Ancient Cultures Use of Cannabis
CBD has garnered a high level of interest in recent years. Though it may seem fairly new, research on the cannabinoid has continued since the 1940s. To go back even further, cannabis, the plant CBD is derived from, contains a history that has grown simultaneously with some of humanity’s most prominent civilizations.
Cannabis was first domesticated around 12,000 years ago in Central Asia. Migrating with the nomadic peoples of the time, it was primarily cultivated to be used as fibers for ropes or nets, with the seeds being used for food and various oils.
It wasn’t until around 2900 BC that cannabis was first referenced for its medicinal qualities by Chinese emperor Fu Hsi. Referring to it as “Ma”, Fu Hsi believed cannabis contained the properties of Yin and Yang, establishing the basis that the plant had healing properties.
In 2700 BC, legend dictates that Emperor Shen Nung sampled 365 different herbs to study their effects, with cannabis being one of them. He would utilize the plant in a medicinal tea to aid in various ailments. His various findings were eventually compiled and became known as the Pen T’sao, the book that would lay the groundwork for the studies of Chinese medicine and is still utilized by practitioners today, albeit a more modern version. Though there is no actual record of Shen Nung’s existence, and with much of history having still been recorded orally during his findings, what remains consistent is that interest in cannabis and its properties have been evident since the dawn of modern civilization.
As history progressed, cannabis became prominent in many other territories and cultures, even holding religious merit amongst some. In India, The Vedas, sacred Hindu texts recorded as early as 2000 BC, mention cannabis as a vessel for happiness, given to humans as a source to find joy and lose fear. In another ancient text, the Atharvaveda, cannabis is referred to as “sacred grass,” considered one of India’s five sacred plants. While these texts recognized the plant’s psychoactive properties, it is evident that practitioners still utilized the plant primarily to treat a variety of ailments.
Cannabis Use in the West
The history of cannabis cultivation in America dates back to early colonists. This multipurpose plant was used for textiles, rope, clothing, paper, and sails. It was such an essential resource that colonial farmers were required to grow it or be fined. Cannabis is one of the crops America was built on. By the 19th century, cannabis was used as an ingredient in many medicinal products sold in pharmacies and doctors’ offices. In fact, 1850 was when cannabis was added to the US pharmacopeia, making its healing capacities officially recognized by the medical community.
Using CBD Products in Your Everyday Life
The historic passage of Proposition 215 in 1996 made California the first state to bypass federal law and legalize the use of medical cannabis. This is the first piece of legislation passed that took a step in the right direction for cannabis legalization. In 2012, Colorado voters took things to the next level and passed the nation’s first recreational cannabis law. Many other states soon followed suit.
The 2018 Farm Bill made massive progress for the legalization of CBD products. Hemp was removed from the Controlled Substances Act. This means CBD is legal in all 50 states if it contains less than .3% THC.
Modern uses of cannabis
CBD is such an easy supplement to work into your regimen. Why wouldn’t you? It’s a great way to start your day off relaxed and rest easily at night. Many of us could use some help in that department.
What is CBD and why is the world in love with it? Now you know the answers. As CBD products become readily available, you will witness cannabinoids popping up all over the health and wellness market. Expect to see CBD in everything from skincare to pet treats. Just be sure to research each company extensively. You want to reap the benefits of CBD, not open the door for more issues!
