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History of Hemp

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by JARS | December 11, 2024

History of Hemp

Explore the fascinating history of hemp. Discover its ancient origins, industrial revolution applications, and modern-day revival. Learn about hemp's versatile uses and its journey from ancient civilizations to contemporary sustainability movements.


For being such a useful plant, hemp has been embroiled in an on-again-off-again relationship with the United States. Hemp has been consistently outperforming other materials, and while people get excited about something new every now and again, hemp always seems to make a comeback.

The Many Uses Of Hemp

Hemp is an amazingly versatile plant. It is durable, strong, and great for making cordage (twine, rope, yarn) out of. When the pioneers were tugging covered wagons across America, it was hemp that was covering those wagons! Hemp can be made into fabrics, sponges, shoes. 

Hemp also has nutritional value. It can be eaten, or made into a milk alternative. Plus, growing hemp doesn’t deplete soil the way that cotton does, and it takes less water to grow.

And of course, hemp plants are often associated with CBD, the non-psychoactive compound in cannabis that is harvested and used in many products to relieve bodily pain. Hemp plants do contain a very small amount of THC, but less than 0.3%. 

In The Beginning

Hemp originally grew wild in China, its first record of use dates back to a rope pattern found on pottery from 10,000 years ago. 

Because of Spanish colonization, hemp first arrived in North America in 1545. It grows wild in open patches of land in the Midwest, and is known as “Ditchweed” and “Ragweed”.

Early America

By 1616 settlers were growing hemp in Jamestown to make ropes, sails for boats, and clothes.

In the 1700s farmers were ordered to grow hemp by the government as a staple crop. Even George Washington was hip to growing hemp. 

The first drafts of the Declaration of Independence were written on hemp paper in 1776, and about a hundred years later Abraham Lincoln was using hemp to light his household lamps in 1840. 

The Marihuana Tax Act

For the first time in US history, people started to question the negative aspects of cannabis. In 1910 the Mexican Revolution was in full swing, and with it came many immigrants into the American Southwest. 

Blame was placed upon those of Mexican descent for “introducing” the concept of smoking cannabis, but we know that America has a messy history of blaming immigrants for its own problems. The United States started “protecting” people from the dangers of smoking cannabis, but mostly saw an opportunity to make a bunch of money. 

The “Marihuana Tax Act” was implemented in 1937. This law didn’t ban use or possession of cannabis, but instead added a tax on the sale of any form of cannabis or hemp. If someone was selling or buying hemp without paying the yearly tax of $24, the penalty was a fine of $2,000 or five years in prison. 

The Marihuana Tax Act was the first time “marijuana” was used as a term for hemp and cannabis plants in the US. 

Hemp For Victory

By the time World War II was in full swing, there was a need for resources. In 1940 the United States Government released an educational film called, “Hemp For Victory” with the intent to inspire and educate farmers on the benefits of growing hemp. 

The Marihuana Tax Act was temporarily disbanded while the war effort was under way, but once the US Navy had the hemp ropes they needed, the tax act was reinstated. 

The US government denied ever having made this film, but at the time it made quite an impact. In 1942 the government requested that a group of patriotic farmers plant 36,000 acres of hemp to meet the needs of the United States armed services in their war efforts. 

Plans were made to greatly expand the hemp industry, however after the war these intentions were forgotten and cheaper fabrics like: jute, nylon, and plastics came into play.

The War On Drugs

A rise in drug use from the 1960s prompted Richard Nixon to target substance abuse as his political touchstone. 

“Drug abuse is public enemy number one/I am not a crook!” 

-Famous quotes from Richard Nixon (not said at the same time) 

In 1970 the Controlled Substances Act was signed into effect and with it, put a statute in place calling for the regulation of mind altering substances. Thus began The War On Drugs. 

In 1971 the government began an initiative to stop illegal drug use, trade, and distribution by threatening prison sentences for dealers and users alike. Mostly this affected people of color in unfair proportions. 

Jack Herer

Known as “The emperor of hemp” Jack Herer was an outspoken advocate for the decriminalization of cannabis in the 1970s, 80s, and 90s. Herer touted hemp as a miracle plant, boasting it’s abilities to act as: a renewable source of fuel, medicine, food, fiber, paper and pulp.

Jack Herer believed that the United States government was keeping knowledge of the benefits of cannabis and hemp from its citizens on purpose. 

In Conclusion 

The legality of cannabis has had many ebbs and flows in the last 100 years, but the practicality of hemp is undeniable. 

Hemp has been around forever and it’s not going anywhere. Literally, hemp grows on the side of the road, and you can’t arrest a plant for doing it’s thing. 


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Rise and Grind

Rise and Grind

Are you tired of procrastinating and feeling unproductive? Do you want to find a natural way to boost your focus and creativity? Well, look no further than cannabis!

Rise and Grind: Increasing Productivity with Cannabis

Are you tired of procrastinating and feeling unproductive? Do you want to find a natural way to boost your focus and creativity? Well, look no further than cannabis!

That's right, folks. Marijuana can be more than just a recreational pastime. It can also be a powerful tool for increasing productivity. And no, we're not just talking about getting high and watching Netflix all day. Instead, we're discussing using cannabis responsibly and strategically to enhance your workflow and achieve your goals. So, without further ado, here are some tips for how to increase productivity with cannabis:

Choose the Right Strain

Not all cannabis is created equal. Some strains are better suited for productivity than others. For example, Sativa strains are known for their energizing and uplifting effects, while Indica strains are more relaxing and soothing.  If you want to get things done, opt for a sativa-dominant hybrid like Sour Diesel or Green Crack.

Check
JARS Cannabis for a wide variety of strains to pick from! 

Experiment with Different Consumption Methods
Smoking a joint might be the most traditional way to consume cannabis, but it's not always convenient or discreet. Instead, consider trying other methods like edibles, tinctures, or vaporizers.  Each method has its unique effects and onset time, so experiment to find what works best for you.

Set Realistic Goals

While cannabis can help increase productivity, it's not a magic bullet. You still need to set realistic goals and prioritize your tasks.  For example, don't expect to write a novel in one sitting just because you're high. Instead, break your goals into smaller, more manageable tasks and give yourself ample time to complete them.


Avoid Distraction

One of the biggest challenges of using cannabis for productivity is the potential for distraction.  You might start with the best intentions but then find yourself getting lost in a Wikipedia rabbit hole or spending an hour staring at a houseplant.  To avoid this, set boundaries for yourself and eliminate distractions. Turn off your phone, close unnecessary tabs on your computer, and create a quiet, focused environment


Take Breaks

Just because you're using cannabis to increase productivity doesn't mean you have to work non-stop.  Taking breaks is essential for maintaining focus and creativity. Use your breaks to stretch, move around, or do something unrelated to work. This will help prevent burnout and keep you motivated.


Stay Hydrated

Cannabis can dehydrate, so drinking plenty of water throughout the day is essential. Not only will this keep you hydrated and healthy, but it will also help flush out any THC metabolites in your system. Who doesn't love a good excuse to use a fancy water bottle?

Don't Overdo It

As with any substance, it's essential to use cannabis in moderation. If you overdo it, you're more likely to experience adverse side effects like anxiety, paranoia, or decreased motivation.  So, start with a low dose and gradually increase until you find your sweet spot. And remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution.

Use Music to Enhance Focus

Music can be a powerful tool for increasing focus and productivity, and cannabis can help enhance the experience. Choose manageable instrumental or ambient music, and experiment with different genres to find what works best for you. Music can be a great way to stay in the zone and tune out distractions, whether classical, electronic, or lo-fi hip-hop beats.


Get Plenty of Sleep

Finally, remember the importance of a good night's sleep. Cannabis can help alleviate insomnia and promote relaxation, but it does not replace a healthy sleep routine. So ensure you're getting enough restful sleep each night to help you stay energized and productive during the day.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a natural way to increase productivity, cannabis might be worth a try. Just remember to choose the right strain, experiment with different consumption methods, set realistic goals, avoid distractions, take breaks, stay hydrated, don't overdo it, listen to the right music, and get plenty of rest.

So, the next time you're feeling stuck or unmotivated, give cannabis a chance. Who knows, it might just be the productivity hack you've been looking for. And who says being productive can't be fun? With cannabis, you can tap into your creativity, get in the zone, and tackle your to-do list with a smile. Just be sure to stay focused and avoid any munchies-induced detours.

And there you have it, folks. While it's important to remember that everyone's experience with cannabis is different, these tips can help you use it responsibly and effectively. So go forth, get creative, and blaze your way to productivity. Happy smoking!

JARS

December 10, 2024

Reading Between the Lines

Reading Between the Lines

Welcome to the world of cannabis, where reading between the lines is not just a good idea; it's a must! With so many different strains and products on the market, understanding cannabis labels can be a daunting task. But fear not, my friends! Today, we will guide you through the world of cannabis labels and help you read between the lines.


Reading Between the Lines: A Guide to Understanding Cannabis Flower Label  

Welcome to the world of cannabis, where reading between the lines is not just a good idea; it's a must! With so many different strains and products on the market, understanding cannabis labels can be a daunting task. But fear not, my friends! Today, we will guide you through the world of cannabis labels and help you read between the lines. 

Percentages - Understanding THC and CBD 

Regarding cannabis products, percentages are essential to understanding what you're getting. You'll often see two percentages listed: THC and CBD.  

THC is the psychoactive compound that produces the "high" associated with cannabis use, while CBD is a non-psychoactive compound with therapeutic benefits.  

The percentages listed on your flower products represent the concentration of these compounds, with THC typically ranging from 10% to 30% and CBD ranging from 0% to 20%. 

So what do these percentages mean for you as a cannabis user? If you want a mellow experience, choose a product with a higher CBD percentage.  

CBD has been found to have calming and relaxing effects, making it a popular choice for people looking to unwind without getting too high.  

On the other hand, if you're looking for a more intense high, go for a product with a higher THC percentage. Just be aware that products with high THC percentages can be very potent, so start with a small amount and work your way up as needed.  

When it comes to cannabis concentrates, the percentages of THC and CBD are much higher than what you'll find in flower products. Concentrates are made by extracting the most potent parts of the cannabis plant, resulting in a product that is much stronger than traditional flower. 

For example, THC percentages in concentrates can range from 50% to 90%, while CBD percentages can range from 20% to 60%. Due to their potency, concentrates should be used with caution and in moderation, especially for novice cannabis users. 

It's important to note that the effects of concentrates can also be much more intense than those of flower products. This is because concentrates deliver a more concentrated dose of THC or CBD in a smaller amount of product. As a result, even experienced cannabis users should start with a small amount of concentrate and gradually increase their dosage as needed. 

Overall, understanding the percentages of THC and CBD in cannabis products is crucial for anyone looking to enjoy the effects of cannabis safely and responsibly. Whether you prefer flower products or concentrates, always start with a small amount and work your way up to find your ideal dosage. With the right knowledge and caution, cannabis can be a beneficial addition to your wellness routine. 

Strains - Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid 

It's important to note that the cannabis industry is moving away from the traditional classification standard of strains as Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid. Dispensaries now use different names, like "Animal Cookies," "Gorilla Glue #4," "Jack Herer," "Wedding Cake," "Motorbreath," and "Runtz," to name a few common ones. Each strain has its unique set of benefits, so it's essential to consider your needs and preferences when choosing the right one for you. 

For instance, Animal Cookies is known for its calming and relaxing effects, making it a popular choice for those looking to unwind after a long day. Gorilla Glue #4, on the other hand, is known for its euphoric and uplifting effects, making it a great option for social situations and creative endeavors. Jack Herer is another popular strain that's known for providing energy and focus, making it a great choice for those who need a pick-me-up. 

Wedding Cake is an excellent strain for pain relief and relaxation, while Motorbreath is known for its ability to ease anxiety and depression. Runtz is a sweet and fruity strain that's popular for its relaxing and calming effects. 

When choosing a strain, it's crucial to identify what you're looking for in terms of lifestyle benefits, such as relaxation, creativity, energy, or focus, and select a strain accordingly. Don't be afraid to try new strains, as each one has its unique set of benefits that you may find suits your needs perfectly. 

JARS Cannabis has a wide variety of strains to choose from. 

Terpenes - The Aromatic Compounds That Make a Difference 

Terpenes are another vital aspect of understanding cannabis labels. These aromatic compounds found in cannabis contribute to its flavor and scent, as well as its effects. But did you know that terpenes are not unique to cannabis? They are found in a variety of plants, including tea, thyme, and citrus fruits, to name a few. Some common terpenes listed on a label include myrcene, limonene, and pinene.  

Each terpene has its unique set of effects, so paying attention to a strain's terpene profile can help you choose the perfect product for your needs.  

For example, if you're looking for a strain that will help you sleep, choose one with high levels of myrcene. Myrcene has been found to have sedative effects, making it a popular choice for people who struggle with insomnia.  

On the other hand, if you're looking for a strain that will help you stay alert and focused, choose one with high pinene levels. Pinene has been found to have a stimulating effect, making it popular among those who want to stay productive during the day. 

Talk to Your Budtender - The Importance of Dispensary Staff 

When choosing the perfect cannabis product, don't be afraid to talk to your budtender or dispensary staff. They know the products they sell and can help you select the ideal strain, terpene profile, and potency for your needs. 

Don't be shy about asking questions, and don't be afraid to try something new. Your budtender can help you find the perfect product for your unique needs. They can also provide valuable information about dosage, consumption methods, and potential lifestyle benefits. 

Reading between the lines of cannabis labels is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. Understanding the percentages of THC and CBD, strains, terpene profiles, and symbols will help you choose the perfect product for your needs.  

If you're looking for a dispensary that offers high-quality cannabis products and knowledgeable staff, look no further than JARS Cannabis. With more than 250 brands across various categories and price points, our team is always happy to help you find the perfect product for your needs. So come on down and let us help you navigate the world of cannabis labels with ease.

JARS

December 10, 2024