Cannabis, a plant with a rich history and a promising future, has fascinated humanity for millennia. Believed to have originated in Central Asia and the Himalayan foothills, evidence of its early presence is supported by its biological diversity and biochemical data from the region. From its ancient roots in Asia to its widespread cultivation across the globe, cannabis continues to influence industries and cultures worldwide. In this insightful exploration, we delve into the intricate world of cannabis, examining its taxonomy, cultivation methods, and the nuanced differences between hemp and medical/recreational cannabis.
Understanding Cannabis Classification
According to National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), Cannabis sativa L., commonly known as cannabis, hemp, or marijuana, belongs to the Cannabaceae family. The taxonomy of cannabis has been a topic of debate among botanists and scholars. While some advocate for a polytypic classification to reflect its diverse traits, the monotypic model is widely accepted today. This model, supported by most botanists, posits that there is only one species of Cannabis with two subspecies: Cannabis sativa subsp. sativa (hemp) and Cannabis sativa subsp. indica (marijuana) based on THC content in dried female flowering tops, with 0.3% THC as the dividing point. This classification aligns with the views of Carolus Linnaeus, who identified Cannabis sativa as the sole species within the Cannabis genus.
- Cannabis sativa subsp. sativa var. sativa (hemp variety with domesticated characteristics);
- Cannabis sativa subsp. sativa var. spontanea (hemp variety with wild characteristics);
- Cannabis sativa subsp. indica var. indica (marijuana variety with domesticated characteristics);
- Cannabis sativa subsp. indica var. kafiristanica (marijuana variety with wild characteristics).
Distinguishing Hemp from Marijuana:
According to Renée Johnson. Specialist in Agricultural Policy The distinction between hemp and marijuana involves differences in their chemical/genetic makeup, uses, and cultivation practices. Here are the key points:
Uses of Industrial Hemp:
Hemp stands out as a sustainable, versatile resource with applications ranging from industrial fibers to nutritious seeds and medicinal compounds. Its eco-friendly nature and diverse uses continue to drive its popularity across various markets, making it a valuable crop for the future.Here's an overview of the many uses of hemp:
1. Fibre Products:
Hemp stems are composed of two primary layers: the outer bast fiber, which is highly valuable, and the inner woody core, known as hurd or shive fiber, which is less valuable. To extract these fibers, mechanical separation methods such as decortication or retting are employed. Once separated, the fibers are dried, baled, and can undergo further processing like cottonizing, shredding, and spinning into yarn. Both hurd and bast fibers are versatile, used in products such as animal bedding, building materials, paper, and textiles.The global industrial hemp market is expanding rapidly, now supporting the production of over 25,000 products in various sectors, including paper, construction materials, textiles, yarns, biocomposites, carpeting, and home furnishings.
- Textiles & Clothing: Hemp fibres are woven into textiles, fabrics, and clothing, prized for their strength and eco-friendliness.
- Rope and Cordage: Historically, hemp has been used to make strong ropes and cords.
- Hemp paper & pulp: Hemp fibres serve as a sustainable source for paper production.
- Construction Materials (Hempcrete):Hemp fibres are used in building materials, insulation, and biodegradable mulch.
- Biocomposites & plastic: Hemp fibres are incorporated into bio-composites and compressed cellulose plastics, offering a greener alternative to traditional materials.
- Animal Bedding: The less valuable woody core, or hurd, is utilised for animal bedding and horticultural materials.
2. Seed or Grain Products
- Hemp seeds are a nutritional powerhouse, containing:
- Edible Oil: Rich in omega-3 fats and proteins, hemp seed oil is used in foods like salad dressings and can replace industrial oils.
- Protein: One serving of whole hemp seeds (3 tablespoons or 30 grams) contains approximately 9.5 grams..
- Fibre and Carbohydrates: Alongside protein, hemp seeds provide essential fibres and carbs, supporting a balanced diet.
- Hemp seed products include whole and dehulled seeds, hemp seed flour, hemp seed cake (a byproduct of oil pressing), meal, hulls, and protein isolates and concentrates. These products are not only used in food but also in cosmetics and health products
3. Medicinal Market
- CBD oil, a non-intoxicating compound derived from industrial hemp, has gained popularity for its potential health benefits. Unlike THC, CBD is non-addictive and has been legalised in many states. It is incorporated into a variety of products, including:
- Lotions and Skincare: CBD oil is used in lotions and other skincare products.
- Pharmacological Substances: Various medications and health supplements utilise CBD oil.
- Food and Beverages: CBD-infused foods and drinks, such as sparkling water, are increasingly available.
In contrast, medical and recreational cannabis is bred specifically for its high cannabinoid content, especially THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), known for their therapeutic and psychoactive properties. This difference in purpose drives the distinct genetic selection and cultivation practices for each type of cannabis.
Today, cannabis is celebrated for its medicinal and narcotic uses, thanks to its various secondary metabolites such as terpenoids, flavonoids, sterols, and phytocannabinoids. These abundant phytocannabinoids have made cannabis a popular medicinal plant, used in treatments for centuries. However, its narcotic effects led to strict global regulations for many decades, stalling research. However, now we are witnessing a global trend towards the relaxation of cannabis laws, paving the way for renewed interest and exploration in its many uses.
Characteristics:
Hemp plants include both male and female individuals within the same population, which leads to relatively lower cannabinoid levels compared to marijuana. Although hemp contains cannabinoids like CBD in significant amounts, its THC (delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol) content remains below the legal threshold (typically 0.3% or lower).
In contrast, medical and recreational cannabis cultivators aim to maximise cannabinoid yields, primarily using feminised seeds or clones. By eliminating male plants and cultivating only female plants, growers can optimise cannabinoid production, resulting in potent flower buds rich in THC and other desirable compounds.(THC content : 5 % - 35%)
source:https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/R/R44742/6
Cultivation Practices & Methods:
Marijuana:
- Grown from varieties with selected female flowers to avoid male plants. Female flowers are short and properly spaced.
- Grown in controlled environments (indoor or greenhouse) with strict management of lighting, temperature, humidity, and nutrients. Selective breeding programs develop cultivars with specific cannabinoid profiles.
- Marijuana: Short, bushy with many leaves and branches to promote flowers and buds, with a typical height of 5 to 6 feet.
- Marijuana is encouraged to grow short and tightly clustered. Plants are well-spaced ( less than 12 plants per square feet)
Hemp:
- Grown to prevent flowering, promoting taller growth with less branching, typically using male plants only.
- Large-scale outdoor cultivation with mechanical harvesting. Pesticides are often used to manage pests.
- The plants grown for fiber have a tall, single main stalk with few leaves and branches, reaching a harvest height of 10 to 15 feet.
- Hemp is encouraged to grow tall & densely planted (35-50 plants per square foot) to discourage branching and flowering.
- Hemp’s seeding to harvest period ranges from 70 to 140 days, depending on variety and climate. Harvested products include stalks and seeds.
Source: George Weiblen, University of Minnesota, presentation at the 2013 Annual HIA Conference, Washington, DC, November 17, 2013.
Notes: An optimal marijuana plant will be well-spaced to encourage branching and to remain short (shown in the boxes on left), whereas hemp is more densely spaced to discourage branching and to grow taller (boxes on the right).
Regulatory Implications
The regulatory landscape for medical and recreational cannabis is much stricter than for industrial hemp due to its psychoactive properties and potential health risks. Cannabis for human consumption undergoes extensive testing and regulation.
In contrast, industrial hemp faces less stringent regulations, mainly focusing on THC content to differentiate it from marijuana.
The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (also known as the 2018 Farm Bill) included the Hemp Farming Act of 2018 , which made it legal to grow hemp, or cannabis containing less than 0.3 percent THC, throughout the United States. It also made hemp-derived CBD products federally legal in the United States.
In India, the cultivation of cannabis for industrial or horticultural purposes, such as for fibre, seed, or horticultural activities, is allowed under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The Act excludes cannabis leaves separated from the flowering or fruiting tops from its provisions. Hemp products derived from cannabis stalks and fibres with low THC levels (<0.3%) are legal.
- Uttarakhand: According to Times of India, Uttarakhand becomes the first state to implement a hemp policy in 2016 and legalise hemp farming in It is now the largest hemp-producing state in India, with legal cultivation permitted if THC content is below 0.3%.It is expected that with a successful implementation of legalisation of cannabis cultivation in the State, revenue of approx 400 to 500 cr will be generated in the initial years and will increase subsequently. Himachal Pradesh is also planning to launch a project in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, following in the footsteps of Uttarakhand.
- Uttar Pradesh : According to CSIR (The CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI) in Lucknow is the pioneering R&D organisation tackling the challenge of developing two distinct hemp varieties: one with less than 0.3% THC and high fibre content for industrial use, and another with high THC and CBD levels for medicinal purposes. CSIR-NBRI has been instrumental in advocating for policy changes in Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh to support the cultivation of this important plant) Uttar Pradesh Govt. has framed out the policy for issuing licence only for R&D purposes
- In Jammu, CSIR - IIM is conducting a pilot project for cannabis cultivation in partnership with a Canadian firm, operating as a Private-Public Partnership. This initiative marks India's first cannabis medicine project.
Conclusion
As we journey through the captivating world of cannabis, we encounter a tapestry of diversity, innovation, and opportunity. From its classification and cultivation to its industrial applications and therapeutic benefits, cannabis continues to inspire awe and fascination. By embracing the nuances of hemp and medical/recreational cannabis, cultivators, consumers, and regulators alike can chart a course towards a brighter, more sustainable future for the cannabis industry.
If you are keen on finding out more about Cannabis & Industrial Hemp Industry, do not hesitate to contact me for questions.
Manasi Nachankar
Industrial Hemp Market Researcher
Phone + 91 7448150881 / +91 93246 47675
Email support@truhemplifestyle.com / nachankarmansi@gmail.com
Resources:
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/plant-science/articles/10.3389/fpls.2021.627240/full#B4
- https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/R/R44742/6
- https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9717/11/3/718
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9104644/
- https://www.votehemp.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/CRS-R44742-DefiningIndustrialHemp-factsheet.pdf
- https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/2
- https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/5485/text
- https://www.mdpi.com/2223-7747/11/16/2130#:~:text=The%20five%20recognized%20chemotypes%20of,constituent%20and%20a%20minimum%20content
- https://narcoticsindia.nic.in/legislation/ndpsact.pdf
- https://www.cargroup.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/The-Bio_Based-Materials-Automotive-Value-Chain.pdf