuana. In fact, I’d suggest planting a crop of cherry tomatoes, which can be fooled into producing fruit indoors year round, and is a very easy plant to start hydroponics with.

Materials:

• 1 5-10 gallon bucket • 2 Pieces of PVC or ABS pipe, 8-10” long, 5” or greater diameter. • 4 Caps for PVC/APS pipe ends. • 1 waterpump capable of about 50 Gallons Per Hour (you will need a bigger pump if you choose to make this a larger system) • 4 of hose that will fit the waterpump (often 3/8”) • 1 TEE joint (or Y-splitter) that fits the water hose • 4 clamps for the water hose (one for pump to hose, and 3 for hoses to TEE fitting). • 1 Airpump, airstone, and some airline from a fish tank. • 1 Can White epoxy based spray paint • 1 Can Black Epoxy based spray paint 1. Everything must be made light tight. Paint all hoses, the bucket, the PVC/ABS (which will be called PVC from now on) and the lid of the bucket with a layer of black paint. Let it dry overnight, and then cover it with a layer of white paint (to make it reflective, and reduce the temperature of the nutrient solution).

76 The Joy of Growing by Yourself. 2. Take each of PVC pieces and drill a a larger bucket to hold the nutrients 1” hole in the side, about one inch from (I’ve seen one made with a 55 gallon drum, the end. Then epoxy the caps onto the ends and 8 seperate arms, each holding 4 of the PVC. plants) 3. Drill the inlet/outlet holes (these I personally use this setup indoors should be located on the caps of the PVC), (under a skylight in my apartment) to grow See diagram 2 cherry tomato plants. What you do with your own garden is your own business, and Obviously I can’t be held responsible if you choose to grow anything illegal. inlet hole should be as low as possible (as close to the wall of the PVC), and the Starting Seeds: outlet hole should be as high as possible) 4. Now cut two 5” holes in the sides of This system is not for seeds. Either the bucket (close to the top), and epoxy purchase small plants, or start your seeds the PVC in place, so about 2” of pipe (and in a pan of vermiculite, flooded with 1/2 the outlet hole) are inside the bucket, strength hydroponic nutrient fluid. When and the 1” hole is facing straight up. they are about 4-6 inches tall, they are ready to be moved to the system. Remove them gently from the vermiculite, using clean water to get every last chunk off of 5. Place the airstone in the bottom of the roots. Then wrap the stems in polyes- the bucket, and find a place for the air- ter fluff and garden hose (see above) pump. If you are planning an indoor garden, with enriched CO2 in the air, then Jeff Burchell [email protected] the pump should be OUTSIDE of your enclo- [email protected] sure. The idea of the pump is to dissolve oxygen into the nutrient solution, and not to dissolve CO2. CO2 can kill rootsystems. If you are growing outside, or not enriching CO2, then the pump can sit anywhere. 6. Place the waterpump in the bottom of the bucket (assuming it is a submersible one) and attach a hose to it. long enough to reach the top of the bucket. Cut a hole in the lid of the bucket for this hose to go through. Then attach the TEE fitting to the hose. Now attach hoses to the free ends of the TEE, and run them to the inlet holes on the end of the PVC pipes. Use clamps on the TEE fitting and on the pump itself, but use epoxy to attach the hoses to the PVC. This seal must be completely water tight. Let them dry for 24 hours. 7. Put some water in the bucket and turn on the pump. What should happen is the PVC pieces will fill with water, and then when they are full, they should begin to continuously drain out the outlet holes, and back into the bucket. If you are getting leaks anywhere, fix them im- medately. If water is coming out of the 1” hole on the top of the pipe, then either your pump is too strong, or your outlet hole is too small. Fix one or the other. 8. Empty the system (hint, remove the hose from the pump to drain the arms), and replace the water with some form of hydroponic nutrient solution (look in a hydroponics book for details on what exactly to use, or visit a gardening store, and ask) 9. Place your plants into the system. The best way I have found to do this is to take a 1 1/8” garden hose and cut a 1” tube off of one end. Then slit the tube down one side. Wrap the stem of your plant (just above the roots) with polyester fluff (available at aquarium stores, for stuffing into external water filters) and then wrap the garden hose around the fluff. Then force the hose into the hole at the top of the PVC arm. People also have used rubber stoppers. 10. Turn on the air/water pumps, and let your garden grow.

Comments:

This is obviously just a small setup, but these plans can easily be modified for much larger systems, using longer pieces of PVC, or more than one pair of arms, and

77 Absinthe

22 13.5 10.5 The grower’s guide 23 13 11 24 12.5 11.5 25 12 12

by “K” I cannot stress enough that during the FLOWERING PHASE, the dark period should This is a grower’s guide for those folks not be violated by any light. It delays who allready know a thing or two about flower development and promotes leaf growing the dread plant: MARIJUANA. growth. If you must work on the plants during this time, allow only as much light There are several key factors in grow- as a VERY pale moon can provide for less ing the optimal or near optimal Marijuana than 5 minutes. plant. These factors can be manipulated to produce different physical variations in Temperature any seedstock selected. THEY ARE: The atmospheric temperature should be • Light Intensity & Spectrum in the low 70’s during the day, dropping into the 50’s at night. This rule is not • Photoperiod absolute, however. If you grow clones or • Temperature Cycle selectively bred seedstock in a area that • Nutrients has a temperature range larger than this, • Humidity Cycle the plants will mutate over each genera- • CO2 tion to make plants more and more suited • Pruning to the environment they happen to be in. For example, plants can (with trial & er- • Leeching ror) be grown in a closet with tempera- • Cloning tures in the 80’s and 90’s. However, the • Stress closer you get to the ideal temperature range, the better the buds and the less Light likely you are to get male plants.(see stress) The Light Spectrum should be as close as approximation of natural sunlight as is Tertilizer available. The Light Intensity should be as bright as is possible while still keep- Nutrients should be provided with each ing temperature in line. wateing. A good GROWTH PHASE mix is 1/4 There are several kinds of lights that tsp Peter’s 20/20/20 fertilizer per gallon one can use. As far as cost and security of aged water. During the FLOWERING PHASE, go, I recommend several vertical fluores- Peter’s African Violet 12/34/16 fertilizer cent lights suspended around the plants mixed to the same proportion works well. with a pair of sylvania SL-100 bulbs in the center. Humidity

PhotoperiodD The humidity should be kept high (around 90%) unless over watering has oc- During the GROWTH PHASE, the light pe- curred and the soil needs drying quickly. riod should be a minimum of 18 hours. The Marijuana doesn’t like its roots to be wet light can be continuous during the growth all the time, so don’t water every day phase (24 Hours per Day) with profound ef- unless the temperature is quite high. If fects. During the FLOWERING PHASE, 12 proper ventilation is maintained, problems hours of uninterrupted light stimulates like fungus and algae should be minimal. the production of budding sites for the Average watering solution usage: flowers. 10 days after transplant:1 Quart (946 ml) 20 days after tr.:1.5 Quarts (1419 ml) Light cycle chart for flowering 30 days after tr.:2 Quarts (1892 ml) During Flowering:1.5 Quarts (1419 ml)

Day Hours on Hours off Co2 1 24 0 2 23.5 0.5 Carbon Dioxide (CO2) levels should be 3 23 1 high, particularly during the FLOWERING 4 22.5 1.5 PHASE. Growth rates can be increased dra- 5 22 2 matically if the CO2 level is near 700 6 21.5 2.5 ppm. 7 21 3 300 ppm (Outside Air) 8 20.5 3.5 700 ppm (Ideal) 9 20 4 2000 ppm (Plants Burn) 10 19.5 4.5 500 ppm (Death) 11 19 5 CO2 is cheaply produced by burning 12 18.5 5.5 Natural Gas. However, heat and Carbon Mon- oxide must be vented to the outside air. 13 18 6 CO2 can be obtained by buying or leasing 14 17.5 6.5 cylinders from local welding supply 15 17 7 houses. Beware! The DEA has asked the sup- 16 16.5 7.5 ply houses to provide lists of large CO2 17 16 8 users. If you are questioned, simply say 18 15.5 8.5 “I have an old mig welder at the house and 19 15 9 I want to try and patch up my (Lawnmower, 20 14.5 9.5 car, trailer, etc.). If you find that you 21 14 10 are making lots of trips to the supply house, complain that your “buddy” keeps

78 The Joy of Growing by Yourself. leaving the cylinder valve open all night. THEY ACT ON WHAT THEY THINK NICE FOLKS This should provide a plausible excuse. WANT. ASK AND YOU SHALL RECEIVE. IT WORKS. Pruning

To maintain the optimal growth rate, trim all leaves that are greater than 4 inches long (not counting the stem). A good rule of thumb is to keep the distance (Internodal Length) between the leaves/branches on the main stem around 1 inch. The more often you trim, the slower the Marijuana plant will grow and the nar- rower the internodal length. Trimming the growth tip after the plant is 4-5 leaf gets tall will produce a “Y” shaped plant with two “arms”. Too much trimming will result in poor growth and often hermaphro- ditism. Keep puruning to a minimum during the entire

Flowering phase. (see stress)

Leeching the soil

From time to time, it is beneficial to leach the soil of high concentrations of salts. The salts come from the fertilizer solution by means of evaporation. To leach the soil, over water the growing medium until fluid can be seen above the soil line. Allow the swampy mess to soak for a few minutes, then pump/siphon off excess from the “well” at the lower end of the growing area.

Cloning (Cutting plantlets)

After Two Months, any Marijuana plant can be cloned. Cut young growth tips from a mature plant that are 5 inches long with a stem diameter 1/5-1/10 inch. Cut with a razor blade or X-Acto knife and immerse the cut end of the clones into a tub of water mixed with.5 grams Peters 20-20-20 per quart. Next, cut the bottom.5 inch off the end while it is submerged. Remove the clone from the tub and dip into rootone powder and plant 1 inch deep in a saturated Jiffy 7 pod/rockwool/oasis block. Place plantlet in a small tub with perlite sprinkled on the bottom and.5 inch of the Peter’s solution when the cutting is in place. Place Tub/Planter in a plastic tent to maintain a very high humidity (85-90%). Place 40 watt fluorescent lamp above the tent. Make sure that the plants stay wet, but not standing in water by checking them twice daily. Leave lamps on for 24 hours a day. After about Two Weeks, Rootlets will appear at the bottom of the pods. Trans- plant at this point to growing area, taking care not to disturb any exposed roots.

Stress

Since Marijuana is very responsive to its environment, big changes in any of the growth factors (light, heat, food, water, etc.) can affect not only the growth of the plant but also potency and even sex. The whole thing is really a trade-off. If you want bigger, faster growing buds, then you should increase stress. However, too much stress will force Hermorphrodisim or even a male from a normally female plant.

VOTE OR PERISH!

ATTEND CANDIDATES RALLYS AND ASK IF THEY SUPPORT LEGALIZATION OF MARIJUANA. REMEMBER:

79 Absinthe for people who hang in a predominantly straight crowd and know few people who Simple steps for partake in the fine erb. The rule of thumb is if the weed gets you pretty high then the seed is usually good to grow. Seeds outdoor growers coming from green bud are often better to grow because the strain is frequently acclimated to the growing season of northern December, 1992 latitudes. Jamaican and Colombian varieties can not be easily produced in north- About the Authors ern latitudes because the strains produce bud too late in the season. The results of We have been outdoor growers since 1980 growing these varieties in most of the and have had relatively small yearly har- U.S. will be little or no bud growth be- vests every year since l983. We have grown fore the first frost hits. Sativa strains Indica and Sativa strains and also hybrids usually grow taller than the Indica or In- (mixing the two together). Our horticul- dica-Sativa hybrids. This can be a major ture has taken place largely in fields in drawback especially in the fall when other New York and New Jersey. The goal of this plants are dying off and trees are losing paper is to allow others to produce their leaves. Some growers have success crossing own, and to reduce the amount of Marijuana Sativa varieties from southern climates traded on the street. As more individuals with Indica, and creating an offspring become divorced from having to sell and that will bud more timely. purchase fine erb, then we as consumers When at parties, concerts, or other so- will become self-sufficient and will also cial events, keep an eye out for people be able to minimize the risk of being breaking up bud and discarding seeds. The caught. Unfortunately, the ignorant powers best time to look for seeds is from Octo- that be continue to persecute Marijuana ber to January because this is when most smokers for political reasons. We should of the locally grown outdoor erb hits the take responsibility for our habits and market. Acquiring and maintaining a qual- grow for our own consumption thereby ity seed stock is the most fundamental eliminating the “buy and sell game”. Al- task of a successful grower. though the Marijuana trade is not known for attracting ruthless people, it none Finding a Site the less is a “black market” activity that many wish to avoid. Aside from acquiring good seed, picking Some people may read this paper with a prime location to grow is probably the the hope that they can grow acres of most important task a grower is faced reefer that will bring them riches. Unfor- with. One of the best locations is in ar- tunately the gold rush as it pertains to eas of grasslands that have small trees weed has come and gone. The police confis- and bushes interspersed. Often a farmers cate patches of pot annually through the field that has been out of production for use of aerial infrared photography, and ten years is ideal. Flood plains along large plots are spotted much more fre- rivers and streams are another good loca- quently than small plots. This guide is tion, but the risk of losing seeds in the not designed to be the erb growers bible, Spring or the harvest in the Fall due to but to provide easy steps on how to culti- flooding should be considered. Growers vate small amounts of Marijuana for per- have also been known to plant in buckets sonal consumption. There are people who in more rocky or mountainous terrain. This know more about growing weed than we do, enables them to grow in areas that receive but the Marijuana growing literature still good sunlight but have rocky, untillable lacks a brief explanation of how to pro- soil. Digging a site in areas of dense but duce outdoor kind bud in easy steps. Our short plant growth, like sticker bushes, hope is that this paper can serve that is another suitable spot. The sticker purpose. bushes grow high enough to prevent people We want to thank the many people who from seeing through them and also serve as helped us acquire skill in this realm (our a direct deterrence from people and large assumption is that they want to remain animals wandering into the site. anonymous). Any error or omission is our A grower can often use animal and in- doing and we take full responsibility. sect life to his advantage. Bees, tics, All rights of this publication are not green flies and the like can discourage reserved. Anyone may duplicate this docu- people from wandering through fields so ment in full or part. Please distribute areas having an abundant insect population liberally! are prime locations. The most important criteria for an excellent growing site are Table of Contents good soil, available water, sunlight, and suitable cover. Other factors are secondary. • Acquiring Good Seeds Good soil is sometimes hard to find but • Finding a Site without it you won’t get much of a har- • Making a Trail vest. So, if you find a site that is per- • The Mechanics of Growinga. Preparing fect for all other factors but has poor the Soilb. Plantingc. Weedingd. Remov- soil , you may want to consider bringing ing Malese. The Fungusf. Emergency Vis- soil to the site. Soil is often the rich- its est in areas where grassland vegetation • The Harvest has existed for a series of years. Grass- lands recycle nutrients in the soil and • When to Harvest form a thick layer of organic matter. Grassland biospheres require very little Acquiring Good Seeds preparation to start growing, while other soil conditions require more work. Sandy Quality seed strains are often diffi- soils often need potting soil or top soil cult to obtain. This is especially true along with a small amount of lime to make

80 The Joy of Growing by Yourself. them more fertile. Soils with high amounts vegetation growth is less than three feet of clay need material, like peat moss, the erb may need to be trimmed back or added to break up the clay and make the tied to the ground in order to create soil more porous. I’m a naturalist and smaller bushier plants. Fields with small disagree with some erb growing professio- vegetation growth may have poor soil or nals who believe that planting along road can be dry upland environments where the sides can be productive. The lead and soil frequently becomes too dry so use other toxic chemicals found in some of caution. Making erb junior blend in with these soils is enough to discourage many the other plants in the field will mini- vegetable growers from producing consuma- mize risk. In order to grow plants effi- ble or smokable plant material. If you ciently, an outdoor grower must use the live in a city, and lack your own means of natural landscape to his or her advantage. transportation then use roadsides as your last resort. Making a Trail A close water source is also very important. A site close to the water table One of the ways to ensure success is by would be ideal since bringing water into creating trails that are not visible to the site can get tiresome and also danger- passers by. This is easier in some places ous. It can get very tiresome if you have than in others. Areas having dense under- many sites or even a few big sites. If you growth with lots of sunlight can be ideal choose a site much higher than the water because plant growth is so rapid it will table or grow in buckets, you will quickly erase any damage to the vegetation between find that the amount of water needed dur- trips during the Spring and Summer. If you ing a dry summer will be enormous and will are growing plants in areas easy to spot give you great incentive to find a site trails then make the path weave back and closer to the water table. The dangers in forth so it becomes difficult for people having to bring water to the sites are nu- to see a trail. Making a hidden trail to merous. The greatest of these would be the the site(s) is important because it allows chance of someone spotting you, possibly a the grower to minimize getting ripped off cop. The second greatest would be the de- or worse, caught. People wander through struction of the foliage you have to walk undeveloped areas and follow trails to no- through to get from the water source to where all the time. Their access can be the site. If you have to make more than limited through thoughtful planning of one trip you run a big risk that a trail pathways and proper care in using them. will become noticeable. Finding a stable When you walk through your entrance, do water source in the summer can be another everything possible not to damage any of obstacle since small streams often dry up the foliage, especially toward the late at this time. How often you will need to Summer and early Fall. At this time of the water is determined by the weather and year, damaged foliage usually will not re- that could require you to make unexpected grow and this is when the plants need as trips to the sites. Each trip puts you at much cover as possible. There are two risk. Your goal is to minimize these things to keep in mind when making a trail trips. to your site(s): Sunlight is less important than the 1) Can you see the trail you just made, if previous two components but is still es- not that’s great, if so look for ways to sential. Plants should be in areas that cover areas that look like a trail; receive at least five hours of direct 2) The more difficult it is for you to get sunlight per day. Morning sunlight is to the site, the less likely someone else preferable since plants tend to respond will try. better to it than to the afternoon sunlight. Growers who scout sites during the The Mechanics of Growing winter months must be able to visualize how the landscape will be shaded by trees, Your cousin Louie and his friend Sam and the path the sun will take come are in town from Oklahoma and they have Spring. Of course, the greater the amount smoked a lot of grass and grown some in of sunlight the better, but when choosing their backyards. Sam has a good rap, and a site sunlight is just one of many fac- appears knowledgeable about fine erb. Tak- tors that must be considered. ing these two gentlemen for a walk in the The last criteria has nothing to do fields might appear to be a good idea. with plant biology, but rather focuses on Shit, they could offer some insightful minimizing the threat of unwanted atten- pointers. I must caution against these ex- tion from people wandering by. The cover cursions. Even if these men are the erb should be both tall enough to keep experts they appear, taking a walk with people from spotting it and thick enough them may not be in your best interest. to discourage them from wandering too They are unfamiliar with the area and may close to it. The best foliage to accom- not know where to run if the need arises. plish this is a large patch of big sticker Walking with more than two people through bushes. If that’s not available, look for a field can attract attention (the greater foliage that grows to a height of six to the number of people, the greater chance eight feet by the fall and is far enough of being seen). The more people walking on away from where someone might stray. a trail the larger the trail becomes and The Ability to hide plants amongst the thus the greater the chance your trail can flora in fields is an art and skill im- be followed by others. Every time you proved upon through practice. One favorite visit the site(s) you are putting the har- technique is to hide plants on the south vest and for that matter yourself at risk. side of bushes so that passers by will This may be a small or large risk depend- have difficulty spotting the plant(s). ing on the particular place but remember Plants still get adequate light in spite that no place is 100% safe. Unless it is of the appearance of being crowded by the an emergency situation where the buggy fly larger bush. The best hiding spot for erb has infested your crop, and you are bring- is where people have their view blocked ing in a specialist to offer expert ad- from all sides and has the appearance of vice, the site(s) should not be visited by being impenetrable. In areas where the strangers. Having a growing partner is

81 Absinthe recommended regardless of his or her com- B) Planting small seedlings: petence, and even then the site(s) should The strongest argument for this method only be visited to accomplish specific of planting is that you get the opportu- tasks. Trips to the site should occur at nity to select for planting the strongest the following times. of the seedlings you’ve started. The strongest argument against this method is 1. Preparing The Soil: (early March - Mid the risk of transporting the seedlings to April depending on climate) their intended site(s). Transporting them I suggest buying 40lb. bags of organic requires you to find a method of conceal- potting soil and mixing this in with the ing them, usually a box. The problem that existing soil. This soil is not often then arises is that the size box needed to found at your local all-purpose store so transport many plants may make this method some searching may be required. Potting too risky or totally impractical. The soil is richer soil than commercial top other concern with this method is that soil so it goes a little bit farther when there is also the risk of shocking the mixed with the existing soil. Lime may be seedlings when you put them outside in the necessary in areas with acidic soil and site where they will be exposed to the peat moss is a good additive for soils harsh Spring weather. Before planting with a clay type consistency. I avoid seedlings or sexed females they should be chemical fertilizers, not just because I put outside and closely monitored at least believe that organic farming is the best three days before planting to become ac- way, but also because toxic waste is pro- climated to the wind and change in tem- duced from the manufacture of fertilizers. perature. It’s also a good idea to put up a two This method works best when you can set foot high fence at this time. This will up a small shelter near your sites that is keep small animals out and the use of enclosed but not insulated. This shelter dried blood and/or human hair will fend can be as small as the site and 18 inches off deer. Purchase a wire fence with small tall or big enough to walk in, providing gaps, 2 inches or less between the metal you have a safe location for such a struc- strands. Collect enough sticks in the area ture. Starting seeds in this shelter gives to provide stakes that will support the the benefit of acclimating seedlings to a fence about every 2 feet. Outline the site temperature much closer to that which they with the sticks and tie the fence to the will face when they are planted in the sticks with string or wire. Cut the fence site and it will also protect them from endstrand and bend the strands that pro- any late Spring snows and/or frosts. trude from the top of the fence out and C) Planting sexed females: down the outside to discourage animals The advantage of planting sexed females from trying to jump over it. Camouflage is obvious; every plant will produce buds. the fence and site with normal ground de- The sex of plants can be determined by bris as necessary before leaving. growing them until they’re four inches high, and then decreasing the amount of 2. Planting: (early April - early May) light they receive to eight hours. The There are different ways to go about males are then identified and removed in planting: one to two weeks. This method requires be- A) The seed intensive method: ing able to control the amount of light This method should only be used if you the plants receive each day, and also re- have an abundance of seeds. The seed in- quires that plants be started indoors ear- tensive method entails planting many seeds lier than you would normally start (late in a small area. Its strength is that it February - early March). This method al- can limit risk. When you journey to your lows growers to spread their plants across newly prepared site(s), the seeds and a wide area in smaller sites and also to trowels are hidden in your pockets. Plant hide plants amongst small trees and the seeds about one half inch deep, unless shrubs. By spreading two dozen female the soil contains high amounts of clay plants throughout a ten acre area in indi- then only plant seeds one quarter inch in vidual sites, a harvest is almost guaran- the soil. If you setup small sites 3ft x teed, providing that you remember where 3ft square, put in three rows with a seed all the sites are. Growers are encouraged every one and a half inches. If you work to create a map of their sites to insure out the Math this is roughly 72 seeds per against memory loss. Just remember to site. Unfortunately, many growers, espe- guard that map closely. Putting anything cially beginners, do not posses this many about your operations in writing puts you good seeds. If a grower creates four sites at risk. with this many seeds he or she is almost guaranteed a harvest. Yes, there will be 3. Weeding: some crowding and this is one of the draw- Three weeks after the plants or seeds backs of using many seeds in a small area. are in the ground return to remove weeds Also, figure around 50% of the plants are that are crowding out the kind erb. Three going to be male so you must return to the weeks after the first weeding a second site to cut out the males toward the end weeding should take place. A third weeding of Summer. Once the males are removed from is optional, by this time the plants the site, the females get more light and should be large enough to compete with the aren’t as crowded. The seed intensive weeds, however, if you are in a site that strategy tends to produce smaller plants has strong weeds around it you may have to because of crowding, but at the same time cut the weeds back at additional times it helps ensure a harvest every season. In throughout the year. Remember, weeding the present day of infrared photography, I does not mean destroying all vegetation believe it is important to have small within three feet of a plant. Weeds can sites to avoid detection from the air. help hide your crop and protect your crop This of course means growers may have to from hungry animals. Nearby vegetation can create a series of small plots in order to also help keep water in the soil from garner a year’s supply of erb. If you grow evaporating in the hot sun. So don’t go merely for hobby, sport, or experimental overboard and be very careful, it’s very purposes, than one site may suit you fine.

82 The Joy of Growing by Yourself. easy to accidently injure small plants or grower to sample the crop a few weeks their roots trying to get rid of weeds. ahead of time. The main point in removing the fungus is to be very careful. Since it 4. Removing Males: If you are growing is a spore type of fungus, the accidental sexed females these trips can be omitted) jerking of an infected bud will release Male plants will begin to produce their some of the spores and they could fall flowers and pollen as early as mid July onto a lower bud so by the next visit, you for varieties acclimated to this climate. might have to pull that bud too. Also be Varieties from more southern climates, may careful in touching the fungus with your not start until mid September. This dif- fingers because your fingers could pick up ference depends on the budding cycle of the spores and then when you touch the your variety, some plants start to bud next bud, the spores could cling to it and earlier than others, so the exact time to start eating away at that bud. cut the males will vary with the strain. If you are using a variety of different 6. Emergency Visits: seeds it may be necessary to visit once a The Real Estate and Construction Indus- week from July 21 through September 15. tries have conspired to develop housing The timely identification of a male plant near your crop and their “progress” must is crucial to the success of the harvest. be monitored. A hurricane or tropical If the weather is exceptional during the storm with winds over 50 miles per hour time a male starts producing its flowers has visited your area. A drought takes and you missed seeing the first signs dur- place. etc. One of the drawbacks of growing your last visit, you could wind up ing outdoors is that you can not control with a lot of seeds and little of the fine for interference by outside forces. Emer- erb. A female can either generate a large gency visits may be necessary but don’t go seedless bud, a large bud with a few crazy every time there’s a bad storm. seeds, or a large bud that is almost to- These plants are strong and can take some tally seeds. The first case is achieved by punishment. removing all the male plants before any of their flowers open. The second case occurs The Harvest when a few male flowers have opened but you remove them before any more open. The Performed at night if possible. A third case occurs when you miss-time the nighttime run will limit the chances of flowering of the male. This can be devas- someone seeing you. Do the most risky tating if you have big female plants be- parts, such as carrying freshly cut erb cause you could loose 90% of the smokable where you could easily be spotted by a erb to seed production. This last scenario passing car, when the police jurisdiction may not always be bad though. If you are changes shift. This can help ensure that short on seeds for the next growing sea- officials do not spot you, and if a nosey son, it may be prudent to let one or two nearby resident or passerby calls the po- males stand and fertilize a portion of the lice, it may take time before a car is females. Good seeds are hard to come by, dispatched to investigate. If harvesting so if you have a strain you like, make at night, use flashlights sparingly so as sure to plan ahead and have at least a few not to attract attention, and bring extra hundred seeds for the future. The spotting batteries just in case(the rechargeable of males is one of the most difficult of kind are recommended). When harvesting things to explain to a person that’s never more than a couple of plants remember a grown since it really takes careful atten- small pocket knife because it makes the tion to how the tops of male plants look night move quicker. Unless you are plan- at this stage of development. Even experi- ning to use the large fan leaves for cook- enced growers will be unsure at times and ing, remove them in the field so they will have to wait till the next visit to don’t take up a lot of space. If you have be sure. When a male enters the stage of more than one variety of erb that you are flower development, the tips of the harvesting bring various bags to put the branches where a bud would develop will different strains of buds in, and I would start to grow what looks like a little bud suggest using backpacks for travel to but it will have no white hairs coming out avoid suspicion and for easy handling. of it. When to Harvest 5. The Fungus: Along with cops, thieves, animals, and The time to harvest depends on several insects, “the fungus” is another obstacle factors: bud development, weather, fungus, in the path of a successful growing sea- and thieves. Some pot strains mature ear- son. When the buds are roughly half devel- lier in the fall than others, depending on oped they become susceptible to a fungus the latitude of the globe where the strain or bud rot. It appears that growing condi- originated. You will need to pull Indica tions for the fungus are best when tem- varieties in late September and Columbian peratures are between 60 and 80 degrees varieties in late October. The weather may and the humidity is high. The fungus is also force you to pull early. If there is very destructive and spreads quickly. It a severe freeze heading your way, you are is a spore type of fungus that travels to better off not chancing that the weather- other buds via the wind so it is impossi- men are wrong and pull at least a majority ble to prevent or stop if weather condi- of what you have. Another case for pulling tions permit it to grow. If things should early is if weather conditions are perfect go badly and the fungus starts to attack for the fungus to run wild. This will also your plants, you must remove it immedi- force you to pull early. And of course if ately or it will spread to other areas of your site has been found or is in great the plant or plants. Some growers will re- danger of being found, you must pull eve- move just the section of the bud that is rything to avoid loosing out on what would infected whereas other growers will remove otherwise have been a great year. For in- the entire branch. Removal of the entire stance, if you have a site in a corn field branch better insures that the fungus is or other temporary situation, the harvest totally removed, and also enables the must occur at a point in time relatively

83 Absinthe independent of weather. Also try to find dried too quickly, the flavor of the erb out if and when hunters start to roam the will become more harsh and the THC level fields. may not reach its potential. If the pot is One other thing to watch for is frost. dried too slowly then molds and fungi may Even a mild frost can damage plants so develop and have a similar effect. With watching the weather closely in late Sep- any method of drying, the process must be tember and throughout October is impor- monitored on a day-to-day basis. Room tem- tant. If your plants do get damaged by perature is fine for drying as long as the frost the erb is still harvestable so humidity is kept low. If drying must take don’t give up entirely if you fail to chop place in a cool damp place then a fan and before the first frost. If by some freak possibly a heater should be installed to chance there is a frost in early September compensate. and the buds are still very small you may want to allow the damage to occur and then let the buds finish maturing rather than harvesting a small quantity of premature buddage. This type of situation is an on the spot call and you must consider many factors, such as bud size, weather predic- tions for the following weeks, strain of weed, location of site, etc., before deciding. Indica varieties usually mature sooner than Sativa varieties, and the best time to harvest varieties acclimated to the Northeast is from late September to mid October. Those varieties not acclimated to the Northeast, such as Columbian or Jamaican, are best left to late October or even mid November if the weather permits. One other thing you want to avoid is harvesting in the rain. Moisture can lead to problems in the drying process such as molds and fungi. The dryer the plants at the harvest date the better. As mentioned before, it is important to acquire seeds from strains that can be grown at the latitude you are at, some Mexican or Colombian varieties may not develop mature buds until November and by then the weather becomes harsh. Knowing when your plants will mature is difficult for beginners or growers using new seeds for the first season. Planning and getting to a good drying location quickly is important so the buddage is not left in bags for longer than a few hours. If the freshly harvested bud remains in bags for too long (12 hours or more), molds and fungus will begin to destroy the erb. Once you get to your drying location you need to prepare the erb for drying. This entails removing excess fan leaves and other larger leaves. However, if the drying spot has a temperature higher than 85 degrees it may be beneficial to leave a few large leaves to keep the buds from drying too quickly. Typical places to dry are attics, closets, dresser drawers, and basements. The best position for a bud to dry in is hanging upside down in a location where air can circulate all around it. If you are fortunate to have a location that you can do this in, great, otherwise use a dresser drawer or some other concealed place. If you dry the buds in dresser drawers remember not to double stack the buds or the weight of the upper layer of buds will cause a flat spot on the buds underneath. Also remember to rotate the buds every day so the erb dries uniformly and you can check for any signs of mold or fungus. If space permits and you are able to retrieve the whole plant, roots and all, you can hang them upside down by the roots, but don’t expect this drying procedure to yield higher quality bud. THC does not drain from the roots down into the buds, the THC forms in the resin on the buds. The entire drying process should take place over four to six days depending on the size and variety of bud, the temperature, and the relative humidity of the drying area. If the buds are

84 The Joy of Growing by Yourself. Sinsemilla Tips

The planet earth has just passed the equinox which means the days are now be- coming shorter and the nights longer. A very important time in the lives of happy growers. The plants life-cycle undergoes major changes as the grower watches with patient anticipation. This is a short but concise account of the critical time for the harvesting muller. What to look for, when to pick, and how to prepare the buds; so they look great, smell delicious and smoke you into fantasy land!!! The Cannabis plant regulates it’s growth and flowering stages by measuring changes in the number of hours of uninterrupted darkness to determine when to flower. The plant produces a hormone (phy- tochrome) beginning at germination. When this chemical builds up to a critical level, the plant changes it’s mode from vegetative growth to flowering. Male plants flower before the female. The male plants should be removed to stop any fer- tilization occuring. A grower wants sinsemilla buds. An unfertilized plant will continue to produce new flowers. The buds get thick with the unfertilized flowers over a period of several weeks. The flowering patterns begin to change, the stigmas begin to wither and change colour. Next the ova- ries begin to swell, however it’s only a false pregnancy. Here the glands begin filling up with canniboids. Usually the heads will seem as though they will burst, showing the last stage of flowering. As soon as the heads show any amber shade they should be harvested, otherwise the THC will begin to degrade into two other canniboids (CBL & CBN). THC is the ingredient which is PSYCHOACTIVE!!! The other two are it’s precursors, which often leave the smoker feeling disoriented, sleepy, drugged, and/or confused. The goal is to allow the plants to reach their full potential, that is to obtain the highest amount of mind blowing substance possible!!! When a bud is picked, many of it’s metabolic processes continue for a while. The cell begins to convert carbohydrates back to sugars and break down some of the pigments. Chlorophyll is one of the pigments affected. Buds will appear a lighter green than when first picked. Some of the other pigments break down to give the bud a red-purple or cream colour. The crop needs to be dried slowly so that moisture remains in the cells to continue the life processes. Since all of the vegitation is contributing moisture to the air, ventilation is essential to prevent mould forming. While the plants are drying, the large leaves can be removed. It is harder and takes longer to manicure when the plants are wet. To manicure the budding area, large sun leaves present are removed. The buds should now appear almost naked, except for some single fingered leaves sticking out from between the flowers. To enhance appearance these leaves can be clipped to the circumference of the flower. Sun leaves are unsuitable for smoking, however they are useful for cooking, brewing or extracting the THC to make HASH or HASH OIL.

Use & Abuse

Use & Abuse. two tubes (also of any material, but the ore heat resistant, the better) of differ- Marijuana Smoking ent lengths. Attach a bowl to the top of the longer tube. Any bowl will do, just make sure the opening is on the bottom and Guide it has a fine screen. Fill the bottle with water, so the longer tube is under water and the shorter one isn’t. Fill the bowl By: Reefer Man and the Chamelion with some fine weed, light and suck from the shorter tube. Due to pressure differ- Warning:Smoking pot is illegal in the ences the smoke is pulled through the wa- United States. Marijuana is chemically not ter (you’ll hear the bubbling) and cooled. You can usually get two hits where you addictive, but CAN be psychologically ad- could normally get one because the chamber dicting. Do not smoke pot when you are fills with smoke. You working with dangerous equiptment. When can improvise a lot of the bong and still smoked, pot lasts about 4-5 hours. How- have it work. Be creative. ever, it is detectable in the blood stream for 14-30 days. Marijuana is about 5 times Gravity bongs: as harsh as cigarette tobacco on your lungs. On the other hand, not many people With one of these contraptions you can I know smoke a pack of pot everyday. Enjoy get an extreme amount of concentrated the T-file!! smoke in your lungs at once.

Joints:

I hope you don’t need instructions on Start with a 3 liter bottle of your fa- how to roll a joint. I personally don’t vorite drink. Drink it. Get a 2 liter bot- use them very often, unless I’m in a very tle of another drink. Drink it. Cut the casual place and have a lot of shake on top off of the 3 liter using an exacto me. They are very wasteful, but there’s knife, right where it starts to slant up. nothing like smoking a joint while listen- Throw out the top. Cut off the bottom of ing to Bob Marley. If your not a skilled the 2 liter right above the black thing on roller, you can pick up automatic rollers the bottom. Remove the cap and drill a at your local tobacco shop. You can even small hole in it. Now, scrape out the use dollar bills as joint paper. plastic inside the cap. Place your bowl over the opening, and tape it down to make Bowls: a seal. Fill the 3 liter with cool water to the top, leave about an inch free so Probably the best way to smoke. There you don’t spill water. Before you put on are many, many different ways to make the cap, place the 2 liter bottle in the 3 them. If you aren’t to creative then just liter, letting it slide slowly down. Put buy a pipe. Bowls are great because they on the cap (with attached bowl), place the are easy to carry and conceal. The only screen in the bowl, and fill with pot. You tip I have to give you is to make sure you don’t need that much, overdoing it just have a metal screen in it or you’ll waste wastes the stuff. Place your lighter over a lot of shake. Here are a few interesting the bowl, and light it, while slowly lift- improvised bowls I have seen lately: ing up the 2 liter bottle. This creates a Take a 12 ounce aluminum can, drink the vacuum inside the 2 liter bowl, which contents and rinse out. Lay it on its side draws the flame into the bowl, and the and take a 1-3 cm hardback book and press smoke into the bottle. Go slowly, and re- it in the center so you have a indentation move your lighter. Keep pulling up, and about half way down.Use a pin to poke a the vacuum will keep the pot burning. Once lot of small holes into the indentation. the entire bottle is filled up (being Put the weed on top of the holes, light it carefull not to go to far), carefully un- and suck through the hole where the tab screw the cap. Place your hand over the was. Recently I was fooling around with mouth of the bottle, to stop smoke from sticks and trying to make bowls out of comming out. Breathe out almost all your them. I found that if you use a stick 1 air, and then place your mouth over the 1/2 - 2 cm in diameter it works best. Cut bottle. Slowly push the 2 liter bottle it off at your desired length (the shorter down, forcing all the smoke into your it is the easier it is to drill and con- lungs. Make sure you don’t go down to far ceal (mine is 7 cm long)). Use a 1/2 cm or and get water in your lungs, it’s the smaller) drill bit to drill down the cen- worst. If you have decent pot, you should ter.Leave one end closed. Use about a 1 cm get a major high pretty quickly, you will drill bit to drill a hole from the top only need about 2 hits. down until it reaches the other hole. Warning: It’s not possible to over dose Shove a screen down there, paint it, carve on pot, but if you are inexperianced, this it, stain it… do whatever you like to it. much pot will bring you to a very high peak, to the point where you loose many of Water Pipes (or bongs): your senses, and find it hard to speak or understand anyone. It has the possibility A water pipe is a complex bowl that of being a bad experience. On the other cools down and filters the smoke, allowing hand, it can be a truly great experience. you to keep it in your lungs longer.

As you can see it is not that complex. You need some sort of jar (any type of material is ok) with an air-tight seal. Drill two holes into the top and insert

89 Absinthe boat. Try to get it even but don’t worry about it you can fix it. Towards the bot- How to roll a Joint. tom of the mound you run into stuff too fine pick up with your fingers, I consider it a point of grace to card once, and once only, it back into a smalled mound and I am a popular commodity amoung some then try to get at least one good pinch or people I know, I am the only one who knows two from it and let the rest of the shit how to roll a joint. Now this is because I go back into the baggie until one is scap- tend to be older than most of the people ing for anything green that burns. As you who smoke dope around me and have a bit load the paper you are gonna spill dust, more intense life lesson than others. just let it go. Make sure you load over I like rolling joints. It is a very the tray and you will either get it with viscereal pleasure, you get to play with the cleanup card or smoke it some other the nifty green stuff and it gives your time. hands something to do. This is especially Now you take your boat full of dope and nice if it is good if you don’t wanna get begin leveling it. Stir it about with your really stoned but just catch a nice buzz finger to balance as much as possible and and instead of keeping your hands busy then you will begin rolling it. Make sure smoking you keep’em busy rolling. the gummed side is away from you if there I like that green stuff. It’s cool, is one. You roll it to settle the grass kinda like oregano or some other green and get it even, and ya try to get it to bulk spice but you know it aint. It has spread out towards the edges. This is the smell, strange how so many people where people who use doller bills use don’t groove to it, ahh well learnd re- them, I always thought it was too much sponse, like appreciating good scotch. It hassle to fuck with. Once you have it reminds me of harvest day, right after the spread to suit your desires you then have fruit has been reaped and the oils and es- to roll the paper up into a joint. This is thers fill the air. Very good green homey the tricky part. I always try to finish feel to it. Then you get into carding the rolling it so that it is very near the un- stuff to take out the seeds and stems and gummed edge and then to just fold that to break it down so it will roll effec- over and roll it up. Try to get it a bit tively. It has to feel right, a bit drier tighter than you wanna some cause it will than the best feel, where it is so sticky looesen as you roll it up. Just before with resin that all you can do is load it your finished you have to lick the gum. into a bowl and do bong hits until your The best I ever saw anyone do that was brain goes numb. this little oriental girl I knew who had You gotta decide how fine you are gonna the most pointed tounge that was always sift the shake. I know some who remove moist. She had absolute control over her everything until nothing is left but a tounge, she could make it do things that fine red dust. I don’t like that, it takes would give you an orgasm just watching the too long, and casues too many volatiles to movements. I being who I am tend to either be released as you card it, and makes slobber a bit too much or not get enough really lousey joints that pack too tightly on there, it could be better but it works. and don’t draw worth shit. We all roll You finish rolling it up and and then you joints to match our personality, my joins gotta close the sides. tend to have stuff in them that shouldn’t The best way I have found to close the be there, leave things on the tray that sides is to just roll one end and figure SHOULD be, double paper walled, kinda fat what gets caught gets caught and turn it in the middle, nice where it meats the so the other end is upright and then use a mouth, and fulla garbage that gets burnt. small poker to pull out things which stick Once you got the grass ready you them out and push in the stuff that needs to go have to get you papers in order. The way I inside. Roll the ends counter to each learned to make a joint was to make a boat other and lick to close. I got friends out of the paper. Take the paper in you that stick half the damned joint in thier hand so that the gummed side is up and the mouths, and others who just touch it to crease is away from you, the short sides thier tounge. I am undecided, the wetter are called edges and the long sides are it gets the better the joint is but it called sides. You fold the end towards the just grates my aesthetics. Let it dry and side, each in turn. First you take the you gotta joint. I tend to double wrap left edge and you fold it about the top mine, by rolling that joint in annother, corner of that edge, bringing the lower it strengths that fragine middle section corner up to where it meets the top side and generally keeps a tight nice looking and the edge is perfectly in line with the joint. I also tend to tear off that messy side. Then you do the same thing about the end, the one that caught what got caught, bottom corner, and then you do it for each to suck on, and use the flashy paper tail of the other corners on the other side. to light it. You have to make sure all the creases are away from you, then, from where the two bisectors meet on out to the edge you fold agains the crease, you fold in the same place but in the other direction of the original crease. You do that with each edge and you get a little paper boat into which you can shift your sift. After having thoughly raked the herb you wind up with a little mound of grass, how big depends on how strong the grass is, how big the papers are, and how stoned you wanna get. I usually use a bit more than would fill a large bowl. You pick the gras up between you fingers and dust it into the paper

90 Use & Abuse. How to avoid How to build a cancerogenic effects Death-star of smoking

Marijuana (*) arrows Indicate the flow of air/smoke.

(A) The bowl: “You put your weed in it”. In the interests of making Marijuana use a (B) “Gravity” Chamber: What we used for little bit safer, to prove that use does this is a plastic spaghetti dispenser. not automatically equate to lung cancer, Probably any cylindrical container which here are two use methods that bear atten- can be sealed airtight will do (actually a tion: 1-2 liter bottle is probably okay). Into one side (the left side in the diagram) goes a plastic tube with a balloon se- The Dual-Chambered, Hot-Cold Bong curely attached to the end (a rubber band will work). Into the other side, insert a [it was noted in a followup that a hot-hot bowl (A) and another plastic tube going to bong would supposedly be better because (E). Important: the entire cylinder must the temperature is not the key, its the be sealed airtight, so that air may only water vapor. Experiment and figure out for enter and leave the chamber through the yourself what works better -- Lamont] “out” tube (on the right) and the bowl.

Air obviously may only enter the balloon Basic Design (can be modified to fit different styles): through the left tube (from (G) the pump). The reason I call this the “gravity” chamber is because it functions exactly as a gravity bong, with the top of the balloon

doing what the water usually does. By the Basically, the principle goes like way, the balloon should be of the round this: Most of the carcinogens in Marijuana variety (as opposed to oblong) because you smoke are water-soluble. THC is not. don’t want air (or smoke) to get past the Therefore, the bong was invented to remove balloon… i.e. the balloon should be tight carcinogens and to cool the smoke. How- against the sides. ever, warm to hot water does tend to remove more carcinogens than does cold wa- (C) Controls: This part is a bit hard to ter, so using hot water would seem to make explain. Part (C2) is simply something the smoke much safer to breathe (and still that will allow you to choose one of three avoid lung cancer), except that the point ways to direct air from the pump. Most of cooling the smoke is lost. aquarium stores will have the necessary Thus, the Dual-Chambered Bong was de- equipment (you’ll definitely want to be signed to remove the most carcinogens as able to choose exactly one of the three well as cool the smoke for inhalation. Ba- outputs (9,12, and 3 o’clock in the dia- sically, the first, hot chamber is filled gram) at any given time. Part (C1) should to the brim with water, and beneath it is be a relief valve (I don’t know if that’s placed some form of heating unit (or in- the correct term) which looks something side it, or whatever can be done to keep like: it hot).Next, a short distance away, the second, cold chamber is placed with some way of keeping the area the smoke passes through really cold (such as: cold water (*) Valve: allows you to control the with icepacks around the chamber; ice amount of air that goes out (to the room). packed around a coiled tube; liquid nitro- To inflate the balloon, close the valve so gen or dry ice poured/piled around the that all air goes from the pump to the coiled tube; cold water in the chamber balloon. To deflate the balloon, open the with cold water being pumped around the valve. The valve allows you to control the outside through a tube coiled around the speed of inflation or deflation as well… chamber; etc.) to cool the smoke. Then you keep the Marijuana in the bowl lit by your (D) Air: You should have an output from favorite method, and treat it like an or- the pump to the air, so that the the air dinary bong. Since this apparatus is from the pump always has somewhere to go fairly complex, it is suggested that you when you don’t want to inflate the balloon disguise or have disguised the D-C Bong as or pump air to (E). Be nice to your pump. some form of dualistic statuary (such as a couple kissing, where the point at which (E) Stage 1: Standard bong technology their lips meet is the link between the here… smoke comes from (B), bubbles two chambers) to prevent police busts from through the water, and goes out the right- wasting your investment on materials and hand tube (in the picture). Instead of a design. carb, though, air can be directed from the pump into the chamber. This will force air through to stage 2 and out through the mouth part (so you can pour yourself a bong-hit). As long as (B) is above this part, nothing will be pumped back to (B) since the weight of the water prevents this. The actual chamber in our model is much smaller than Stage 2 (F), since the larger these chambers are, the more one has to suck before any smoke comes out.

91 Absinthe Hot water is supposed to “clean” the smoke torch it during step 3. For some reason, more than cold, but maybe that’s bullshit. the uniformity and speed of the burn is (F) Stage 2: Same as (E) except bigger. We very efficient. Think about it: whenever used a Sunny Delight bottle (That shit ac- you normally stop taking a hit, the pot tually has oil in it… I wouldn’t recommend still burns for a bit, and this is waste- drinking it, but the bottle works well). ful. Trust the bong… nothing will leak out Ice-water in this one definitely gives you or anything like that, so go for it. The a hit that’s smoother than smooth. key to the power of this bong is the fact (G) Air Pump: You can get this at an that the burning of the pot is separate aquarium store as well. I don’t really from the actual act of smoking. know how powerful ours is, but it really 2. Make sure everything is totally air- just has to be able to inflate the bal- tight. We used aquarium sealant on just loon, which probably doesn’t require much about every connection, and it seems to power. Pumping air to (E) isn’t really work very well. necessary, and it would require a much 3. By the way, the tubes that actually more powerful pump to really force the air have smoke going through them (the ones on out… but it’s fun anyway… the right hand side of the diagram) should have a larger diameter than the ones from Instructions: the pump. Otherwise, you’ll get too much resistance when taking a hit. I think ours 1. Load the bowl. It seems to work best if are probably around 1/4-1/2 inch in diame- you really break the pot up into small ter, while the pump tubes are quite a bit pieces (or use shake) since you want it to smaller. The tubes can be purchased at a burn fast. hardware store (we payed $0.40/foot, I 2. Inflate the balloon. Inflate it as much think). as possible without pushing against the bowl or whatever. For that reason, the May your station soon be fully opera- bowl should be placed close to the end of tional… the gravity chamber. You can open the valve (C2) so that at this point, it’s at That’s all folks !! equilibrium (i.e. not inflating/deflating). WARNING: Test this out first, etc, since if the balloon pops, then most likely whatever is in the bowl will end up all over the floor. This actually happened to us once, but it was due to carelessness (which in turn was due to being 100% baked). So always pay attention when the balloon is inflating. 3. Light up. Have someone hold the lighter to the bowl, and loosen the valve all the way, so that the balloon deflates quickly, drawing smoke into the chamber. Try to stop the balloon from deflating beyond the point when the sides of the balloon come away from the sides of the chamber (by closing the valve). The smoke should be so thick that it looks like mayonnaise… if it doesn’t you’re probably doing something wrong. WARNING: Do not allow the balloon to inflate at this point, because then smoke will gush forth from the bowl. 4. Start sucking. Give someone else the first hit, and as they are sucking, you can inflate the balloon (as long as it’s slower than they are sucking) thereby making the smoke leave the gravity chamber. It seems to help if there’s something flat placed over the bowl (which also reduces risks in step 3). All of this may take some practice, but probably not much. It’s not necessary to re-inflate the balloon, but it will result in a stronger hit. 5. Um… next step. When all of the smoke has left the gravity chamber, you can switch (C2) so that air goes to Stage 1, and smoke will be pushed slowly through the suck tube. Skip this if it doesn’t turn you on. It does function sort of as a carb, so even if you don’t achieve spectacular results, it is useful. 6. Keep sucking. If everything is large enough, there should be several hits worth still in stages 1 & 2. 7. Repeat. Keep repeating steps 1-6 until the bong is too funny to smoke. Tips:

1. Load the bowl really full (but not packed too tightly), and try to completely

92 Use & Abuse. Reasons for Blender vaporizor vapourizing:

Instructions: 1). Activation of THC acids in Cannabis (decarboxylation); this occurs at around 1 Put about 1/4 teaspoon of desired plant 103 degrees Celcius with vapourization at material, finely ground, on a clean, around 180-200 degrees. Smoking performs grunge-free frying pan. Spread it out this process but is reported to destroy so that it covers the area beneath the between 40 and 98% of the THC (Korte, glass part of the blender. Miras etc*). 2 Making sure that the blender glass is 2). The ‘smoke’ is much cooler and easier resting evenly on the frying pan (so no in the lungs. air gets in), CAREFULLY turn on the 3). The high is subtly different from that burner beneath the frying pan. NOTE: DO obtained with other methods. NOT BURN YOURSELF UP. 4). The higher efficiency saves you money. 3 Slowly turn up the heat under the pan. Soon, white vapor will swirl up to fill *from The Botany and Chemistry of Canna- the blender glass. 4 When the vapor is thick inside the bis, Joyce and Curry (1970) glass -- you shouldn’t be able to see through it -- turn off the flame and Vapourizer plans: CAREFULLY unscrew the canning jar lid, and CAREFULLY put your mouth to the Materials: lips of the now-open-top where the can- • Tubular low-voltage soldering iron ele- ning lid was. CAREFULLY tip the blender ment of about 10-15 Watts (a 24V 45Watt so that air can enter from below (you element will give about 12watts from a may want to use a pot holder) and suck supply of 12V (1 Amp). WARNING:Do not up the vapor. attempt to use a mains voltage element 5 SIT DOWN. (You’ll need to). Hold the in this set-up it would be dangerous vapor in as long as you can. enough when surrounded by non-stoned 6 Exhale, and begin breathing normally. people. Please use caution when handling the glass • Wooden base about 3~6 inches diameter. blender. Do not burn yourself on • Empty plastic drinks bottle 1 - 2L the stove. size. • Push button switch. Have fun! • Aluminium foil. • Power supply to suit element.

Procedure: Cut off the top of the plastic bottle about 6” from the top. Discard the lid. This ‘funnel’ fits over the element, possibly over the base depending on size. there’s an obvious bowl in the tube, fill this with your favorite Hash (the bowl could be longer for grass). Supply the element with juice and either: 1)allow the funnel to fill + take a hit 2)breathe continuously while vapours are evolved. Then pass it on … A car cigarette lighter will suffice in the absence of a soldering iron element in this case use a 5 volt ex-computer trans- former for the supply. This may need to be rated at up to 5 amps. REMEMBER: you don’t want to cause your gear to burn, if it gets too hot just release the power button one in a while. …practice makes perfect…

93 Absinthe

Phase I: The Parts Vaporizer Principles Part # Comments Est. cost by The BonJ 33W solder 1 Radio Shack $9.00 element <64-2082> Introduction Solder handle 1 RS<64-2080> $8.00 Wood<8x8x4/4> 1 Dimension are <$1.00 This file details the construction and given for a operation of a vaporizer. A vaporizer (for guide our purposes) is a device which raises the Wooden dowel 1 Check out in- <$1.00 temperature of mj high enough to cause the <24x1/2”> door clothes active ingredient (THC) to vaporize, but racks not enough to induce combustion. The bene- Extension 1 Optional <$2.00 fits include higher healthier highs and a cord major increase in the buzzed/buck ratio! 2lt.soda bot- 1 Make sure it <$2.00 The vaporizer detailed here, based on a tle has black base thread in alt.drugs (thanks for all the Small brass 1 From head shops <$2.00 great ideas!), is low priced and easy to bowl or plumbing construct. My design criteria where as supplies follows: Rubber grom- 1 Auto supply <$2.00 1. 1.Simple to operate, met 2. 2.Stability and ruggedness, Aluminium / Just need a Free 3. 3.Compatibility (easy to get replace- foil little ment parts). Wood screws 3 About 1/3” is <$1.00 The plans are based on the first vapor- fine izer I built and any suggestions for modi- Clear sili- 1 Any hardware $4.00 fications and/or improvements would be cone store greatly appreciated for subsequent revi- Small block 1 about 2x2x3/4 Free sions of this file. of wood is fine

Latest Revision: 9/19/94 1 Should fit Free Inception: 9/19/94 Rubber band snuggly around the bottle Introduction: total cost ~$31.00 (this is an upper bound FOR SURE!!! The format followed is for the mechani- cally impaired (i.e. me), so if this seems Phase II: The Tools obnoxiously simple and detailed, it’s probably because it is. Deviate/modify or Tool Comments mutilate the design however you want-but Screwdriver For wood screw please let us know of any ass kickin’ Exacto knife To cut plastic ideas that hit you. Saw Obviously for Here are the 3 rules I found most help- the wood ful in building stuff (remnants from my model rocketry days) Hacksaw (optnl) Cuts dowel nicely (1) Collect/buy/steal ALL the necessary Drill w/1”,1 Try to get kind of parts or reasonable facsimiles of them be- 1/8”,1/16”,[*] bits close to the bits fore starting the actual construction. Ruler Very handy (2) Buy/borrow/steal ALL the necessary Pencil ditto! tools. Try not to skimp here. Having the C-clamp ditto! right tool for the right job is a MUST (I Sandpaper(optnl) We wouldn’t want learned this the hard way :() Many any splinter schools/colleges have woodshops! Take ad- Protractor(optnl) For fun with trigo- vantage! nometry (3) Most importantly…PATIENCE. Don’t un- [*]You’ll also need a bit the derestimate this! It can make make or same width your dowel (1/2”) break this most precious educational device. That is: Phase III: Construction (i)Take your time buying the parts (unless you have lots of $$$), you might Step 1: Base find stuff on sale, in trash piles, or (1) Trace out an equilateral triangle on from friends. wood (c). (ii)Apply (i) to the tools as well. (2) Cut out triangle from wood, see fig 1. (iii) Before cutting, drilling, gluing, (3) Sand down all sides and edges. or whatever, recheck (and rethink) what you’re about to do. Does it make sense? Is this the right side? Etc. It sucks to get halfway done, screw up and have to start over, which brings us to… Hints: (iv)Read/reread/reread/… the instruc- 1. Use ruler and exacto to create a “guid- tions until you are 100% (not 99%) sure ing” groove (v-shaped) for the saw. you know what to do. If you’re unsure ask 2. An equilateral triangle has equal sides someone! It’s amazing how helpful people with 60 deg angles, so a protractor can be! (Just tell them you’re building a might be nice. tornado chamber for a school project, model rocket, cloud chamber :) , or some- Step 2: Mount thing equally bogus) 1. Label one side as T (top) and the other B (bottom). 2. Draw (on BOTH sides) three lines as follows:

94 Use & Abuse. Bisect each side of the triangle and 2. Fit the grommet (h) into the hole. mark it. With the ruler draw a line Shave with exacto if the hole isn’t big (label l) from the bisector to the op- enough. If you screw up… get another posing vertex. The result is three bottle:) lines intersecting in the center of the 3. Save the cap to the bottle (this is the triangle (label it IP). “mouthpiece cap”) 3. On the top side, drill (1 1/8” bit) 4. Place a rubber band around the bottle about 1/8” at IP. This is the resting and use it to hold a coin over the bed for the solder handle. grommet. 4. On the top side, drill (1” bit) about 1/2” at IP. Step 6: Bowl Element 5. On the bottom side drill (1” bit) at IP Note: Since I couldn’t find a bowl that to complete the hole. The reason for would screw nicely onto the tip of the drilling on both sides is to prevent soldering element and I wanted a good con- splintering on the surface. tact without getting to fancy… 6. Sand any roughness down. 1. Take a thin strip of aluminum foil (~1/4”x1’) and wrap it around the tip Step 3: Legs of the soldering element (where the 1. Cut dowel (d) with hacksaw into three solder tip would normally go) 8” pieces (These are the legs). 2. GENTLY try and twist the bowl on. Re- 2. Since I didn’t have a drill press, mak- move foil (in small strips) if neces- ing the holes for the legs in the base sary. was a little tricky. 3. Once the bowl is on, use the eraser end Here is how I did it: of the pencil to crimp it into place (a) On block of wood (m) drill a hole (look inside the bowl-push down on the (with the bit of dowel width) at about 15 foil sticking up over the soldering degrees off the normal all the way element tip). through. This is known as a jig (Fig. 2). Draw a Phase IV: Operation reference line along the jig. Putting It All together: 1. Place solder handle cord through hole in base, pull it through until the sol- (b) Place the base bottom side up on your der handle rests nicely in the bed workbench. Then align the jig with a line you’ve made for it. (l) so that the jig hole is about 1 1/2” 2. Screw the soldering element into the from the vertex. Clamp it all down and us- handle. ing the jig as your guide, drill through 3. Load the bowl….drum roll please! Note: the base. Make sure that the tilt of the Just a little, i.e, the bowl should jig points outward. Repeat for the other contain less than 3/4 its capacity. two vertices. Now you should be able to Pack it with a pencil eraser or some- slide the dowels in and voila, you have a thing similar. stable table! 4. Mount the bottle into CB. It should look sorta like a landed UFO 5. Turn it on (plug it in - or better yet, (bearing gifts for humanity)! I didn’t connect it through a switch). glue the legs in, because I liked to take 6. Wait until vapors appear (3.5-4 min- them out for traveling purposes :) utes) and turn it OFF. Otherwise it might start to burn. Step 4: Chamber Base 7. Remove coin, remove cap, HIT, have next 1. Take 2 liter soda bottle (f) and cut person place finger on the grommet, re- out a circle of about 2” radius from place cap, go to the end of the line. the bottom with the exacto knife. Take care to cut so as not to destroy the Comment: Taking the cap off gets to be a little holes around the perimeter of pain, so a resting cover will work nicer. the base. You should be able to detach I am going to try cutting off the threaded the black base (label CB) from the bot- part of the cap… tle. Do it. Put the bottle aside for step 5. 8. You should be able to get 3 to 6 good 2. Align CB onto the wood base (Top) so hits (depending on the quality of your that it is facing up, centered, and the grass) out of this small amount! lines (l) can be seen through 3 of the 9. Remove bottle, PUSH HANDLE OUT FROM “screw holes”. BOTTOM. Tap bowl gently into ash-tray, 3. With the smallest bit you have, drill replace handle. BE VERY CAREFUL NOT TO 1/4” into the 3 holes. TOUCH ELEMENT!!!!!! 4. Put silicone (k) around the bottom of 10.Replace coin on bottle, goto (3) and CB, realign it with the drill holes, repeat until everyone is happily baked! apply pressure, and then screw in the 3 And notice how little of your precious screws (j) into the drill holes. Now stash has been used! this is fixed! Add silicone liberally to make sure it’s sealed up nice and Phase V: Transportation and Storage tight…wouldn’t want to loose anything. As an added bonus, vaporizers have Step 5: Chamber great STEALTH potential, unlike pipes, Note: As you can see, placing the bottle bongs, etc. Break the whole thing down, into CB gives a nicely sealed chamber. An- put it in a box, add fluff and bango, you other bonus is, no matter where you are, now have an art kit, or science project, finding a replacement chamber is exceed- or model railroading fog device, or what- ingly simple. ever! By fluff, I mean chuck in some clay, 1. Cut a small hole towards the bottom of paint brushes, paints, wires, model parts, the bottle (but not low enough to be etc into the box. covered by CB) with the exacto knife.

95 Absinthe Miscellaneous: How to make

1. I think that the solder handle can be replaced with the sockets used for Hashish christmas lights (like the candles). 2. I have found that the vapor is far less pungent than smoke (another stealthing Get a LOT of female plants that have bonus), but the bottle acquires a grown all the way and may even contain strong scent after a couple uses and seeds. Make sure they are absolutely dry may need to be replaced (cleaned?). by hanging them in a shed for some weeks. Now take off All the leaves that are bigger than 1/2 inch. You end up with just a stem with some buds sitting on it. Now strip off the buds into a container. (BTW, Hash -moroccan style- consitsts EXCLUSIVELY of the pressed grains of raisin that are sitting on top of tiny raisin glands that are most abundant on the leaves surrounding the seeds, or flowers. when the plant is dry this raisin hardens to form a very small particle, called “pollen” which is not actual pollen however). So now you’ve got all the clean buds start crushing them over a kitchen sieve (mesh size about 0.5 mm). The seeds and stems will stay on top of the sieve. “Grind” the leaves gently through the sieve. You end up with a sort of powdered leaves. Be sure that the thin skins that surround the seeds are included in this result, because they contain most of the raisin glands. You may repeat this process using a sieve with an iven smaller mesh size. (0.25 mm). Then take a cloth with the appropriate “mesh size” and rub the powder you have already got over this cloth. In the ideal case, only the finest particles pass through the cloth and will consist only of tiny grains of raisin. Now take this powder and wrap it into a sheet of kitchen plastic foil. Now press this “package” between a few logs of wood. The result is a sheet of Hashisch. If the sheet falls apart again you’ve got too much leafy stuff in between the raisin. Try a cloth with a smaller mesh size the next time. This procedure is only advised when you have so much weed to spare that you don’t possibly smoke it all in a year.

96 Use & Abuse. the actual molecule rotation (isomerization), and the Salt (ashes) from the first Isomerization step are added. This accomplishes two things: The acid remaining in the solution is neutralized, and the Salt is once more reunited with the Essence of the plant to This method is out of “Dr. Atomic’s Mari- produce a true alchemical Manifestation. juana Multiplier”, one of those early 70’s Whatever your opinion of alchemy and doper pamphlets. This process assumes you belief, or lack thereof, in its validity have pure Hash oil to begin with. as a scientific discipline, the process I offer here for your use is tried and true. “Dissolve the Hash oil in absolute If all safety precautions are taken and ethanol or pure methanol in the ratio of you invest patience and care in your ef- one gram extract to ten grams solvent. forts, the procedures are quite safe, and There must be no water in this solution, the results well worth the time and en- as the next step is the addition of one ergy. drop of 100% sulfuric acid per gram of extract. Add the acid slowly, drop by drop, For further reading on the subject stirring slowly and completely, with a of alchemy: long glass stirring rod. Place a Pyrex pot containing the extract-alcohol-acid solu- • tion into the refluxing apparatus and re- Atwood, A Suggestive Inquiry into the flux for two hours. The acid will not Hermetic Mastery, 1850 evaporate and will remain in the Pyrex • Hitchcock, Remarks on Alchemy and the pot. Allow to cool. Take the cooled solu- Alchemists, Boston, 1857 tion, pour with an equal volume of water • Waite, Lives of the Alchemystical Phi- and 1/2 volume of petroleum ether into the losophers, London, 1888 ether-extraction apparatus (separation • “ The Occult Sciences, London, 1891 funnel). Allow to settle, and drain the • Bacon, Mirror of Alchemy, 1597 ether extract layer. This leaves an ether- • extract-acid mix from which the acid must S. le Doux, Dictionnaire Hermetique, be purged. To accomplish this, pour the 1695 ether-extract-solution into four volumes • Langlet de fresnoy, Histoire de la of 5% sodium bicarbonate solution (1 gram Philosophie Hermetique, 1792 bicarb. in 20 grams of water). This will • “ “ Theatrum Chemicum, 1662 neutralize the acid, releasing CO2 and • Valentine, Triumphal Chariot of Anti- leaving a solution of sodium sulphate. Al- mony, 1656 low this to settle into layers, then drain • Redgrove, Alchemy Ancient and Modern the ether-extract layer. Mix the ether- • extract solution with an equal volume of Figuier, L’Alchimie et les Alchimistes, pure water and let it separate. Drain off Paris, 1857 the ether-extract layer. Evaporate the • Gold, D., Cannabis Alchemy, date un- ether and what remains is Hash oil in known which all of the Cannabinoids have been converted into THC”. Why Bother Doing All This? Oh my, having just typed all this in, I thought to check my copy of “Cannabis Al- Cannabis has been used for thousands of chemy” for a method. Not only does it con- years as one of the mildest, safest, and cur with this method of isomerization, it most effective substances available for has lots of whiz hints on fractionally use in both recreational and social re- distilling Hash oil to get an ultra-pure laxation, and as an organic treatment of product. It also claims that if you con- many medical conditions. However, when any vert THC to its acetate, it become very plant material is burned, harmful smoke is potent and psychedelic. Yow!!. produced containing carbon monoxide and many other carcinogenic and toxic com- A Treatise on the Alchemical Method of pounds such as benzopyrene, benzanthra- Isomerization of Tetrahydrocannabinol, and cene, the nitrosamines (also found in ba- the Extraction and Purification thereof. con), hydrogen cyanide, nitric oxides, ac- Version 2.4 etaldehyde, toluene and phenol. The female flowering tops of Cannabis OCT.02.1993 12:14:31 AM EST have been shown to contain less than one- third the total “tars” than equivalent Disclaimer amounts of tobacco. and of twenty-nine areas of the lung, only the large air pas- I am not a trained chemist. You proba- sageway is irritated more by Cannabis than bly aren’t, either. I am not responsible by tobacco. Cannabis also has a positive for your actions, and you are not respon- or neutral effect on most other areas of sible for mine. the lung, and most of its negative impact upon the respiratory system in general can Overview and Theory be eliminated by use of a pipe which filters the smoke through water before inha- The threefold object of this procedure lation. However, there are still many is to extract from the vegetative material times when a person either cannot, or does of the Cannabis plant a crude oil, to fur- not wish to, smoke. One example can be ther purify this extract, and finally, to found in the fact that Cannabis can be ex- rotate the molecules into their most phar- cellent therapy, both medically and emo- macologically active form, the delta-9 tionally, for persons with HIV, yet inhal- isomer of THC. In the first step, the in- ing Cannabis smoke increases the risk of a ert plant material that remains is cal- fatal infection in the lungs, especially cined (alcohol burned away and ashes when the Cannabis has been improperly cooked over low heat) so that the Salt cured and dried and aspergillus fungus is component of the plant is left behind. In present (note that this fungus poses lit- the final step, an acid is used to perform tle or no health risk to persons with nor-

97 Absinthe mally functioning immune systems). The in- tion is either 99.99% laboratory alcohol, gestion of purified THC is a much safer or, since this is damn difficult to ac- alternative in such cases, having no ef- quire, Everclear 190 proof grain alcohol. fect whatsoever on the lungs if taken 151 proof rum isn’t the greatest, but if orally and negligible effects on the lungs the others are too hard to acquire, this when vaporized and inhaled. Despite its may be your only option. current verboten status in society at MAKE SURE THAT THE SMALL GLASS JAR IS large, enough people have chosen to use HELD IN PLACE SOMEHOW! Otherwise, when Cannabis for one reason or another that I enough of the solvent boils away, the jar feel this information will find an appre- will be light enough that the water pres- ciative audience. sure will tip it over, and then you will Keep in mind that when THC is ingested be extremely unhappy (and possibly unlucky through pyrolysis (burning and smoking), enough to witness a gigantic ball of flame only half of it is assimilated and used by lighting up your kitchen, and maybe even the body. Ingesting (eating/drinking) the yourself). A set of rubber lab grips at- hemp in a form that the gastrointestinal tached to a heavy base works nicely. tract can best deal with results in more Place a watchglass over the top of the THC being absorbed, but this has the pos- jar so that the alcohol will be constantly sibility of unknown effects via decarboxy- recirculated instead of boiling off, and lation. In addition, it is difficult to keep water at a gentle boil for three to precisely gauge dosages when ingesting THC four hours. Let everything cool, and directly without the benefit of experi- strain all liquid thoroughly from the ence. With vaporization, that THC which plant fibers. would have been burned and wasted becomes Place fibers in a cast iron skillet. available for whatever its intended ef- Ignite the alcohol to burn it off, and fects. This is of great economic advan- while you continue with the extraction of tage, given hemp’s current artificially the essence, keep a very low flame under inflated market price. Also, the smoker the ashes of the fibers for one hour, may easily titrate the doses (that is, stirring them occasionally. If you have an easily self-administer them, at whatever assistant, it’s best to have them stir the speed is best) until the desired effect is ashes while you keep working with the es- precisely achieved. sence. Finally, remember that this is a *VERY* To remove the alcohol, you need an ac- time-consuming process. Make sure you can curate thermometer. Set up the system the either stay awake for as long as it takes, same way as before, but this time, do not or have friends to work in shifts. Obvi- cover the jar. Place thermometer in jar ously, the more solvent you have to boil and heat the essence to 220F. Keep a small off, the longer it will take. Always as- mirror held over the jar. When the mirror sume it will take longer than you think. stops fogging up -- i.e., no more steam -- It’s best to not rush around, to ensure enough of the water has boiled away. that you can take all the time you need to IMMEDIATELY turn off the heat and remove work on this at the slow, steady pace it the jar from the hot water (don’t forget requires. It’s not strictly necessary to to wear gloves!). This is crude extract, do all the stages immediately following and can contain anywhere from 10 to 50 each other -- you can take breaks in be- percent THC. tween stages -- but it helps to keep your It’s perfectly all right to use this mind focused. oil any way you like. But you can do bet- Now, with all the formalities concluded, ter. let’s begin. Purification Stage Initial Extraction To further extract and purify the es- In a previous version of this file, I sence, petroleum ether must be used as the recommended ethyl alcohol as the menstruum solvent. USE ONLY ELECTRIC HEAT WITH A (solvent) for the initial extraction. How- QUICK SHUTOFF SWITCH, AND DON’T LET OPEN ever, after further reading and experimen- FLAME ANYWHERE NEAR YOU! Petroleum ether tation, I now recommend acetone instead of is one of the most explosively flammable alcohol. THC’s solubility in acetone is, things in existence, so treat it accord- it would seem, much greater than with any ingly -- keep the container in the freezer other solvent (except for petroleum ether, at all times unless you actually need which we use in stage 2 to purify this some. first-stage oil). The reason? Alcohols are Dissolve the crude extract from the too water soluble for the best possible previous step in 5 times its own weight of purity, and too many other non- ether, amd add to this volume an equal psychoactive materials remain in the fin- volume of water. Both the water and the ished oil. In the interest of brevity, and ether must be as cold as possible. Close to save wear and tear on your obedient the holding container TIGHTLY, and gently typist’s fingers, it’s your own responsi- shake up and down. Uncap to relieve pres- bility when reading the following to sub- sure buildup, re-cap, and repeat until stitute “acetone” wherever you see “alco- you’re sick of it. Set it down somewhere hol” used. cool and safe, where it won’t get knocked Fill a large pot with water, and heat or vibrated, and let it settle into lay- to boiling. Place in the water a glass jar ers. This will take about a half hour. filled with loosely packed, cleaned female (The bottom layer consists of alcohol, flowers of Cannabis. (Male flowers and water, tars, and minor resins. The next even leaves may be used, but only if there layer up is the emulsion layer, and the is no other alternative). top layer is the ether extract which is Add sufficient solvent to completely holding the THC in suspension). cover Cannabis. Solvent may be any alcohol Now you need to blow the bottom two of 95% or greater purity (i.e., rubbing layers into another container, which is alcohol works), but ethyl alcohol is best, easy to do if you set up the first con- as it is non-toxic and will not harm you tainer as a bong. Attach a tube to where if you “screw up”. My personal recommenda- the bowl would normally go and hang the

98 Use & Abuse. other end in the sink. Very gently, blow izer” machine with an enclosed area so as into the tube where you would normally in- not to waste the vapors (plans can be hale. MAKE SURE THE BOTTOM END OF THE TUBE found in back issues of _High Times_ maga- THAT EXTENDS DOWN INTO THE CONTAINER IS zine). Actually, it doesn’t REALLY “vapor- *ALL* THE WAY DOWN TO THE BOTTOM! Other- ize” in the strict technical meaning of wise, you will blow all the good stuff the word, but I’ll assume noone cares into the sink, and you will be very un- about atmospheric pressures and such. happy. Just watch the water level, and The oil can even be mixed with crude don’t blow too hard. Don’t try to get Cannabis and smoked in a cigarette, and every last drop; just get as much as you although half of the potency is lost due can without getting too close to the to the burning, it’s still fun, and tastes ether-THC layer. wonderful. My preferred method of doing If you like, add more ether and water this is to use a long, thick needle and and repeat this stage. When it’s purified heat it with a lighter for about 3 sec- enough for your taste, cook the ether ex- onds. Wait just a second before dipping it tract in the double boiler at 104F to into the essence -- if it’s too hot, the evaporate the ether, again making sure to oil will vaporize on contact and be hold the extract jar in place. wasted. Don’t dip it in too far at first This being the next step up from crude, until you get the hang of working with I guess you’d call this resulting sticky this stuff; it has a very unique consis- stuff “forty-weight”, or something like tency and behavior, and it sticks to damn that. And, as before, it’s perfectly fine near anything. to stop here. Read on for the gory details Lay a cigarette paper (preferably Mo- on the final stage…because you know you diano; these have the lowest content of can do better. “residue” materials) out flat, holding it down with your fingers at both sides. Isomerization “Paste” the oil onto the paper with the needle, putting a nice, even coat over as This stage rotates all the existing large an area as you can get without lesser Cannabinoids and Cannabinols into smudging your fingers (leave a little THC, and all the existing THC into the unncoated space near each edge so you can most active isomer, delta-9-THC. This step roll it without getting your fingers cov- involves the use of sulfuric acid, so I ered in oil). Roll your Cannabis in the shouldn’t have to remind you to wear long paper as you would normally. rubber gloves, don’t inhale its fumes, Before smoking the rolled cigarette, DON’T TREAT IT CASUALLY BECAUSE IT CAN EAT place in a LOW warm oven (100-125F) for HOLES IN LOTS OF THINGS, INCLUDING YOU. five to ten minutes to melt the oil. This Dissolve the extract in 10 times its will not only distribute it more evenly by own weight in ether. SLOWLY, add one drop soaking into the Cannabis, but the heat of sulfuric acid for each gram of extract, will bring the taste and potency to its stirring with a glass rod. Heat as in the peak potential. Smoke while still warm. initial extraction, with the jar covered by a watchglass. Cook two hours, stirring Dosage occasionally, and allow to cool. Mix the solution with an equal volume For an average Cannabis user who smokes of cold water and one-half its volume of perhaps once or twice per day, 3 or 4 cold ether, and repeat the shaking and drops of the essence, either eaten or va- separation steps. Take extract and slowly porized, will be quite sufficient for an add the calcined ash from the first ex- enjoyable “high” of four to five hours. traction. Stir it all in, and run the so- For a novice user, 1 or 2 drops will usu- lution through filter paper to strain the ally be quite enough. Individual idiosyn- ash sediment out. Check for any remaining crasies are always present, and no two acid by adding a small pinch of sodium bi- people will need the same amount, nor will carbonate (baking soda). If the solution they be affected the same way. Some rare fizzes, keep adding bicarb very slowly un- individuals may experience paranoia and til fizzing stops. psychotic reactions to Cannabis, and such Add fresh water and ether, shake and individuals would be well advised to dis- separate. Cook at 104F until the ether is continue its use. But on the whole, Canna- evaporated. Voila! You now have essence of bis is a safe and enjoyable pleasure to be Cannabis, which can contain anywhere from enjoyed in moderation, like anything 85 to 99 percent THC. pleasant in life, and truly lives up to its reputation as it has for thousands of Expected Yield and Consumption Methods years. DEA Judge Francis Young in Septem- ber, 1988, called it “in its natural form, In general, you can expect to produce one of the safest therapeutically active about one ounce of oil per pound of Canna- substances known to man”. May it continue bis. Depending on the potency of the indi- to be enjoyed as long as life exists on vidual plant, of course, this amount can Earth. vary greatly; however, the potency of the A shorter description of the procedure finished essence will always be of the is available in “Marijuana Chemistry” by highest possible. Michael Starks. ISBN 0-914171-39-9 To use the oil in cooking, thoroughly Treatment with acid, according to my mix it into a fat or oil. Examples: sour understanding, does not cause isomeri- cream, olive oil, milk. For best results, zation of THC, but converts the Cannabi- the resulting mixture should be GENTLY diol to delta-9-THC. Since Cannabidiol heated before adding it to the rest of the represents a significant proportion of the food. Example: mix oil with butter over Cannabinoids in extracted plant material, low heat, and use as regular butter in making this conversion can make a big dif- cookies, etc. ference in the potency of the product. To “vaporize” the oil, place it on a In the dim, dark, distant past I have metal surface (tinfoil works, too). Heat treated extracted plant materials with the surface, and inhale the vapors through 0.05% HCl in ethanol by refluxing for 2 a tube. For best results, build a “vapor- hours. I have never done a controlled

99 Absinthe study to determine if this was doing any get depends on the relative amounts of good, but I can verify that it certainly Cannabidiol and THC in the original oil. doesn’t do any harm. If there were 1 part THC and 1 part Can- nabidiol, then you might expect a doubling Pertinient references of potency after isomerization. (for completists): The second reaction, Delta-1/9 -- Delta-6/8, is an additional step to get • Mikes and Waser, Science (172), 1158- the allegedly more potent higher-rotating 1159, June 11, 1971 (see references in form of THC. It requires more vigorous footnote 8). conditions. D. Gold notes that in a tolue • solution with p-toluesulfonic acid for 10 Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, hours at 100 degrees C there is a 90% con- (v60, n10), 1433-1457, Ocotober, 1971 version rate of Delta-1 to Delta-6 (the (see esp p1440). THC/Hash oil is in solution in the tolue). Gold also gives a discussion about pro- Hope this is a help. ducing THC acetate, which he says has Have you folx heard any of “isomeriza- *twice* the potency of regular THC. It’s tion” of Hash oil? Supposedly, treating very involved, and potentially hazardous… Hash-oil with dilute HCl acid under cer- Instead, I would recommend ei- tain circumstances allows conver-sion of ther/or/both _Cannabis_Alchemy_(CA) by some weak/non-psychoactive THC’s in the Gold, approx.US$12.95(prices from an old oil to the more potent delta-9 THC. In catalog from ‘92), or better yet, some cases, it is reported to increase po- _Marijuana_Chemistry_(MC), by Starks, for tency by 3-5 times, depending I guess on about US$19.95. the ratios of weak THCs in the original I’ve “paged through” CA, and it was material. Something about “isomeric rota- reasonably detailed, etc, though, from tions of the THC molecules” or something… what I have heard, the higher price of MC Anybody interested, I’ll give ya some ref- is well justified by the great thoroughss. erences as to where to find info on thee I haven’t seen Marijuana Chemistry, but process xt time… CA is not real heavy into the theory and Yes very interested!! Tell me more! chemical conversion steps, but does in- Tell me more! clude a few pertint references/citations OK, now that I have my copy of “Dr. and lots of practical how-to advice and Atomic’s Marijuana Multiplier” in front of instructions. me, I see that he used Sulfuric acid, not It’s the holidays folks -- go ahead and HCl. Isomerization coverts Cannabidiol and order them BOTH and do some fun reading. weak THCs to yer favorite #9. Anywhere You’ll most assuredly learn something. from double to 5 times original potency. per Cannabis Alchemy,

Cannabidiol | | Heat and | H+ (from the acid) | \ /

Delta-6 THC (aka Delta-8 THC -- depends on the numbering system used)

This Delta-6 THC is a higher-rotating form of Tetrahydrocannabinol. D. Gold (author of Cannabis Alchemy) suggests that the higher-rotating forms “are more potent than the low-rotating and produce a higher, more psychedelic and spritual effect”. He notes a study do by Mechoulan (1970) which showed little difference between the pharmacological effects of Delta-9 and Delta-6. I’ll leave it to the reader to experiment for him/herself. The “rotating” spoken of here refers to the relative positions of the double bond- ing in the THC molecule. [chemists out there feel free to chime in…] The first reaction, Cannabidiol -- Delta-9 THC, is, I think, what is gerally referred to as isomerization. This can occur in an absolute ethanol solution with.05% HCL boiled for 2 hours (the “Hash” oil is in solution in the ethanol, obviously). The increase in potency you’ll

100 Use & Abuse. Bathtime for Billy! How to prepare a BHANG !! Hey to all you pipers! There comes a time when your ganjed up Bong needs to drop it’s dirty hippy facade and clean up its act! After heavy usage With the weekend coming up, you might find your bong becomes blocked and down-right use for this recipe for bhang from dirty, and you find that pulling pipes be- _Flavors_of_India_ by Shanta Nimbark Sa- comes a bit lethal on your lungs. To pre- charoff. vent this your billy needs a regular soak and scrub. • 2 cups water There are no hard and fast rules on how • 1 ounce Marijuana (fresh leaves and this should be done. Many people use • really whacked-up cleaning products like flowers of a female plant preferred) Nappy-san, False Teeth Cleaner and even • 4 cups warm milk Coca- Cola. Whist I would not subject my • 2 tablespoons blanched and chopped al- billy to this kind of cleaning frenzy, monds many crazy pipers do! • 1/8 teaspoon garam masala [a mixture of There are various cleaning products • cloves, cinnamon, and cardamon] which will keep your billy’s anatomy in • smooth smoking form. To give you an idea, 1/4 teaspoon powdered ginger “Pipe Fresh” available from both “Off Ya • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon rosewater Tree” and “Smoke Dreams”. It’s about $5.00 • 1 cup sugar for a 250ml bottle and it’s fairly awesome stuff. This along with a few bottle Bring the water to a rapid boil and brushes helps keep a squeaky clean pipe. pour into a clean teapot. Remove any seeds However I find water and a low foam deter- or twigs from the Marijuana, add it to the gent like “Down To Earth” or “Pure Velvet teapot and cover. Let this brew for about Soap” work just as effectively. Not only 7 minutes. Now strain the water and Mari- is this better for our fragile globe, but juana through a piece of muslin cloth, it doesn’t leave a bizarre collection of collect the water and save. Take the chemicals you will probably inhale later. leaves and flowers and squeeze between Here’s a step by step guide for bathing your hands to extract any liquid that re- billy:- mains. Add this to the water. Place the 1. Remove the stem, Cone and Rubber Grom- leaves and flowers in a mortar and add 2 met. teaspoons warm milk. Slowly but firmly 2. Place Billy under a running tap to grind the milk and leaves together. Gather clean the initial shit out. up the Marijuana and squeeze out as much 3. Place Billy in hot water and the milk as you can. Repeat this process until cleaner you have chosen, let it splash you have used about 1/2 cup of milk (about around for a while, perhaps an hour. 4 to 5 times). Collect all the milk that 4. Whilst Billy is soaking take time to has been extracted and place in a bowl. By inspect your stem and cone. Sometimes this time the Marijuana will have turned if Billy hasn’t been cleaned for a into a pulpy mass. Add the chopped almonds while the cone, drop in or screw on, and some more warm milk. Grind this in the can become stuck due to stash build up. mortar until a fine paste is formed. If it is a drop cone, soak it in hot Squeeze this paste and collect the extract water, if it’s screw on you’ll have to as before. Repeat a few more times until use more forceful methods, like plyers all that is left are some fibers and nut to get it unstuck. Clean the cone with meal. Discard the residue. Combine all the a thick sewing needle and boiling wa- liquids that have been collected, includ- ter. The stem is best cleaned with pipe ing the water the Marijuana was brewed in. cleaners and hot water. After you have Add to this the garam masala, dried ginger cleaned them make especially sure the and rosewater. Add the sugar and remaining cone is dry otherwise later it could milk. Chill, serve, and enjoy. cause the stash to get damp, and you may have trouble lighting it. It seems a bit labor intensive, but then 5. Billy is now clean, put it back to- it is meant as an offering to Shiva. gether. I’m sure I don’t need to tell you what happens next. If you’re pulling pipes through a fairly blocked bong, your lungs can fuck up and smoking it can be a damn bastard. So it is worthwhile to keep your pipe in a fairly anti-crap state so that every pipe will take you to oblivion and back on a mind blowing thought wave journey.

101 Absinthe The Green Dragon Let’s cook it !

After reading much about the wonders of Cannabutter Green Dragon, alcohol that has had Mari- juana steeping in it for a while, I de- The first step in cooking magical Can- cided to try it myself. Taking a friend’s nabis-laced foods is extracting the Can- leftover leaves from his harvest, and a nabinoids (THC, CBD, and many many more) few buds of my own, I stuffed a big Abso- from the plant matter, usually in a lut Vodka bottle with leaves and buds. I oil/fat/butter-based solution, since the should preface this account of my adven- Cannabinoids do not readily dissolve in tures with Green Dragon with the acknowl- water. My best FOAF has a method for doing edgement of the fact that I do not drink this that he has not seen mention of in copious quantities of alcohol, and use this forum. He got it from a little book Marijuana as an alternative intoxicant to called _The Art and Science of Cooking alcohol. I will occasionally drink beer with Cannabis_, by Adam Gottlieb, orig- while smoking, but vodka is a bit extreme nally published in 1974. Gottlieb calls for me. the product of the extraction `CANNABUTTER’. After only a day, the vodka had turned The procedure is actually very simple. a green shade, which got stronger in color He brings a pot of water to a rolling as the days wore on. We cracked it open boil, then puts a small amount of butter after a week, and set aside the night for in the water. Quickly, the butter melts, drinking. The vodka smelled horrible, al- and mixes in with the water because the most bad enough to make you gag, but it whole mixture is at a rolling boil. tasted just like vodka. We all took four Then he puts the grass in and boils it. shots to begin with, and for 20-30 min- (Of course, he separates all the seeds utes, we were fine, realizing that we were first so he can plant them in the nearby a little drunk, but not incredibly fucked park). Now all the grass is riling around up. Then it hit us. We were in the middle with the water and butter, and get this: of another round of shots, when we all re- The Cannabinoids dissolve into the butter, acted to the THC. We were pretty fucked while most of the nasty flavors and gook up, but we finished the round. The waves dissolve into the water. He stirs the of intoxication kept building up after stuff regularly. After cooking the grass that, sending us higher and higher until I like this for a while (say, half an hour), eventually got to bed. The world was spin- his kitchen really smells incriminating. ning when I dozed off into the night. He strains out the spent plant matter, squeezes all the juice out of it, and puts the liquid in the fridge. A few hours later, the mixture is cool enough that the Cannabutter has solidified on the surface. It looks kind of scummy, but its just enchanted butter. He scoops it out and retains it in a bowl or a jar. The grass-nasty water is thrown out. The Cannabutter can be used just like butter, in brownies, on garlic bread, or mixed with honey on your finger! Although this method takes longer than the usual saute-n-strain method, it has several advantages: • As explained above, the nasty shit is separated and removed from the fun shit. • You can make stronger Cannabutter than by saute-ing, because you can cook more grass in the same amount of butter, due to the extra volume of the water. • There is no danger of burning the precious, price-inflated, hard and dangerous to obtain herb, as there is when you saute, because the water keeps the whole mixture at boiling temperature! oh, I don’t think that heating for 1 hour will break down the THC: brownies and breads are usually baked longer, and they seem just fine ;-) I suppose that one does want to avoid _extreme_ heat, though… like open flame ;- ) Anyway, I made my butter in a double- boiler, which is sort of a saucepan full of water, with another saucepan that mates on top of it, so that the bottom of one covers the top of the other (I went out and bought a very nice Revereware double- boiler recently, but I digress). So, in the bottom boiler, you put water, enough, say, that you have only an inch or two between the water and the bottom of the second boiler. In the second boiler, put 1

102 Use & Abuse. quart of water, 1/4 oz, and a stick of butter. Simmer the stuff over low heat for Directions: a few hours, at least: I waited till it Cream ingredients together until turned brownish. (the double boiler keeps smooth. This makes enough for two cakes. direct heat away from the stuff, so it’s used to cook heat-sensitive foods such as Pizza Pot eggs and butter, without burning them). Now, once you’re satisfied with your Buy a pizza base. The more stuff you mixture of butter, THC, water, and vegeta- put on the pizza, the better it will be. tion, prepare a bowl and something like a Make a sauce out of tomato paste/bolognese funnel lined with cheese-cloth, or a sauce. Add herbs, parsely, 1/2 cup of cheese-cloth bag. You can buy cheese-cloth diced onion, 1/4 cup of green pepper. Sim- at the grocery store: it will catch the mer ingredients. Some suggestions for top- vegetable matter, keeping it out of the pings-cheese, mushrooms capsicum, egg, to- bowl, inot which you pour the butter/water mato, pineapple, pine nuts, eggplant etc mixture. Squeeze as much liquid as possi- etc etc. ble out of the cheese- cloth. If you Sprinkle the mull in between the ingre- really want to, you could keep the now- dients and the tomato sauce. Use about 1/3 hopefully-impotent bud, but I’ve always of a cup. Put all ingredients on except just pitched it. for the cheese and cook for 15 mins at So. Allow your butter/water to settle approx 200 degrees celcius. Then take it and cool (I refrigerate it). The butter out, pile on the cheese and bake for an- will rise to the top, and can be lifted other 5-10 minutes. out, but I usually am not satisfied with all the particles of butter that remain, so I run the water through a piece of cheesecloth and try to catch some of it. Anyway, that green gunk is butter, and you can spread it on your toast, make a sandwich with it, or cook with it. About two “pats” of butter stone me pretty well, but your milage may vary. I usually try to disguise the taste with something like a pepperoni and garlic pesto cheese on rye sandwich, but you tastes _probably_ vary.

Now, there are many good reasons for eating Marijuana, both physiological and spiritual.

Before you consider trying to eat grass, it must be thoroughly cleaned. Stems and seeds must be picked out or the pot run through a sieve several times. It is important to clean very very thoroughly since the idea is to disguise the taste and texture as much as possible. A blender can make cleaning more efficient. Whip it into powder as fine as flour. Before you add Marijuana to any recipe, you should fry it a little longer. This softens it and makes it more palatable.

Carrot Cake

Ingredients: • 2 Cups sugar • 1/2 Cup nuts • 2 Cups flour • 3 teaspoons soda • 1/2 teaspoon of allspice • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 1 1/2 Cups oil • 4 eggs • 3 Cups grated carrot • 1/2 Cup pot

Directions: Combine ingredients and bake at 325 degrees for 45 minutes

Frosting

Ingredients: • 8 ounces cream cheese • 1 lb. castor sugar • 1 cube of butter • 1 teaspoon vanilla

103 Absinthe Happy Cookies Smoke it, Drink it, Eat it! Once upon a time in a seaside suburb far, far away, a young Druid decided to make some magic cookies for some of his friends. This paper is an exposition on the con- He firstly took some magic leaves from sumption of Marijuana for its psychoactive a special plant that only grows in cup- effects. Covered will be the two primary boards with intensive lights, and chopped methods used in America today, smoking and them up extremely finely until he had 1/2 eating/drinking, with smoking being the - 1/3 cup. more common method. There are a whole lot He then took 100g of butter and put it of lies, half-truths, myths, and supposi- in a container with the chopped leaves. tion about the consumption of Marijuana Being a technologically advanced pagan, he this is an attempt to clear things up as then placed this in the microwave for 2- much as possible. 2.5 minutes (until the butter had melted through the greenery). Smoking If a microwave was not available, he would have used the traditional method of Smoking is the quickest but least effi- using a saucepan of boiling water with a cient method of ingesting Marijuana and bowl containing the goodies sitting on experiencing its effects. Marijuana smoke top. He would then leave this for approxi- contains a number of carcinogens, many of mately 10 minutes. which can be removed if the smoke is fil- He then added 1/2 cup flour and 1/2 cup tered through a water bong but it will sugar. Some cooking chocolate was then still contains some carcinogens and can be melted and added to the mixture, along an irritant. Studies have shown THC has a with 2 eggs and some vanilla essence. He bronchiodialator effect, which may be ef- even decided to add some chopped nuts for fective in purging the particulates from a bit of variety. the lungs. This magic mix was then shaped into small cookies, and ritually baked at 300 Joints degrees F for 20-25 minutes. Other Druids partaking of these magic Joints, Marijuana cigarettes, are the cookies saw bizarre visions, and some even perennial favorite of many people. They celebrated by showing everyone the con- are “shake”, Marijuana which has had the tents of their stomachs. The moral of this stems and seeds removed, which is inside a story… MODERATION. fold of rice paper and then rolled into a A lovely cake (or cup cakes) can be cylinder. This is the singularly most created by using a packet mix and adding portable method to smoke grass once the the butter/mull mix. Cook as per direc- joint has been rolled. tions on the box. I have personally had a When a joint has been smoked down to great deal of success using this method. the point that it is difficult to hold it is called a “roach” and wide variety of paraphernalia exists which are designed to hold the roach without burning oneself. Collectively known as “roach clips” they include tweezers, alligator clips, for- ceps, needle nose pliers, and ceramic pieces with holes through them. There are a number of devices available to facilitate rolling a joint. Absolutely essential is a cleaning tray to remove the stems and seeds from the lose Marijuana. There are a number of papers available with which to roll ones joint, varying in color, pattern, size, and presence of gummed edges. There are rolling “machines” which make the process of rolling a joint much less ticklish, but with practice and skill at rolling joints these tend to hinder more than help. One of the more intriguing techniques of smoking a joint is taking what is known as a powerhit. This is ac- complished by having an accomplice surround the burning end of the joint with their mouth, taking care not to allow their skin to come into contact with the glowing end, and blowing while one takes a hit from the other end. This can be somewhat dicey, but is one of the more inti- mate ways of sharing a joint. Etiquette requires one to pass the joint in a circular fashion through those present. No one is required to take a toke if they do not care to, but they are expected to pass it on if it comes to them. “Bogartting”, hoarding the joint when it comes to you, is a SERIOUS breach of protocol. People too stoned to smoke the

104 Use & Abuse. joint let alone pass it are expected to be instead of heat being applied to the top skipped over and a joint can (politely) be of the substance it is applied to the bot- removed from someone if they do not seem tom of the pipe. to be sharing the consensus reality. One-hits Bongs One-hits, or dugouts as they are some- Bongs, or water pipes if you are in a times called, are a highly portable method head shop, pass the smoke through water to of smoking grass for someone who does not cool and filter it. Grass is put into a want to smoke an entire joint at one time. bowl on the end of a tube whose other end A one-hit is a small metal tube that has a is in a sealed container partially filled small cavity at one end and a mouthpiece with water. The end of the bowl’s tube is at the other. One presses the cavity into below the level of the water so that as a small container of cleaned grass to fill the smoke exits the pipe it is bubble it and then is lit somewhat like a ciga- through a layer of water. The air pressure rette and inhaled steadily until the grass in the chamber is lowered by breathing is gone. One only gets one inhalation or through another tube that stays above the “hit” per filling thus it is called a one water level in the chamber. When the air hit. A dugout is small wooden container pressure inside the chamber is lowered, which has a space for the cleaned grass air from outside the chamber passes and another space for the one-hit itself. through the bowl and its tube and bubbles through the water. Bongs are not particu- Gas Pipes larly portable, as they tend to be awk- ward, delicate, and heavy. Sizes range Gas Pipes are open ended tubes with a from the size of a small pill container to small bowl mounted near one end perpen- eight foot tall escapees from a mad scien- dicular to the main axis of the tube. The tist laboratory. Principally made from end near the bowl is covered with your glass, plastic, ceramic, and metal they hand and the smoke is drawn into the tube can be an art form unto themselves. The until the bowl is burned out then the hand principal benefit of smoking grass through is removed and all the smoke in the tube a bong is that the smoke is cooled and rushes into your lungs. These are usually several carcinogens are removed without made from glass, though occasionally one removing the active ingredients. One can will find plastic pipes. put any number of liquids in the chamber to filter the smoke, and beer or other Gravity Bongs forms of alcohol are often used, but this is not recommended. The active ingredients Gravity bongs are more a style of smokin Marijuana are fat and alcohol soluble ing than a particular apparatus for the and when filtered through such substances consumption of Marijuana. With a gravity the active ingredients go into solution. bong one uses water pressure to create the In addition the carcinogens in Marijuana vacuum in a chamber rather then one’s smoke are water soluble so that when smoke lungs as with water pipes and gas pipes. A passes through some liquid other than wa- gravity bong is made by placing a cylinder ter one loses active ingredients and gains that is open at one and and closed except carcinogens in the smoke entering your for a place for a bowl at the other. The lungs. One method recommended is to put open end is placed in a large container of ice water in the chamber, the cooled water water until the chamber of the cylinder is is not quite as effective at removing the filled with water. The filled bowl is then carcinogens but the additional cooling is attached and a flame is applied to the favored among smokers. Carburetors are Marijuana in it. The cylinder is lifted small openings in the chamber that are slowly up. As the cylinder is lifted up covered during the hit and towards the end the water trapped inside will seek to es- opened to allow all the smoke to escape cape out the open end into the container the chamber. Occasionally one finds a bong due to the force of gravity. This creates designed so that carboration is accom- a vacuum at the top of the chamber near plished by lifting the bowl slightly and the bowl, this vacuum sucks the smoke from allowing the air to enter the bowl tube. the burning Marijuana into the chamber replacing the water. A tube may reach from Pipes the bowl to near the base of the cylinder making it a true bong or the end may not Pipes are the simplest devices used to actually enter the water so that is is smoke Marijuana. For the most part they similar to a gas pipe. after the material are similar to pipes used to smoke tobacco in the bowl has been burned and the smoke but Marijuana pipes should be made of heat has filled the chamber the bowl is removed resistant materials such as stone, ivory, and the cylinder is pushed back down into metal, glass, and occasionally harder the container. As the water re-enter the woods. Grass does not tend to stay lit in chamber it forces the smoke out where and pipe so flame constantly has to be applied hopefully into an expectant individual. to bowl which heats it up more than pipes This is the most common form of a water with tobacco in them typically are heated. bong but any number of similar schemes ex- A common variant of pipe is the stash ist which can use the vacuum created by pipe, a pipe where one may store a small the exiting water to draw the smoke, and amount of grass. Some stash pipes are con- then use that water again to force it out structed in such a manner that the the of the chamber. smoke passes through the stash area so that the grass inside is bathed in the smoke and acquires a coating of resin which contains THC thus making it more potent when it is turn is smoked. There are glass Hash pipes which are used to smoke Hashish and Hashish oil, the materiel is placed in the bowl as with other pipes but

105 Absinthe method is chosen as the alcohol is highly flammable. The resulting tincture, often Tilt Pipes called “Green Dragon”, is a light to emer- ald green liquid, which can be drunk Tilt pipes are pipes which have a heat- straight, but this is not recommended. ing element built into the pipe at the Highly lauded is a drink of 3 parts lemon bowl, the element heats the Marijuana to lime soda, 1 part green dragon and a dol- sub-flammable temperature but which will lop of honey served over ice. activate and release the Cannabanoids, or active ingredients, from the plant material. Most smoking accessories apply an external flame to the Marijuana which va- porizes and breaks down many Cannabanoids before they can be consumed, thus wasting Brownies a portion of the active ingredients in the Marijuana. These device tend to be very rare usually only found among connois- Last week I celebrated my promotion seurs. They are called tilt pipes because (like getting tenure at U of Chicago). Af- one tilts the pipe to bring the Marijuana ter giving every one a “Hemp Saftey into contact with the heating element. Course” including the video of “Hemp for

Victory” I brought out a batch of brown- Eating & Drinking ies. The “pro’s” in the group said they tasted like “liquid Hash”. Most people The active ingredients in Cannabis are said they felt good till 4pm the next day. fat and alcohol soluble so they can be ex- So I thought I’d share the recipe with the tracted and added to foodstuff entering net: the system through the digestive tract Start with Hershey’s Premium Baking Bar rather than through the lungs. This type Unsweetened Chocolate. On the back is a of consumption of Marijuana tend to be recipe for brownies which includes 1 cup both slower and more efficient than smok- butter, 4 squares of chocolate, 2 cups ing it. Further the noxious effects of sugar, 4 eggs, 1 cup of flour, and vanilla consuming heated smoke are completely extract. Start with dry hemp leaves and eliminated. For these reasons this is the grind them in a coffee grinder to a fine favored method of Marijuana consumption by powder. Put in a measuring cup until ~75 many people. ml of “green flour” is made. Fill to the 1 cup mark (250 ml) with regular flour. Pro- Eating ceed with recipe on box: Heat oven to 350 F, Grease 13x9x2 (inch) pan. Heat butter Marijuana must be heated before being and chocolate and stir with wooden spoon consumed to activate the Cannabanoids so until smooth. Stir in sugar. Add eggs one one cannot simply eat raw grass. The tra- at a time. Add vanilla extract and stir in ditional method of eating it is to cook it flour mixture. Add nuts if desired (a very in a brownie, especially when it is in the nice touch I think) and bake for 40 min- form of Hashish, though it can be used in utes. It seemed to take 10 minutes longer any number of things. The recommended than the box suggested (30 minutes) to be method of eating Marijuana is to saute it completely baked through. Makes 3 dozen in butter or margarine over medium heat, brownies. Take 2 and wait an hour. Take 4 then to strain the remaining solids out and cruise for 12 hours. and use the butter to cook with. One can Enjoy! use this Marijuana butter to make brownies, cook vegetables, or however else one might use butter to cook with, one can even spread it on a slice of bread. Many people will mix the the residual solids in with whatever they are cooking in hopes of making use of whatever Cannabanoids might still be in them, but if done properly this in not generally valuable. A typical ratio for making the Marijuana butter is one stick of butter to one eight of an ounce of Marijuana, and headed for fifteen to twenty minutes.

Drinking

One may extract the active ingredients from Marijuana using alcohol and then use this tincture to make a potent drink. The highest proof alcohol available should be used, preferably 190 proof grain alcohol, since the water in the alcohol will dissolve other chemicals in the Marijuana that one wishes to avoid. Some suggest soaking the grass in warm water for a period to remove those chemicals but that presents a whole host of other and is not really recommended. One may simply place the Marijuana into a bottle of grain alcohol and let the canabanoids leach out, but this takes 2-3 weeks of time. A faster method is to heat the alcohol to sub- boiling and stir in the Marijuana. Great deal of care should be taken if this

106

This & That

107

Projects. that later) process, brought about through racist slurs and misinformation What we want: Hemp is the world’s fastest producer of biomass - 10 tons in about 120 days, over a single acre. This makes it a prime can- Legalization! didate for alternative energy production. It is estimated that if just 6% of the United States was planted with hemp, ALL Mullers, the time has come for ACTION! of the country’s oil and gas needs would I see a number of articles in the pages of be met. Moreover, whilst biomass fuel is Mary Jane (an Electronical Magazine you burnt, releasing carbon dioxide, the car- can find in Internet, look for it!) and bon is originally extracted from the air Lot’s Wife on WHY possession, cultivation by the hemp plant anyway, unlike fossil and use of Indian Hemp should be legal- fuels. Charcoal produced from biomass ized, but I think everyone who reads them processes, which would be used to substi- already knows. The people we really need tute coal in power stations, is virtually to convince are the general public. Once free of other chemicals such as sulphur, politicians think that they are more which reacts in the burning process ulti- likely to be voted in if they support mately to produce acid rain. Biomass fuels Marijuana reform, they will almost cer- are a 100% renewable resource, effectively tainly follow and get rid of those ridicu- a form of solar power. And of course, hemp lous laws. is a lot cheaper to make than solar cells! People who oppose Marijuana legaliza- Trials before prohibition showed that tion often see us as ‘the enemy’. For this hemp crops yielded on average 4.1 times reason, protest rallies and the like are the mass of paper of a field of trees of not the way to go. The way to convince the same size, in a given period of time. them is to present our case in a way that In addition, a more constant supply is as- does not insult too much (ignorant as they sured with hemp since a given plant is are). To this end, I think we should aim planted, grown and harvested in a single for reasoned media coverage, of the sort season, compared to trees which can take that mis-informed people would be exposed decades to reach maturity. The hemp paper- to (ie not Mary Jane and Lot’s Wife!). We making process is also more environmen- should be writing letters to newspapers, tally friendly, hemp paper containing no from the big ones like The Age for mass dioxins or other toxic chemicals. coverage, and also the smaller local pa- Hemp yields twice as much fibre for pers, who are more likely to print your fabric per acre than cotton and flax. Hemp letters! As a means for converting those fabric is very versatile, and can be woven opposed to Marijuana for it’s psychedelic to be extremely strong, or extremely fine. effects, I would suggest emphasising the It is believed by many to be superior to reasons for legalization which are more all other natural fibres. Synthetic fab- related to it’s commercial value. The rest rics such as polyester and rayon are made of this article will summarise the main from fossil fuels, which we all know are a points as accurately as possible, for you rapidly dwindling resource. Hemp not only people to put in your letters. preserves this resource, but helps coun- Until 1938, when it was made illegal in teract the greenhouse effect produced pri- the United States, hemp was the principle marily from the burning of fossil fuels. fibre of the world. Over 5000 things were Marijuana could play a role as a safe made from it, including virtually all of nausea suppressant in a prohibition- free the world’s canvas (the Dutch pronuncia- society. Already some physicians are rec- tion of ‘Cannabis’), rope, sailcloth, ommending Cannabis use to patients under- linen, rope, etc. It’s oil was used in going drug treatments such as chemo- most paints and also as a lighting fuel. therapy (for cancer) and AZT (for AIDS) to In 1938, a machine called the decorti- counteract the terrible nausea associated cator was invented. This machine stripped with them. Doctors are also suggesting the fibrous parts of the hemp plant, Marijuana to victims of muscle-spasm dis- eliminating the extremely labour- inten- eases such as glaucoma and Multiple- sive practice of picking by hand. This Sclerosis. looked like opening the way for hemp as a paper making material, which had previ- ously only been used for applications where hemp’s superior quality and durabil- ity were valued (including two drafts of the American Constitution). For DuPont, this process would have spelled disaster since they had just invested millions in a timber based paper-making process. To counteract this, a very high ranking official in the DuPont Chemical Company named William Hearst began a media campaign in his own chain of newspapers. He referred to hemp as Marijuana, which had two effects: firstly it made the (generally racist) population associate the plant with Mexicans, known by the public by the time as an amoral, criminal group. Secondly, it had the effect of making the public think that Marijuana and hemp were two different things, thus removing most of the opposition to the Marijuana Tax Act, the first step in hemp prohibition. In summary, prohibition was a result of vested interests in an environmentally inferior (more of

109 Absinthe its useful fibers first attracted man’s attention. Indeed remains of hempen fibers A little of History have been found in the earliest archaeological sites in the cradles of Asiatic civilization: evidence of fiber in China dating from 4000 B.C. and hempen rope and Tradition in India maintains that the thread from Turkestan from 3000 B.C. Stone gods sent man the Hemp plant so that he beaters for pounding hemp fiber and im- might attain delight, courage, and have pressions of hempen cord baked into pot- heightened sexual desires. When nectar or tery have been found in ancient sites in Amrita dropped down from heaven, Cannabis Taiwan. Hempen fabrics have been found in sprouted from it. Another story tells how, Turkish sites of the late eighth century when the gods, helped by demons, churned B.C., and there is a questionable specimen the milk ocean to obtain Amrita, one of of Hemp in an Egyptian tomb dated between the resulting nectars was Cannabis. It was three and four thousand years ago. consecrated to Shiva and was Indra’s fa- The original home of Cannabis is vorite drink. After the churning of the thought to be central Asia, but it has ocean, demons attempted to gain control of spread around the globe with the exception Amrita, but the gods were able to prevent of Artic regions and areas of wet tropical this seizure, giving Cannabis the name forests. Cannabis spread at a very early Vijaya (“victory”) to commemorate their date to Africa (except for the humid trop- success. Ever since, this plant of the ics) and was quickly accepted into native gods has been held in India to bestow su- pharmacopoeias. The Spaniards took it to pernatural powers on its users. Mexico and Peru, the French to Canada, the The partnership of Cannabis and man has English to North America. It had been in- existed now probably for ten thousand troduced into northern Europe in Viking years, since the discovery of agriculture times. It was probably the Scythians who in the Old World. One of our old culti- took it first to China. vars, Cannabis has been a five-purpose The Indian vedas sang of Cannabis as plant: as a source of hempen fibers; for one of the divine nectars, able to give its oil; for its akenes or “seeds”, con- man anything from good health and long sumed by man for food; for its narcotic life to visions of the gods. The Zend- properties; and therapeutically to treat a Avesta of 600 B.C. mentions an intoxi- wide spectrum of ills in folk medicine and cating resin, and the Assyrians used Can- in modern pharmacopoeias. nabis as an incense as early as the ninth Mainly because of its various uses, century B.C. Cannabis has been taken to many regions Inscriptions from the Chou dynasty in around the world. Unusual things hapen to China, dated 700-500 B.C., have a “nega- plants after long association with man and tive” connotation that accompanies the an- agriculture. They are grown in new and cient character for Cannabis, Ma, implying strange environments and often have oppor- its stupefying properties. Since this idea tunities to hybridize that are not offered obviously predated writing, the Pen Tsao in their native habitats. They escape from Ching, written in A.C. 100 but going back cultivation and frequently become aggres- to a legendary emperor, Shen-Nung, 2000 sive weeds. They may be changed through B.C., may be taken as evidence that the human selection for characteristics asso- Chinese knew and probably used the hallu- ciated with a specific use. Many culti- cinogenic properties at very early dates. vated plants are so changed from their an- It was said that Ma-fen (“Hemp fruit”) “if cestral types that it is not possible to taken to excess, will produce hallucina- unravel their evolutionary history. Such tions [literally, `seeing devils’]. If is not the case, however, with Cannabis. taken over a long term, it makes one com- Yet, despite its long history as a major municate with spirits and lightens one’s crop plant, Cannabis is still character- body”. A Taoist priest wrote in the fifth ized more by what is not known about its century B.C. that Cannabis was employed by biology than what is known. “necromancers, in combination with Gin- The botanical classification of Canna- seng, to set forward time and reveal fu- bis has long been uncertain. Bota-nists ture events”. have not agreed on the family to which In these early periods, use of Cannabis Cannabis belongs: early investi-gators put as an hallucinogen was undoubtedly associ- it in the Nettle family (Urticaceae); ated with Chinese shamanism, but by the later it was accommodated in the Fig fam- time of European contact 1500 years later, ily (Moraceae); the general trend today is shamanism had fallen into decline, and the to assign it to a special family, Canna- use of the plant for inebriation seems to baceae, in which only Cannabis and Humu- have ceased and had been forgotten. Its lus, the genus of Hops, are members. There value in Chine then was primarily as a fi- has even been disagreement as to how many ber source. There was, however, a continu- species of Cannabis exist: whether the ge- ous record of Hemp cultivation in China nus comprises one highly variable species from Neolithic times, and it has been sug- or several distinct species. Evidence now gested that Cannabis may have originated strongly Indicates that three species can in China, not in central Asia. be recognized: Cannabis Indica, Cannabis About 500 B.C. the Greek writer Herodo- Ruderalia, and Cannabis Sativa. These spe- tus described a marvelous bath of the cies are distinguished by different growth Scythians, aggressive horsemen who swept habits, characters of the akenes, and es- out of the Transcaucasus eastward and pecially by major differences in structure westward. He reported that “they make a of the wood. Although all species possess booth by fixing in the ground three sticks Cannabinols, there may possibly be sig- inclined toward one another, and stretch- nificant chemical dif-ferences, but the ing around them woollen pelts which they evidence is not yet available. arragne so as to fit as close as possible: We cannot know now which of the several inside the booth a dish is placed upon the uses of Cannabis was earliest. Since plant ground into which they put a number of red uses normally proceed from the simpler to hot stones and then add some Hemp seed… the more complex, one might presume that immediately it smokes and gives out such a

110 Projects. vapor as no Grecian vapor bath can exceed; mind, prolong life, improve judgment, the Scyths, delighted, shout for joy…”. lower fevers, induce sleep, cure dysen- Only recently, archaeologists have exca- tery. Because of its psychoactive proper- vated frozen Scythian tombs in central ties it was more highly valued than Asia, dated between 500 and 300 B.C., and medicienes with only physical activity. have found tripods and pelts, braziers and Several systems of Indian medicine es- charcoal with remains of Cannabis leaves teemed Cannabis. The medical work Sushruta and fruit. It has generally been accepted claimed that it claimed leprosy. The that Cannabis originated in central Asia Bharaprakasha of about A.D. 1600 described and that it was the Scythians who spread it as antiphlegmatic, digestive, bile af- it westward to Europe. fecting, pungent, and astringent, pre- While the Greeks and Romans may not scribing it to stimulate the appetite, im- generally have taken Cannabis for inebria- prove digestion, and better the voice. The tion, there are Indications that they were spectrum of medicinal uses in India cov- aware of the psychoactive effects of the ered control of dandruff and relief of drug. Democritus reported that it was oc- headache, mania, insomnia, venereal disea- casionally drunk with wine and myrrh to se, whooping cough, earaches, and tubercu- produce visionary states, and Galen, about losis! A.D. 200, wrote that it was sometimes cus- The fame of Cannabis as a medicine tomary to give Hemp to guests to promote spread with the plant. In parts of Africa, hilarity and enjoyment. it was valued in treating dysentery, ma- Cannabis arrived in Europe from the laria, anthrax, and fevers. Even today the north. In classical Greece and Rome, it Hotentots and Mfengu claim its efficacy in was not cultivated as a fiber plant. Fiber treating snake bites, and Sotho women infor ropes and sails, however, was availa- duce partial stupefaction by smoking Hemp ble to the Romans from Gaul as early as before childbirth. the third century B.C. The Roman writer Although Cannabis seems not to have Lucilius mentioned it in 120 B.C. Pliny been employed in medieval Europe as an the Elder outlined the preparation and hallucinogen, it was highly valued in grades of hempen fibers in the first cen- medicine and its therapeutic uses can be tury A.C., and hempen rope was found in a traced back to early classical physicians Roman site in England dated A.D. 140-180. such as Dioscorides and Galen. Medieval Whether the Vikings used Hemp rope or not herbalists distinguished “manured hempe” is not known, but palynological evidence (cultivated) from “bastard hempe” (weedy), Indicates that Hemp cultivation had a tre- recommending the latter “against nodes and mendous increment in England from the wennes and other hard tumors”, the former early Anglo-Saxon period to late Saxon and for a host of uses from curing cough to Norman times -- from 400 to 1100. jaundice. They cautioned, however, that in Henry VIII fostered the cultivation of excess it might cause sterility, that “it Hemp in England. The maritime supremacy of drieth up… the seeds of generation” in men England during Elizabethan times greatly “and the milke of women’s breasts”. An in- increased the demand. Hemp cultivation be- teresting use in the sixteenth century -- gan in the British colonies in the New source of the name Angler’s Weed in Eng- World: first in Canada in 1606, then in land -- was locally important: “poured Virginia in 1611; the Pilgrims took the into the holes of earthworms [it] will crop to New England in 1632. In pre- draw them forth and… fisherman and anglers Revolutionary North America, Hemp was em- have use this feate to baite their hooks”. ployed even for making work clothes. Hemp The value of Cannabis in folk medicine was introduced quite independently into has clearly been closely tied with its Spanish colonies in America: Chile, 1545; euphoric and hallucinogenic properties, Peru, 1554. knowledge of which may be as old as its There is no doubt that hempen fiber use as a source of fiber. Primitive man, production represents an early use of Can- trying all sorts of plant materials as nabis, but perhaps consumption of its edi- food, must have known the ecstatic hallu- ble akenes as food predated the discovery cinatory effects of Hemp, an intoxication of the useful fiber. These akenes are very introducing him to an other-worldly plant nutritious, and it is difficult to imagine leading to religious beliefs. Thus the that early man, constantly searching for plant early was viewed as a special gift food, would have missed this opportunity. of the gods, a sacred medium for communion Archaeological finds of Hemp akenes in with the spirit world. Germany, dated with reservation at 500 Although Cannabis today is the most B.C., Indicate the nutritional use of widely employed of the hallucinogens, its these plant products. From early times to use purely as a narcotic, except in Asia, the present, Hemp akenes have been used as appears not to be ancient. In classical food in eastern Europe, and in the United times its euphoric properties were, how- States as a major ingredient of bird food. ever, recognized. In Thebes, Hemp was made The folk-medicinal value of Hemp -- fre- into a drink said to have opium-like prop- quently indistinguishable from its hallu- erties. Galen reported that cakes with cinogenic properties -- may even be its Hemp, if eaten to excess, were intoxi- earliest role as an economic plant. The cating. The use as an inebriant seems to earliest record of the medicinal use of have been spread east and west by barbar- the plant is that of the Chinese emperor- ian hordes of central Asia, especially the herbalist Shen-Nung who, five thousand Scythians, who had a profound cultural in- years ago, recommended Cannabis for ma- fluence on early Greece and eastern laria, beri-beri, constipation, rheumatic Europe. And knowledge of the intoxicating pains, ab-sent-mindedness, and female dis- effects of Hemp goes far back in Indian orders. Hoa-Glio, another ancient Chinese history, as Indicated by the deep mytho- herba-list, recommended a mixture of Hemp logical and spiritual beliefs about the resin and wine as an analgesic during sur- plant. One preparation, Bhang, was so sa- gery. cred that it was thought to deter evil, It was in ancient India that this “gift bring luck, and cleanse man of sin. Those of the gods” found excessive use in folk treading upon the leaves of this holy medicine. It was believed to quicken the plant would suffer harm or disaster, and

111 Absinthe sacred oaths were sealed over Hemp. The was elevated to a god -- a protector favorite drink of Indra, god of the firma- against physical and spiritual harm. Trea- ment, was made from Cannabis, and the ties are sealed with puffs of smoke from Hindu god Shiva commanded that the word calabash pipes. Hemp-smoking and Hashish- Bhangi must be chanted repeatedly during snuffing cults exists in many parts of sowing, weeding, and harvesting of the east Africa, especially near Lake Victo- holy plant. Knowledge and use of the in- ria. toxicating properties eventually spread to Hemp has spread to many areas of the Asia Minor. Hemp was employed as an in- New World, but with few exceptions the cense in Assyria in the first millennium plant has not penetrated significantly B.C., suggesting its use as an inebriant. into many native American religious be- While there is no direct mention of Hemp liefs and ceremonies. There are, how-ever, in the Bible, several obscure passages may exceptions such as its use under the name refer tangentially to the effects of Can- Rosa Maria, by the Tepecano Indians of nabis resin or Hashish. northwest Mexico who occasionally employ It is perhaps in the Himalayas of India Hemp whem Peyote is not available. It has and the Tibetan plateau that Cannabis recently been learned that Indians in the preparations assumed their greatest hallu- Mexican states of Veracruz, Hidalgo, and cinogenic importance in religious con- Puebla practice a communal curing ceremony texts. Bhang is a mild preparation: dried with a plant called Santa Rosa, identified leaves or flowering shoots are pounded as Cannabis Sativa, which is considered with spices into a paste and consumed as both a plant and a sacred intercessor with candy -- known as maajun -- or in tea the Virgin. Although the ceremony is based form. Ganja is made from the resin-rich mainly on Christian elements, the plant is dried pistillate flowering tops of culti- worshiped as an earth diety and is thought vated plants which are pressed into a com- to be alive and to represent a part of the pacted mass and kept under pressure for heart of God. The participants in this several days to induce chemical changes; cult believe that the plant can be danger- most Ganja is smoked, often with Tobacco. ous and that it can assume the form of a Charas consists of the resin itself, a man’s soul, make him ill, enrage him, and brownish mass which is employed generally even cause death. Sixty years ago, when in smoking mixtures. Mexican laborers introduced the smoking of The Tibetans considered Cannabis sa- Marijuana to the United States, it spread cred. A Mahayana Buddhist tradition main- across the south, and by the early 1920s, tains that during the six steps of asceti- its use was established in New Orleans, cism leading to his enlightenment, Buddha confined primarily among the poor and mi- lived on one Hemp seed a day. He is often nority groups. The continued spread of the depicted with “Soma leaves” in his begging custom in the United States and Europe has bowl and the mysterious god-narcotic Soma resulted in a still unresolved contro- has occasionally been identified with versy. Hemp. In Tantric Buddhism of the Himalayas Cannabis Sativa was officially in the of Tibet, Cannabis plays a very signifi- United States Pharmacopoeia until 1937, cant role in the meditative ritual used to recommended for a wide variety of disor- facilitate deep meditation and heigten ders, especially as a mild sedative. It is awareness. Both medicinal and recreational no longer an official drug, although re- secular use of Hemp is likewise so common search in the medical potential of some of now in this region that the plant is taken the Cannabinolic constituents or their from granted as an everyday necessity. semi-synthetic analogues is at present Folklore maintains that the use of Hemp very active, particularly in relation to was introduced to Persia by an Indian pil- the side-effects of cancer therapy. grim during the reign of Khrusu (A.D. 531- The psychoactive effects of Cannabis 579), but it is known that the Assyrians preparations vary widely, depending on used Hemp as an incense during the first dosage, the preparation and the type of millennium B.C. Although at first prohib- plant used, the method of administration, ited among Islamic peoples, Hashish spread personality of the user, and social and widely west throughout Asia Minor. In cultural background. Perhaps the most fre- 1378, authorities tried to extirpate Hemp quent characterisitic is a dreamy state. from Arabian territory by the imposition Long forgotten events are often recalled of harsh punishments. As early as 1271, and thoughts occur in unrelated sequences. the eating of Hemp was so well known that Perception of time, and occasionally of Marco Polo described its consumption in space, is altered. Visual and auditory the secret order of Hashishins, who used hallucinations follow the use of large the narcotic to experience the rewards in doses. Euphoria, excitement, inner happi- store for them in the afterlife. Cannabis ness -- often with hilarity and laughter - extended early and widely from Asia Minor - are typical. In some cases, a final mood into Africa, partly under the pressure of of depression may be experienced. While Islamic influence, but the use of Hemp behavior is sometimes impulsive, violence transcends Mohammedan areas. It is widely or aggression is seldom induced. believed that Hemp was introduced also In relatively recent years, the use of with slaves from Malaya. Commonly known in Cannabis as an intoxicant has spread Africa as Kif or Dagga, the plant has en- widely in Western society -- especially in tered into primitive native cultures in the United States and Europe -- and has social and religious contexts. The hoten- caused apprehension in law-making and law- tots, Bush-men, and Kaffirs used Hemp for enforcing circles and has created social centuries as a medicine and as an intoxi- and health problems. There is still lit- cant. In an ancient tribal ceremony in the tle, if any, agreement on the magnitude of Zambesi Valley, participants inhaled va- these problems or on their solution. Opin- pors from a pile of smoldering Hemp; ion appears to be pulled in two direc- later, reed tubes and pipes were employed, tions: that the use of Cannabis is an ex- and the plant material was burned on an treme social, moral, and health danger altar. The Kasai tribes of the Congo have that must be stamped out, or that it is an revived an old Riamba cult in which Hemp, innocuous, pleasant pastime that should be replacing ancient fetishes and symbols, legalized. It may be some time before all

112 Projects. the truths concerning the use in our times without… This delightful and singular and society of this ancient drug are fully state gives no advance warning. It is as known. Since an understanding of the his- unexpected as a ghost, an intermittent tory and attitudes of peoples who have haunting from which we must draw, if we long used the plant may play a part in are wise, the certainty of a better exis- furthering our handling of the situation tence. This acuteness of though, this en- in modern society, it behooves us to con- thusiasm of the senses and the spirit must sider the role of Cannabis in man’s past and to learn what lessons it can teach us: have appeared to man through the ages as whether to maintain wise restraint in our the first blessing.” urbanized, industrialized life or to free Les Paradis Artificiels it for general use. For it appears that Charles Baudelaire Cannabis may be with us for a long time. Picture excerpts: This miniature is from a fifteenth-century manuscript of Marco Polo’s travels depicts the Persian nobleman Al-Hassan ibn-al- Sabbah, who was known as the Old Man of the Mountain, enjoying the artificial paradise of Hashisheaters. His followers, known as ashishins, consumed large amounts of Cannabis resin to increase their courage as they slaughtered and plundered on behalf of their leader. The words assassin and Hashish were derived from the name of this band. The Cuna Indians of Panama use Cannabis as a sacred herb. This mola of applique work depicts a Cuna council meeting. An orator is shown adressing two headmen, who lounge in their hammocks and listen judi- ciously; one smokes a pipe as he swings. Spectators wander in and out, and one man is seen napping on a bench. The Cora Indians of the Sierra Madre Occidental of Mexico smoke Cannabis in the course of their sacred ceremonies. Rarely is an introduced foreign plant adopted and use in indigenous religious ceremonies, but it seems that the Cora of Mexico and the Cuna of Panama have taken up the ritual smoking of Cannabis, not with standing the fact that, in both areas, it was brought in by the early Europeans. In the nineteenth century, a select group of European artists and writers turned to psychoactive agents in an attempt to achieve what has come to be regarded as “mind-expansion” or “mind- alteration”. Many people, such as the French poet Baudelaire, believed that creative ability could be greatly enhanced by the use of Cannabis. In fact, Baude- laire wrote vivid descriptions of his personal experiences under the influence of Cannabis. At the upper left is Gustave Dore’s painting Cannabisomposition on the Death of Gerard de Nerval, inspired probably by the use of Cannabis and Opium. At the upper right is a contemporary American cartoon humorously epitomizing the recur- rence of this belief (it shows caveman around a fire, one saying “Hey, what is this stuff? It makes everything I think seem profound”). It was not only among the French literati that psychoa-ctive substances raised expectations. In 1845, the French psychiatrist Moreau de Tours published his investigation of Hashishin a fundamental scientific monograph Du ha- chisch et de l’alienation mentale. Moreau de Tours’s scientific study was on the effects of Cannabis. He explored the use of this hallucinogen in Egypt and the Near East and experimented personally with it an dother psychoactive plant substances. He concluded that the effects resemble certain mental disorders and suggested that they might be used to induce model psychoses. “This marvelous experience often occurs as if it were the effect of a superior and invisible power acting on the person from

113 Absinthe Cannabis The Assassins

How much do we know? by Philip K. Hitti How little do we know? From _The Book of Grass: An Anthology on Cannabis Sativa is a very abundant, un- Indian Hemp_, edited by George Andrews and usually economically valuable plant, pos- Simon Vinkenoog. sibly a dangerous plant, certainly in many ways a mysterious plant. It has served hu- The Assassin movement, called the “new mans long and well as a source of fibre propaganda” by its members, was inaugu- from its stem; of oil from its seeds, of a rated by al-Hasan ibn-al-Sabbah (died in psychedelic drug from its resin. 1124), probably a Persian from Tus, who Cannabis is one of humankind’s oldest claimed descent from the Himyarite kings useful cultivation plants. Knowledge of of South Arabia. The motives were evi- it’s use by our ancestors goes back at dently personal ambition and desire for least 6000 years, and obviously people vengeance on the part of the heresiarch. valued it: As a young man in al-Rayy, al-Hassan re- • Archaeological hemp specimens have been ceived instruction in the Batinite system, found in an Egyptian site of 3000 to and after spending a year and a half in 4000 years of age. Egypt returned to his native land as a • Chinese tradition dates Cannabis use Fatimid missionary. Here in 1090 he gained back approximately 4800 yrs when Em- possession of the strong mountain fortress peror Sheen-Nung is credited with Alamut, north-west of Qazwin. Strategi- teaching his people to cultivate the cally situated on an extension of the Al- plant for fibre. burz chain, 10200 feet above sea level, • The Indian medical writings, especially and on the difficult by shortest road be- the Susrita; complied before 1000 BC tween the shores of the Caspian and the report therapeutic use of Cannabis Persian highlands, this “eagle’s nest”, as resin. The nature of some of the ver- the name probably means, gave ibn-al- nacular names in India, Indicates its Sabbah and his successors a central narcotic properties were appreciated in stronghold of primary importance. Its pos- early Hindu writing. session was the first historical fact in These are a small sample of findings of the life of the new order. Cannabis usage in the history of mankind. From Alamut the grand master with his Hemp’s diversity and usefulness in tra- disciples made surprise raids in various ditional cultures is ignored by single directions which netted other fortresses. interest groups, as they are effected by In pursuit of their ends they made free only one aspect (say paper or tobacco) and and treacherous use of th dagger, reducing have a one-sided view driven by greed. assassination to an art. Their secret or- This wonderful plant used by some minori- ganization, based on Ismailite antece- ties is then a tool against them, by a dents, developed an agnosticism which heavy duty run amok police state. aimed to emancipate the initiate from the The negative way of viewing Cannabis - trammels of doctrine, enlightened him as as only a drug - has slowed the potential to the superfluity of prophets and encour- technological advances coming from this aged him to believe nothing and dare all. plant, begun by our forebears. With to- Below the grand master stood the grand day’s technology Cannabis Sativa has the priors, each in charge of a particular potential to produce many useful products. district. After these came the ordinary Studies of Cannabis and its derivatives propagandists. The lowest degree of the are of great benefit and significance to order comprised the “fida’is”, who stood humans, for reasons including it’s effect ready to execute whatever orders the grand on his/her life and social evolution, it’s master issued. A graphic, though late and stature, it’s structure, it’s place, it’s secondhad, description of the method by life as a plant. which the master of Alamut is said to have These are all important, and without a hypnotized his “self-sacrificing ones” clear comprehension of them we flounder with the use of Hashish has come down to and are lost. We Mullers should look at us from Marco Polo, who passed in that these aspects of this weedy organism for neighborhood in 1271 or 1272. After de- the future of the hemp industry, for its scribing in glowing terms the magnificent return rather than keeping one of our old- garden surrounding the elegant pavilions est multi-economical plants in the dark. and palaces built by the grand master at Alamut, Polo proceeds: “Now no man was allowed to enter the Garden save those whom he intended to be his ASHISHIN. There was a fortress at the entrance to the Garden, strong enough to resist all the world, and there was no other way to get in. He kept at his Court a number of the youths of the country, from twelve to twenty years of age, such as had a taste for soldiering… Then he would introduce them into his Gar- den, some four, or six, or ten at a time, having first made them drink a certain po- tion which cast them into a deep sleep, and then causing them to be lifted and carried in. So when they awoke they found themselves in the Garden. “When therefore they awoke, and found themselves in a place so charming, they

114 Projects. deemed that it was Paradise in very truth. And the ladies and damsels dallied with them to their hearts’ content…” The tale of two Hash- “So when the Old Man would have any prince slain, he would say to such a youth: ‘Go thou and slay So and So; and ish-eaters when thou returnest my Angels shall bear thee into Paradise. And shouldst thou die, natheless even so will I send my Angels to (Traditional) carry thee back into Paradise.’” (from ‘The Book of Ser Marco Polo, the Ve- There was once, my lord and crown upon netian’, translated by Henry Yule, my head, a man in a certain city, who was London, 1875). a fisherman by trade and a Hashish-eater The Assassination in 1092 of the illus- by occupation. When he had earned his trious vizir of the Saljug sultanate, Ni- daily wage, he would spend a little of it zam-al-Mulk, by a fida’i disguised as a on food and the rest on a sufficiency of Sufi, was the first of a series of myste- that hilarious herb. He took his Hashish rious murders which plunged the Muslim three times a day: once in the morning on world into terror. When in the same year an empty stomach, once at noon, and once the Saljug Sultan Malikshah bestirred him- at sundown. Thus he was never lacking in self and sent a disciplinary force against extravagent gaity. Yet he worked hard the fortress, its garrison made a night enough at his fishing, though sometimes in sortie and repelled the besieging army. a very extravagent fashion. On a certain Other attempts by caliphs and sultans evening, for instance, when he had taken a proved equally futile until finally the larger dose of his favorite drug than Mongolian Hulagu, who destroyed the ca- usual, he lit a tallow candle and sat in liphate, seized the fortress in 1256 to- front of it, asking himself eager ques- gether with its subsidary castles in Per- tions and answering with obliging wit. Af- sia. Since the Assassin books andrecords ter some hours of this delight, he became were destroyed, our information about this aware of the cool silence of the night strange and spectacular order is derived about him and the clear light of a full mainly from hostile sources. moon abouve his head, and exclaimed affa- As early as the last years of the elev- bly to himself: “Dear friend, the silent enth century the Assassins had succeeded streets and the cool of the moon invite us in setting firm foot in Syria and winning to a walk. Let us go forth, while all the as convert the Saljug prince of Aleppo, world is in bed and none may mar our soli- Ridwan ibn-Tutush (died in 1113). By 1140 tary exaltation”. Speaking in this way to they had captured the hill fortress of himself, the fisherman left his house and Masyad and many others in northern Syria, began to walk towards the river; but, as including al-Kahf, al-Qadmus and al- he went, he saw the light of the full moon ’Ullayqah. Even Shayzar (modern Sayjar) on lying in the roadway and took it to be the the Orontes was temporarily occupied by water of the river. “My dear old friend the Assassins, whom Usamah calls the fisherman”, he said, “get your line Isma’ilites. One of their most famous mas- and take the best of the fishing, while ters in Syria was Rachid-al-Din Sinan your rivals are indoors”. So he ran back (died in 1192), who resided at Masyad and and fetched his hook and line, and cast bore the title shakkh al-jabal’, trans- into the glittering patch of moonlight on lated by the Crusades’ chroniclers as “the the road. old man of the mountain”. It was Rashid’s Soon an enormous dog, tempted by the henchmen who struck awe and terror into smell of the bait, swallowed the hook the hearts of the Crusaders. After the greedily and then, feeling the barb, made capture of Masyad in 1260 by the Mongols, desperate efforts to get loose. The fish- the Mamluk Sultan Baybars in 1272 dealt erman struggled for some time against this the Syrian Assassins the final blow. Since enormous fish, but at last he was pulled then the Assassins have been sparsely over and rolled into the moonlight. Even scattered through northern Syria, Persia, then he would not let go his line, but ‘Uman, Zanzibar, and especially India, held on grimly, uttering frightened cries. where they number about 150000 and go by “Help, help, good Mussulmans!” he shouted. the name of Thojas or Mowlas. They all ac- “Help me to secure this mighty fish, for knowledge as titular head the Aga Khan of he is dragging me into the deeps! Help, Bombay, who claims descent through the help, good friends, for I am drowning!” last grand master of Alamut from Isma’il, The guards of that quarter ran up at the the seventh imam, receives over a tenth of noise and began laughing at the fisher- the revenues of his followers, even in man’s antics; but when he yelled: “Allah Syria, and spends most of his time as a curse you, O sons of bitches! Is it a time sportsman between Paris and London. to laugh when I am drowning?” they grew angry and, after giving him a sound beat- ing, dragged him into the presence of the kadi. At this point Shahrazad saw the approach of morning and discreetly fell silent. BUT WHEN THE SEVEN-HUNDRED-AND-NINETY- EIGHTH NIGHT HAD COME SHE said: Allah had willed that the kadi should also be addicted to the use of Hashish; recognizing that the prisoner was under that jocund influence, he rated the guards soundly and dismissed them. Then he handed over the fisherman to his slaves that they might give him a bed for calm sleep.

115 Absinthe After a pleasant night and a day given Sultans of this city, I think you had bet- up to the consumption of excellent food, ter henceforth stay with me in my palace. the fisherman was called to the kadi in If you can tell stories, I trust that you the evening and received by him like a will at once sweeten our hearing with a brother. His host supped with him; and chosen one”. “I will do so gladly, as soon then the two sat opposite the lighted can- as you have pardoned my wazir”, replied dles and each swallowed enough Hashish to the fisherman; so the Sultan bade the kadi destroy a hundred-year-old elephant. When rise and sent him back forgiven to his du- the drug exalted their natural disposi- ties. tions, they undressed completely and began to dance about, singing and committing a thousand extravagances. Now it happened that the Sultan and his wazir were walking through the city, disguised as merchants, and heard a strange noise rising from the kadi’s house. They entered through the unlatched door and found two naked men, who stopped dancing at their entrance and welcomed them without the least embarrassment. The Sultan sat down to watch his venerable kadi dance again; but when he saw that the other man had a dark and lively zabb, so long that the eye might not carry to the end of it, he whispered in his wazir’s startled ear: “As Allah lives, our kadi is not as well hung as his guest!” “What are you whisper- ing about?” cried the fisherman. “I am the Sultan of this city and I order you to watch my dance respectfully, otherwise I will have your head cut off. I am the Sul- tan, this is my wazir; I hold the whole world like a fish in the palm of my right hand”. The Sultan and his wazir realized that they were in the presence of two Hashish-eaters, and the wazir, to amuse his master, addressed the fisherman, saying: “How long have you been Sultan, dear master, and can you tell me what has happened to your predecessor?” “I deposed the fellow”, answered the fisherman. “I said: ‘Go Away!’ and he went away”. “Did he not protest?” asked the wazir. “Not at all”, replied the fisherman. “He was delighted to be relased from the burden of kingship. He abdicated with such good grace that I keep him by me as a servant. He is an excellent dancer. When he pines for his throne, I tell him stories. Now I want to piss”. So saying, he lifted up his inter- minable tool and, walking over to the Sul- tan, seemed to be about to discharge upon him. “I also want to piss”, exclaimed the kadi, and took up the same threatening position in front of the wazir. The two victims shouted with laughter and fled from- hat house, crying over their shoulders: “God’s curse on all Hashish-eaters!” Next morning, that the jest might be complete, the Sultan called the kadi and his guest before him. “O discreet pillar of our law”, he said, “I have called you to me because I wish to learn the most convenient manner of pissing. Should one squat and carefully lift the robe, as re- ligion prescribes? Should one stand up, as is the unclean habit of unbelievers? Or should one undress completely and piss against one’s friends, as is the custom of two Hashish-eaters of my acquaintance?” Knowing that the Sultan used to walk about the city in disguise, the kadi realized in a flash the identity of his last night’s visitors, and fell on his knees, crying: “My lord, my lord, the Hashish spake in these indelicacies, not I!” But the fisherman, who by his careful daily taking of the drug was always under its effect, called somewhat sharply: “And what of it? You are in your palace this morning, we were in our palace last night”. “O sweetest noise in all our kingdom”, answered the delighted King, “as we are both

116 Projects. Pete knew that gravel containing limestone should not be used. Pete the Happy LAVA. Lava was a very good medium on its own or in a mix, Pete knew. It is porous, Homegrower holds some water on its surface… By itself, Pete felt it was a bit too dry. One frined of his had mixed 3 to 6 parts of Lava with one part of wet vermiculite. The The following is a work of fiction. While vermiculite had broken up and coated the the following may contain information that lava, creating a medium with excellent wa- may be used in breaking of existing state ter-holding abilities and plenty of air and/or federal laws, I do not encourage or spaces. This had to be watered from the bottom in order not to wash all the ver- advocate the breaking of any state or fed- miculite away. eral saw. Please do not participate in il- PERLITE. Puffed volcanic glass. Peter legal activities. sighed. It was not a bad material, but the (If you do, try not to get shot) dust could harm the lungs and he had not wanted to buy a mask and respirator. 1) Amsterdam Sprouts ROCKWOOL. A friend of Pete’s had told him that he had achieved a phenomenal growth Peter looked at his books. There were a rate using rockwool. It absorbs water like few of them, he would have to make a list a wick, and is convenient to use. It could of them later. The seeds that he had be used in all systems, but Pete thought placed on a plastic tray filled with moist it was most often used for hydroponics. cotton wool had begun to sprout after a SAND. Pete used this to add some weight to few days, and now they were the ideal his planting mixture. It promotes drainage length to plant. and keeps the mix from caking. It came in They were about 1” long maximum, most several grades, and all of them seemed to of them smaller. work. The sand to use was usually quartz. Pete took small drink cups (he had forgot- Peter avoided limestone sand because lime- ten to buy Jiffy pots) filled with damp- stone raised the pH, causing micronutri- ened soil of the same composition as the ents to become unavailable for the plant. final growing pot. He poked his finger Sand also had to be salt-free, Pete knew: about 3cm into the soil and gently placed Salt was bad for your plants. the sprout into the hole, head up, and STYROFOAM PELLETS. Pete’s old chemistry sprinkled soil around it. teacher had called Styrofoam a “hydropho- The seeds had come from the same vari- bic” material: It repelled water and was ety… but it didn’t matter much too him, he an excellent soil mix ingredient. It al- was only a hobby home gardener. The best lowed air spaces to form in the mix and plant would later be singled out to pro- kept the soil from clumping, since it does vide seeds for his next crop. not bond with other materials or itself. But first, he decided to have a closer The only problem was that it was so light look at the earth he was using: that it tended to travel to the surface of the mix. Peter used Styrofoam pieces no 2) The Earth larger than a pea in fine-textured mixes. VERMICULITE. Pete tended to use the larger Peter looked at the bag of potting mix sizes of this material, which is processed that he had bought. It would supply his puffed mice. Mice? Ah, Mica. Vermiculite plants with nutrients for a while, even broke down into smaller particles over though most commercial potting mixes re- time, Pete knew, and the larger ones pro- quired additional nutrients for his hungry vided more aeration. When he had used it, plants. The texture was the primary con- he had wet it before using it to avoid sideration: It had to drain well and allow breathing inthe dust. The book he had just air to enter empty spaces so that the read had included a list of conditioners. roots could breathe oxygen. Too fine a mix A one-part-in-ten mix of cow manure was would make the soil sticky or soggy, pre- excellent and would break down over the venting ventilation and promoting the growing season. Chicken manure was very growth of harmful bacteria. fast-acting, and Pete used a one-in-20 He squeezed a clump of his potting mix: mix. Blood meal, dried blood, worm cast- Perfect. If formed a clump when squeezed, ings, guano and even hair and feathers and the clod broke up with a slight poke. were included in that book… he would have The last time, the clod had stayed to- to have another good read of it later. gether and he had added soil conditioners. Ah, the miracle of Life. Peter sighed He had also used some natural soil, and took another deep drag on his hand- which he had had to sterilise. This had rolled cigarette. The sun was the best been done by placing it in the microwave light for plants, but his shaggy apartment until steaming. Anaerobic bacteria might had no large windows and not even a bal- have harmed the roots of his plant, and cony, and certainly no garden. His few the many insect eggs in the soil had been plants were in a back part of the cellar. microwaved away. (The microwaving had As he went down, carrying lamps and foil, taken 5 minutes on high for a microwave- he could hear a helicopter circling safe container full of earth). nearby, and praised the Law Enforcement The components he had used in previous Agencies who kept dangerous criminals at mixes were: bay. FOAM. It holds water trapped between its He had heard of thugs with rifles, dogs open cells, but also holds air. He had and bulletproof vests, who had shot people used pea-sized pieces of foam once, in- and harrassed them because of a small herb stead of styrofoam. garden. “Murderers”, he thought, and was GRAVEL. In his hydroponics system, only glad that the friendly police force was gravel was used: Easy to clean, doesn’t always ready to help and protect the citi- wear out, does not lock up nutrients, zens of this country. “To serve and pro- doesn’t cost much. It creates large spaces for air pockets and gices the mix weight.

117 Absinthe tect”! He started whistling his national darkness become longer, a certain hormone hymn as he went down the stairs. level builds up and the vegetative growth stops - and flowering begins. Different 3) Can You See The Light? varieties of the same species of plant would need different amounts of The garden was a small section of the light/darkness to flower. cellar. The walls had been painted white, For this purpose, he had an automatic which was a very reflective colour and switch that he could adjust to turn the worked about as well as aluminum foil. light on and off. Heavy foil, hung in vertical strips, He would let the plants grow under 18- sealed the area off and reflected light 24 hours of light for the first period, he back towards his baby tomatoes. thought. Say, 18 hours of light a day for Light requirements varied with the vri- 3 1/2 months. Then, 12 hours a day for a ety of plants. During the growth period, while, to create autumn, and 1 1/2 months 1000 - 1500 lumen per sq ft would do, al- later his plants should be flowering. The though the plants could use as much as full period of flowering might take as 3000 lumen/sq ft effectively. The equato- long as two months. rial varieties tended to need brighter A friend had claimed that days short- light. During flowering, the various ened to 9 hours a day of light had brought plnats would need between 2000 (the indian plants to flower within 6 weeks of germi- variety) and 5000 (equatorial) lumens. nation… they had been rather small though, Peter set his camera for ASA 100 and all flower and not much of that either. the shutter for 1/60 second, with a 50mm The cutback from 18 (or more) to, say, (‘normal’) lens. He then set the f-stop, 12 hours a day had been quite aprupt, Pete using the manual mode, and looked at the thought. He marvelled at the ingenuity of chart. the plant, who had responded to the new regimen without any problems., without 1/60 second, ASA 100 showing signs of shock or unusual growth. After a month of flowering, he usually set F-Stop Footcandles the daylight period to be another hour shorter, especially in equatorial plants. f.4 64 Also, Peter usually removed male flow- f.5.6 125 ers immediately… The female tomato flower f.8 250 tasted much nicer in his herb tea. The de- f.11 500 sexing was done carefully, as even the fe- f.16 1000 male sometimes grew male flowers. One f.22 2000 plant would be set aside - the healthiest one - and its flowers dusted with pollen 1/125 second, ASA 100 to make seeds. Peter checked the thermometer. Moder- ate, that was OK. Although the plant could F-Stop Footcandles withstand hot weahter and cool climates, f.4 128 it grew best between 60 and 85 degrees. f.5.6 250 Strong light and low temperatures seemed f.8 500 to make the plant smaller, while moderate f.11 1000 light and high temperatures seemed to make f.16 2000 it higher. Peter had installed a fan to f.22 4000 provide his plants with CO2 and to keep the temperature down. The fan was operated Incandescent bulbs and quartz halogen by a timer switch: 10 minutes every hour. lights were too inefficient to provide End of Story. The previous story was enough light - Pete recalled having read purely a work of fiction. that they only convert around 10% of the Knowledge about gardening should be vail- energy to light. Peter was on a low budget able to the general public freely. I do and could not afford professional growing not encourage or advocate the breaking of lamps, so he used fluorescents. any laws, state or federal, however out- They were easy to set up, were 3 to 4 dated and stupid they may be. times as effective as incandescents, and his plants grew well under them. Bibliography: A minimum of 20 watts of fluorescent light per square foot would • M*r*j**n* Growers handbook, Indoor- be necessary, Pete had read somewhere, and Greenhouse edition. Ed Rosenthal. Aus- he knew that the more light his plants tralian Edition published by AGUNG would receive, the faster and bushier they TRADING (Australia) Pty. Ltd., PO Box would grow. Light also improved the tomato 194, Condell Park NSW 2200, Australia. buds, making them heavier and more devel- ISBN 0-932551-00-9 (Almost all the oped. For each foot of width of his gar- background for the short tory came from den, he would use two fluorescent tubes. here) Ed Rosenthal writes for “High He had achieved the best results by using Times”: Ed Rosenthal, High Times, 211 a mixture of tubes with various shades of East 43rd Street, New York 10017. white light. The light was fixed to a mov- able bar that could be lowered, and he had I did not receive permission to use carefully mounted reflectors. More fluo- quotes from the book, so _PLEASE_ go and rescents were mounted on the walls for buy it. It’s worth it. side-lighting. He had read about metal halide and so- • Australian Handbook for Indoor Growing dium vapor lamps… maybe sometime, when he of M*r*j**n*,published by Doug Wake- had more experience. field, PO Box 214, Lane Cove, NSW There were plants, he had read, that 2066,Australia. measured the amount of daylight per day in order to ‘know’ the season, thus determining when to flower. As the periods of

118 Projects. This booklet is very comprehensive and shouldbe OK for the beginner. It costs around $10 (including postage). A Tale of Two Gardens

by Ed Rosenthal Part 1

Liz started a garden to keep herself supplied with primo buds. She wanted an efficient low care system which would produce high quality buds without much effort. Since she did not have a lot of space to spare, Liz emptied a closet and prepared it to serve as a garden. She painted the 4’x4’x7’ closet flat white and installed a heavy plastic tarp on the floor to prevent water spillage. She hung a 400-watt high pressure sodium (HPS) lamp from a hook in the ceiling with a chain so it was adjustable. A 20 lb. CO2 tank and short interval timer were placed in the chamber to inject the gas into it. A hole was made in the wall to vent an exhaust fan connected to a thermostate- humidostat. This was designed to keep the room termperature in the 70s and the humidity in the 50s. An oscillating fan was placed in the room to keep the air Circulating. (a negative-ion generator was used to control odor). Now it was time to start the seeds. Small rockwool cubes were placed in a tray and watered with a dilute solution of hydroponic vegetative growth stage fertilizer. The tray was drained of water so that only 1/4” - 1/2” layer remained. A seed and a label were poked 3/8” deep into each cube. The cubes were kept moist. The seeds, descendants of several varieties of Dutch seed, germinated in a few days and were ready for transplanting nine days later. The seeds were transplanted into round 6” diameter containers filled with pebble- sized crushed lava rock. The rock absorbs water and transports it through capillary action, much as a tissue moves water. Six containers were placed in each tray. An aerator was placed on the bottom of each of the five trays. Each aerator was attached to a gang valve which in turn was connected to a single small aquarium pump. The containers were watered from the top with a full-strength vegetative growth stage nutrient/water solution. About two to three inches of water was left in each tray for the lava to draw up, much like a wick. When the water level went down in the tray, unfertilized water was added.

Part 2

Last month, Liz transplanted into 6- inch containers. Liz’s closet garden took off. In 30 days, the plants were 18” tall and growing very rapidly. Liz changed the fertilizer solution in the trays every 10 days and kept the light about two feet above the plants. She made sure that the water level in the trays was maintained at about two inches. During the month that she was away from the garden for a three and a four day stretch. Though the water level in the trays had dropped a bit when she returned, the plants were

119 Absinthe still healthy and doing fine. The plants inches. the five-parts-lava-one-part- looked vigorous and showed no signs of de- vermiculite mix stays moist through capil- ficiencies. lary action, but has large air spaces, so Shortly after these pictures were taken the roots always have oxygen. The water (sorry no pics), Liz turned the lights itself is aerated with a small fish-tank back to 12 hours to induce flowering. air pump. Roots have been growing out of the containers into the water trays. They Part 3 look healthy and white. The clones, which were started last Liz’s garden was in mid-flower. The month, are now rooted, ready to be trans- buds were swelling and creating their planted into the garden. They have been characteristic definition. The Early Pearl growing in a tray filled with water. They and Northern Lights bids grew along main are supported by a styrofoam divider sal- branches, developing their configurations, vaged from a vegetable box. The water is then swelling out. The Skunks were matur- kept at 75 degrees F. using a fish-tank ing slower, their buds growing large on thermostat-heater. the primary branches. The plants looked healthy with no sign Part 5 of deficiency. They were growing fast and vigorously. The system continued working Liz has harvested all of the plants in without a hitch. Liz added water to the the garden, yielding between 6 and 8 trays as needed to keep a level between 1 ounces. She likes all of the plants, but and 2 inches. The fertilizer solution was especially the NL-Skunk crosses. changed in each tray every ten days. Liz now has three growing areas. Her Liz changed over to flowering fertil- largest space, is the 4’ x 4’ flower room. izer when she turned the lights down to 12 Underneath this garden, she has built a hours. Still, the plants showed no signs small vegetative growth space which can of lack of nitrogen (N). handle either clones or plants which are Because of scheduling problems, Liz was less than 8” tall. It is lit using unable to take cuttings off the plants un- flourescent lights. This space is not be- til two weeks after turning the lights ing used right now, but will be soon. down. After taking the cuttings she placed There are only a few clones left in the them in the refridgerator for a few days rooting chambers. The rest of them have until she had time to work on them. been potted and placed in the flowering From bottom up, her cloning kit con- room, where they are being given constant sisted of: light. (*)A small heating mat (sold in nurseries) Some of the plants which were harvested over the wooden bookshelf A plastic tray are also in the room. Most of the buds about three inches deep, filled with water have been picked off them, leaving only (*)An aerator sitting at the bottom of the leaves on a stem no higher than 12”. The tray hooked to a pump plants are expected to revert to vegeta- (*)And an almost flat styrofoam plate sal- tive cycle and then will be reflowered. vaged from a fruit carton. The lighting cycle will be cut back to the (The plastic tray had melted into the mat flowering cycle of 12-on/12-off within a a little, so it was replaced with a glass few weeks. tray). The clones were cut from the bottom of Part 6 the plants. Liz trimmed them to about 2 1/2”-3”, leaving only a few leaves at the All three of Liz’s gardens are being top. She punched holes with a pencil and used now. The rooting section, the stage inserted the cuttings. The styrofoam held two vegetative growth section and the the clones in place. The water-nutrient flowering section have healthy plants. solution contained flowering fertilizer at The rooting section consists of a glass 1/4-strength and Olivia’s rooting solution baking dish filled with water slightly en- (a brand name). The heating mat kept the riched with high phosphorous fertilizer. water in the tray at a constant warmth, in Styrofoam forms the float on the water, the low to mid-’70s. The aerator insured holding the clones in place. The water is adequate supplies of oxygen to the stems. aerated using a fish-tank pump and aerator The flowering fertilizer was used to limit unit. To promote rooting, the water is leaf growth and help stimulate root kept between 70-75 degrees F. using a growth. plant heating mat. The second stage garden is where the Part 4 rooted clones are fattened up before flowering. The space is lit by flourescents Liz transplanted the seedlings to 6” and allows the plants to get about a foot pots about 90 days ago. Now half the gar- tall. den has been harvested. The Early Pearls The plants in Liz’s main garden, where and some Northern Lights have blossomed, flowering takes place, are in early flow- ripened, and been cut. This leaves some NL ering and filling out. Most of these crosses, the Skunks, and Hash plant. Hash plants have already flowered once. After plant seems to be having a hard time flow- removing the buds from the plants, Liz let ering and probably needs a shorter light them go into a vegetative cycle by running period. the lights continuously. After a few weeks The glands have filled with resin caus- the flowereing cycle regimen of 12 hours ing the buds to floresce. New pistil light/12 hours darkness was reinstated. growth has stopped. The fan leaves are When plants are reflowered they tend to yellowing and dying, leaving the maturing be very bushy. To eliminate small branches buds naked. crowding the area, most are clipped off. The tray and pot system worked ex- Liz let most of the branches grow. As a tremely well. Liz now changes the water result she has hundreds of flowering sites every two weeks and adds water as needed on each plant, but they are much smaller to keep the level at between one to two than they would be with fewer branches.

120 Projects. Liz is away, so she has placed “water fountains” in her garden to make sure that the plants do not go dry. The reservoirs Smoking Etiquette are designed to keep the water level at two inches. The water is stored in a 2- liter plastic soda bottle and travels through a small tube directly into the [the unchecked version] tray. 1. the person who rolls the joint (no matter whose weed it is) gets to spark up the joint and get first hits… 2. if someone rolls a nice joint, its good to give the person a complement on his rolling skills… 3. if someone starts bogarting the bowl and starts using the excuse that its okay for him to bogart it since it’s his weed, this is definetely not cool. The punishment depends on the quality of the weed and how much he put in. (if it was real crappy and he was real cheap with it, then you bug on the person and rag on him 4. if someone is too palsy to light the bowl (due to being too stoned or the person is just a retard :-) then they must relinquish contorl of the lighter to someone more able to get it lit. This does NOT mean the person who lights gets free hits… this priveleige tends to get abused (“hey lemme light it for you.”.) 5. if someone is so much of a palsy that they blow INTO thebowl and blow all the shit on the floor, this person must be ragged on and the person cant smoke on the next round (unless it was his stuff) 6. if you smoke with someone in your house, you should let them eat some munchy food you may have lying around. don’t be cheap withyou food if you have food… 7. if someone who’se smoked asks for a sip of your soda, you must give him some. (drymouth is not fun) 8. converse of (7): if you ask for a sip, don’t take a large gulp 9. if smoking froma bong or a joint, never put the whole thing in your mouth and get it all sopping wet. its disgusting and it messed up the joint. 10.if your smoking from a bong and these not enough in thebowl for a whole other hit, you should save the smoke in the chamber for the next person.(dont let go of the rushhold or ‘carb’ and take it all yourself) 11.never bogart 12.never bitch about someone else’s weed being no good! If you don’t like it don’t smoke it! 13.if a friend gets you high sometime in the future you need to get that friend high 14.Thou shalt not turn down a smoke. Never! 15.phrased in the form of a narrative: 16.OK. My buddy and I are sitting around smoking the weed that I just scored. After flaming-up, and taking a few moderate puffs, I pass it on. The sounds that follow can only be described as vacuum-like. After an a couple of huge, lung-busting tokes, the guy passes back the remnants of something that could have, at some point, been a joint. If it’s not completely “canoed”, then it’s absolutely soaked. I not-so-subtly drop that old Cheech&Chong line “Hey man, can I wring it out for you?” He just looks at me. 17.I have noticed the following: After smoking-up, the odd “crass-monkey” will

121 Absinthe actually eat the stained, disgusting roach. This must be because they want that “extra bit” of oil, resin, or “Oops! Sorry, wrong whatever’s left on the paper. This situation can be compared to the patron of a good restaurant picking up his “as house!” good as empty” plate and licking off the remaining morsels of food. Sure he got that little pool of gravy, but was The following stories, culled from various it really worth it? newspapers, magazines, and press wires, 18.If you buy weed from a friend or a show some brilliant examples of drug en- friend of a friend, it is polite to forcement intelligence at its best. If you roll a joint, (a small one, if you wish) and smoke with the person who have articles about any other bungled drug sells you the stuff. raids, please send the to [email protected] 19.It is very impolite to hand someone an so they can be included! empty bowl, without notifying that person of it’s possible cashedness. A Drug raid at wrong slo house leaves woman proper warning would be ‘Here ya go…I ‘shaken’ think it might be cashed. 20.The person who fills the bowl is given by Gary Taylor the opportunity to take the first hit. San Luis Obispo County Telegram Tribune It doesn’t matter who’s bowl it is. October 26, 1990 21.Always remember to thank a person who has gotten you high. I know it sounds SAN LUIS - County narcotics agents terri- silly, but I know people who never say fied an innocent San Luis Obispo woman thanks and it gets a littly annoying. last Friday when they broke down the door 22.The person who brought the bud picks of the worng house during an aborted drug the music. raid. The woman, who was home alone at the 23.When using a bong, don’t slobber all time trying on clothes, asked not to be over it. identified. She said the botched raid left 24.Again, when using a bong, DON’T blow her “terribly shaken”. I was in tears”, out the ashes, unless that’s what the she said, recalling the 1:30 p.m. raid. “I “homeowner” does. was standing in my bedroom, surrounded by 25.NEVER go to someone’s house EXPECTING all these men pointing their guns all them to catch you a buzz. Of course, around the room, telling me they had a there are exceptions to this rule… search warrant, asking who I was. “I was 26.If you spill the bong, clean it up! so scared. It was kind of like a con- (And don’t forget to put water back in trolled terror”. “We thought we had the it!!) right house but we didn’t”, said Jim Christian of the county Narcotics Task Roach rules Force. “We apologized for the mistake”. Christian said agents were looking for Mi- When the roach gets too small, if someone chael Johnson, a 44-year-old Cal Poly eco- has a problem with it, it is common nomics lecturer. Johnson was later ar- curtesy here to put the roach in a bowl rested by the agents on suspicion of and finish it that way. that way the peo- posession of cocaine and posessing cocaine ple who don’t mind burjing their fingers for sale. Johnson lives at 1379 Sidney St. dont get it all. in San Luis Obispo, Christian said. That’s where the search warrant was supposed to Hmm, among everyone i know who used to be served, he said. But -- following what smoke the stuff, there was a tradition of turned out to be a bad tip -- agents ended roller’s privellege. whoever rolled the up at another house with a different ad- joint, got to light it and take the first dress in the same neighborhood. puff. then it just got passed on. great “That’s the address we had”, Christian fun when several were started at once and said. “We obtained a search warrant for someone passed it the opposite direction the address. But the tip was wrong”. The to the others after lighting it…. woman was not even remotely connected to any drug investigation. She said she Around here, if the group is smoking out didn’t have any idea the agents were act- of a bowl (e.g. pipe or bong), the packer ing on a bum tip when they smashed down of the bowl (and usually the owner of the her front door. She said she was upstairs bag) gives it to the next person to spark in her bedroom trying on clothes when she up. However, if someone rolls a joint heard someone pounding on her front door. (again, usu. the owner of the bag), that Within seconds, the door had been kicked person gets to spark it up. (I guess be- in and six narcotics agents, guns drawn, cause it takes more effort to roll a were inside her home, shouting they had a joint, and they “deserve(?)” to light up search warrant. “I was absolutely terri- the masterpiece). fied”, said the woman, a wife and mother. She said once agents confronted her in her I always thought that if you were buying bedroom, they told her they were going to from a FOAF, it was polite for them to look around. Clutching a robe in front of roll a joint and smoke it with you before her, she told them they could “look around you buy, kind of like a sample. all they wanted”. “I told them it was just me, two dogs and a rabbit” inside the house, she said. Her husband was at work. After a few minutes, as agents searched through the home, one of the men noticed she was holding a robe in front of her and told her to put some clothes on, she remembered. “I wasn’t even really conscious of not being (completely) dressed at that point, I was so scared”, she said. Fi-

122 Projects. nally, after about 20 minutes of searching “I want to see your search warrant”, he and dozens of questions (“It seemed like told the officer. “I want to see a search an eternity”, she said) the agents began warrant. Now!” “He told me to sit down in to realize there was something wrong, the the family room or he would handcuff me”, woman said. “They told me they were look- he said yesterday. “We never did see a ing for this man, and they had information search warrant”. All the while, Rosemary that cocaine had been bought and sold at Ford was holding the telephone, still con- this address”, she said. “They said they nected to the 911 emergency line. were sorry that (the raid) had happened. “I said (to the officers) what are you They said these things usually don’t hap- doing here?” Rosemary remembered. “You ob- pen”. The agents also told her they were viously have the wrong house. I was wor- sorry they had busted through her front ried Bob was going to have a heart at- door and offered to pay for the damage, tack”. From the other end of the house, in she said. By the time the agents left, the Rosemary’s studio where she paints, the woman said she was “literally exhausted”. couple heard an officer loudly say, “My “When all this happened, I had been God, we have the wrong house”. trying on clothes because my husband and I Apparently, the 911 dispatchers had had plans to go dancing in San Luis Obispo contacted the La Mesa police headquarters at The Graduate for `Big Chill Night,’” while the raid was in progress, learned she said. “But after what happened, I felt the officers were in the wrong place, and physically sick, you know. Drained. I radioed an officer who had a walkie-talkie didn’t want to go out”. One of the agents strapped to his belt while in the Ford’s came back a couple of hours later, she home. The dispatcher told the officer the said, to apologize again for the mistaken bad news. The officers meant to raid a raid and to make sure she forwarded the house one block away where they believed bill for fixing her front door to the Nar- illegal drug activity was underway. Police cotics Task Force. “They were much nicer later apologized for the error. the second time around”, she said. Now, a La Mesa Mayor Art Madrid went to the week after the incident, the task force’s Ford’s home to express his sorrow. Within Christain said the foul-up “obviously two weeks, more than $2,500 in repairs to isn’t normal for us”. “These things do the Ford’s gate and door were completed. happen, and we have apologized”, he said. But the Ford’s maintain the apology “All I can say is these things don’t hap- doesn’t make up for the terror they expen very often”. For her part, the woman perienced during those 10 minutes on Jan. said she’s still shaken by the whole 27. “Near the beginning, when they were thing. “I’ve always been very pro-law en- breaking down the gate, I heard them say forcement”, she said. “That hasn’t something about police”, Rosemary Ford changed. The police and the narcotics peo- said. But there was no reason in the world ple have a job to do”. “But what happened the police would be acting like that at has really opened my eyes. I just don’t our house. We thought it was a ruse”. understand how something like this could Last month the Ford’s filed a claim happen. How could they get the wrong asking that the city pay them $25,000 for house? the “extreme emotional distress” caused by Everything I went through -- it was all so the incident. The city has rejected the personal. I was scared for my life. It was claim. The Ford’s have hired an attorney a very traumatic thing”. who plans on filing a lawsuit. The attorney was on vacation yesterday and could “Apology Doesn’t Make It: not be reached for comment. Police offi- Couple’s Home Raided by Police With Wrong cials referred all questions to Cynthia Address” Seelhammer, management analyst for La Mesa. She said yesterday because of the By Harry Jones pending litigation, little can be said San Diego Union-Tribune, about the case. Seelhammer doesn’t know Sat. 18 April 92 how the mistake was made. She did, however, emphasize how quickly the city re- LA MESA - Rosemary Ford thought “a maraud- paired the Ford’s property. “The fact that ing gang, probably high on drugs”, they turned it around so quickly is im- was breaking down her front door, intent pressive”, she said. “I’ve never been to a on murdering her and her husband. The in- place where they care so much for their truders had smashed through the locked citizenry”. wrought iron gate in front of the Ford’s home and were pounding on the front door “Cops were at fault in busting up home” with a battering ram. The noise was deaf- ening, Rosemary and Bob Ford felt terror- [Letter to the editor was ized. Rosemary Ford, 72, called 911, tell- written about this story] ing dispatchers to “send police as fast as you can”. Seconds later, three La Mesa po- Marie Hilley’s letter (April 25) con- lice officers burst through the shattered cerning the lawsuit filed by Mr. and Mrs. front door. “It was a nightmare beyond be- Bob Ford (“Couple says cop apology not lief”, Ford said yesterday. “Terror beyond enough”, April 18) raises some good points explanation. We thought a gang was coming about societys’ value system, especially to get us”. A tall, young police officer concerning the police and crime. Why were yelled “La Mesa police - back off”. He or- the Ford’s afraid? They should know that, dered the couple to sit down. The other these days, only the police gang up to two officers, dressed in bright orange smash through gates, batter down doors, vests, began running through the house. manhandle innocent people and bust up “We could hear them opening and closing homes. Of course, the Fords are older and drawers and closets”, Rosemary said. Bob might still believe in those archaic con- Ford, 77, a retired educator who has lived cepts like “innocent until proven guilty” with his wife in their home in the 7800 or “due process”. block of Highgate Lane since 1968, The Fords should watch the TV program couldn’t believe what was going on. “Cops”. Then they would know that cops need fulfillment in their jobs. What’s

123 Absinthe more fun and fulfilling than terrorizing But although District Attorney Michael and humiliating innocent people and de- Bradbury said the raid was unjustified and stroying their possessions? The Fords “the officers should not have been on definitely have it backwards -- wanting Scott’s property, “ the shooting itself compensation from the police. The poor was ruled justifiable self-defense. cops did some of their best work at the Investigators said the raid was moti- Fords’ house and didn’t even seize any vated, at least in part, by a desire to “booty”. Don’t the Fords realize that with seize Scott’s ranch under federal drug the new “asset forfeiture” powers, being forfeiture laws. The 200-acre Trails End “innocent” is not enough; that “suspicion” ranch is worth approximately $5 million. is all the police need? Authorities said they believed a sig- The fact that the Fords demanded a nificant Marijuana growing operation was search warrant and were upset is “suspi- housed at the ranch. No trace of drugs was cious”. found. The report concludes that a Los Angeles T. O., Vista County sheriff’s deputy shot Scott in self-defense, but the deputy should not Former NASA Official Mistakenly Arrested have been on the remote ranch in the first for Drug Offense place. Authorities said when Deputy Gary Fri, 7 Aug 92 20:10:19 GMT Spencer ordered Scott to lower his gun from over his head, the gun came down in HOUSTON (AP) _ A former NASA security and the direction of the deputy, causing him protocol officer spent 30 hours in jail to fear for his life. He said there was no before authorities realized they had ar- evidence to disprove Spencer’s story. rested the wrong man, officials said. Ed- The report concluded the search warrant ward Smith Barker, 62, said Thursday he authorizing the raid was invalid because was subjected to “incredible indignities”, there were material misstatments or false including a strip search and shackles, af- statements in the affidavit, which was ter he was arrested as a drug suspect. prepared by Spencer. “This is madness,” he said. “This can hap- Scott was a playboy fixture on the Hol- pen to anybody. It can happen to you to- lywood party scene until he dropped out night.” “We’re terribly sorry,” Assistant about 20 years ago and spent the rest of U.S. Attorney Bernard E. Hobson said his life at the ranch. Thursday. “More sorry than you can imag- His family is suing for $200 million. ine.” Barker was arrested at his home July 29 by federal marshals in Houston who were Untitled looking for an Edward Benton Barker wanted by Louisiana authorities, according to The Date: Tue Mar 29 1994 Houston Post and Houston Chronicle. Hobson said the marshals acted after re- BOSTON (Reuter) - Boston police, seeking ceiving a driver’s license photo or a copy to calm a shocked black community, vowed of the license from federal authorities in Monday to conduct a full investigation Louisiana. into a bungled police drug raid which re- Hobson could not explain how authori- sulted in the death of a retired Methodist ties in Louisiana had obtained access to minister last week. The Rev. Accelynne Barker’s Texas driver’s license, but said Williams, 75, died of heart failure Friday his office plans to investigate. when a heavily armed 13-member police SWAT Joel Androphy, Barker’s attorney, said au- team, acting on a tip from an informant, thorities in Houston learned of Barker’s burst through the door of his apartment in whereabouts from the phone book and ob- Boston’s drug-ridden Dorchester neighbor- tained a driver’s license photo from the hood. The police chased the elderly former Texas Department of Public Safety. Barker, minister through his apartment into the who is retired, was released on a $25,000 bathroom, threw him face down on the floor personal recognizance bond July 30. He and handcuffed him. said he had to use all his savings to Authorities said later the frightened fight the legal action. victim began vomiting, had difficulty Even after he signed the bond papers, breathing and died 45 minutes later of a he said, he was sent back to the jail for heart attack after being rushed to a hos- about six hours to be processed. “My crime pital. is being in the phone book and having a Police Commissioner Paul Evans who, to- driver’s license,” Barker said. gether with Mayor Thomas Menino, spent the weekend publicly apologizing for Williams’ D.A. Says Drug Raid Lacked Legal death, pledged a complete investigation of Justification the incident, saying it would be made public within two weeks. “We have a lot of United Press International ‘hows’ and ‘whys’ and ‘what happeneds’ and 3/30/93 that’s part of the ongoing investigation that’s being conducted now,” Evans told a VENTURA, Calif. (UPI) -- Investigators news conference at police headquarters said Tuesday drug officers who shot and Monday. “What I’m asking for is a complete killed a reclusive millionaire had no le- and thorough investigation on my desk gal right to raid his secluded Malibu area within two weeks.” Police said a number of ranch and were inspired in part by their officers had been reassigned after taking desire to confiscate the $5 million prop- part in the raid, including six in the en- erty. try team which stormed into Williams’ The Ventura County District Attorney’s apartment. An additional seven officers, Office released a report saying there was including members of the police drug con- no legal justification for the raid that trol unit, have been placed on desk duty. ended with a deputy shooting Donald Scott, Local news media reported that the fa- 61, Oct. 2, 1992. tal mistake may have occurred after an informant gave police the address of an alleged drug dealer, but the SWAT team

124 Projects. stormed the wrong apartment in the build- one was trying to break in, he grabbed a ing. “One of the problems of this case may revolver and shot twice at the door to have been the misidentification of (the scare off what he thought were intruders. place of) arrests,” Evans told reporters. Agents then broke in and shot him as he Police said the informant, who has not fled into his bedroom. The wounds left him been identified, had provided confidential hospitalized in intensive care for six information five times in the past that weeks and he still suffers from lung dam- led to arrests and seizures of weapons and age, he said. The agreement calls for drugs. But Evans and other officials said $250,000 of the settlement to be set aside the informant remains the focus of the po- to cover future medical costs. lice probe into the botched raid. No one has been arrested in connection with the orginal drug case that led to the raid. Police have suggested that Williams may have exacerbated the situation by panick- ing and running from the entry team into his bathroom. “In our policy it does in fact say not to handcuff, children, handicapped people or the elderly unless it appears they are resisting,” said Sergeant Robert O’Toole, who once trained entry team members. The death of the quiet, scholarly Wil- liams, who was black, has touched off a storm of condemnation by black community leaders, and Menino and Evans were to meet with community leaders Monday night to try and assuage the anger. “The mayor and police comissioner have not been hunkered down,” said a Codman Square Neighborhood Council spokeswoman, who would not give her name. “They are keeping the community informed, and we want to keep that process going.” “People basically are stunned at this turn of events,” the council spokeswoman said. “The community needs a chance to voice its concerns.” Community leaders said it was ironic that Williams, who spent much of his career as a minister in the Caribbean and preached against the evils of drug abuse, should have been claimed as a victim in the city’s war against drugs. They said, however, that they were willing to await the outcome of the police investigation. “I’m saying the harm has already been done. There’s no harm in seeing what they can do,” said Louis Elisa, local head of the National Association for the Advance- ment of Colored People (NAACP). The Boston Globe reported that Wil- liams’ family may sue the city and police officers involved in the raid on the grounds that Williams’ Fourth Amendment protection against illegal search may have been violated.

Untitled

Date: December 15, 1994

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (Reuter) - A 47-year-old computer executive who was shot in the back during a botched drug raid on his home by federal agents will receive a $2.75 million settlement from the federal government. The victim, Donald Carlson, was living in the San Diego suburb of Po- way when agents from the U.S. Customs Ser- vice and the Drug Enforcement Administra- tion, believing he was hiding a cache of drugs, burst into his home in August, 1992. Agents blamed the raid on a bogus tip from a government informant who was later found guilty of lying to the government. Carlson sued the agencies but agreed to drop the lawsuit Wednesday, after a hearing in U.S. District Court, in return for the settlement, a court spokesman said. According to Carlson’s lawsuit, he was awakened by noise outside his home and pounding on the front door. Thinking some-

125 Absinthe Quotable Quotes Smokin’ Slang

“When injustice becomes law resistance be- The Marijuana smoking subculture has a comes duty” language of it’s own. The Plantem. Can you talk the talk?

“To think that a man should be allowed a Bong, Billy: Water pipe. gun and not a drug” Brekky Bong: To smoke upon waking. Alexander Trocchi. Bucket Bong: Water pipe made from a bucket and plastic bottle. “…And God said, Behold I have given you Bust: To be discovered and/or prosecuted every herb bearing seed which is upon the as a Cannabis user. face of all the Earth: to you it shall be Cone, Bowl: The part of the smoking imple- for meat” ment that contains the herb. Genesis ( the Bible) 1:29. Crud Hash: Resin collected from the stem of a smoking implement. “To everything there is a season and a Deal: A Cannabis purchase. time to every purpose under heaven. A time to be born, a time to die, a time to Dope: Cannabis. plant, and a time to pluck up that which Downer: Bad vibe, leader of0 the Liberal is planted” Party. Ecclestiastes 3:1-2. Dry Horrors: When the mouth and throat become irritably dry. “The greatest service that can be rendered Dutch Oven, Dutchie: An enclosed area to any country is to add a useful plant to filled with Cannabis smoke. its culture” Foil: A Cannabis purchase wrapped in foil, Thomas Jefferson. 2 to 4 grams. G: A gram of Cannabis. “Make the most of the Indian Hemp seed and Ganja, Grass, Green: Cannabis. sow it everywhere” Half: Half an ounce. George Washington. Hash: A potent form of Cannabis made from the resin. “To be Just without being mad (and the Happy Herb: Cannabis. madder you get, the madder you get), to be High, Stoned, Wasted: One who is inebri- peaceful without being stupid, to be in- ated from smoking Cannabis. terested without being compulsive, to be J, Joint: A Cannabis cigarette. happy without being hysterical… smoke Kiff: Usually what is left after the plant grass!” has been harvested. Ken Kesey. Marijuana: Mexican slang for the potent Cannabis plant. “The two Commandments for the Molecular Mix: A combination of Cannabis and another Age: herb. 1. Thou shalt not alter the consciousness Mull: To chop up one’s Cannabis for easier of thy fellow men. packing. 2. Thou shalt not prevent thy fellow man Munchies: To become hungry while stoned, from altering his own consciousness” usually for snack foods. Tim Leary. Pack: To fill the smoking implement with Cannabis. “The lethal dose of Cannabis is a 2 kilo Packer: One who packs cones. block dropped on your head from the twenty-fifth floor of a high-rise build- Pipe: A small smoking implement. ing” Pot: Cannabis. ? Pull: To suck on a smoking implement. Q: A quarter ounce of Cannabis. “I didn’t like it and I didn’t inhale and Roach: The butt of a Cannabis cigarette. I never tried it again” Score: To obtain any quantity of Cannabis. Bill Clinton, 1992. Shotty: Small hole through which the stale smoke is pulled. “Penalties against possession of a drug Shot Gunning: To exhale smoke into an- should not be more damaging to an individ- other’s mouth. ual than the drug itself” Sinse: Sinsemella, potent Cannabis from an Jimmy Carter, 1977. unfertilized female plant. Skunk: Extremely potent strain of Canna- “Let’s get our heads together and build a bis. movement to end prohibition and get on Smoke: Cannabis. with saving the world!” Stash: One’s personal store of Cannabis. H.E.M.P. Stoner: A person that enjoys smoking Can- nabis. Toke: To inhale Cannabis smoke. Tripper: One who is extremely bizarre. Vibe: Feeling or mood. Vols: To become paranoid about the volume of one’s voice. Wacky Weed: Cannabis.

126 Projects

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129 Absinthe

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Blender Vaporizor

132 Projects.

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