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CANNABIS
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CANNABIS
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(Cannabis sativa)
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Other Names
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Grass, Hemp, Indian Hemp, Marijuana, Pot, Weed.
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Description
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Cannabis is an annual plant found growing wild in many parts of the world in warm
climates. It is also widely cultivated. The small green flowers bloom from August
through October. The male plant does not flower. The female plant blooms
from August through October, producing small, ash colored fruit.
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Classification
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Taste
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Balance Yin/Yang
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Humor
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Uses/Applications
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Research shows Cannabis properties may include the following: analgesic-hypnotic,
topical anesthetic, antibiotic, antispasmodic, anti-depressant, tranquilizer, appetite stimulant,
pain killer, and to ease withdrawal from alcohol and opiates. Cannabis has been
regulated and illegal since 1937 in the United States and Canada, even though research suggests low
toxicity.
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Combinations
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None
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Constituents
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THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), nabilone.
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Action
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Sedative, Steroid, Pain Relief, Anti-Emetic.
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Food Values
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None
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Part Used
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Leaves.
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Collection
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Pull the plant up by the roots. Then put each plant
in a paper bag with the top open until the leaves feel dry to the touch. Strip the leaves off the
stem and put them into a jar with a lid. Do not pack the leave too
tightly because you need air circulation so mold does not develop.
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Preparation
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Cannabis is illegal and should be used only under medicinal
supervision. It is also known as an effective pain reliever for extreme
pain.
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Growing Directions
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To germinate the seeds place a group of about 6 seeds in a moist paper
towel. Leave it moist but not soaking wet. Germination will take from
24 hours to 7 days. Plant the sprouts in moist soil and sprinkle a little soil over
it. Supply the plants with fluorescent lighting about 2 inches above the
plant. The ideal temperature for Cannabis is between
20o C and 25o C. Cannabis has a short
growth cycle of 120 day.
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History
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Cannabis has been used medicinally by the Chinese since 3000 BC and it was also
widely used by Victorian physicians for insomnia and pain relief. Even Queen Victoria is
said to have used the drug to relieve period pains.
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Additional Information
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1. Research suggests active compounds found in Cannabis can help relieve the
spasticity and joint pain associated with MS, and reduce the intraocular pressure in glaucoma
suffers.
2. Research has shown that like steroid, the cannabis compounds can be
delivered the same route, so the patients can be spared the side effects of hoarseness and
candidosis associated with steroid treatment.
3. UK has licensed Cannabis for use as an anti-emetic in cancer
treatment.
4. The Medical Research Council has been studying Cannabis since
1968. Dr. Pertwee’s research group contributed to the discovery of the body’s
natural cannabinoid system. This includes
anandamide, found in the human brain. Amandamide is
selectively released and like Cannabis, affects mood, memory, acts as an anti-inflammatory
agent and deliver pain relief. THC is known to
achieve similar effects by acting through specific receptors.
5. Cannabis has many valuable uses; paper, textiles, building
materials, food, medicine, paint, detergent, varnish, oil, ink, and fuel. It is a valuable and
environmentally friendly crop.
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Cautions
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1. If smoked over long periods of time lung damage may
occur.
2. Dizziness and Cotton mouth are common side
effects.
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Magick Information
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There is no magical value.
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