An unconventional local businessman is breaking taboos in Cyprus and Europe, making organic soaps with cannabis oil which are becoming more of a no-brainer household item.
Writer and handmade soap maker Andreas Ioannou spoke to Offsite.com.cy news about his business in making and selling organic health products, using only natural ingredients including cannabis oil and doing away with all the chemicals.
There are many misconceptions surrounding cannabis in Cyprus, partly because there is a taboo about its use and also authorities classify cannabis as a banned substance.
But taboos are meant to be broken, says Ioannou, adding that cannabis is not a narcotic.
Smoking pot does not cause physical dependence, says Ioannou, who goes to great length to explain that cannabis is different from other substances such as nicotine found in commercial cigarettes, as well as cocaine and heroin.
There has been no single death recorded due to cannabis. So, how can we call it a drug? he said.
Ioannou began making organic bar soaps for himself after he began facing a problem with allergies and couldnt use commercial soap to take a shower.
He was excited with the results and he even gave a few of his handmade soaps to friends, who urged him to go forward with his innovate idea.
Ioannou now runs Handy Spa in Nicosia which is the first state-licenced lab for creating organic soaps and a unique operation both on the island and in Europe.
Ioannou says more people are requesting his health products.
People are now beginning to accept it, ask for it, and use it, he said.
Government officials, including Health Minister George Pamboridis, recently spoke out in favour of breaking taboos and having honest discussions about legal uses of cannabis.
The minister has also made references to commercial benefits, as there are many products that can be made using cannabis. Last year, industrial cannabis became legal in Cyprus and already certain categories of cancer patients who need cannabis oil have been approved to receive their medication.
News Moderator: Katelyn Baker
Full Article: Cypriot Soap Maker Chips Away At Cannabis Taboo
Author: Staff
Contact: in cyprus
Photo Credit: None Found
Website: in cyprus
