Cannabis in Afghanistan

History of Cannabis in Afghanistan

• Cannabis indica is native to Afghanistan.
• Cannabis sativa also originates in Central Asia.
• All existing cannabis strains likely originated from Afghanistan.
• Baba Ku introduced hashish to Afghanistan.
• The Hippie Trail in the 1970s brought an influx of tourists with an appetite for cannabis to Afghanistan.

• Early Cultivation and Legal Challenges
• Traditional cultivation and local consumption of cannabis were common in Afghanistan.
• Hashish was made nominally illegal in 1957 due to US pressure.
• Afghan authorities confiscated large amounts of heroin and hashish in 1972.
• US pressure on Kabul hashish syndicates increased tension in 1971.
• Afghan citizens were linked to The Brotherhood of Eternal Love commune in the US.

• Royal Prohibition and Eradication Efforts
• In 1973, King Zahir Shah outlawed opium poppy and cannabis production.
• Genuine eradication efforts were backed by $47 million from the US government.
• Afghan troops aggressively tackled production by destroying farms.
• Zahir Shah was deposed by Mohammed Daoud Khan in 1973.
• Western smugglers re-routed to Pakistani sources after the prohibition.

• Cannabis Consumption Culture in Afghanistan
• Consuming melon with hashish is a common practice.
• Eating melon with hashish is believed to enhance the high and reduce side effects.
• Cannabis culture in Afghanistan has unique consumption customs.
• The combination of melon and hashish is popular among consumers.
• Understanding local customs is essential in cannabis culture in Afghanistan.

• Related Topics and Recommendations
• Illegal drug trade is a related topic to cannabis production.
• Opium production in Afghanistan is another significant issue.
• Exploring related topics can provide a broader perspective.
• Understanding the context of cannabis in Afghanistan.
• Further research on related subjects is recommended.

Cannabis in Afghanistan Data Sources