Reefer Wellness: Understanding Cannabis Science, Culture, and Medicine

by Dr. Riley Kirk

Are you canna-curious? Put aside the stigma and discover the powerful potential of weed.

For centuries, the marijuana plant has been revered for its healing properties, but it’s also been criminalized, abused, and misunderstood. Although cannabis is now legal in much of the United States, many people are still confused about how to access it and unsure about how to use it safely and effectively. Enter Reefer Wellness, an all-encompassing guide to cannabis from scientist and researcher, Dr. Riley Kirk.

With colorful illustrations and everyday language, Reefer Wellness challenges the stereotypes about pot use and breaks down the complexities of cannabis for anyone who’s ever wondered if weed could help them relax or relieve chronic ailments. Whether you’re an everyday user or just starting out on your healing journey with cannabis, you’ll find answers to your questions and science-backed evidence to support your use. In it, you’ll

An introduction to the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the powerful regulatory system in the human body that controls everything from hunger signals to painA clear, visual explanation of how the molecular components of cannabis interact with the ECS, making it a uniquely powerful tool for healingGuidance on how to consume cannabis, including the pros and cons of different delivery systems and how to customize your dosageAn overview of ailments that can be addressed with cannabis, such as chronic pain, sleep disorders, and insomniaTips for minimizing the side effects of marijuana use, like munchies, bloodshot eyes, and cottonmouth
Let Reefer Wellness jumpstart your deep and meaningful journey into the wonderful and nuanced world of modern cannabis and get ready to unlock its incredible healing potential.

Genres: Nonfiction

208 pages, Hardcover

Published June 10, 2025

Reviews

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! So approachable for anyone, this. There’s quite a few spelling and grammar issues that, for some reason, really irk me.. but otherwise, it’s great. There are some photos inside that are amaze-balls!

[Christina Shaffer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow this a beautiful book. Dr Kirk I would love to contact you to discuss. Highly recommend

[Jake Goin · Rating 4 out of 5]

great introductory material/ review

[C.D. Warren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book for information, breaking down how cannabis works in the body. This author is amazing and even has a podcast (BIOACTIVE) that is worth looking into if you have the curiosity and understanding of the plant. I find her podcast easier to follow, but her book has excellent image reference and breakdowns that are a must. Her work as a research scientist really shows how she wants to help educate the world on this wonderful plant. Her TikTok page (@cannabichem) has shorter bursts of info. I recommend following as well

[Emily Cribas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Incredibly comprehensive, practical, easy/fun to read, and with beautiful illustrations!! I only wish it had more descriptive figures to follow along better e.g., showing mechanisms of action for each cannabanoid or terpene and their downstream psychological/physical effects. Regardless, I will be recommending this to friends and keeping it as a wonderful reference!

[Jeanette Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

great information

I learned so much from this book. Very interesting and informative read, easy to understand as well. This book changed my understanding of this drug in a positive way. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a better understanding of a very misunderstood drug.

[Rick James · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great guide for anyone that is new to cannabis. It is also a great addition to the knowledge base of an experienced cannabis user. I would say I am not a novice but by no means an expert and I found the material fantastic. Personally this book has given me some ideas on different types of consuming and what may be better for me to try.

[Loïc A. Mercier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr Riley Kirk is one of the best science communicators of our era. Her educated and enthusiastic perspective is exactly what stoners need right now. The plant is there to heal the world and dismantle barriers between individuals and communities. This book is part of the solution.

[Travis W · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic resource about all things cannabis from a scientific lens. I really appreciated the breakdown of WHY certain compounds have the effect they do as it reduced a lot of the "trust me bro" type info you find online and at dispos.

[Naomie Barnabas · Rating 5 out of 5]

A clear, engaging, and stigma-free guide to the science and healing potential of cannabis, perfect for both curious newcomers and seasoned users alike.

[Courtney Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! Welcoming and approachable, Dr. Kirk explains complex topics clearly so that they are easily understood. I am much more well informed after finishing her book.
WELL DONE!
Thank you!

[Klotz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Useful, clear, and fact-based information from a research scientist and educator, no cap!