The Book of Cannabis : The History and Future of the Plant and the Drug

A revelatory journey through the tangled roots of cannabis - its ancient uses, political battles, and scientific renaissance - by acclaimed anthropologist Jeremy Narby.

In The Book of Cannabis, Jeremy Narby - renowned author of The Cosmic Serpent - delivers a sweeping, clear-eyed exploration of cannabis as both plant and cultural phenomenon. He traces its path from ancient medicinal and ritualistic roles to its place at the centre of debates over wellness, law, and culture in the present day, revealing how cannabis became one of the most controversial plants in history. With the global shift toward legalisation, Narby dives into the latest science on cannabis’s therapeutic potential and risks, especially in the era of high-potency strains and edibles. He unpacks the plant’s transformation through selective breeding and examines its evolving impact on health, society, and the environment. The book also explores the implications of cannabis's changing legal status and its intersection with issues of social justice and public policy. Accessible, nuanced, and deeply informed, this is essential reading for cannabis users, industry professionals, educators, and policymakers alike. Narby’s anthropological lens offers a unique perspective on the plant's journey, making The Book of Cannabis a vital guide to understanding cannabis in all its complexity.