Cannabis Basics

Cannabis

Cannabis is a flowering plant genus that produces compounds called cannabinoids, which interact with the human body to create medicinal, wellness, and intoxicating effects. It has been cultivated for thousands of years for fiber, food, medicine, and spiritual use.

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What Cannabis Is and How It’s Classified

Cannabis is a genus of plants in the family Cannabaceae that includes varieties commonly referred to as marijuana and hemp. The most well-known species names are Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis, though modern science often treats cannabis as a single species with many variations (similar to dog breeds within one species). These plants are valued primarily for their production of cannabinoids, aromatic compounds that affect the human endocannabinoid system (a cell-signaling network that helps regulate mood, pain, appetite, and sleep).

The Compounds Cannabis Produces

Cannabis produces over 100 known cannabinoids. The most studied are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which causes intoxication or a “high,” and CBD (cannabidiol), which does not intoxicate and is commonly used for wellness and therapeutic purposes. The plant also produces terpenes (aromatic oils that create scent and flavor) and flavonoids (plant pigments that contribute to color and subtle effects), which together influence how different cannabis strains feel and perform.

A Brief History of Human Use

Historically, cannabis is one of humanity’s oldest cultivated plants. Archaeological evidence shows its use in China over 5,000 years ago for rope, textiles, medicine, and ritual use. Hemp, a low-THC form of cannabis, was a major agricultural crop across Europe and the Americas for centuries and was used to make paper, sails, clothing, and food products. Cannabis was widely included in Western medicine until the early 20th century, when prohibition laws restricted its use and research.

How Cannabis Is Grown

In cultivation, cannabis is typically grown as an annual plant and can be male or female. Female plants produce flowers rich in cannabinoids and are the primary focus for medicinal and recreational use. Growers manage factors such as light cycles, nutrients, airflow, and humidity to maximize flower development and resin production. Cannabis can be grown indoors, outdoors, or in greenhouses, each method offering different benefits and challenges.

Common Cultivation Challenges and Modern Uses

Common issues in cannabis cultivation include nutrient deficiencies, pests, mold, and environmental stress. Proper genetics, clean growing conditions, and balanced care help prevent these problems. Today, cannabis plays a major role in medicine, wellness, agriculture, and industry, with expanding research revealing new therapeutic applications and cultivation techniques.

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