THE cannabis, called locally "pakalolo, Huti, candy, mega, kin, "is a psychotropic plant which entered Polynesia in the 1970s. This plant aroused considerable interest due to its psychotropic properties and its cultural and legal implications. While the CBD has been legal in France since 2022, Polynesia is at a crossroads where the legal framework must still be specified.
Polynesia cannabis: a colorful story
Cannabis has a fascinating history in Polynesia. Since his introduction in the 1970s, he has played a key role in local culture and society. Here is an overview of his career:
1. The arrival of "Pakalolo"
The term "Pakalolo" is widely used to designate cannabis in Polynesia. It was imported into the region by navigators and travelers in the 1970s. At the time, this plant was little known to the inhabitants, but it would soon become a central element of Polynesian culture.
2. Traditional use
Cannabis was quickly adopted in Polynesian culture. It was used for ritual, medicinal and recreational purposes. Local ceremonies involving Pakalolo have become common, reflecting the growing importance of the plant in daily life.
3. Legal challenges
Despite its integration into the local culture, cannabis in Polynesia is subject to strict regulations. The possession and distribution of the plant are illegal, which has created tensions between national laws and cultural practice.
Various uses of cannabis
Cannabis, in Polynesia as elsewhere, is used in various ways. Its applications are varied and arouse significant debates:
4.
Cannabis has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. In Polynesia, it is used to relieve pain, reduce anxiety and treat various conditions. This medicinal use continued despite strict regulations.
5. Recreational use
Cannabis is also consumed for recreational purposes. Many appreciate its relaxing and euphoric effects. However, recreational use is often associated with health risks.
6. Ritual practices
Cannabis plays an essential role in many ritual practices in Polynesia. It is used to promote spiritual communion and the exploration of consciousness.
The effects of cannabis in Polynesia
Cannabis, in Polynesia, can have various effects on individuals. It is essential to understand these effects for responsible use:
7. Psychotropic effects
Cannabis is known for its psychotropic properties, which alter perception, mood and cognition. These effects may vary from person to person.
8. Health risks
Excessive or irresponsible use of cannabis can cause health risks, including respiratory problems, mental disorders and dependencies.
Current CBD status in Polynesia
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the many compounds present in cannabis. Unlike THC, it does not cause psychotropic effects, which makes it a different substance on the legal level and in terms of use.
Legislation in France
In mainland France, the sale and use of the CBD have been authorized since 2022. This has opened the door to a growing market, with many companies seeking to capitalize on this trend.
The situation in Polynesia
However, in Polynesia, the situation is more complex. Local regulations have not yet been clearly defined, which has led to a legal vagueness around the CBD. Companies and consumers are awaiting official directives.
Update 30/12/2023
It is an explosion of joy in the islands!
The Council of Ministers took a dance step towards the legalization of hemp in French Polynesia! 🕺 Yesterday, they validated a law of the country to open doors to drugs to cannabis, to hemp culture, and to all that follows. 🌿
It's like a breath of fresh air in the Polynesian sky! ☁️ Finally, the magic of the CBD, already the star in Europe for decades, will illuminate our islands! And therapeutic cannabis, a door that opens towards well-being. 💚
But beware, the road to the green Nirvana is not all traced! Discussions will dance for several months. What do defenders of therapeutic cannabis think? Philippe Cathelain, the president of the Polynesian Hemp Syndicate, has the floor! 🗣️
For him, this is a first step, a giant step towards the green dream. But the legal journey is like an infinite waltz. This law must still make its show to CESSC, to the Health Commission, before seducing the representatives of the Assembly. It's a marathon, not a sprint! 🏃♂️
And let's talk about the legal threshold, it's like a delicate dance. In France and Europe, it's 0.3%, but the union wants a dance at 1%. 💃 For what? Scientific reports, studies, a whole ballet of arguments so that Polynesian hemp can dance freely.
Philippe Cathelain, with passion, talks about medical cannabis. An experiment in France for 3 years, and he wants these drugs for Polynesian patients. The road is long, but the parliamentary shuttle is in "rock and roll" mode! 🎸
It is a symphony of green that resonates in the Pacific! Polynesia dances to a future where hemp is king and therapeutic cannabis, a sweet melody for all. 🌈
Listen to the interview Complete by Philippe Cathelain, President of the Polynesian Hemp Syndicate, he responds to our journalist Suliane Favennec
Update 05/02/2024
During a plenary meeting at Cesc, the members of the council all admitted that the question of cannabis was complex and sensitive. They stressed that the Therapeutic cannabis was essential for people with various conditions.
The rapporteur of the bill, Marguerite Lai, said the importance of relieving patients in need. She said: "We have to do everything in our power to treat our patients." This vision was also supported by Raymonde Raoulx, who asserted that patients with pain Unbearable should have access to therapeutic cannabis.
Advocacy for economic benefits.
The Polynesian Hemp Syndicate and the Association Culture of Tahiti grass consider that CESSEC's decision reveals a misunderstanding of the subject. They expressed their support for economic perspectives and the development of The hemp industry in Polynesia. They wondered why the inhabitants of other regions could benefit from these opportunities while the inhabitants of other regions could not, stressing the need for justice and equality. 🌿 💼 ✊
Recreational cannabis regulations
Marguerite Lai emphasizes that recreational cannabis regulations is crucial because it highlights the harmful effects that unregulated consumption of recreational cannabis could have on the company. She underlines the importance of setting up regulations to regulate This practice, thus expressing its concerns about the harmful effects that may result from the uncontrolled use of cannabis for recreational purposes.
The decision of the Council of State
Cathelain and Anihia underlined a decision of the previous Council of State in 2022 which canceled the government's decree prohibiting the sale of hemp and flowers. The decision has shown that the health risks linked to these products had not been clearly demonstrated.
Polynesia cannabis: frequent questions
What is the position of the CESC on cannabis?
The CESTC supports the therapeutic use of cannabis, but is opposed to discussions on industrial hemp and CBD. ❌
Why did the CESTC support therapeutic cannabis?
The CESTC has recognized the need to relieve patients with therapeutic cannabis. 🌱
Can we cultivate cannabis legally in Polynesia?
No, the cultivation of cannabis remains illegal in Polynesia, despite its anchoring in the local culture.
What are the legal consequences of cannabis possession in Polynesia?
The possession of cannabis is illegal and can lead to legal proceedings.
Is cannabis used for medical purposes in Polynesia?
Yes, cannabis is used for medical purposes in Polynesia to relieve various conditions.
How has the cultivation of Pakalolo evolved over the years?
Pakalolo culture has evolved to adapt to constantly evolving regulations, while preserving its traditions.
What are the current debates concerning cannabis in Polynesia?
Current debates relate to the regulation of cannabis and its role in Polynesian society.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the use of cannabis in Polynesia?
The use of cannabis in Polynesia has advantages, especially for medical purposes, but also presents health risks and legal challenges.
How do local associations influence CBD regulations?
Associations favorable to CBD is pressure for regulations that support the use of this substance.
When can we expect clear regulation on CBD in Polynesia?
It is difficult to predict a specific time, but discussions are underway to clarify the legal situation of the CBD in Polynesia.
Conclusion
Cannabis in Polynesia, locally called "Pakalolo, Huti, Bonbon, Mega, Kin," is a psychotropic plant that has a complex history and deeply rooted in local culture. Its use for medical, recreational and ritual purposes arouses significant cultural, legal and health debates. It is essential to understand the various aspects of cannabis in Polynesia to make informed and responsible decisions concerning this fascinating plant.
