Cannabis: A Natural History

The definitive story of cannabis, from its evolution and biological quirks to its role in human history   In this entertaining natural history, Rob DeSalle provides a glimpse into the biological world through the lens of the marijuana plant. A close relative of hops with a surprising place in the botanical tree of life, cannabis has a unique life cycle, has evolved pathways for over four hundred compounds, and makes one thousand or so different chemicals that are stored in its tissues–some of which are the basis of its famed psychoactive properties.   With his scientist's perspective on this well-known and controversial plant, DeSalle considers taxonomy, systematics, evolution, human physiology and neurobiology, and cultural issues. He discusses the plant's complicated reproductive strategies; considers ancient arthropod-cannabis associations from South Asia; and offers a nuanced cultural history that extends from the first evidence of smoking cannabis more than two thousand years ago to the current debates over legalization. Engaging and extensively researched, with illustrations by Patricia J. Wynne, this is a vital resource for cannabis enthusiasts and anyone curious about the science behind this infamous "weed."

Review

"Rob DeSalle takes an object that is engaging and familiar and uses it to teach about biodiversity, philosophy, culture, and the evolution of life on earth. From trichomes to terpenes, he uses common experience to explain complex topics, making science not only accessible but also personally relevant. You will gain key insights into the biology of cannabis--how it survives, why it impacts human behavior, and how its natural history integrates with the larger story of plants and people."--Chelsea D. Specht, Cornell University

 

"Cannabis is not only erudite but also a magnificent read. As a botanist, I certainly learned a lot! Truly interesting and enjoyable."--Dennis Stevenson, New York Botanical Garden

 

"Rob DeSalle has compiled a wealth of information about cannabis, a plant that perpetually fascinates. Cannabis is a comprehensive and enthralling survey of its natural, cultural, medicinal, legal, and illegal histories."--Monique McHenry, University of Vermont

 

Praise for the work of Rob DeSalle:

 

"Curatorial eminences Rob DeSalle and Ian Tattersall serve up a potent scientific brew. . . . A marvellous paean to the pint, and to the researchers probing its depths."--Barbara Kiser, Nature, on A Natural History of Beer

 

"The intricacy with which the authors weave the study of color in and out of a longue-durée history of life on Earth is impressive."--Michael Rossi, Science, on A Natural History of Color

 

"In twenty chapters with beautiful illustrations and diagrams [DeSalle] maps out how our bodies see, hear, taste, smell and touch--and the genomics behind their evolution in the many common ancestors who came before us."--Forbes.com, on Our Senses: Gateways to Consciousness

 

About the Author

Rob DeSalle is a curator at the American Museum of Natural History and a professor at the museum’s Richard Gilder Graduate School. He is author or coauthor of many books, including A Natural History of Beer and Welcome to the Microbiome. He lives in New York City.