This blog is for the true animal lovers out there – the one’s that will often go above and beyond every day in caring for your beloved companions, and treating them akin to their own children (or sometimes even better!).
(Guilty – Sorry Kids!)
We often hear people say “If it’s not good enough for me, then why would I feed it to my pet?”, and if you’re anything like me then you’ve got the sound and smell of an over-processed can of dog food slowly slopping into your dog’s bowl seared into your memory – If you’re one of the few that finds that appetizing, then this might not be the right blog for you….
If you’ve included your four-legged, feathered or furry friends in your new year health goals like us – then this is for you!
If you’re new to cooking or preparing your pets food, check out this article by Registered Veterinary Technician, Saleema Lookman.
Making dog food that meets Fido’s nutrition needs isn’t as simple as you might think, says pet nutritionist Cailin Heinze, VMD. “It can be done, it just takes a lot of dedication, a lot of work, and for some pets and some ingredients, quite a bit of expense,” Heinze says.
Cailin Heinze
“I think raw is the gold standard for a feline diet,” she says, explaining that she chose that path after seeing a friend’s gorgeous cats who ate a diet of raw meat.
Lynette Ackman
Let’s get this out of the way up front – NO, Hemp foods will NOT get you or your pet high!
Hemp Oil (Commonly known as full or broad-spectrum hemp oil which contains CBD and/or THC and is considered therapeutic – find out all about differences here in our blog here), depending on its formula has a chance eliciting the usual effects of CBD or THC products – find out more about using CBD for your pets in our blog here.
Hemp foods have a wide range of benefits for animals, similar to those enjoyed by their humans. For example, it can improve skin health in dogs and cats, leaving them with a healthy, shiny, smooth & overall irresistibly cuddly coat. Hemp seeds have the perfect composition of Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) such as Omega 6 and Omega 3 in the “Golden Ratio” of 1:3. Omega fatty acids play an essential role in an animals’ overall skin and coat health.
An unbalanced ratio of Omega 6 & Omega 3 in an animals diet can cause upsets in its health. With additional Omega 6, your pet’s body would further reduce its Omega 3 levels. Conversely, an excess of Omega 3 in the body would unbalance Omega 6 volumes. This can cause instabilities in your pet’s body. As a result, other unbalanced sources of Omega fatty acids like fish oil can not be relied upon.
The fact that it is a perfectly balanced source of Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids further magnifies the importance of incorporating hemp seed oil in your pet’s diet.
Any oil perfectly balanced with Essential Fatty Acids would undoubtedly work well for skin allergies and diseases. A 2005 research noted that Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) patients experienced reduced allergic symptoms with the dietary use of hemp seed oil.
…And that’s just getting started! There are many other notable benefits of hemp for pets, which you can read more about here.
This is especially important for those with larger dog breeds, and although hemp certainly has miraculous properties, it’s far from a miracle cure. It should be viewed as one piece in the larger picture of overall health & wellbeing. To get a complete picture of joint health in dogs, check out this article by veterinarian Dan Richardson.
The Omega-3 fatty acids found in hemp seeds do a great job in promoting healthy joint lubrication and can help in reducing joint inflammation and pain for your pet.
Joint health is a must for ensuring the quality of life for our pooches, especially into their later year – It’s never too early to start thinking about joint health!
One of the simplest ways to incorporate hemp foods into your pets’ diet is to add hemp seed oil into their daily meals… After checking with your vet, just add a little bit to your pet’s meal once a day (following the appropriate weight-based dosing instructions, of course) to help keep their skin, coat, hips and joints, heart and immune system healthy.
If you’ve followed our journey on social media, you’ll know that we LOVE to meet your dog’s at our store, almost as much as they love Georgie’s famous hemp doggie treats!
Ingredients
Instructions
Do you cook your own pet’s food?
Leave us a reply with your favourite recipes!
Hemp advocates have been continually teaching people that hemp has various benefits to man and the environment, which leads to question how much truth is behind the statement. Is Hemp Sustainable?
It has been challenging to verify these claims for a long time due to the restriction in hemp’s farming, distribution, and usage. However, the ease of the limitation on hemp in several countries globally has allowed scientists to test these theories.
Hemp has significant positive impacts on the environment for a variety of reasons. From cleaning the soil to removing Co2 from our atmosphere & beyond, there is so much to talk about regarding the ecological benefits of growing and utilising Hemp.
How many environmental benefits can you name off the top of your head?
This week we’re taking a deep dive into the future roles of Hemp in sustainability & regeneration. Read on to learn more!
Carbon sequestration is one of the most exciting functions of Hemp. Carbon sequestration is a process that involves trapping carbon dioxide in the soil so that it is not released into the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide is an air pollutant that has adverse effects on health. Moreso, civilisation has created several channels that carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere. Carbon sequestration may be biological, physical, geological, chemical, direct, or indirect.
According to research from Cambridge University, Hemp farming is more effective in trapping carbon dioxide than regular trees. In 2019, Catherine Wilson, during the European Industrial Hemp Association, emphasised that hemp absorbs more carbon from the moment it is planted- which is instrumental in reducing the greenhouse effect in the environment.
Hemp was once an approved crop in the Australian government’s late ‘carbon farming incentives & carbon credit system’. This incentivised farmers to grow approved plants recognised for their significant absorption of co2 per hectare.
Bioremediation is the process in which living things are used in cleaning the soil, in this case, hemp. Hemp is known for its ability to clean up polluted soil. It has been used in several contamination sites where the ground has been rendered useless for agriculture.
Several farmers have embraced hemp farming in Italy to nourish and decontaminate the soil. Crops weren’t growing correctly, and those that did were still contaminated with heavy metals and toxins from the pollution. However, in 2012, Hemp farming changed the general narrative. One farmer, in particular, has a remarkable story about how growing Hemp on his land removed contaminants from a nearby steel refinery, which you can read about here.
Chernobyl is another excellent example of how hemp cleans the soil through bioremediation. In 1986, Chernobyl experienced a nuclear disaster that rendered lands infertile and unsafe farming. In 1998, hemp farming began in Chernobyl and had proved instrumental in absorbing contaminants from the soil.
Hemp’s deep taproot naturally turns over the soil so that the growing solution moves throughout the top layer of sediment. This keeps soil enriched with various nutrients and co2. Hemp has very long taproots, making it rather drought-resistant as it can further absorb soil water and nutrients. This eliminates competition for water and nutrients between hemp and other crops.
Additionally, the biomass left in the field & leaf fall infuses much-needed nutrients back into the soil, such as nitrogen. This prepares the ground for the next crop.
Hemp improves soil structure and texture with its elongated tap root system. It is capable of loosening compacted soil to improve aeration and biomass. Furthermore, it absorbs toxins from the earth, essentially serving as a natural soil cleanser.
The hemp plant reduces the growth of weeds (and the irony of that is fantastic). The leaves are broad, thus preventing sunlight from getting to smaller weeds. This is a natural and effective strategy of preventing weed influx in farmland without using herbicides. The hemp plant produces coumaric, caffeic, and benzoic acids that inhibit the growth of weeds. In addition, it is pest resistant, so this protects the farmland from pest invasion.
Hemp is a “low-maintenance” crop because it is not highly nutrient demanding. The taproot can absorb nutrients from a deep level of the soil. Therefore, it is best to plant hemp before grains, root and tuber crops (onions, potatoes), vegetables, and grass.
The hemp plant is instrumental in preserving bees. Bees are essential pollinators in crop farming. In addition, they are the natural source of honey for humans. Unfortunately, however, there has been a recent decline in the population of bees.
Hemp pollen can save the bees by acting as an off-season food source in seasons when there is no nectar in the air. A recent study shows that the flowers of hemp can attract several species of bees. The study also revealed that bees preferred hemp flowers to other plant flowers. Therefore growing hemp could help sustain our dwindling bee population. Planting hemp also is a method of reducing pesticides that may pose a danger to bees. Hemp is pest resistant, hence a good option for maintaining the population of bees on your farm.
There are a number of products that Hemp offers much more eco-friendly solutions to. When it comes to biofuels and plastics, is Hemp sustainable?
It certainly is.
Some say that there are over 50,000 commercial products that you can make from Hemp – all of them being more eco-friendly than their traditionally manufactured counterparts.
As we move into an accelerated pace of research & development, we anticipate that more innovators in the space will step up and begin testing many of the applications mentioned here. While some are already in production, not all of them are at scale yet – and that’s when things are going to get very exciting.
Here are some of our favourite eco-friendly Hemp alternatives.
Have you encountered any of these?
Hemp Biofuel is a potential future alternative for fuel, but the demand and scale still aren’t quite there. Hemp biodiesel and ethanol (or methanol) are the two main types of hemp biofuel. Hemp is a cost-effective source of energy because it is easy to extract. Ethanol is a constituent of gasoline. On the other hand, methanol is majorly used in racing cars globally. Every part of the hemp plant can be converted into ethanol or methanol through processes like cellulolysis and pyrolysis.
Hemp biodiesel, much like vegetable oil, can be derived from Hemp Seed Oil with the correct process & engine conversion. It is a biodegradable replacement for diesel. In addition, it is safe to handle, store, and transport. Furthermore, it is less flammable than regular diesel from petroleum, which is an excellent benefit. Currently, it isn’t commercially viable due to costs, but who knows what the future might hold!
Hemp shivs are a by-product of fibre processing you can use to make Hempcrete. Hempcrete is a sustainable, eco-friendly, highly durable building material made from the hemp plant’s stalk mixed with mud cement or lime. Hempcrete is lightweight and contains a high amount of silica, allowing it to bond with lime. Furthermore, it is a carbon-negative material that absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Calcium hydroxide is the binding agent used for hempcrete and lime. Therefore, it absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to produce calcium carbonate.
Moreover, hempcrete allows for the conservation of resources as it requires less water than traditional concrete for curing. In addition, it maintains a comfortable internal environment due to its thermal insulation properties. Finally, it is resistant to earthquakes, mould, and pests, making it an excellent building material.
Sustainable material reduces the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Hemp is a high-yield plant that produces more on less land. Growing the plant uses less water than other textile plants like cotton. In contrast to the cotton plant, hemp does not require insecticide or pesticides, protecting the soil from pollution.
Furthermore, hemp materials are more durable than other materials. They have the unique ability to block Ultraviolet rays from the sun. In addition, hemp fabrics are hypoallergenic, making them suitable for sensitive skin. Finally, the biodegradable nature of hemp materials ensures they are not a source of pollution when you dispose of them.
Hemp paper is easier to produce because it has less quantity of lignin. The chief ingredient in the paper is Hemp-derived cellulose. Hemp has 85% cellulose, while wood has 30%. Paper from wood requires chlorine bleaching to produce a bright paper. This process is not eco-friendly because toxic dioxin is released into the atmosphere. However, hemp paper does not require chemical bleaching.
Before the ban on hemp farming, manufacturers and consumers preferred hemp paper because of its durability. The colour and texture last longer than wood-based paper. You can recycle hemp paper about eight times. However, you can only recycle tree-based paper about three times. The adoption of the hemp plant in papermaking will also significantly reduce deforestation, which has severe effects on the environment. Hemp stalk matures within four months, whereas trees may take between 20-80 years. Additionally, it can produce more than 2x the amount of paper.
Hemp grows very fast; hence, it is an alternative to sustainable bio-plastics. Hemp plastics are made from non-toxic and biodegradable fibres, making them an excellent choice. Plastic may require between 500-1000 years to degenerate, which is not sustainable for the environment. Regular plastic is toxic to the human body and the environment. The hemp plant absorbs carbon dioxide, which is locked in the bio-plastic.
The amount of waste generated from plastic is on the rise, and it has a significant effect on the pollution of water bodies. In addition, marine life may ingest pieces of plastic, leading to poisoning, reducing wildlife. Hemp plastic is so versatile that we can make just about any plastic product. Another reason hemp plastic is an excellent choice is that it is safe for the environment. Unlike regular plastics, manufacturing hemp plastic absorbs carbon dioxide and does not leave any toxic residue. In addition, hemp plastics are lightweight yet more robust than traditional plastics.
Hemp wood is a sustainable alternative to regular wood for several reasons. First, hemp wood matures within a few months (6 months), while trees require several years to produce quality wood. The hemp seed is planted to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere while making oxygen. Secondly, hemp wood is biodegradable, recyclable, and reusable. The production of hemp wood requires less energy expenditure. Formaldehyde is not used in Hemp wood production, so it does not emit VOCs. Furthermore, it has excellent insulating properties. Hemp wood has a natural resistance to pests and is 20% more stable than oak wood.
Several individuals have reservations about leather because it is from animals. However, hemp is a sustainable alternative for making 100% cruelty-free hemp leather. This leather does not require any chemical processing, as seen in leather production from animal skin. Hemp leather is customisable and has various uses such as clothing, leather for furniture, vehicles, etc.
Hemp Products are gaining a lot of attention around the world, especially in the Health & Beauty sectors. Hemp Seed is fast becoming known as a superfood, and you’d be blown away by the numerous ways you can grind, press, and cook with something so simple. On the other hand, the oil from the pressed seed is a popular skincare ingredient due to its remarkable nutritional properties delivering incredible results to users.
Do you think it’s a gimmicky trend, or that it actually stacks up to the hype?
Are you interested in learning more about Hemp Food and Hemp Skincare products?
Let’s take a deep look into everything Hemp Health & Beauty so you can see what it’s all about!
The phrase ‘Hemp Foods’ encompasses a variety of products derived from Hemp Seeds. From the naked eye, it might not look like much can be done with a simple seed. So if you don’t already know how many different things it can be used for, we’re about to show you!
Have you heard of any of these?
All of these base ingredients can be made just from the Hemp Seed. Can you imagine how many different recipes Hemp Foods could be used in? Almost everything! And to top it all off, they’re gluten-free
Hemp Seed makes its way to our shelves once a fertilized Industrial Hemp crop has been grown out to full maturity. Once fertilized by a male plant, the crop will produce a large amount of seed where the flowers (or buds) would usually be. Farmers harvest the crop and send it off to processing where the shells are removed and the hulled Hemp seeds can be bagged up for transportation.
The Health Benefits of Hemp Seeds are largely correlated based on basic observation due to a lack of significant clinical research. However, amongst the little bit of research that has been undertaken, we can come to certain assumptions by looking at the nutritional content of Hemp Seed. Scientists know what’s in it, and in what amounts. This allows them to make suggestions as to what the long term benefits of eating Hemp Seeds could be.
Nutritional Content of Hemp Seed
Nutritional Facts About Hemp Seeds
Hemp Protein Powder is one of the latest plant-based protein powders on the market, and it’s not going anywhere soon. With health and fitness trends starting to take a turn toward the natural & plant-based directions, it’s time for Hemp to shine. Containing all the nutrients of Hemp Seed, Hemp protein is easy to add to any pre or post-workout shake and is dairy, gluten, and lactose-free.
Hemp protein is the easiest Hemp Food product to make. By fine-grinding Hemp Seed, you can expect a near 1:1 yield of Hemp Protein. No nutritional content eaves the ingredient, it simply becomes a powder instead of a seed. From this point, it’s bagged in packaging for retail sale and shipped out to stores.
Hemp Flour is another innovative way we’ve started using Hemp in modern cooking! It’s gaining popularity due to how easy it is to incorporate in baking. Hemp flour has marvellous fibre content and is a great option for those who need a gluten-free baking option. It’s also Low-GI, a great source of fibre, and still even contains protein!
7.2g of Protein
3.4g of fats
20g of fibre
Hemp Flour is made once the Hemp Seed Oil has been removed from the Hemp Seed. After the Hemp Seed is cold-pressed, what’s left is residual matter called ‘Hemp Cake’. Hemp cake is then ground up to make Hemp Flour.
Hemp Seed Oil is a popular dietary supplement that contains similar nutrient content to Hemp Seed, excluding any fibrous content. It’s commonly used in cooking food and making drinks like smoothies, but can also be put in capsules for easy consumption with your other daily supplements. One of the most incredible things about Hemp Seed Oil is that it offers the perfect ratio of Omega Oils (3, 6, & 9) for the human body.
Hemp Seed Oil is made in one of two ways. There is a heat-based method of extraction that separates the oil from the seed, and there is a cold-press method. The cold-press method of extraction retains a significant amount more nutritional content, whereas heat will destroy the nutrients.
There are two types of Hemp Seed Oil that can be made – one has more industrial use, and the other has more nutritional use. Refined Hemp Seed Oil has been treated with heat to remove vitamins, minerals, and chlorophyll. This Hemp Seed Oil can then be used to make varnishes, paint, plastics, biofuel, and more! However, due to the way it’s processed, refined Hemp Seed Oil will have almost no nutritional content. This is why it’s important to ensure any Hemp Skincare you purchase is using 100% unrefined Hemp Seed Oil.
Now you know all about the different types of Hemp foods, you’re probably wondering about how to use them all! Do you have any of these Hemp Food products in your cupboard? If so, maybe it’s time to try something new!
We’ve got a whole bunch of healthy, plant-based Hemp recipes that are simple to follow and taste great! Sound like something up your alley? Head to the link to our blog about 11 Hemp Recipes to get your hands on them!
If you like them, you can also get a free copy of our HempCo Cookbook at the bottom right corner of the article.
Using Hemp Seed Oil in skincare is one of the most popular applications for Hemp in a rapidly expanding global market. Initially, only niche companies used Hemp Seed Oil in their skincare – and it was a key selling point. Nowadays, it’s being used in natural skincare products simply due to its natural characteristics. It’s great in general skincare products like face cleansers, exfoliators, and moisturisers for many reasons, but a significant contributor is the rich Omega oil content. As a matter of fact, Hemp Seed Oil contains the perfect ratio of Omega Oils for the human skin.
Here are some of the nutrients in Hemp Seed Oil that benefit skin the most!
Additionally, Hemp Seed Oil has a Comedogenic Rating of zero. Comedogenic rating (CR) is a measurement of how likely an oil is to block the pores of your skin. All skin, but mainly skin types prone to breakouts are recommended toils with lower CR ratings. Oils with greater comedogenic ratings are more likely to cause breakouts by clogging pores. This makes Hemp Seed Oil a superior choice for your general skin care needs. If your skincare seems to not be doing the job, keep in mind that the oils in your skincare could be causing it. Anything with a comedogenic rating over three is a possible cause for persisting skin issues
These include common oils like…
Hemp Seed Oil has also been found to have significant positive effects on patients with atopic dermatitis – conditions such as Eczema and Psoriasis. Research shows that Hemp Seed Oil works so well due to the balanced and abundant supply of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids. In the study, dietary Hemp Seed Oil caused significant changes in plasma fatty acid profiles resulting in remarkable improvements in symptoms.
Hemp Seed Oil is an incredible choice for Acne care due to the optimal balance of Omega-3, 6, & 9 which helps regulate the skin’s oil production. It acts as a moisturiser, which helps stop acne that might be caused by dry skin. And with its comedogenic rating of zero, it does all of this without running the risk of clogging pores.
We love Hemp for what it is, but we’re ready to put our money where our mouths are when it comes to the benefits! That’s why over the last 25 years, we’ve been steadily building and refining our Hemp Skincare range. All of our Hemp Skincare is made by us, in our factory, right here in Margaret River, Australia. The entire range is made from 100% naturally derived ingredients, with Australian Grown and Made Hemp Seed Oil
You can shop our full range below!
So, did that answer everything you’ve ever wanted to know about Hemp Seed, its byproducts and how they’re used in health and wellness?
Hemp is an incredibly diverse plant, and just the ways it can be used in food and skincare are shocking to many! The good news is that you won’t have to look too hard to try it for yourself these days. Most supermarkets in Australia stock Hemp Seed & Hemp Seed Oil these days. You can use any of these in food and even make your own skincare products with it! However, many of these products are imported from countries like China. If trying Hemp products is on your agenda, consider buying from a company that uses Australian Grown & Processed Hemp products to make their range.
Did we miss anything that you want to know? Is there anything we forgot to include in this? We always love hearing from you! Please do reach out in the comments section or on any of our social media profiles.
It’s that time of year again; the Hemp Health & Innovation Expo is kicking off very soon! After taking a year break due to the C-Word (Which we won’t mention), we’re incredibly pleased to report that you can once again find us on the floor of this event in November this year!
However, it’s going to be a little bit different.
Restrictions are still in place across Australia, but the sheer determination of Michelle Crain, the director of the event, has given birth to a whole new style for the treasured Hemp Health & Innovation Expo.
It’s going to be 100% Virtual!
…And it’s going to be broadcast across the whole world, too. So instead of a Hemp industry showcase for just Australia, we’re going to have the opportunity to offer the Margaret River Hemp Co experience to the world – alongside 16 other exhibitors currently signed up.
Across a month of the virtual expo, 17 exhibitors and more than five speakers will be demonstrating their passion & expertise in the Hemp Industry… And it’s going to be magnificent.
This week, we had the chance to interview the Hemp Health & Innovation Expo director, Michelle Crain!
Read on to hear what she had to say, learn about how they will run the Expo, and who you’ll find on the Virtual Showroom!
1) How did you get into the Hemp industry & what’s your area of professional expertise?
For over 30 years, our family business had been manufacturing fertilisers for the greenhouse/hydroponic sector; moving into the Hemp sector was a natural progression given the demand.
As a family, we attended our 1st Hemp Expo in Vancouver back in 2000. In subsequent years we attended Hemp/Cannabis-related Expos in the UK, Spain, USA. And from those early days, I had wanted to create an Australian based Hemp/Cannabis Expo. However, the industry in Australia at the time was not of a size that could support an Expo. In 2016, the industry was growing, Hemp was being talked about as a superfood, and people increasingly discussed Cannabis for its potential medicinal benefits, so it seemed the timing was right.
I can say we are and have always been a small but very efficient team. From the outset, my role has been very hands-on, from bringing on Exhibitors, Speakers, arranging accommodations, travel, floor plans, Exhibitor siting, and the list goes on. My Co-Director Evan who arranges all media, promo, and speakers, has been with me every step of the way. The success of every Expo is very much dependant on the numbers that attend, which comes down to the promotion.
I’m excited to see Hemp touch all areas of our lives in some way, it’s such a versatile plant with so many applications, but I have always been excited about the prospect of building homes in Hemp; I know that this is something that is being done now, but I hope for buildings of the future it becomes — let’s say, mainstream. Australia is the perfect candidate, given our potential for fires which is always of concern; we have termite issues, cooling and heating homes will always be a financial concern, and Hemp homes address all of these issues.
Wow, where do I start? The COVID pandemic destroyed our ability to run any Expos. Hence, our last physical Expo was back in October of 2019 in Brisbane. In February of this year, when things were looking up, we scheduled our 1st physical to be held in Canberra in November. I think we are all aware of what has happened between then and now, so our only option rather than cancel yet another expo was to look at alternatives. For the 1st time, the HHI Expo, Australia’s Hemp and Cannabis Expo, is going virtual.
The Virtual HHI Expo will go live on 6 November. The HHI Expo Virtual format sees this year’s event divided into four main parts. Hit The Lobby to see what’s happening and hang out in The Networking Lounge to connect with fellow hemp/cannapreneurs, investors, consumers, patients, physicians, professionals, & punters.
Visit Exhibitors, chat and purchase products in The Exhibition Hall, then settle into The Auditorium for a curated program of exclusive panels, presentations, and conversations from across the world of Hemp and Cannabis. If you get lost – hit up The Help Desk.
Attendees can participate in the Leaderboard & Scavenger Hunt; the more they engage with anyone and everything within the platform, the higher-up the Expo leaderboard they go and the more prizes they can win. The same applies to the Scavenger Hunt; they find the hidden Hemp leaves right across the event platform to win prizes.
So far, only a few of the speakers have been announced, with the rest pending in days to come! However, the lineup so far is exciting nonetheless. Here’s a list of the confirmed speakers and the topics they will be covering;
Corvain Cooper was eight years into a life sentence for trafficking cannabis. At 12:30 am, just past midnight, hours before President Donald Trump left office, Ivanka Trump called him personally to inform him that Donald Trump had given him a presidential pardon – effective immediately. One hour later, he was out.
Could you imagine how it felt, knowing that you weren’t leaving the walls for 25-to-life… Then eight years in, you get a midnight call and are a free man within an hour?
Suffice to say; this is one worth tuning in to!
A six-part series by acclaimed Australian hemp industry pioneers Margaret River Hemp Co, Margaret River Processing Plant and Hemp Homes Australia. Exclusive to HHI, this is Hemp in real-time and real-life right here in OZ. This is what life looks like for professionals.
Synonymous with ‘cannabis medicine’ over the last 12-24 months, the recent ‘over the counter’ ruling for this cannabinoid in Australia means that You can legally purchase CBD at any chemist in Australia without a prescription. Join NY city’s ‘CBD Emporium’ founder Mike Cozy and us as we talk about CBD, including how some low-quality CBD products lack strength & purity and what good CBD can do for your body with the proper dosage.
A paradigm shift for the medical profession providing new treatment options for patients, Emily Rigby looks at how the cannabis movement paves the way for other natural medicines and the ‘psychedelic renaissance’ to gain traction and acceptance as valid treatment options for patients around the world.
A real-life case study on cancer and Cannabis. One of the first GPs in Australia to prescribe medicinal Cannabis, a speaker at HHI’s inaugural EXPO in 2016. In May 2019, Teresa was diagnosed with recurrent metastatic breast cancer. A patient AND a doctor, this is a story few can tell.
All-in-all, even though we won’t catch you in person, it’s still set to be an incredible expo! And for the first time, we’ll be able to show the world everything that’s been happening in the Australian Hemp Industry – all in one place, which will be up for viewing over a whole month. Some of the biggest names in the industry will be present, and you’ll be able to ask questions, make purchases, and view the latest & greatest in their product ranges.
If you’ve ever been to a Hemp Health & Innovation Expo, you’ll know precisely how informative they can be. Now instead of over two days, you can do it in your own time!
We can’t wait to see you there.
Will you be attending? Do you think these expos should have both physical and virtual options once restrictions are lifted and things start returning to normal?
Let us know in the comments section below!
Be sure to share this and spread the word about what’s going on this year because it’s one you won’t want to miss.
It’s time for our quarterly recipe round-up! It’s incredible to think we’re approaching the last leg of 2021 already. This year, we’ve been fortunate enough to collaborate with some incredible food fanatics who have used Hemp Seed, Flour, Protein, and Oil as inspiration in their dishes. In the last couple of months, you might have seen some very creative adaptations of crowd-favourites remade to incorporate our Hemp food products.
These 10 recipes are simple to follow, easy to make, healthy, and downright delicious. It’s safe to say our friends have set quite the example in terms of how to utilise Hemp Seed in a diverse set of recipes. We couldn’t be more thankful for the opportunity to work with them!
So, without further ado, here are our 10 favourite Hemp Recipes from this quarter.
It’s like Reeces, but it’s one of the best Hemp Recipes around! …And it’s so simple to whip up! Who could look past a delicious Hemp Chocolate and Peanutbutter Slice?
This is how you do it!
1. Creamy peanut butter
2. Coconut oil
3. Margaret River Hemp Co Hemp Chocolate Bar of Choice
4. Pure maple syrup
5. Coconut palm sugar
6. Vanilla extract
7. Salt
1. Melt down the chocolate with a stove or microwave
2. Stir in the salt & vanilla, then measure a layer into a muffin tin
3. Freeze the bottom layer for about 10 minutes while you make the peanut butter mixture
4. Whisk together the coconut oil, palm oil sugar, maple syrup, and salt.
5. Pour the peanut butter evenly into the frozen chocolate cup
6. Distribute the remaining chocolate into the cups and eat or freeze.
These cookies must be one of the best Hemp Recipes around! This recipe includes Hemp flour, a lesser known but equally favourable ingredient made from Hemp Seed.
Here’s how you make them!
2. 1 free-range, organic egg
3. 1/3 cup coconut sugar
4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5. 1/2 teaspoons bicarbonate soda
6. 1 teaspoon baking powder
7. 1/4 cup raw cacao powder
8. 1/4 cup shredded coconut
9. 1/2 cup hemp flour
10. 2 tablespoons hemp seeds
11. 100g choc chips
1. Preheat the oven to 170C and line a large baking tray with greaseproof paper.
2. In a mixing bowl combine coconut oil, egg, coconut sugar, vanilla, and whisk until creamy.
3. Add bicarb, baking powder, cacao powder, coconut, hemp flour, hemp seeds, and choc chips and mix until a cookie dough forms.
4. Scoop 1/2 tablespoon measures, roll into balls place on a tray, and press down lightly.
5. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes, then cool completely on the tray.
Notes: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
All our favourite flavours of breakfast in one easy bowl! This is one of the top Hemp recipes of the year.
@kindnessthroughfood is the king of bowls, and this is yet another one that we just can’t go past. We’ve been loving all of the incredible breakfast bowls Mick has been creating. We can’t wait to see the next Hemp set of Hemp recipes he comes out with!
2. Coyo Organic yogurt (mix with the protein for creaminess)
3. Caramelised cherries
4. Banana
5. Cashews
6. Noya Nutbutter almond butter
7. Pana Organic choc spread
8. Margaret River Hemp Co Hemp Seeds
2. Enjoy a delicious, healthy breakfast bowl!
Everyone loves Pesto! But did you know there’s an easy way to make it even healthier? This is a must-try when it comes to Hemp recipes of 2021.
This plant-based pesto from @thrivebay is nothing less than perfect.
Okay, okay. We’ll cut to the chase.
Here’s how you make it!
2. 3 firmly packed cups curly kale
3. 2 tbsp Hemp Seeds from Margaret River Hemp Co
4. 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
5. 1/4 cup toasted pinenuts
6. Salt, to taste
2. Store in an airtight container.
…This is one of the easiest, most delicious Hemp recipes – and perfect for any time of the day. This is specifically a plant-based variation of a classic, but you can do the same with any protein & milk that you prefer.
And way too easy to make.
1. Plant-Based Protein from Botanika Blends
2. Water 2TBS cocoa powder
3. 1TBS caster sugar
4. 1/3 Cup of Ulu Hye Mylk
5. Margaret River Hemp Co Hemp Seeds
Spag-Bol us an incredible meal that nobody could pass up! When it comes to Hemp recipes, this may very well have the best ease-to-health ratio.
And it’s just so easy to whip up!
This is how you do it:
2. Zucchini
3. Vegie Delights mince.
4. Spinach
5. Broccolini
6. Hemp seeds
7. Gnocchi
1. Roast your carrot and zucchini
2. Fry the plant-based mince on the saucepan
3. Air-fry your broccolini
4. Stir in a big bunch of spinach
5. Mix everything together
6. Top with Hemp Seeds
Do you think you could say no to a plate of these? It’s yet another one of the top 10 Hemp recipes of 2021!
We certainly find it hard to imagine! turning a plate down!
Okay… fine, here’s how you make them 😜
1. 1 cup Margaret River Hemp Co Hemp Seeds
2. 1/3 cup hazelnut butter Noya Nut Butter
3. 1/4 cup hazelnut meal (or sub for almond meal)
4. 2 Tablespoons cocao powder (not cocoa, get cocao)
5. 2 Tablespoons plant mylk
6. 1 scoop (40gms) choc protein powder from It’s Veego
7. 1 Tbsp maple syrup
8. 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
9. Handful hazelnuts (roasted in the oven)
1. Combine ingredients (except whole hazelnuts) in a bowl and mix to combine.
2. Roll into balls (now if to add one roasted hazelnut per ball – optional)
3. Refrigerate prior to topping with melted chocolate.
Note #1: I used Noya Nut Butter hazelnut butter to save making my own. It’s like Nutella minus the chocolate and it’s available in supermarkets.
Note #2: If you don’t have protein powder add in an extra tablespoon of cocao AND another half tablespoon of maple syrup. Cocao is a bit more on the bitter side having no sugar or milk products added so you need a bit of extra sweetness to counteract this.
This is one of the Hemp recipes that you could make every day of the week & still not get sick of it!
The best thing is that it’s totally plant-based.
Here’s how you make it!
1. Ceres Organics Jackfruit
2. Old El Paso Mex seasoning and salsa sauce
3. Fresh salsa with cucumber, tomato and spinach
4. Made With Plabnts mozzarella
5. Smashed avo
6. Mission Food Sanz purple corn chips
7. Margaret River Hemp Co Hemp Seeds
8. Brown rice
1. Fry your jackfruit in the Old El Paso Mex seasoning and salsa sauce
2. Add all of your base ingredients in your preferred order or layering
3. You can bake this in the oven for 5-7 minutes at 180 degrees or have them unbaked
4. Top with Hemp Seeds and Brown Rice
This sandwich is one of the most nutritious and satisfying feeds we’ve seen.
What more could you want for a mid-day treat?
1. 2 cups roughly torn basil leaves (approx 1 large bunch)
2. 1/4 cup roasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped or ground
3. Juice and zest of 1/2 lemon
4. 1/4 cup Margaret River Hemp Co Hemp Seed Oil
5. 2 tbsp Margaret River Hemp Co Hemp Seeds
6. Pinch salt & pepper to taste
7. Roasted Pumpkin and Onion
8. Semi-dried cherry tomatoes
9. Creamy goats feta
10. Pesto sauce (try hemp pesto if you’re feeling adventurous!)
1. Using a mortar and pestle, bullet blender or food processor, simply combine all ingredients (batch if you need to) and mix well!
2. Spread the ingredients on a sandwich base – you can have this either toasted or untoasted, but we love it toasted!
Note #1: You may choose to add a bit more or less hemp seed oil, depending on what machine you’re using. For reference, we used a mortar and pestle or Vitamix.
Note #2: if not following serving suggestions for this recipe, this would not be considered low fodmap due to increased portions of hazelnuts.
Who wouldn’t love a good burger?! 🍔
Well, this one is plant-based, loaded with nutrition. On top of that, it’s in a bowl.
It doesn’t get much easier than this!
2. 1 onion
3. 1 sweet potato (medium size, cut into chips)
4. 1 avocado
5. 1 carrot
6. 1 prepared beetroot (can use a can of diced beetroot for convenience)
7. 1 cup, cherry tomatoes
8. Pickles (4-6 spears)
9. Handful of spinach
10. Handful of lettuce
11. Plant-based cheese
12. Cheeseburger sauce from Made With Plants
13. Hemp seeds from Margaret River Hemp Co to serve
2. Meanwhile, start preparing the rest of your veggies. Dice, slice and/or grate to your liking. All ingredients will be raw except the onions so keep them aside.
3. Heat up your fry pan, add a small amount of oil (I used EVOO) and begin cooking Veef burgers as per box instructions. Throw your onions in to fry with the burgers.
4. Once your sweet potatoes, burgers and onions are ready. Time to assemble your bowl⤵️
2. Next, portion quantities of your veg around the bowl. Don’t forget your sweet potato chips!
3. Add burger to the middle of the bowl along with cheese and onions.
4. Top with sauce and hemp seeds. (I went with cheeseburger sauce but tomato or barbecue would work nicely too)
You can’t go past this one from @losing_my_vegan_virginity It’s packed with both flavour and highly nutritious ingredients – plus, it’s so easy to make!
Here’s how you do it:
2. 250gms cherry tomatoes
3. 1 cucumber cut into quarters lengthways then sliced
4. 1 red onion finely diced
5. 1 can of chickpeas drained & rinsed
6. 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes roughly chopped
7. 1/2 cup black olives sliced
8. 1 cup fresh basil roughly chopped
9. 2 cups fresh rocket
10. 1/3 cup pine nuts
11. 1/4 cup Margaret River Hemp Co Hemp Seeds
1. 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
2. 1/4 lemon juice (or sub red/white wine vinegar)
3. 1 tsp maple syrup
4. 1 Tbsp dijon mustard
5. 1 clove minced garlic
6. 1 tsp dried oregano
7. salt and pepper to taste
1. Cook pasta
2. Whilst pasta is cooking mix the dressing ingredients together in a bowl
3. In a much larger bowl place salad ingredients. Add pasta once cooled and mix with salad ingredients
4: Add half the dressing onto the pasta salad and saved the other half for a top-up when serving.
Notes: Dressing lasts well in a jar for a few days in the fridge.
So, have you tried any of these recipes? If not, hopefully you’re adding a couple to your meal planning for the week! Whether you’re chasing a sweet sensation or a salivating savory snack, there’s sure to be something here for you.
Adding Hemp Seed to meals is an easy way to give your food an extra nutritional kick. There are so many benefits to Hemp Food products, and if you’re curious as to what they are you can read more about them here!
We’d love to see the photos of the finished product if you try any of these. Be sure to send us an email or tag our social media profiles when you use them!
That just about does it for our quarterly summary for Hemp Recipes. We’re looking forward to bringing you another handful for New Years!
With the recent changes in legislation, there are many people asking questions about how to get an Australian Cannabis Prescription. It’s been a long time coming, but Australians finally have the opportunity to access medical cannabis without having to turn to the black market.
The previous state of the cannabis industry in Australia meant people had to risk prosecution and deal with people that might not have the patients best interest in mind. With the new access scheme, patients can legally access cannabis products designated by a medical professional. This revolutionary breakthrough has been a godsend for both patients and the economy and is expected to continue providing great results.
Unfortunately, it’s not quite as easy in Australia as it is in America – at least not yet. There are still prerequisites that must be met in order to gain access.
This week we’re going to take a closer look at conditions that may enable you to get an Australian Cannabis Prescription. Read on to learn more!
In 2018, medicinal Cannabis products became a part of the TGA’s Special Access Scheme (SAS). This initiative allows people to access alternative medicine and therapy that isn’t yet TGA approved – such as cannabis. You will need a practitioner to file your application before the products become accessible. If successful, you will be able to purchase medicinal cannabis through your local clinic. Applications can all be lodged online and are
So, what does it take to qualify for an application?
Medical cannabis products can be prescribed for a wide range of conditions – though it’s not guaranteed that having one of them will result in approval. You can have a doctor submit an application to the TGA SAS if you have been suffering from the following conditions;
Since the legislative amendment in 2016, specialised clinics have started to appear all across the country. These cannabis clinics are run by doctors who have a deep understanding of how to treat certain conditions. They don’t only prescribe based on cannabinoids, but terpenes too, as the scents play a major role in treating particular ailments.
We’ve put together a list of 9 medical cannabis clinics that have had great success with applications for their patients. Please note that there are many more, and some of these are ‘franchised’ and providing their services in a range of states in Australia.
Here are 3 cannabis clinics you can visit, state by state.
Once you’ve been approved for a prescription, you may have a diverse range of products available to you. Ultimately, your cannabis doctor will be the person who decides what is right for you. Depending on your condition, you may be prescribed medicine from one of the following categories.
Are you familiar with any of these?
Cannabis Flower & Tetrahydrocannabinol
CBD (Cannabidiol)
Other Cannabis medicine
It’s great to finally see the Australian government taking cannabis products on board and approving them as a viable method for treatment. It’s been a very long road. However, it’s going to be worth it. The economic and social benefits of the cannabis industry are phenomenal. If you look at states like Colorado where cannabis tax has been put towards social initiatives, the upside is indisputable. And even though Australia isn’t quite there yet, we’re slowly moving in the right direction.
If you’re somebody who has been considering a cannabis prescription, simply get in touch with one of the clinics in your state to check your eligibility. It doesn’t hurt to try, and the majority of eligible patients have been approved with no additional questions asked.
Last but not least, we’d like to extend appreciation to the citizens who have been fighting the good fight to bring medical cannabis to the Australian healthcare system.
September 6th is Read A Book Day, so we’ve decided to make some recommendations for Hemp books.
What are you curious to learn about Hemp?
Are you looking at using Hemp Food for Health and Wellness? Keen to learn more about CBD for medical purposes? Maybe you’re wondering about the environmental benefits of growing Hemp. Or you might want to get a full run-down on all of the above & more.
Being such a broad topic, this single plant has inspired a substantial number of educational hemp books over the years – So many that it’s hard to pick a single favourite!
We’ve gone ahead and found some of the most groundbreaking hemp books covering its history, uses, and benefits so you can take your pick from the bunch.
So, without further ado, here are our 11 top hemp books written to educate curious minds on Industrial Hemp and Medicinal Cannabis!
Hemp For Victory is a hemp book titled as a homage to the American War campaign that asked farmers to grow Hemp as a critical resource for battle. The book dives into the history of Hemp and its various uses, as well as the reasons society should begin utilising this plant as much as possible – as soon as possible.
Author: Kenyon Gibson
The Hempcrete Book is a classic manual for professionals and hobbyists alike. It explains in detail how to utilise Hempcrete in new builds and restoration and dives into the perks, pitfalls, & common errors when it comes to building with Hempcrete.
Author: William Stanwix & Alex Sparrow
Paul Benhaim is a leading Australian Hemp Entrepreneur and early adopter. In his hemp book, he details everything to do with Hemp – From food to fibre. This hemp books great run-down on the diverse applications of Hemp in modern society.
Author: Chris Conrad
This revolutionary hemp book written by Jack Herer details the petrochemical and paper industry’s plot to wage war on this beneficial plant. As a significant chunk of Jack Herer’s legacy, it’s safe to say it won’t be out of fashion or outdated any time soon. With more than 600,000 copies sold in the last 20 years, this is an absolute must-read for all Hemp enthusiasts.
Author: Jack Herer
Todd Dallato’s Hemp Cookbook is a collection of delicious recipes – each incorporating our favourite plant. This hemp book will teach you how to leverage the unique nutritional properties of Hemp in your kitchen with one simple, easy to follow read!
Author: Todd Dallato
The Great Book Of Hemp is an all-in-one hemp book that covers the diverse history of Hemp and the various ways it has been used throughout time. Learn how Hemp can step up to and solve a range of the world’s most pressing environmental problems while simultaneously aiding the economy & ecosystem.
Author: Rown Robinson
The Hemp Manifesto is a hemp book that dives into 101 ways that Hemp can save our world. From food to fuel, paper, and plastic – Hemp can do it all. You’ll also learn about some of the most impressive and shocking facts about Hemp!
Author: Rowan Robinson
Ivan Artuchovich’s ‘Hempathy’ is an illustrated introduction that smooths the newcomer’s transition into the world of Hemp. For anybody new to the idea of Hemp and medicinal cannabis, this hemp book offers a simplified and streamlined level of understanding. A must-have on the sustainability shelf!
Author: Ivan Art
This comprehensive book on Hemp is one of the most well-researched hemp books on the politics, uses, and history of Hemp on earth. Who would have guessed that the ‘evil’ cannabis plant could offer so many solutions?
Author: Chris Conrad
‘Hemp’ is an engaging book that explores the controversial history of humanity’s oldest agricultural ally. Alongside the long struggle to have it recognised as a helpful plant, this hemp book also speculates on the direction it’s headed in the future.
Author: Mark Bourrie
Hemp For Health covers every known medicinal and nutritional benefit that the cannabis plant can offer. From A-to-Z, this hemp book investigates both legal and illegal health advantages of our favourite plant and how anybody can utilise them.
Author: Chris Conrad
We want to extend a special ‘thank you’ to all of the authors, researchers, and activists who have dedicated their time and expertise towards educating people about cannabis! Without these contributions, much of this information could have been lost in history. Prohibition did its best to wipe the world of its memory of cannabis, but the effort was in vain. Due to the written word of these remarkable figures, there is more hope than ever.
What are your favourite hemp books?
Hemp Clothing has been getting a lot of attention from the fashion industry in recent days. With the world focused on sustainability, conscious consumption, and eco-friendly alternatives, it’s no surprise that people are taking an interest in Hemp.
Contrary to the beliefs of some, Hemp fabric is highly versatile in use. It’s not just daggy, rough, hippy clothing. And as people have started taking Hemp Clothing on board as an option, we’ve seen some very talented designers begin to work with it.
Leah Kelly By Design has been Making Hemp Clothing for around 20 years now and has made countless pieces for men & women, from weddings to formals.
This week we had the opportunity to ask her a few questions about her Hemp fabric journey!
The first drawcard for using Hemp was its natural feel and look. I had already conducted a lot of research into the uses of Hemp. I was always impressed by the versatility this plant had to offer & yet astounded by the lack of support the industry was receiving on every level, not just the textile side. Living completely off-grid myself, I am into a sustainable way of life. I could seriously see how the Industrial Hemp Industry of Australia could be a very viable resource for our country
I was taught to hand embroider by my grandmother as a child. I love to hand bead using only crystals or shells etc. Each gown is an heirloom that can be passed down through generations. I was tired of using cheap nasty fabrics which fell apart after applying such detail. Hemp, being the most durable of all materials, was my obvious choice.
I also believe, we as consumers, have gone beyond the idea of owning minimal clothing, hence the disposable society that has created a world with tons of worn clothes in mass landfills all over the world. Hemp clothing breathes in hot or cool climates and withstands the test of time, unlike other fibres grown and used widely & then discarded as it decays only months after purchase.
I started using upcycled fabric from the op shop as I didn’t have the funds to purchase new materials.
If you’re curious about why more designers are choosing Hemp, you can learn about the advantages of Hemp over cotton here.
Occasionally I would find hemp in op shops but not often. I think most people who purchased any hemp clothing back in the day hung onto them !!
I have been working with Hemp clothing now for almost 20 years, & it certainly has been an exciting journey considering the lack of knowledge surrounding potential clientele here in Australia. I designed and made a formal blouse for American Actress/Conservationist Daryl Hannah whilst in Australia for the Australasian Permaculture conference, which she wore to attend the Gala Dinner night for her presentation speech.
I also designed and made a gown for UK socialite Eliza Pearson (heiress to Penguin Book). I showcased 6 of my organic dresses twice for Eco Fashion Week Australia 2018 (Port Douglas QLD) & Fremantle (WA). More recently, I was invited to showcase at Paris Fashion Week. However, due to our recent times of change, my showcase of another six gowns has just arrived at Oxford Fashion Studio, London, to showcase on the runway of London Fashion Week 2021 in September.
All my gowns are made from natural fibres—the latest, using pineapple fibre and banana bark.
However, the majority are hemp or blends of hemp. The 3-dimensional outcome of embroidering with the thread is fantastic.
I love all blends. However, most of my gowns are handmade using the Hemp/Silk blend. One of my favourite pieces I have just sent to London is a blend of Hemp & Wild Nettle, which is just amazing on a couture level for fitted coats. I also have a line of lingerie which my favourite was always the blend of Hemp & Bamboo.
I have just completed a corset made from Hemp/Silk, which I have boned and edged using 100% banana bark. I would love to experiment with the blend of Hemp/Banana Bark, and I believe it could be a similar textile to Hemp/Wild Nettle & a possible production line here in Australia.
High-end gowns certainly require a lot more due care in construction than your average sewing technique. I indeed find Hemp one of the most pleasurable textiles to work with because it is a stable fabric, both to hand embroider and sew with
I have lost count as to how many couture Hemp Gowns I have made over the last 20 odd years, a lot! From weddings to formals, both male and Female. But I believe my favourite piece of Hemp clothing is in London now for the catwalk. That’s my Hemp/Wild Nettle corset coat lined with HempSilk, buttoned up with Smokey Quartz.
What more can we say other than WOW – What a career so far! Leah truly is a huge inspiration, primary contributor, and downright innovator in the Hemp clothing and fashion space. She’s almost been handmaking her pieces as far back as we’ve owned this business. Twenty years is no joke! We’ve got no doubt she’s clocked her 10,000 hours for expertise in this time. When it comes to high-end Hemp clothing, she very well may be one of the most experienced designers in the world – and it shows.
You might not be able to smoke it, but we could bet that wearing one of her pieces would induce a more extraordinary euphoria than even the most potent strain you could think of. Just the way we like it!
Learn more about how Hemp clothing is made here.
We’d love to extend a big thanks to Leah for taking the time out of her busy schedule to have a chat with us about her career and experiences working with our favourite material and making Hemp clothing. If you want to learn more about Leah and her amazing work you can follow these links; Instagram, Facebook, Website
Until next week, everyone!
When it comes to medicinal cannabis, there is more to the history of hemp than many may assume. Contrary to popular belief, it is not as new to humanity as you may think.
There is a long history of Hemp and its many uses can be traced back further than 20,000 years, but reactions to its use have varied. Some are quick to shun it, while others are working to bring its benefits to light. CBD has become a widely used product in the last few years because more people have taken its therapeutic potential aboard. It is one of the active substances in the hemp plant and was the first-ever cannabinoid to be isolated.
The rich history of hemp begins with the plant being initially identified in Central Asia but is dated as far back as the Gravettian civilisation over 20,000 years ago. At this point, humans recognised the usefulness of the plant as a textile fibre. However, its use in medicine began with the Chinese at least 2000 years ago. The Chinese Emperor Shennong was known to drink cannabis-infused tea, and we all know how the Chinese are particular about their tea!
In the 1830s, an Irish scientist named William B O’Shaugnessy released a study (writing another chapter in the history of hemp) looking into the plant’s therapeutic properties. This is likely the first time a researcher was looking at compounds that went on to be known as cannabinoids about 100 years later.
Robert S. Cahn, a British Chemist who studied the plant in 1940, identified the structure of Cannabinol. However, it was not until 1942 when Roger Adams, an American, discovered isolated CBD for the first time.
When we first discovered Cannabinoids, much was unclear. As scientists discovered new cannabinoids, it led to the ultimate question: “which component was causing what effect?”
One of the other objectives that had scientists confused was figuring out the exact number of cannabinoids in a cannabis plant. Each one seemed different.
Another question that presented itself was, “which cannabinoid can be useful medicinally, and what can they treat?”
In 1963, Dr Mechoulam from Israel led the first team to successfully identify the stereochemistry of CBD. A year later, he did the same for THC, ruling out CBD as a psychoactive compound. Soon after this, he was successful in treating 8 epilepsy patients with CBD.
Yet another question was regarding the best way to administer cannabinoids. The idea of smoking cannabis to deliver cannabinoids to the body was not warmly received by society. After research and testing, the use of oils, balms, and edibles showed as a viable alternative. These alternate means of delivering cannabinoids to the body only pose a minor threat to wellness.
Fast forward to 2021. CBD extracts have become very popular and have shown remarkable clinical significance in relieving chronic pain, seizures, & anxiety. There is now a range of cannabis-infused products like cakes, cookies, gummies (for humans and animals), tinctures, creams, capsules, and more.
Thank you all of the scientist who have contributed to the history of hemp.
Change is one concept that is difficult to incorporate into any society. CBD has been going through gradual changes in legal classification all across the world in the recent history of hemp. Hemp was originally a vital crop embraced by society. About a hundred years later, it has become a shunned plant.
The 20th century witnessed a great shunning of Hemp. The plant was associated with many societal vices. Change in perspective moved the government to place a ban on growing, possession, and distribution. However, from the 21st century, people began to advocate for decriminalisation. In 1996, California legalised medical cannabis, and this paved the way for acceptance by others. From 1998-2021 several USA states have legalised cannabis either for medical, recreational, or both purposes. About 47 countries globally have passed the bill to legalise the use and sale of cannabis products as of 2020.
Several individuals have dedicated their lives to ensuring that CBD gets recognised as a helpful product. They have been fighting a tireless battle because they know first hand that CBD is about so much more than ‘getting high’. Thus deserving their recognition in the history of hemp
Charlotte Figi was an American girl who inspired the push for CBD in treating seizures. She was born with Dravet syndrome. With CBD, Charlotte’s seizures reduced from 300 every week to 2-3 per month. She tragically passed on April 7 2021, which has now been marked as ‘Figi Day’ in Colorado. We will never forget her impact on the advancement of the movement to legalise CBD.
Bernie Sanders is another prominent figure who has always spoken up in favour of the legalisation of CBD products. He is a known activist in the United States of America. Bernie proposed the legalisation of cannabis in 2015. Unfortunately, he did not get enough support for the bill.
We also want to mention one of the Australian warriors, Lucy Haslam and her late son Dan. Medicinal cannabis wasn’t able to save his life, but it certainly made the final stretch of his magnificent life a lot more comfortable. Since his tragic passing, Lucy Haslam has continued to fight the good fight to fulfil her last promise to Dan: Win easy access for people facing similar struggles he did. If you’d like to read more about their story, you can read our interview with her here.
We thank you all for your contributions to the history of hemp.
Wrap-Up/Final Words
As most of the world begins turning a leaf in the history of hempbto legalise the use of cannabis products, we’ve seen the start of a golden age in natural medicines. CBD has made a serious impact on a wide range of communities affected by illnesses, ailments, and disabilities that modern medicine can’t treat on its own.
This begs to question: Why has it been outlawed for so long?
Fortunately, governments around the world have started to change the restrictions on CBD… But not just that!
The laws on cannabis, in general, are finally in a state of fluctuation.
We believe that a real change is imminent. What do you think?
What’s going to be the next chapter in the history of hemp?
Let us know in the comments!
