By: Thandiwe Kubere
Contemporary to its popularity as a recreational drug, although illegal, there has been a simultaneous rise in research, giving emphasis that Cannabis has medical advantages for a variety of health issues.
This was the highlight at Lesotho 420 Cannabis Expo, which took place on April 20th at Maseru Club. The expo was commemorative of the world cannabis day which is celebrated annually.
The Cannabis Expo, was the first of its kind in the mountain kingdom. The intention was to bring together like-minded professionals working in all aspects of the Cannabis Industry, including; entrepreneurs, farmers, licensed producers, healthcare providers, and media to showcase the finest products and services the industry has to offer.
The event served as a great platform learn and share on the beneficial uses of Cannabis, as well as to figure out how to create opportunities in various industries such as medical cannabis/herbs, Basotho handicrafts and clothing brands inspired by maryjane.
At the Cannabis expo, entrepreneurs are granted a chance to display their made-in-Lesotho products, through a wide range of stalls.
Another intention of the Expo, was to gather industry professionals so as to gain information on the profitable and expanding cannabis market. Attendees are given an opportunity to access the latest cultivating and processing technologies for cannabis and hemp.
Despite a growing acceptance in other countries, the consumption of cannabis is still often considered a detestable practice to societies in Lesotho. Giving insight on the matter – Basotho Medical Herbs CEO, Matla-a-morena Lethunya reveals that getting issued licenses for trading with marijuana is still a big challenge in the mountain kingdom of Lesotho since most of Basotho fail to meet the requirements of getting licenses.
He indicates that although research proves that Lesotho is one country with the highest Cannabis production, Basotho still lack knowledge on the benefits of marijuana since there is still stigma and a belief that it is only for smoking.
However, Cannabis can be used to treat and cure a number of illnesses.
One of the medical benefits of cannabis is that it helps in the fight against cancer. It also has endocannabinoid compounds that help in stabilizing moods which can ease depression and anxiety.
According to Cannabis Health Network, Cannabis contains a chemical that impacts the brain, making it function better without giving it a high along with a substance which has pain relieving properties.
Both substances can be extracted and enhanced for use through short path distillation or drops oral intake.
Lethunya says,
“There are different kinds of cannabis which can be used to treat issues like skin problems, insomnia, troubles with concentration and it also helps strengthen bones in the process of healing”.
Nonetheless, it is advisable to talk to a health care provider for proper intake of Cannabis.
On the other hand, Basotho Medical Herbs Founder, Adv. Motseki Letsosa warns and pleads with the youth to stop drug abuse, especially marijuana because there are adverse consequences accompanied with bad use of the plant.
He further urges those trading illegally to come forth so as to share strategies and come up with solutions of following the right procedures in order to get into the industry legally.
Basotho Medical Herbs is registered with the laws of Lesotho to grow Pharmaceutical herbs and crops, aromatic crops and spices and others.