I had grown tired of writing a month or two back. Maybe not tired of it, but definitely needing some inspiration. So off I went to the internet to see what was new and exciting in the world of Medical Cannabis. I found two rather new books that certainly gave me what I was looking for, and one I didn’t even know I needed to read. These first two books are definite “must read” books for any marijuana advocates because they are filled with well referenced facts on marijuana, medical uses, recreation and the War on Drugs in America. Here’s what I found:
Smoke Signals – Martin A. Lee
I decided to start with this one first, for no special reason. Smoke Signals is by far the best book I have ever read on the social history of cannabis. It starts off with the history of cannabis use noting all the known archeological evidence, and comes right up to the present. The research is unrivaled and the documentation of facts and sources goes well beyond anything I have read in the past. I didn’t come to the table without any knowledge on the subject, but holy cow – this man did his research and I now have a virtual library of references to all things cannabis history in one book – things I had only read about before but didn’t have references to. I had to read it in doses because my emotions were all over the place. Even though I grew up with the American War on Drugs, and basically knew the crap our government pulled, and the money that was spent, I had never seen this part of our history as “the whole picture”. It was compelling, sad, victorious and left me feeling good about the future but ashamed of our government’s failure to tell the truth, even now. I learned the origins of the legalization movement, the individuals, the origins of the current anti-prohibition groups and lobbyists, and so much more, in great detail. If you want the truth, and everything that goes with it including the emotional roller coaster ride, this book is a must read.
If you aren’t a marijuana activist before you read Smoke Signals, you will quite possibly be one after your done. It is a must-read book for activists, and you’ll want to keep it for reference because it is that thorough.
A New Leaf – Alyson Martin and Nushin Rashidian
In the same vane of Smoke Signals, A New Leaf is a bit more focused on the social aspects of recent marijuana reform in America. This book covers a shorter length in time, but covers the subject a bit more personally and a little more in depth on certain things, such as the legalization efforts of Colorado and Washington. I was familiar with many of the people involved in the anti-prohibition movement, but this book went deeper into some of the characters involved. I was enthralled at the different approaches each state took to get to the same prize, and now have a better understanding and respect for the efforts of everyone involved. This was a quick read and also shouldn’t be missed.
Transdermal Magnesium Therapy – Dr. Mark Sircus
This is a bit of a deviation from medical cannabis books, but since most all people in this modern world suffer from magnesium (and other mineral), deficiencies, I thought I’d add it here. It can help everyone.
I can easily get side tracked when surfing the web for information. Don’t we all? I was the same way when I was a kid researching through the reference books and encyclopedias do do reports for school. I had been having a really serious and crappy time for many, many months with cramping in my thighs, calves, shins and feet. I do aquatic exercise therapy 3 to 5 times a week and it was happening when I exercised in the therapy pool as well, so the search was on for a reason and a remedy. Transdermal Magnesium Therapy, by Dr. Mark Sircus, Ac., OMD. was the answer to my prayers. I found out why I have the issue, how to fix it safely and effectively, and can honestly say that since following the easy advice of a well researched cause and effect, I don’t have spasms in my muscles off and on all night any more. This book goes well beyond muscle issues, though. When you read about the role of magnesium in our health and well being, why it’s important and what happens when we don’t have it you will be amazed. No matter what your health issue, read this book, make a few very minor and very inexpensive changes in your lifestyle, and reap the benefits. Magnesium, you don’t have a clue what you’re missing. It is very scientific yet easy for a lay-person, like myself, to read and understand. Don’t skip it.