The Lebanese American University will be the first university in Lebanon to study medical marijuana. This week, the university president announced the foundation of the Medicinal Cannabis Research Center. Joseph G. Jabbra put forth big plans for medical marijuana research and de-stigmatization, suggesting it could bolster the national economy. Here’s a look at the university’s plans, and why Lebanese marijuana may be some of the best in the world.
The Unique Benefits of Lebanese Hash
According to the BBC, Lebanon’s marijuana industry is worth $4 billion. This makes it the fifth-largest cannabis marketplace in the world. Not only is it big business, Lebanon is internationally recognized for producing the world’s best hash. It has a climate perfectly suited for growing, and Lebanese hashmakers use tried-and-true harvesting and refining methods.
According to the Lebanese American University, the region’s marijuana is resistant to severe heat and drought. It is thought that cannabis produces more THC when subjected to environmental stressors.
A University Study of Medical Marijuana
The Medicinal Cannabis Research Center marks Lebanon’s first steps towards international university-funded research. Scientists have barely scratched the surface when it comes to Lebanon’s unique marijuana, and the biochemical effects of its hot, dry climate on the herb.
Joseph G. Jabbra, president of the Lebanese American University, didn’t shy away from controversy during his announcement on May 30th. Instead, he said it’s inherent to the university’s history as the first women’s college in the nation. Though marijuana is still illegal in Lebanon, the government can issue a permit to study unlawful plants.
But Jabbra wants to do more than study it. He wants research to lead to manufacturing marijuana pharmaceuticals. For this to happen, Lebanon would have to change its stance on marijuana. “We are awaiting the creation