hemp
Canadian Government Decides to Invest in Hemp
The criminalization of marijuana has caused some head scratching for decades. Why exactly are naturally growing buds with few side effects (certainly far less than many FDA approve drugs”) and a wealth of medical potential illegal? Lobbyists? Political stubbornness? Lack of Compassion? Well if we cannot these questions about why our government has outlawed marijuana …continue reading
Could Hemp Save the World?
Much of our focus at marijuana.net is on the constantly evolving legalities that is the medical marijuana industry. Old propaganda dies hard and lazy politicians have taken up the standard talking points of “we need more research” and “what kind of message does this send to children?”. While talking about propaganda, medical research, patient stories …continue reading
Hemp’s Rich Legacy May be Showcased Soon in Kentucky Museum
As cannabis buds continue to impress the medical field as an all purpose medicine, it is important that we do not forget that the entire plant has so many benefits. Hemp is the all purpose fiber and it is no surprise that another part of the cannabis plant would offer as much variety as the medicine. Here at marijuana.net we have spoken about how hemp can be used in rope, building materials, paper, jewelry, clothing, fuel, medicine and food (this list can go on for quite a bit). With many historians believing that hemp has been cultivated since approximately 8000 B.C., we have had a long time to appreciate and learn more about this natural wonder (with new uses constantly being discovered).
In an effort to bring awareness to the varied uses and long history of hemp, Katie Moyer plans on opening the Kentucky Hemp Museum. She has amassed a collection of items that include agricultural equipment and historic memorabilia. The collection is currently in Lexington but Ms. Moyer would like to transport it to its new home in Hopkinsville, where the museum is planned.
Kentucky has a long history with hemp and at one point produced 96% of the nations supply before it was outlawed. Katie said recently about hemp that “ It’s as much a part of our history as horses, or bluegrass, or anything and we don’t realize it. And the goal of having the museum is to educate people about Kentucky’s history.” We at marijuana.net agree and would love to see a resurgence in the hemp industry. Kentucky could certainly use the economic boost as they, like most states, have been hit hard with the bleak economy over the past few years. Also embracing the state’s history could help people to see this plant is not evil and would remind people of all of it’s benefits.
The moral objection to hemp is confusing at best. Hemp cannot produce any of the psychedelic effects associated with smoked cannabis and in an age where we can use cost efficient but quality solutions, hemp can re-emerge at the perfect time. In this digital age, it would be great to remind people how much we can accomplish with traditional farming. Keep checking back with us as we will soon revisit hemp and its under represented brilliance.
A Day To Celebrate Our Independence
Besides Tom Cruise, there is another high profile birthday this week. While alcohol, red meat, and fireworks are sure to dominate the day for many Americans, July 4th represents our country’s birth. On this day the Founding Father’s adopted the Declaration of Independence and sent a clear message to the Kingdom of Britain that the original 13 colonies would no longer tolerate existing under such tyranny.
July 4th should remind us of the freedom that was won against all military odds. However at times it seems this freedom is dissipating a bit. Patients are not legally allowed under most states and federal law to relieve their medical ailments. George Washington would not have outlawed marijuana, in fact he did the opposite. It was mandated that farmers grow hemp, the all purpose wonder fiber which was instrumental in winning the Revolutionary War.
Our victory in the war provided us with freedom but with the turn of the century the political and propaganda machine took over, even though the Constitution was designed to combat this. Now patients such as Bob Crouse have to break the law to medicate. With a mounting deficit, several military engagements worldwide, and the often ignored issue of American poverty, why exactly is it imperative that we formulate battle strategies against a plant?
While we do not advocate breaking the law we do want people to feel good. July 4th is an upbeat holiday and there are people who would not be able to enjoy the days festivities without medicating with cannabis. Certain barbeque foods may not palatable for patients without nausea relief. Walks on the beach or hikes may not possible either if it were not for the world’s best naturally growing medication. Lets enjoy the day and appreciate the great things the United States has to offer. Our government is certainly off base on this one issue but if we get back to work after enjoying this holiday we may be able to make sure that this is the last July 4th where patients have to secretly improve the quality of their life.
Who are We to Question Albert Einstein?
Many social debates are a matter of perspective, of opinion. However there are those iconic figures throughout history where we all simply stare in awe of their brilliance. Albert Einstein revolutionized quantum physics, which in turn, revolutionized philosophy and the definition of the humanity and the universe.
Albert Einstein was around before and during the government’s all out war on marijuana. Always a forward thinker, he did not agree with the United States war on cannabis. Specifically in regards to marijuana and hemp he said “The prestige of government has undoubtedly been lowered considerably by the prohibition law. For nothing is more destructive of respect for the government and the law of the land than passing laws which cannot be enforced. It is an open secret that the dangerous increase of crime in this country is closely connected with this.”
Of course, over 70 years after making the statement we are only finally starting to see a change in marijuana policy. Seventeen states have now passed laws permitting medical marijuana with some more enacting decriminalization measures. As always, we seem to ignore our experts and force their brilliance into a narrow scope. Einstein changed humanity and was much more than a man proficient at formulas and quantum physics. The man changed how we view space, time (space and time are now viewed as one entity because of his work) and humanity, yet we ignored his feelings on a civil rights and cannabis.
No article can do enough justice on Albert Einstein, especially a brief one such as this. However, when we feel that marijuana advocacy is a new phenomenon it is comforting to know that is not the case. This battle has been going on for decades, with recent victories showing we are winning the debate. Einstein may not have even smoked marijuana, but in a day and age where politicians insist on forcing their ideology on us, it is refreshing to hear from advocates of personal rights.
Moving to Legalize Domestic Hemp
As the movement for the legalization of marijuana marches on people often forget about the Mary’s sister plant, industrial Hemp. Both plants are members of the cannabis genus and both are illegal to grow or possess under Federal law. They are two genetically distinct species with different properties. Marijuana contains as much as 27% THC in its buds, leaves and trichomes. Whereas hemp generally contains 0.3% or less THC (although some places do allow for it to contain 1% and remain classified as industrial hemp). Furthermore the two plants are unsuited to be used interchangeably. Marijuana is unsuited for industrial purposes such as paper, clothing and building goods due to the nature of growth of the plant fibers. Similarly, industrial hemp will not get have the effects of smoked marijuana. It is very similar to the way that poppy seeds can make a person test positive for opium, but would produce get them “doped up”.
Since 1937 it has been illegal to cultivate both marijuana and hemp plants, aside from a special dispensation in WW2 (see “Hemp for Victory“). Today many states have passed laws allowing for compassionate use of medical marijuana, but it is still illegal to domestically grow and distribute industrial hemp products. This continues despite growing demands for hempen clothing, building supplies, fossil fuel substitutes, and food products. However, it is legally allowed to import foreign hemp products. To meet this demand, American companies must purchase goods from Canada, China and a few European countries. This is a farce. America (from the time of the colonies) was built on money provided by Hemp cash crops. At this time we are relegated to sending hard-earned American dollars overseas (OK, Canada is not overseas) to buy raw seed and fiber and end-products that could easily be made here, at an economic benefit for Americans. This market has nowhere to go except upward, especially as more Americans become aware of the many benefits (nutritional, agricultural, industrial, economical) presented by Hemp.
Currently, eighteen states have recent laws (within the last 20 years), bills, or amendments on the books or pending legislation seeking to allow for domestic cultivation of Industrial Hemp. Many of those states have only first stage laws that require studies by state boards looking into economic and agricultural benefits. Many of these studies are underway, but none have been completed. Part of this is due to the political insecurity that arises from dabbling in marijuana laws. Although attitudes have shifted greatly in the last several years, many politicians are still wary of endorsing anything marijuana-related. Regardless of those studies, every bill has language reflecting the worries about Federal prosecution. The caveats in the bills all mention that Federal statutes must either be overturned, rewritten, or researchers and farmers will require permits or dispensations from the DEA, DOJ or even IRS in order to grow hemp crops and be in compliance of state and federal laws.
The most recent states to challenge this Federal ban include Kentucky, Vermont, North Dakota, Washington, Colorado, Oregon, and Montana. Members of Congress have also sought to change the laws. In 2007, 2009, and 2011 they have introduced “The Industrial Hemp Farming Act” so that low potency cannabis crops would be exempted from the Federal ban. The current measure, House Bill 1831 has numerous co-sponsors but has not received a Congressional hearing. If passed, states would have the power to approve and regulate hemp cultivation and trade. Last year, Hemp imports were valued at over four hundred million dollars. This number is expected to increase this year and more in the future. Hemp production could soon be valued at over $1 billion. Taxed revenues from this business would do well to help offset American debt and trade deficits, if it was a domestic product. Not only is this an incredibly useful plant, it is hardy and grows in poor soils that are unsuited for other crash crops. Additionally, rotating hemp through poor soils helps to lock nutrients back into the earth so that other crops can grow better. It also is a prime source for photosynthesis and carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate the problems posed by increased amounts of CO2 and other greenhouse chemicals present in the atmosphere.
As more information comes to light about hemp it seems that the cultivation of this plant is a win-win situation for the environment, the economy, and the people of our country. Unfortunately, the same special interests (tobacco lobby, Big Pharma, Alcohol, fossil fuels) who secured the ban over seventy years ago still have enormous political clout. Combined with the inordinate amount of false information and prejudice against the cannabis plant, those in favor of legalization face a stiff uphill battle. More than ever it is incumbent upon us, we the people, to take an active role in our nation’s future and declare that this plant should not be denied to us.
Hemp Seed Oil
Cannabis sativa L, that ever-so-helpful plant has been used for many thousands of years, for many thousands of reasons. Oil from hemp seeds is one of nature’s most beneficial oils that people enjoy. For a long time its popularity has waned, but it is making a comeback thanks to some progressive entrepreneurs and their dreams of a happier and healthier lifestyle for all of us. Why bother with the seed oil, when so many people seem to be happy enough with buds? Well, hemp seed oil has excellent nutritional value and none of the psychotropic properties of the buds and leaves. It is also legal to sell and consume in the USA (still working on legal to grow) so anybody can enjoy it at anytime.
Nutritionally speaking, hemp seed oil is about as perfect an oil as nature can provide for us. About 70-80% of the oil contains polyunsaturated fatty acids (that’s the kind doctors say are good) and 9-11% is the saturated kind. It also contains numerous essential fatty acids that humans need to live, but cannot produce within our bodies. These acids are in perfect ratio of 3:1 Omega 6 to Omega 3 acids. According to nutrition experts, that is exactly the ratio that people should ingest on a daily basis. Doctors should recommend this in a diet because of its balance and how it can help our daily health. The nutrients in hemp seed oil can help maintain a healthy digestive system, strong immune system and keep skin healthy too. Hemp oil has long been used as a treatment for eczema. It contains antioxidants, such as vitamin E and carotene, numerous minerals such as calcium, potassium, iron and zinc and more.
Have we mentioned that hemp seed oil also tastes good? When fresh, it has a clear, to light green color and nutty flavor to it that many people enjoy. It goes great on salads as a dressing, can be used in mayonnaise and butters, and is great to marinated with as well. But it is not good for cooking/frying with. As an unsaturated oil, it becomes denatured above 150 degrees and produces unhealthy trans-fatty acids and has raised peroxide values. That increases the amount of free radicals in the oil, which can lead to rancidity of the oil and spoiling of food it is mixed with. Food experts agree that hemp seed oil should be stored cold, in sealed containers and out of sunlight.
Hemp seed oil is not so popular now, but that is changing and it can now be found in more stores now than in the last few years. Because hemp grows profusely and has few pests that attack it, it can be grown organically, pesticide and herbicide free. There are growers and distributors popping up around the country, in Ohio and Kentucky to name a few. Also, Canada’s hemp industry is growing rapidly thanks to companies like Hemp Oil Canada Inc, HOCI for short (pronounced “hockey”, duh). If you are yet to try it, we hope you will. Enjoy it in good health!
Medical Marijuana Industry News Update April 6, 2012
Hemp Comeback Could Be in the Works for Kentucky Farmers…
In an age that is increasingly tough on America’s agricultural industry, some good news may be ahead for Kentucky farmers. Kentucky used to be one of the largest hemp producers before legal changes made its production illegal. Hemp is now often imported from Canada and lawmakers may seek to bring the industry and its economic benefits back home. Hemp is known for its versatility and has a wide range of uses including bio-fuels, clothing, paper, lotions, building and composite materials, anti inflammatory medicines, omega-3 supplements, and many other products. Building support for hemp reform has taken years but state Sen. Joey Pendleton sees a brighter future. He recently said “We’ve come a long way” and “The first year I had this, it was lonely.” Many others in the Kentucky legislature have now shown their support and Senator Pendleton said he believed that 2013 would be the year where new laws permitting hemp production will be passed.
Medical Marijuana Dispensary in Lake Elsinore Raided…
Federal authorities targeting medical marijuana dispensaries had a busy week in California. Oaksterdam University was raided and now the Drug Enforcement Administration has moved on to force Compassionate Patients Association to close its doors, at least for the time being. Agents also searched the home of Ernest Cruz Acosta, who runs the collective. The attorney for the collective said that Compassionate Patients Association has followed all state laws. No arrests have been made as of yet.
Billboard in Colorado Tries to Cultivate Different Image of Marijuana Supporters…
The push for marijuana reform seems to have been slowed, for years, by the negative stereotypes associated with users. Advocates have fought long and hard to change that perception. The group from Colorado, Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol have placed their message on a billboard. The billboard depicts an ordinary woman who says “For many reasons I prefer marijuana over alcohol. Does that make me a bad person?” The group has been very active and even organized a successful ballot initiative to place marijuana legalization in the hands of voters. The billboard is not the first of its kind as Florida has also seen advocates getting their message out this way.
Hemp Plastic
Hemp the wonder plant strikes again! This time it is here to upset the petroleum plastics industry. But how is that possible? How can a plant overturn one of the most environmentally unfriendly materials industries? Well, it turns out that hemp can be manufactured into plastic, a stronger better plastic. It can be molded, extruded, …continue reading
Anti-Marijuana Propaganda from the Mid-20th Century
For over 70 years Marijuana has been illegal in the United States. In that time, the powers-that-be have used many forms of propaganda to maintain their control over people’s fear of cannabis in order to prevent the reforms happening today. Initially, the fear and hatred of marijuana was stirred up by Henry J. Anslinger and his cunning use of racism and bigotry. Anslinger and William Randolph Hearst (Hearst publishing) preyed upon the feelings of the white majority and ideas of miscegenation (white women + not-white men). They also made sure people feared a minority uprising, led by unstoppable drugged-out berserker pot-heads. To this day there are still people who fear this, and push for continuing anti-marijuana legislation. However, one fear cannot be stoked continuously for 70 years. As time went by new fears were co-opted and put to use for the war on drugs.
Cannabis and hemp were made illegal in the 1930’s, but hemp was then re-allowed in World War 2 because of its industrial use. After the war ended the ban was reinstated and something else was needed to enforce it. Enter the threat to National Security. That’s right, after the Nazis were defeated and ideas of Superior Races were less popular the country needed something else to unify it. America had a new enemy… Communism! After the war, Anslinger continued to consolidate power into the government apparatus that would eventually become the DEA. With Senator Hale Boggs as his partner, President Harry Truman was convinced that drugs were being utilized by Communist China to subvert Americans and undermine our democracy. In 1951 Truman signed the Boggs Act which imposed strict penalties for violating the import/export laws pertaining to drugs. Part of these penalties were tough mandatory minimum prison sentences. In 1961, Anslinger had JFK used the US influence at the UN to push for an anti-drug convention that eventually saw over 100 countries agree to make marijuana illegal. It would not be the last time that national security would be used as a scapegoat for anti-drug sentiment. All of this helped build the reaction to the counterculture of the 1960’s and 70’s.
In the 1980’s and 90’s, most anti-drug PSA’s (Public Service Announcement) were focused on the negative effects of drugs on the mind, body and social ties. Anybody remember the “This is your brain on drugs” video with the smashed egg? Well, after the terror attacks of September 11, that type of ad moved to the back burner in favor of a terror and drugs cocktail. Many drugs are produced and exported by terror-supporting organizations (not going to debate that here) but once again cannabis was also targeted in these ads. So the teenager buying a bag from his dealer (which was probably grown domestically, in some backwood) is now helping Al-Qaeda to blow up airplanes and shoot marines. One particular PSA shows two men debating the truth of this. The skeptic says he doesn’t believe it, and the other guy says “It’s true,” repeatedly until the other man is convinced. There’s no evidence offered, or even a counterargument. He maintains his position and eventually the other guy is converted. As a 30-second tv spot makes a strong emotional impression, which is the crux of most propaganda. Facts are distorted in order to evoke an emotional response, which has been proven to create a stronger impression than just a factual argument… so far.