History of hemp oil cbd?
Hemp oil, particularly in the context of CBD (cannabidiol), has a rich history that intertwines with the broader narrative of cannabis use and cultivation.
Ancient Use
The use of hemp dates back thousands of years. Early records indicate that hemp was cultivated in Asia, specifically in China, for its fibers, seeds, and medicinal properties. The earliest historical records hint at the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes as far back as 2737 BCE, when Emperor Shen Nong is said to have used it for various ailments.
19th Century
In the 19th century, cannabis began to draw interest in Western medicine as well. In the mid-1800s, cannabis extracts were used in herbal medicine, and they were commonly sold in pharmacies. However, the focus was mainly on the psychoactive component, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), rather than CBD.
Early 20th Century and Prohibition
The early 20th century saw a significant shift due to the prohibition movement and the subsequent criminalization of cannabis in many parts of the world. In the U.S., the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937 effectively banned the use and cultivation of cannabis. This law and similar ones worldwide suppressed the use of hemp and its derivatives, including CBD.
Late 20th Century Revival
The late 20th century marked a shift towards a more nuanced understanding of cannabis. In the 1960s and 1970s, interest in cannabis and its potential benefits began to grow again. Research on its various cannabinoids, including CBD, started to gain traction.
1990s: The Discovery of CBD
In 1992, the human body’s endocannabinoid system was discovered, leading to a better understanding of how cannabinoids interact with our bodies. In the late 1990s, studies began to explore the therapeutic potential of CBD, separate from the psychoactive effects of THC.
Early 2000s: Legal Developments
The early 2000s saw a gradual easing of restrictions on hemp products. Some states in the U.S. began to legalize medical marijuana, which opened the door for research on cannabinoids like CBD. In 2014, the U.S. passed the Farm Bill, allowing for the cultivation of industrial hemp with minimal THC content.
2010s: The CBD Boom
By the 2010s, CBD gained significant popularity as a wellness supplement, marketed for its purported benefits in alleviating anxiety, inflammation, and pain without the psychoactive effects associated with THC. In 2018, the Farm Bill was passed, federally legalizing hemp-derived CBD products in the U.S., which further fueled the market.
Recent Developments
Since then, the CBD market has rapidly expanded globally, with a wide variety of products available, including oils, tinctures, edibles, and topicals. Continued research is being conducted to explore the full spectrum of benefits and potential uses of CBD. Regulatory bodies, including the FDA in the U.S., are also working to establish clearer guidelines for the industry.
In summary, the history of hemp oil and CBD reflects a complex evolution from ancient medicinal use to modern-day wellness trends, shaped by cultural attitudes, legal frameworks, and scientific research. Today, hemp-derived CBD continues to be at the forefront of discussions about cannabis and its therapeutic potential.