Cannabaceae:

The History of Cannabis and it’s 50,000 Different Uses

The War on Cannabis

For many the word ‘cannabis’ conjures up images of drug addiction, illegal backstreet sales, and illicit smoking at parties. This annual herb, indigenous to temperate Asia, is today one of the world’s most highly stigmatised, highly regulated and misunderstood plants.

However, this ancient crop plant has been domesticated since around 8000 BC. Until about 100 years ago, almost all the world’s bibles, maps, sails, clothes and books were made out of cannabis or hemp, and ancient civilisations ate hemp seed cooked into a porridge called ‘gruel’.

In South Africa, the plant was an early treatment for snake bite, malaria and blood poisoning and is still widely distributed within the country. [1] Cannabis was even included in the 1949 British Pharmaceutical Codex and tinctures and extracts have been used for centuries.

Although slowly being accepted and decriminalised around the world, there are still many countries where even growing plants, let alone ingesting or using them, is illegal. It’s safe to lay a lot of the blame for this at the feet of the tobacco companies. Well known for their political influence, they saw the plant as major competition and in the 1930’s companies with vested interests in new, synthetic textiles also viewed hemp as an economic threat.

The Cannabis Industry Today

Today, as we are slowly rediscovering this amazing and versatile plant, misinformation abounds, and in the medical world there is much confusion as to whether it is a ‘drug’ or a ‘herb’. Legitimate studies are few and far between and with a huge lack of understanding on extractions and dosages, it’s no wonder many herbalists simply avoid using it altogether.

More than 90 chemical compounds have been described in cannabis, 1 with cannabinoids… phenolic terpenoids… being the most interesting. These compounds are absent from the fan leaves… the main photosynthesising leaf we all recognise too well… and also the seeds and stems. They occur in the smaller sugar leaves that grow close to the plant’s flowers, bracts and its resin… commonly referred to as marijuana.

Cannabinoids were originally believed to only exist in the family Cannabaceae but have also been found in other families of plants such as Linaceae (Flax), and Asteraceae (Echinacea and Helichrysum). Today, the two main cultivars are plants grown for fibre and seed oil, and those grown for their intoxicant potential.

The female flowering tops and sugar leaves are usually smoked. The dried resin produced by the glands is known as ‘hash’ or ‘hashish’ and can be smoked or eaten. The main psychotropic compound in hash, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), may also be administered orally, generally in tinctures or by topical application in salves, oils and creams. Despite its low toxicity, smoking THC has powerful effects on the central nervous systems, including euphoria, relaxation, loss of coordination and abnormalities in speech [1].

For centuries, hemp has been used in folk remedies and ancient medicine, revered for its curative properties found in the leaves, roots, flowers and seeds. Hemp and marijuana are categorised as different herbs legally and in herbal practice due to hemp being bred with only 0.01% of the THC which marijuana contains. In other words, hemp will not make you ‘high’ like other forms of cannabis may, regardless of which form you use it in.

The Power of CBD and its Benefits

Found in several plants, Cannabidiol (CBD) activates the body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS), which studies have found to contribute to regulatory functions in the body. Yet, the use of CBD found in hemp remains heavily debated and regulated even though it causes no ‘high’ and has shown no evidence of public health issues. CBD is legal in most countries if it comes from hemp, but not if it comes from cannabis (marijuana). If you wish to avoid any psychoactive effects, consume only CBD products that contain less than 0.03 percent THC [4].

Applied directly to the skin in oils or lotions, CBD is known to reduce inflammation in acne and lower chronic pain caused by arthritis and other joint problems. It is widely used to treat depression and anxiety, and early research has shown it can help with insomnia, with more than 65 percent of study participants experiencing improved sleep.

The Power of CBN and its Benefits

Another cannabinoid known as Cannabinol (CBN), is found in cannabis due to the degradation of THC. People who advocate legalising cannabis for medical use mention it as a treatment for glaucoma. CBN has been seen to lower intraocular pressure, the pressure of fluids inside the eye. Just how effective cannabis might be as a long-term treatment for glaucoma remains to be seen. The controversy surrounding the plant means little scientific research has been done.

CBN has also gained popularity in its ability to reduce some of the side effects of cancer chemotherapy treatment, especially nausea, and to stimulate appetite and a sense of wellbeing. It has also been used in the treatment of AIDS patients, asthma and depression and is often synergistic with THC for treatment purposes. CBN also fights free radicals in the bloodstream and it performs similarly to THC in pain management treatments [3].

You can easily incorporate this medicinal plant with its wonderful health benefits into your daily routines. With more information coming to light about its incredible healing properties, it is now considered a ‘superfood’ in the wellness industry.

The Power of Hemp Seeds and Hemp Seed Oil

Hemp seed oil is highly nutritional and full of iron and vitamin E. It is especially rich in two essential fatty acids, linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3), which strengthen the immune system and can lower anxiety and stress levels. It can also be consumed for its benefits in cooking or salads, or applied directly to the skin as a moisturiser and as an aid in treating acne. Make sure to only buy the highest quality oils, and to aim for cold pressed, organic and locally made where possible.

Hemp seeds are also full of omegas 3 and 6 and vitamin E. Delicious sprinkled over salads or in smoothies, they are a great source of fibre and also contain several minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, sodium, sulphur, magnesium, calcium, iron and zinc. Rich in Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) which is an anti-inflammatory, hemp seeds may help overcome symptoms linked with PMS and Menopause. GLA also aids in lowering blood pressure and reducing chances of heart disease.

I suggest that growers save seeds from their plants and grind the seeds themselves. You’ll save a lot of money compared to buying it in expensive health stores, with the added benefit of building a strong relationship with your plants by using all of its parts… and being self-sufficient!

The Power of Cannabis Roots

Used since ancient times, the chopped and boiled roots of the cannabis plant made into a decoction can treat haemorrhages and postpartum bleeding, can ease labour, reduce fevers, pain and swelling. A poultice from the roots can help soothe and heal burns and dermatitis when applied directly. Simply cut the root from the plant’s stem, and hang in a cool, dark place until dry.

The Power of Cannabis Leaves

Including the raw cannabis fan leaves in juices, smoothies and salads provides the body with phytonutrients that support overall wellness and health with their antioxidant effects, and can even aid in cleaning arteries. Many of the vital molecules found within cannabis… mainly terpenes and cannabinoids… are volatile and sensitive to high temperatures. Consuming raw cannabis leaves keeps these compounds in their natural state, allowing access to the phytochemicals that disappear or change when smoked or heated.

Flavonoids aren’t usually included in cannabis discussions as cannabis smokers are often more preoccupied with cannabinoid and terpene profiles. These flavonoids, however, are a significant factor.

These diverse phytochemicals are found in a range of ‘superfoods’, from kale and broccoli, to berries and tea. Consuming raw cannabis leaves is a great way to stimulate the endocannabinoid system, a regulatory network that keeps the body in balance, without getting high or having to inhale anything in the process. Consider the leaves like you would any other leafy green vegetable. They also make awesome compost!

Working with and growing cannabis is an endless learning cycle that growers understand all too well. The relationship you have with this plant over its life cycle can develop into a deep and revered connection. Attitudes about the medical value of cannabis are rapidly evolving, though whether you live in a state with legalised medicinal or recreational cannabis, you should always consult your healthcare practitioner before treating a serious condition with it. Rising levels of legalisation and decriminalisation are leading to further clinical trials which may reveal even more health benefits of this incredible plant.

About the Author

Maddie Rasmussen is the founder and owner of Herbal Alchemy.

Herbal Alchemy provides ethical, sustainable, hand crafted earth medicine. Maddie regularly sells organic botanical extracts in small batch, slow made with the plant matter used being sustainably grown & harvested by herself, on her property. The medicinal elements of the plants are harvested according to the season. Maddie welcomes 1:1 consultations for clients in need of plant alchemy specific to their needs.