We can all agree that hemp is one of the most controversial, yet functional and adaptable plants that have long-standing throughout the history of civilization. From rope to paper, clothing and many more, you should know that hemp has been widely recognized as a catalyst in producing essential resources.
At the same time, archeologists have found evidence that hemp plants were used in ancient Mesopotamia, which is approximately 8000 years BC.
However, things went in completely different directions, which led to banning everything closely connected to marijuana.
Only in the last few years, due to demand for natural products, hemp-based products and industry are experiencing a renaissance. Even though you can learn from here, we recommend you to understand that most dispensaries nowadays are offering numerous products including pre-rolls, cannabis flowers, tablets, and edibles in form of gummies.
Still, its association with marijuana is still causing the stigma regarding its usage, especially whether it is safe and legal to use it regularly.
The main idea is to learn a few things about cannabis consumption throughout the history, which will help you understand everything about this particular topic. Let’s start from the beginning.
A Brief History of Cannabis
Cannabis dates approximately ten thousand years ago, meaning it is one of the oldest cultivated plants. At the same time, you should know that archeological evidence from Asia suggests that cannabis was first used as a fiber for textiles and rope.
However, its medicinal properties were documented by ancient Chinese texts by 2700 BC. According to Chinese emperor Shen Nung, who is father of their medicine, cannabis is effective for treating numerous issues and ailments, which is vital to remember.
During such period, cannabis seeds were used as a food source, while the plant become integral to numerous daily life aspects you can find on the market. The next step is going into ancient India, where cannabis became essential aspect with spiritual significance.
Sacred texts of the Vedas considered cannabis as one of the five sacred plants used in rituals that can bring liberation and happiness. Check out this guide: https://www.transportation.gov/odapc/medical-marijuana-notice to learn more about medical marijuana.
Cannabis Expansion
Since the trade routes expanded all across the globe, you should know that cannabis spread in Europe, Africa and Middle East. According to Ancient Egyptians, marijuana was effective remedy for treating different health issues such as inflammation and pain problems.
Greek texts from 200 BCE reference the use of cannabis to treat inflammations especially wounds, which is vital to remember. Herodotus claimed that cannabis is effective remedy in steam bath, which can be both ceremonial and recreational option.
When it comes to the Middle East, cannabis became the crucial aspect of herbal medicine as well as cooking experience. By 1000 CE, the plant’s psychoactive properties became recognized, meaning it was incorporated into recreational and religious uses across the region.
Cannabis in America
You should know that cannabis arrived in the Americas during the sixteenth century by Spanish colonists. At first, it was used as a hemp fiber, but after a while, people recognized its medicinal aspects and benefits. By 19th century, cannabis was essential part for many medicinal tinctures, while it was available in pharmacies across Europe and US.
It was believed that cannabis is effective remedy that can deal with issues such as nausea, pain and muscle spasms.
Prohibition Era
It is important to remember that in the beginning of 20th century, attitude towards cannabis completely changed especially in the United States. That is why they have implemented anti-cannabis campaigns and included racial prejudice and misinformation to demonize the plant used by wide array of industries.
By 1937, the Marijuana Tax Act criminalized the use of cannabis, which reduced its usage, while people started taking other meds and options for treating specific issues. Although the prohibition was problematic, cannabis maintained its status in illegal areas.
During the ‘60s and ‘70s, the counterculture movement reignited the interest in plants, meaning they focused on spiritual and recreational uses. The period has seen increased scientific interest in cannabis, which created a groundwork to current medical research.
The Medical Marijuana Movement
During the nineties, we were entering the essential and turning point for cannabis, because states like California started legalizing it for medicinal consumption. Therefore, people who suffered from epilepsy, chronic pain and cancer found relief through cannabis, which created the wider advocacy for the matter.
This particular era is responsible for discovering the endocannabinoid system, which is a crucial aspect that specifically explains the way cannabinoids interact with our body. At the same time, the ECS is responsible for therapeutic benefits we experience after consumption.
Nowadays, medical marijuana is legal in most states in the US, while some states legalized it for recreational use. Today, you can find wide array of hemp and cannabis-based products including vapes, pre-rolls and edibles, which are effective and appealing consumption options.
Modern Era of Cannabis
During 21st century, we have noticed both normalization and legalization for both recreational and medicinal cannabis. Advancements in extraction and cultivation have led to the creation of a wide array of products available on the market. By reading this, you will learn more about business permits and licenses regarding hemp cultivation.
The main idea is that you can rest assured and use cannabis based on your preference and dosage requirements. It doesn’t matter whether your goal is treating specific condition, preventing inflammation or purely recreational enjoyment after long work, cannabis comes in different forms and sizes that will meet your needs.
