TUTORIAL SERIES: INTRODUCTION TO CANNABIS
TUTORIAL SERIES: GROWING CANNABIS FROM SEED TO HARVEST
By: Uriel Advance Grows
The Rich and Diverse History of Cannabis
Introduction
Cannabis has been a significant part of human culture and medicine for thousands of years. Its multifaceted history spans ancient rituals, medicinal breakthroughs, and contemporary legalization movements. Understanding this rich history is essential to appreciate its current role in society and its potential future.
Early History
Ancient Use
First Recorded Use in Ancient China
The earliest recorded use of cannabis dates back to ancient China around 2700 BCE. Emperor Shen Nung, often referred to as the father of Chinese medicine, documented its use for treating ailments like malaria, rheumatism, and memory loss.
Uses in Textiles, Medicine, and Religious Rituals
Cannabis was not only a medicine but also a vital resource for ancient societies. It was used to make hemp textiles, ropes, and paper. Its seeds were a food source, and its psychoactive properties were incorporated into religious rituals and spiritual practices.
Spread to Other Ancient Cultures
Use in Ancient India and the Middle East
From China, cannabis spread to India, where it became integral to religious ceremonies and Ayurvedic medicine. It was known as "bhang" and used in rituals to honor the god Shiva. The plant also reached the Middle East, where it was used in traditional medicine and as an intoxicant in religious contexts.
Introduction to Europe
Cannabis made its way to Europe via trade routes, where it was primarily used for its fibrous properties in making ropes and textiles. The ancient Greeks and Romans documented its medicinal uses, recognizing its potential to treat various ailments.
19th and Early 20th Century
Introduction to the West
Western Medicine Adoption
In the 19th century, cannabis was introduced to Western medicine. Physicians began using it to treat conditions such as pain, migraines, and insomnia. Its popularity surged as it became a common ingredient in over-the-counter medicines.
Use in Patent Medicines
By the early 20th century, cannabis was included in many patent medicines available in pharmacies. These medicines were marketed as treatments for a wide range of ailments, from digestive issues to respiratory problems.
Prohibition Era
Early Regulations and Restrictions
The Marijuana Tax Act of 1937
The Marijuana Tax Act of 1937 was a pivotal moment in cannabis history. This law effectively criminalized cannabis in the United States by imposing strict regulations and taxes on its cultivation, distribution, and use. The act was influenced by political and economic factors, including racial prejudice and lobbying from competing industries.
Public Perception and Stigma
The criminalization of cannabis was accompanied by a campaign to stigmatize its use. Media portrayals and government propaganda depicted cannabis as a dangerous drug associated with crime and deviant behavior, contributing to its negative perception in society.
Controlled Substances Act of 1970
Classification as Schedule I Drug
In 1970, the Controlled Substances Act classified cannabis as a Schedule I drug, meaning it was deemed to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. This classification severely restricted research and access to cannabis, reinforcing its criminal status.
Modern Era
Medical Legalization
California's Compassionate Use Act of 1996
A significant shift occurred in 1996 when California passed the Compassionate Use Act, legalizing medical cannabis. This law allowed patients with serious illnesses to use cannabis for therapeutic purposes with a physician's recommendation.
Expansion to Other States
Following California's lead, many other states enacted laws to legalize medical cannabis. As of now, 38 states allow medical cannabis use, reflecting a growing recognition of its therapeutic potential.
Recreational Legalization
Colorado and Washington Lead the Way
In 2012, Colorado and Washington became the first states to legalize recreational cannabis. This landmark decision paved the way for other states to follow, creating a burgeoning legal cannabis industry.
Proposition 64 in California
California legalized recreational cannabis in 2016 with Proposition 64, further solidifying its position as a leader in cannabis reform. This law allowed adults 21 and over to purchase and use cannabis for recreational purposes, significantly expanding the legal market.
Current Status and Trends
Legal Status in Various States
Today, cannabis is legal for medical use in 38 states and for recreational use in 23 states, including California. The evolving legal landscape continues to impact public perception, research opportunities, and market growth.
Economic Impact and Medical Research
The cannabis industry has seen tremendous economic growth, contributing billions to state economies through taxes and job creation. Concurrently, ongoing research explores cannabis's potential benefits for conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy, and mental health disorders.
TUTORIAL SERIES: INTRODUCTION TO CANNABIS
Cannabis Sativa, Indica, and Ruderalis
Characteristics and Effects
Cannabis comes in several varieties, each with unique characteristics and effects. The three main types are Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis.
Cannabis Sativa
- Characteristics: Tall, thin plants with narrow leaves and longer flowering periods.
- Effects: Energizing and uplifting, making it ideal for daytime use.
- Popular Strains: Sour Diesel, Jack Herer, Green Crack.
Cannabis Indica
- Characteristics: Shorter, bushier plants with broad leaves and faster flowering periods.
- Effects: Relaxing and sedative, often used for nighttime relief.
- Popular Strains: Northern Lights, Granddaddy Purple, Blueberry.
Cannabis Ruderalis
- Characteristics: Short and hardy plants, naturally resistant to harsh conditions.
- Effects: Lower THC levels, mainly used in breeding autoflowering hybrids.
- Popular Strains: Rarely used alone, crucial for creating autoflowering strains.
Hybrid Strains
- Characteristics: Hybrids are crossbreeds combining Sativa and Indica traits.
- Effects: They offer a balanced experience, with effects varying based on the dominance of Sativa or Indica genetics.
- Popular Strains: pular hybrid strains include Girl Scout Cookies, Gorilla Glue, and OG Kush.
TUTORIAL SERIES: INTRODUCTION TO CANNABIS
Consumption Methods and Effects
Smoking
Smoking cannabis is the traditional method, offering quick effects. However, it can involve inhaling harmful byproducts.
Vaping
Vaping provides a smoother experience and reduces exposure to harmful byproducts, making it a popular alternative to smoking.
Edibles
Edibles offer a discreet consumption method with long-lasting effects. They are ideal for those who prefer not to inhale cannabis.
Tinctures
Tinctures are easy-to-dose, fast-acting, and versatile. They can be taken sublingually or added to food and beverages.
Topicals
Topicals provide localized relief without psychoactive effects, making them ideal for treating pain and inflammation.