People browse a selection of bongs at Nonthaburi Green Market 2023, where local farmers, producers and other cannabis-related businesses showcased their products in April. (Photo: Chanat Katanyu)
Thailand needs a “holistic health” approach that leverages the use of cannabis to boost tourism, said Dr Kampung Srivatanakul, chairman of the National Health Charter.
“Thailand should apply cannabis using a holistic approach,” he said at a seminar at the 4th CISW MedCann Investment Summit 2023 on Wednesday.
Dr Kampung suggested that wellness tourism should focus more on physical and mental health, not just spirituality.
Cannabis has a valid use case here because it can be used for both therapy and relaxation, he said.
However, he said society needs to have a better understanding of cannabis because of the risks of abuse and negative effects. Therefore, it must be prescribed under the supervision of a medical professional.
He added that more research needs to be done to better utilize cannabis and hemp to benefit people's health.
Jackie Ong, founder and president of CISW Holding Group and CISW Global Club Thailand, said Thailand has the potential to become a hub for holistic health.
He said cannabis has many health uses because of its beneficial components.
“Cannabis is an herbal plant and not a drug. There are several reports about cannabis that show it has health benefits if used correctly. What Thailand still lacks is… [better] We need to educate people so they can make the most of it,” he said.
Some are touting the plant as a way to boost tourism as well as create economic value by attracting foreign investment to cannabis farms and, in turn, creating jobs.
