What is the history of Cannabis?
One of the earliest domesticated plant species, Cannabis sativa L. (marijuana, hemp; Cannabaceae) has been used for millennia as a source of fibre, oil- and protein-rich achenes (“seeds”) and for its medicinal and psychoactive properties. From its site of domestication in Central Asia, the cultivation of cannabis spread in ancient times throughout Asia and Europe and is now one of the most widely distributed cultivated plants [1]. Hemp fibre was used for textile production in China more than 6000 years BP (before present) [2]. Archaeological evidence for the medicinal or shamanistic use of cannabis has been found in a 2700-year old tomb in north-western China and a Judean tomb from 1700 years BP [3,4]. Currently cannabis and its derivatives such as hashish are the most widely consumed illicit drugs in the world [5]. Its use is also increasingly recognized in the treatment of a range of diseases such as multiple sclerosis and conditions with chronic pain [6,7]. In addition, hemp forms of cannabis are grown as an agricultural crop in many countries.
How is the cannabis cultivated?
Cannabis given the challenges around use has no ideal cultivation method. There are however, numerous equally acceptable methods and alternative ways to cultivate the plant.
How is cannabis used and studied?
The Federal government does not intentionally inhibit research on marijuana. There are federally supported studies that meet accepted scientific standards and successfully compete for research funding based on peer review and potential public health significance.
A number of research projects involving marijuana or its component compounds have been completed or are currently in progress. Studies include evaluation of abuse potential, physical/psychological effects, adverse effects, therapeutic potential, and detection.
The Federal government is committed to the highest standards for basic science and clinical research on wide array of substances, including marijuana, that show promise