Things have changed for cannabis. These days it’s much more likely that your grandma is eating gummies for her rheumatism, while your mom and her friends are enjoying a light toke instead of a glass of Chardonnay, while you’re busy scanning the shelves full of legal products of all shapes, strengths, and sizes at your favorite dispensary instead of trying to get your connect to answer their pager.
But despite today’s wider embrace of cannabis as a therapeutic and recreational godsend, cannabis myths continue to plague us, from the headlines of major newspapers to the web of misinformation we call social media.
L.A. TACO is here to bust these myths like Winston Zeddmore busts phantasms. Join us as we explore the X cannabis myths that refuse to die.
Myth #1: Cannabis makes you lazy.
Bust: Wrong. In fact, a study conducted by the University of Cambridge debunked the lazy stoner stereotype. The way you feel when using cannabis is usually determined by various factors, such as the type of strain you are using, personal tolerance, and even genetics. While the effects of cannabis can include a sense of relaxation and euphoria, it does not make you incapable of getting your work done or achieving success, as evidenced by a number of outspoken athletes, CEOs, and celebrities who enjoy or find benefits in cannabis. Labeling cannabis users as being more prone to laziness is simply not scientifically accurate.
Myth #2: The legal cannabis market does not effectively prevent youth access.
Bust: Legal dispensaries are strictly regulated, requiring ID checks to ensure customers are 21 or older. The illegal market lacks such controls, making it easier for underage individuals to gain access to cannabis. By supporting licensed dispensaries, you help enforce these regulations, keeping cannabis out of the hands of minors and promoting responsible consumption.
Myth #3: The price of legal cannabis is too high.
Bust: Buying legal cannabis offers significant advantages beyond just the product itself. Supporting legal dispensaries means you're investing in your community by helping local businesses thrive and creating jobs that boost the local economy. Legal shops also contribute to a more sustainable and equitable cannabis industry, making it easier for everyone to participate.
While some may perceive legal cannabis as more expensive, many dispensaries offer special discounts for first time visitors, along with ongoing deals and promotions that can help reduce costs and taxes. Unlike the unpredictable nature of illicit markets, purchasing safe, licensed products from a legal dispensary ensures that your money goes back into the community, ultimately benefiting everyone.
Myth #4: Legal cannabis is only intended for the privileged.
Bust: Ensuring diversity and equality within the legal cannabis industry is an important factor in its creation and shaping. The Los Angeles Department of Cannabis Regulation has set aside certain cannabis business licenses for individuals whose inclusion would support greater social equity - these include people directly affected by the war on drugs - and offers them assistance to help start and support their own cannabis businesses.
In addition, the Los Angeles County Cannabis Equity Program, National Diversity and Inclusion Cannabis Alliance, the Minority Cannabis Business Association 2022 Cannabis Equity Report, and other like-minded organizations are working to create a more equitable industry. Together, they are widening and leveling the playing field for cannabis entrepreneurs from diverse groups and backgrounds. In addition, they strive to boost the participation of groups and individuals affected by biased drug policy enforcement of the past.
Cannabis myths, you’ve just been busted. Now it’s up to you to connect with a local dispensary whose work and efforts you believe in.
You can find legal, locally owned shops using the LADCR locator map at cannabis.lacity.gov.
