10 Cannabis Books You Should Have on Your Book Shelf

With more than 5,200 English language books on cannabis, it can be hard to know where to start when it comes to picking the right ‘Mary Jane’ paperback.

Maybe you want to learn more about growing the plant itself and the wider cannabis culture?

Or, perhaps you want to research the medicinal qualities of marijuana and starting a business in the legal industry? Whatever you need, we’re got you covered.

In this post, we’ve handpicked the top 10 cannabis books to have on your reading shelf right now. Let’s get into it!

1.The Cannabis Manifesto: A New Paradigm for Wellness

Penned by renowned activist Steve DeAngelo (the founder of the world’s largest medical cannabis dispensary, Harborside Health Center), The Cannabis Manifesto is both a call-to-action and a captivating vision of our relationship with marijuana.

The author answers important questions throughout the book. He also asks the reader to challenge their own intrinsic beliefs about the ancient herb.

Cannabis law and science are up for discussion. So are the plant’s physical, spiritual and psychological effects.

DeAngelo puts forward a compelling case for the legalization of cannabis due to its health and healing properties.

He backs up his arguments with extensive research. Cannabis prohibition has impacted the family, the workplace, the doctors office and the legal courtroom, he says.

2.The Cannabis Grow Bible: The Definitive Guide to Growing Marijuana for Recreational and Medical Use

This grow guide features almost 200 color and back-and-white photographs, tables, charts and diagrams. As it says on the cover, this ‘bible’ is a marijuana grower or enthusiast’s staple.

One of the best cannabis books out there, it explores the “screen of green” technique. This strategy produces a greater yield with fewer plants used. It also details how to protect crops from pests and diseases.

With over 55,000 original copies sold, it blends a deep understanding of marijuana botany with practical advice on the day-to-day reality of maintaining a cannabis garden.

3.Cannabis Pharmacy: The Practical Guide to Medical Marijuana

In this straightforward guide, expert in the field Michael Backes lays out everything you need to know about medical marijuana.

Cannabis Pharmacy covers the history of the plant, lays out the most popular varieties and explores the ways in which it interacts with the human body.

In arguably the most comprehensive book on the subject, readers will discover how marijuana works with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS).

You can also learn how to differentiate between 27 of the most popular cannabis varieties. You’ll also come away knowing the best methods for storing and administering your cannabis.

You’ll also find a guide to 29 ailments and illnesses for which doctors commonly recommend medical marijuana.

Among these are: chronic pain, chemotherapy-induced nausea, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, fibromyalgia, and Parkinson’s disease.

4.The Little Black Book of Marijuana: The Essential Guide to the World of Cannabis

The Little Black Book of Marijuana gives readers the inside scoop on everything they need or want to know about cannabis.

The book delves into cannabis culture, its long history, recipes, medicinal applications, cooking, identifying various pot varieties, and understanding health and legal issues.

5.How to Smoke Pot (Properly): A Highbrow Guide to Getting High

A progressive and entertaining guide to an ancient plant, How to Smoke Pot (Properly) is a modern and captivating read.

VICE columnist and former High Times editor David Bienenstock includes insider tips from some of the world’s most famous smokers including Willie Nelson, Melissa Ethridge, and Dave Chapelle.

His readers will learn everything from the basics of blazing, to how marijuana makes humans more creative and collaborative. He also argues it offers a far safer alternative to both alcohol and many other drugs.

One of the more niche cannabis books, it follows the herb’s natural life cycle from the earth to pipe. It also explores cannabis customs and culture.

6.The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Cannabis: Concentrated Advice From 25 Industry Leaders

Think you’ve got what it takes to open a cannabis business? Do you want to invest in the cannabis industry?

The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Cannabis contains 25 interviews with the most successful and elite leaders in the marijuana industry.

You’ll learn everything you need to know direct from the pioneers who readily offer expert advice and insider tips.

7.The Ganja Kitchen Revolution: The Bible of Cannabis Cuisine

Jessica Catalano – the pioneer of the cannabis cooking trend – provides her expertise and recipes with The Ganja Kitchen Revolution.

The cookbook contains international culinary influences that have helped her along the way. It also details several extraction methods including oils and butter among others.

Whatever your cooking level, you can give these dishes a go with confidence. It’s a clear and informative guide that will make you think a little differently about your food.

8.The Cannabis Health Index: Combining the Science of Medical Marijuana with Mindfulness Techniques To Heal 100 Chronic Symptoms and Diseases

The Cannabis Health Index is an in-depth comprehensive resource guide to medicating with cannabis.

It includes over 1,000 studies, presenting a convincing case for the plethora of medicinal qualities within cannabis.

Written by a former paramedic with a Ph.D. in alternative medicine, the book is a valuable guide for both marijuana enthusiasts and patients. The alphabetical ordering and organization of each chapter by medical condition makes it extremely user friendly.

9.Smoke Signals: A Social History of Marijuana – Medical, Recreational and Scientific

Award-winning investigative journalist Martin Lee examines the complex and divisive topic of cannabis – where legal ambiguity meets scientific breakthrough. It’s a dramatic read that touches on political, legal, medical, and scientific discourse.

One of the more character driven cannabis books, you’ll be entertained from start to finish.

Keep in mind that there are also so many cannabis accessories to choose from. After you familiarize yourself with the laws surrounding growing, study up on the the concept of the online headshop.

It’s another part of weed culture you’ll need to be comfortable with, especially if you want to get into growing.

10.Marijuana Horticulture

This detailed and best-selling grower’s guide has all information you’ll ever need to take your cannabis cultivating skills to the next level.

Used as a base reference for many of the world’s intermediate and advanced cultivators, you can learn a great deal from the 512 pages of advice, photos and detailed instructions.

Despite being originally published back in 1983, Marijuana Horticulture has been constantly revised and updated with each new edition. This way, you know all the information is relevant, correct, and up-to-date with modern statistics/techniques.

Final Thoughts On Cannabis Books

It’s easy to see why more people want to learn about this ancient and provocative herb. It’s also a booming industry. The legal cannabis market of North America was valued at $6.7 billion in January 2017.

There are thousands of cannabis books to read, but this list should get you started! Happy reading!