'Don't buy cannabis off the streets,' advises Vape Store founder
Even though the Constitutional Court decriminalised cannabis for personal use, the informal sale of it poses some danger to the uninformed consumer. So says The Vape Store founder Nicola Malvicini, who has issued a consumer advisory to ensure that the public remains educated on the matter.
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In May 2019 cannabidiol (CBD), a compound derived from marijuana, was removed from this country's list of highly-controlled drugs and is now legally available on prescription in South Africa.
“Since the ruling, we’ve seen an increase in the sale of vapes, which indicates people are consuming more dry herb. Vape Store doesn’t sell any cannabis, because it is illegal, but alarmingly we are increasingly being told stories by our customers who buy dry herb and aren’t happy with what they get,” says Malvicini.
“As the law evolves it is important that consumers both know the law, and how to stay safe and healthy.“
Stay away from street sales
This latest change to local legislation follows the news in September 2018 when the public learned that cannabis had been decriminalised for personal use. A victory for users, as use of the plant for any purpose has been considered a criminal act since 1928 under the Medical, Dental and Pharmacy Act.
Even though the Constitutional Court has given the green light for the private cultivation, possession and consumption of cannabis, the old laws of the land are still in effect. Not just anyone can legally sell cannabis and there are limits to the amount of weed allowed for personal use. This means that most marijuana dealers in South Africa operate outside of the law.
Where does that leave SA’s growing number of marijuana consumers?
“My strongest advice to our customers and everyone currently consuming cannabis is: Don’t buy off the streets. Not only is this illegal but police are actively arresting those who engage in street sales,” warns Malvicini.
He says that there are a growing number of suppliers who offer various strains for sale. “Today, people who trade in cannabis do so predominantly through message services on the web. Local buyers and sellers trade over WhatsApp or SMS and a drop off is agreed upon or a payment is made and a parcel is couriered conveniently to your door.”
Stay educated
“Word of mouth is how these sellers expand their consumer base; ask friends, family or check out online forums for recommendations,” Malvicini suggests that those who have found reliable suppliers that consistently provide a quality product should stick with them.
“Educate yourself. Get to know what you're smoking and what strains are out there. One of the more well-known guides for this currently is Leafly,” he says. Malvicini adds that all you need to do is rely on three of your senses – smell, sight and touch – to assess the quality of your purchase.
“Each strain has different features, a unique smell and appearance that is owned by that strain's genetics,” advises Malvicini.
Malvicini advises that there are many forums out there that are dedicated to informing marijuana users. All that is left is for you to go out there and start learning. “Remember that when it comes to consuming cannabis, make the safest choice,” he concludes.
