Cannabis, a sub-species of the mulberry family, is a plant which basically has three different varieties, which over the years has been called by many names. I'll tell you a little about each of the cannabis varieties and how they have been used for thousands of years by our ancestors. You may also find it interesting that Hops (yes, from where we get beer) is a close relative and it, too, belongs in the Cannabaceae family.
Anciently, Cannabis is thought to have originated in Asian regions and to have been taken throughout the world and cultivated from there. Stated simply, Cannabis sativa seems to have thrived at lower altitudes and in warmer climates whereas Cannabis indica was cultivated at higher altitudes and in cooler climates. A more wild plant, Cannabis ruderalis, can grow almost anywhere and is very valuable for its wide variety of uses.
Cannabis ruderalis, or Hemp, as it was called, was so important to America, that it was required to be grown by farmers before prohibition began in 1937. The story of outlawing the Hemp plant is an interesting one we'll have to tell on our story page. Be sure to check back for that!
Uses of the Cannabis Plant
Cannabis Sativa and Indica
These two varieties of Cannabis have been widely used throughout the centuries and around the globe for many types of ailments. Dr. Tod Mikuriya, medical cannabis specialist, categorized over 200 ailments into several broad categories...
Anti-nausea/Appetite Stimulant
Anti-spasmodic/Anti-convulsant
Analgesic (Pain relief)
Anti-inflammatory/Immune System Modulator
Anti-anxiety/Anti-depressant
Harm reduction substitute for alcohol, opiates, and other dangerous drugs
Miscellaneous Applications
Specific Ailments
Coming Soon!
State Medical Marijuana Laws
I'm a patient and caregiver in the state of Colorado, but here's a link to a site that'll tell you about all 14 states with Medical Marijuana laws.
State by State Laws
Cannabis Ruderalis (Hemp)
This plant has fibers so strong they can be woven into rope and fabric, it can be made into paper, Henry Ford molded it into a plastic type substance and made a car, houses have been built from it and much, much more. |