13 Facts That May Change What You Think About Marijuana

Marijuana is more than just a hot topic in today’s headlines; it’s a plant with a rich history and a plethora of intriguing facts that might surprise you. Did you know that around 45% of American adults have used marijuana in their lives?

This statistic reflects the growing acceptance and curiosity surrounding cannabis. Whether you’re a casual user or a curious skeptic, these 13 facts about marijuana will broaden your understanding and perhaps even change your perspective.

1. Marijuana Was Once a Legal Medicine in the U.S.

Believe it or not, marijuana was a legal medicine in the United States for many years. In the early 20th century, cannabis was commonly prescribed for a variety of ailments.

It was listed in the United States Pharmacopeia from 1850 until 1942 and was used to treat conditions such as pain, nausea, and rheumatism. The tides turned with the introduction of the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937, leading to the plant’s eventual prohibition ^(ref).

The medical use of cannabis has seen a resurgence in recent decades, with many states now legalizing it for medicinal purposes. Modern research supports its effectiveness in treating conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. This return to its medicinal roots highlights the plant’s potential benefits that were recognized over a century ago.

2. Marijuana Has Ancient Origins

The use of marijuana dates back thousands of years, making it one of humanity’s oldest cultivated crops. Archaeological evidence suggests that cannabis was used in ancient China as early as 5000 BCE. It was primarily grown for its fiber to make textiles, but its psychoactive properties were also recognized and utilized ^(ref).

In ancient India, cannabis was mentioned in sacred texts and used in religious ceremonies. Known as “bhang,” it was consumed during festivals and believed to have spiritual and medicinal benefits. This long history of use underscores marijuana’s deep cultural and historical significance across various civilizations.

3. There Are over 100 Cannabinoids in Marijuana

While most people are familiar with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), marijuana actually contains over 100 different cannabinoids. These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various physiological processes like mood, appetite, and pain sensation.

Each cannabinoid has unique effects and potential benefits. For example, CBG (cannabigerol) is being studied for its antibacterial properties, while CBN (cannabinol) is known for its sedative effects. The diverse array of cannabinoids in marijuana opens up numerous possibilities for therapeutic applications and scientific exploration.

4. The First Online Sale was a Marijuana Deal

In the early days of the Internet, a groundbreaking transaction took place that many might not expect. In 1971, students from Stanford University conducted what is considered the first online sale—and it was a marijuana deal. Using ARPANET, the precursor to the Internet, they arranged a sale with students at MIT.^(ref)

This historical transaction highlights the long-standing relationship between technology and cannabis culture. Today, the Internet continues to play a significant role in the cannabis industry, with online dispensaries and digital marketing becoming increasingly prevalent.

5. Marijuana Can Affect Men & Women Differently

Research has shown that men and women can experience different effects from marijuana due to variations in hormone levels and body chemistry. For instance, women may be more sensitive to THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, due to higher estrogen levels. This can result in more intense psychoactive effects.^(ref)

Conversely, men may be more prone to experiencing increased appetite, often referred to as “the munchies,” when using marijuana. These gender-specific responses are an important consideration for both recreational and medicinal users, as they can influence dosage and overall experience.

6. Hemp & Marijuana are Different Varieties of the Same Plant

Hemp and marijuana both come from the cannabis plant, but they are cultivated for different purposes and have distinct characteristics. Hemp is grown primarily for its industrial uses, such as making textiles, paper, and biodegradable plastics. It contains very low levels of THC, making it non-psychoactive.

Marijuana, on the other hand, is cultivated for its psychoactive properties and higher THC content. Despite their differences, both varieties have valuable applications and contribute to the diverse uses of the cannabis plant. Understanding this distinction is crucial for navigating the complex landscape of cannabis legislation and industry.

7. Marijuana was Once Grown by Founding Fathers

Several of America’s Founding Fathers, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, were known to grow hemp on their farms. While there is no evidence to suggest they cultivated it for recreational use, they recognized the plant’s agricultural and industrial value.^(ref)

Washington documented his hemp farming efforts in his diaries, noting its importance for making rope and canvas. Jefferson even smuggled hemp seeds from China to introduce better strains to American agriculture. Their advocacy for hemp underscores its historical significance and utility in early American society.

8. Cannabis Can Be Used to Create Biofuel

In the quest for sustainable energy sources, cannabis has emerged as a potential candidate for biofuel production. Hemp, in particular, can be processed into bioethanol and biodiesel, offering a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. The plant’s high biomass yield makes it an efficient resource for energy production.

Research into cannabis-based biofuels is still in its early stages, but the potential environmental benefits are promising. Utilizing cannabis for biofuel could reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on non-renewable energy sources, contributing to a more sustainable future.

9. Marijuana Might Boost Creativity

Many artists, musicians, and writers have credited marijuana with enhancing their creativity. Studies suggest that cannabis can increase cerebral blood flow and stimulate the brain’s frontal lobe, which is associated with creativity and problem-solving.^(ref)

While the effects can vary from person to person, some individuals report heightened sensory perception and improved focus when using marijuana. These cognitive changes can inspire new ideas and perspectives, making cannabis a popular tool among creative professionals seeking to unlock their artistic potential.

10. The “420” Phenomenon Has Humble Beginnings

The term “420” has become synonymous with marijuana culture, but its origins are relatively modest. It started in the early 1970s with a group of high school students in San Rafael, California, who would meet at 4:20 PM to search for an abandoned cannabis crop. They used “420” as a code word for their activities.^(ref)

The term gained widespread popularity after being adopted by the Grateful Dead community and later spread through cannabis culture. Today, April 20th (4/20), is celebrated as a global holiday for marijuana enthusiasts, highlighting the enduring legacy of this simple numerical code.

11. Marijuana May Have Neuroprotective Properties

Emerging research suggests that marijuana could have neuroprotective effects, potentially benefiting individuals with neurodegenerative diseases. Studies have shown that cannabinoids like CBD and THC may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which are linked to conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

These findings have sparked interest in the medical community, leading to further investigation into cannabis-based treatments for neurological disorders. While more research is needed, the potential for marijuana to support brain health is a promising avenue for future therapeutic developments.

12. The Cannabis Plant has Separate Male & Female Plants

Cannabis plants can be either male or female, with each gender serving a specific role in the plant’s reproduction. Female plants are prized for their ability to produce resinous buds that contain high concentrations of cannabinoids. Male plants, on the other hand, produce pollen needed for fertilization but do not generate the coveted buds.

Growers typically separate male and female plants to prevent fertilization, which can reduce the potency and yield of the female plants’ buds. Understanding the plant’s reproductive biology is essential for effective cultivation and maximizing the desired traits of cannabis crops.

13. Marijuana Legalization is Linked to Decreased Opioid Use

In regions where marijuana has been legalized, studies have shown a correlation with reduced opioid prescription rates and related overdose deaths. This trend suggests that individuals may be using marijuana as an alternative pain management option, potentially mitigating the risks associated with opioid use.^(ref)

The opioid crisis has prompted researchers and policymakers to explore cannabis as a safer pain relief alternative. While marijuana is not without its own risks, its potential to serve as a less harmful substitute for opioids represents a significant shift in addressing chronic pain and addiction.

Marijuana is a plant with a remarkable history and numerous surprising aspects that go beyond its common associations. As society’s perception of marijuana evolves, so too does our understanding of its many applications and benefits, making it a topic worth exploring further.