The herb's popular demand may be from that natural law of "you always want what you can't have." The government likes to play off of that natural law for personal gain, just think how much they'd lose if the herb was legal… not only in funds but also in followers/believers of their lies. The herb makes (some) ones question reality… and dig a little deeper into what is the truth. (Which is why it makes a lot more sense for them to legalize the poison of alcohol and illegalize "marijuana".)
Therefore, anyone who condones or supports the use of an illegal "drug" (especially as a collective belief... Rasta) would be easiest victim to the bad names and poor reputation. Rastafari is already a collective movement against babylon, so the best way for babylon to fight Rasta is to give InI a poor name with emphasis on the herb. And from there unfolds exploitation, etc.

It is true, ones who praise the herb alone must also rise up praise for all of Creation... Giving thanks for what JAH has provided, even for ones who consume flesh, gives the essence of life a deeper meaning. Giving thanks is key. The earth yields so much bounty and beauty, and yet those tomatoes in the salad or that orange that's been sitting in the fruit basket for days are overlooked in value due to their availability. I too must reflect on how often I indulge in earth's bounty mindlessly, without first taking a moment to give thanks. Things would be different, especially for those dwelling in urban areas, if the process of farming was more seen and known and even experienced. The work put in to till the soil and to watch the fruits of the trees ripen give a more automatic sense of appreciation. It is up to InI dwelling in places where farming is not a realistic aspect of daily life, to give thanks to the farmer as well for providing the nourishment that sustains our lives.

There is a time and place for everything, the life cycle is sacred and must not be overlooked. With all in moderation and staying aware and away from over-consumption, InI can live life to its fullest… in balance.