Unlike the United States, which has an uncertain future regarding marijuana laws, Israel’s $40 million per year cannabis industry is thriving. For one, it does not have to deal with the DEA and constant government hindering, like in the United States. Quite the contrary, actually, since the Israeli government is funding research on the medical benefits of cannabis.

The number of doctors allowed to prescribe medical marijuana is set to double this year in Israel, to more than 20 doctors. These doctors only recommend marijuana for seriousness illnesses, and after alternative options are no longer viable. Some doctors are limited to only cannabis oil.

In Israel, the culture and view of cannabis is much different than that of the United States. Israel has a strict drug policy, but hasn’t taken the same stance toward marijuana as the American government.

Cannabis is also viewed differently by the Israeli public. There isn’t as much of a “stoner” stereotype, and while there has been an underground hash culture, recreational use of cannabis is not as widespread.

Israelis seem more wary of using cannabis for medical reasons, and many have expressed concerns about hallucinating or tripping out really bad. Luckily for them, they have a government that is willing to help educate them and provide safe access so that they make use of the herb responsibly. To read more about this matter, check out this article.