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Distributed for Reaktion Books

Cannabis

A Global History

An international cultural history of the multifunctional plant.
 
Cannabis explores the historical, pharmacological, and cultural significance of the controversial plant. Beginning with cannabis’s origins as a food source in Southeast Asia, Borougerdi describes the global evolution of cannabis over the centuries, with a particular focus on its spread across the Atlantic and its modern renaissance in cuisine. The book also investigates the stimulant’s mood-altering forms of consumption, from smoking to edibles and drinks. A richly illustrated guide, this book draws together a diverse account of international cannabis cultures in a single, captivating narrative.

168 pages | 53 color plates, 65 halftones | 4.72 x 7.76 | © 2025

Edible

Food and Gastronomy

Sociology: Social History


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Reviews

"Borougerdi’s Cannabis is a masterful examination of humanity’s millennia-long relationship with the plant, exploring how the world’s growing taste for pot led to the commercial revolution in cannabis edibles we see today. A unique and necessary new contribution to the field."

Emily Dufton, author of 'Grass Roots: The Rise and Fall and Rise of Marijuana in America'

"Cannabis showcases the history and culture of the most consumed illicit substance in the world. Anyone interested in a serious examination of cannabis as a global phenomenon as well as fun ways to prepare cannabis-infused meals and beverages must begin by reading this book."

Marty Otañez, University of Colorado Denver

Table of Contents

Introduction
1 What is Cannabis?
2 Cannabis Chemistry and Pharmacology
3 Hempseed in World History
4 Eating Cannabis
5 Drinking Cannabis
6 Cooking with Cannabis

Recipes
References
Select Bibliography
Websites and Associations
Acknowledgements
Photo Acknowledgements
Index

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