Cannabis and craft beer both alter our perceptions. Alcohol effects us by modulating the GABA neurotransmitter. Pot alters us by reasons still not totally elucidated. Both include chemicals called terpenes. Beer's terpene content is entirely due to its presence in hops (Humulus lupulus). As members of the same biological Family (Cannabaceae), hops are kissin' cousins to the wacky tobacky.

More importantly, both have been subject to prohibition. All alcoholic beverages were banned for 13 years under the Volstead Act, popularly known as Prohibition. Pot was first restricted at the Federal level with the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937. Unlike beer, which adults can enjoy without fear of legal repercussions, cannabis remains illegal at the federal level to this day. As we sip these delightful beers, all inspired by pot, let's consider the parallels between beer and weed, and ask ourselves why cannabis remains illegal.