The Amazing History of Craft Cannabis in Canada

The Amazing History of Craft Cannabis in Canada

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The History of Craft Cannabis in Canada

Cannabis has a long and storied history in Canada, with the plant having been used for both recreational and medicinal purposes for centuries. However, it was not until the latter half of the 20th century that cannabis truly began to emerge as a major player in the country’s economy and culture. This is largely due to the rise of the craft cannabis movement, which has played a major role in shaping the legal cannabis industry in Canada and beyond.

Early History of Cannabis in Canada

Cannabis has been used by indigenous communities in Canada for thousands of years, primarily for medicinal purposes. The plant was also used in spiritual ceremonies and as a source of food and fibre. However, it was not until the early 20th century that cannabis began to be used recreationally in Canada.

In 1923, cannabis was officially banned in Canada under the Opium and Narcotic Drug Act. This legislation was largely driven by concerns about the perceived negative effects of cannabis on public health and safety, as well as fears of marijuana being used as a “gateway drug” to more dangerous substances.

The Rise of the Craft Cannabis Movement

Despite the ban on cannabis, the plant continued to be used by a small but dedicated group of individuals who were passionate about its potential as a medicinal and recreational substance. These individuals were known as “craft cannabis” growers, and they were instrumental in shaping the modern cannabis industry in Canada.

The craft cannabis movement emerged in the 1960s and 1970s, as a counterculture response to the mainstream attitudes toward cannabis. At this time, there was a growing movement in favour of cannabis legalization, and many craft cannabis growers saw themselves as part of this larger social and political movement.

The craft cannabis movement was characterized by a focus on small-scale, artisanal production methods, as well as a commitment to producing high-quality, natural, and organic products. These growers were often motivated by a desire to create a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly industry, as well as to provide access to high-quality cannabis for those who were unable to access it through traditional channels.

The Legalization of Cannabis in Canada

In the years following the emergence of the craft cannabis movement, there was growing momentum in favour of cannabis legalization in Canada. This was driven in part by the increasing acceptance of cannabis as a medicinal substance, as well as by the success of legalization efforts in other countries, such as the United States.

In 2001, Canada became the first country in the world to legalize medical cannabis, making it available to patients with certain qualifying conditions. This marked the beginning of a new era for the cannabis industry in Canada, as the country began to embrace the potential of the plant for medicinal purposes.

In 2018, Canada took the next step towards full cannabis legalization by passing the Cannabis Act, which made it legal for adults to purchase and consume cannabis for recreational purposes. This marked a major milestone for the country, and the craft cannabis movement in particular, as it paved the way for the growth and development of a legal, regulated cannabis industry.

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The Future of Craft Cannabis in Canada

The legalization of cannabis in Canada has had a significant impact on the craft cannabis movement, as it has opened up new opportunities for small-scale growers to enter the market. Many craft cannabis growers have been able to transition from the black market to the legal market, and are now able to operate openly and transparently within the bounds of the law.

However, the legalization of cannabis has also brought with it new challenges for craft cannabis growers. The legal market is highly competitive, and many small-scale producers have struggled to keep up with larger, more established players. In addition, the regulatory requirements for operating in the legal market can be burdensome for small-scale producers, who may not have the resources to navigate the complex legal and regulatory landscape.

Despite these challenges, the craft cannabis movement remains a vital part of the Canadian cannabis industry. Many craft cannabis growers are committed to upholding the values of sustainability, quality, and authenticity that have long been associated with the movement. As the legal cannabis industry continues to evolve, craft cannabis will likely continue to play a significant role in shaping the direction and character of the industry in Canada and beyond.

Conclusion

The history of craft cannabis in Canada is a rich and fascinating one, marked by a commitment to small-scale, artisanal production and a passion for the potential of the cannabis plant. From its roots in the counterculture of the 1960s and 1970s to its place at the forefront of the legal cannabis industry today, the craft cannabis movement has played a vital role in shaping the direction and character of the cannabis industry in Canada. As the industry continues to grow and evolve, craft cannabis will likely remain an important and influential part of the landscape.

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Official Guide to Small-Batch, Craft Cannabis 2023

Official Guide to Small-Batch, Craft Cannabis 2023

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guide to small-batch craft cannabis

Official Guide to Small-Batch, Craft Cannabis in Canada

Official Guide to Small-Batch, Craft Cannabis in Canada.

This is the definitive guide to craft cannabis in Canada. In this article, we explore what Canadian small batch cannabis is and why it has become the preferred style of cannabis users in Canada and around the world. We will also explore the benefits of using craft cannabis and how it can help you live a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life.

 

What is Canadian Small-Batch Craft Cannabis?

Canadian Craft Cannabis is a term that refers to high-quality, small-batch cannabis that is produced with care and attention to detail. It is becoming increasingly popular among cannabis users in Canada, as more and more people are looking for an alternative to mass-produced, industrial-grade cannabis.

Improved Quality and Potency:

One of the main benefits of Canadian craft cannabis is that it is often of higher quality and potency than mass-produced cannabis. This is because craft cannabis producers take the time to carefully cultivate and cure their plants, resulting in a product that is more aromatic, flavorful, and potent. In contrast, mass-produced cannabis is often grown in large, industrialized facilities using artificial light and pesticides, which can result in a lower-quality product that is less potent and less enjoyable to consume.

Better for the Environment:

Canadian Craft cannabis is also better for the environment than mass-produced cannabis. Small-batch producers are often more conscious of their environmental impact and use sustainable growing practices, such as natural light, organic nutrients, and water-saving techniques. In contrast, mass-produced cannabis is often grown using energy-intensive techniques and chemicals that can harm the environment. By choosing small-batch cannabis, you can support environmentally responsible producers and reduce your own carbon footprint.

Support Local Farmers:

Canadian Craft cannabis is also a great way to support local farmers and small businesses in your community. Many small-batch producers are passionate about their craft and work hard to produce high-quality cannabis for their customers. By supporting these producers, you can help to create jobs and stimulate the local economy. In contrast, mass-produced cannabis is often produced by large, multinational corporations that may not have the same level of commitment to the local community.

Greater Variety:

Canadian Craft cannabis also offers a greater variety of strains and types of cannabis than mass-produced cannabis. Small-batch cannabis producers are often able to experiment with different strains and growing techniques, resulting in a wider range of products for consumers to choose from. This is especially appealing to cannabis users who are looking for specific strains or types of cannabis to suit their needs or preferences. In contrast, mass-produced cannabis is often limited to a few standard strains that may not offer as much variety.

Personalized Customer Service:

Another benefit of Canadian Craft cannabis is that it often comes with personalized customer service. Small-batch producers are often more accessible and willing to answer questions and provide guidance to their customers. This is especially helpful for those who are new to cannabis or who are looking for specific strains or types of cannabis for specific purposes. In contrast, mass-produced cannabis is often sold through large, impersonal retail chains that may not offer the same level of customer service.

Healthier Alternative:

Canadian Craft cannabis is often grown using natural, organic methods, which can result in a healthier product for consumers. Many small-batch producers use organic nutrients and avoid the use of pesticides, making their cannabis a safer and healthier choice. In contrast, mass-produced cannabis is often grown using a variety of chemicals and pesticides, which can be harmful to consumers. By choosing craft cannabis, you can reduce your exposure to toxic chemicals and enjoy a healthier product.

Customized Dosing:

Canadian Craft cannabis is often sold in smaller quantities, which can make it easier to customize your dosage. This is especially helpful for those who are new to cannabis or who have specific dosing needs. Small-batch producers are often more flexible and willing to work with customers to find the right dosage, which can be especially helpful for those using cannabis for medicinal purposes. In contrast, mass-produced cannabis is often sold in larger quantities, making it harder to customize your dosage.

Unique Strains and Flavors:

Canadian Craft cannabis is often grown using a variety of strains and techniques, resulting in a wide range of unique flavours and aromas. This is especially appealing to those who are looking for something new and different, or who are looking for specific flavours or aromas to suit their needs or preferences. In contrast, mass-produced cannabis is often limited to a few standard strains, which can be less exciting for those who are looking for something more unique.

Stronger Community Connections:

Canadian Craft cannabis is often sold through small, independent retailers or directly from the producer, which can create stronger connections with the local community. Small-batch producers are often more invested in their local community and may be more willing to engage with customers and build relationships. This can create a sense of community and belonging that may be harder to find with mass-produced cannabis.

Quality Control:

Canadian Craft cannabis is often subject to stricter quality control standards than mass-produced cannabis. Small-batch producers are often more invested in their craft and are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that their products meet high standards. This can result in a higher-quality product that is more consistent and reliable. In contrast, mass-produced cannabis may not be subject to the same level of quality control, which can result in a lower-quality product.

In conclusion, Canadian Craft cannabis offers a number of benefits that can make it a great choice for your daily life. From improved quality and potency to healthier alternatives and stronger community connections, craft cannabis is a great way to enhance your quality of life and support small businesses and sustainable practices. Whether you are new to cannabis or an experienced user, craft cannabis is worth considering as a daily choice.

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Guide to Small Batch Craft Cannabis Infographic

What are landrace strains?

What are landrace strains?

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What are landrace strains?    

Today’s cannabis customers have more options than ever before. While there is a cultivar for every situation, all of the cannabis strains that are currently accessible can be genetically linked to a small number of landrace strains.

Cannabis cultivars, known as landrace strains have developed stable genetics over millennia of natural selection and extended exposure to their native habitat. Breeders have never crossed them. 

Being a highly adaptable plant, cannabis expanded around the globe with human generations, becoming a “native” of many areas in the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and Asia.

Where do landrace strains come from?

One of the oldest crops in human history is cannabis. The Chinese monarch Shen-Nung first made mention of the plant in written records in 2900 B.C. Shen, regarded as the founder of Chinese medicine, included references to cannabis in the Pen Ts’ao, an encyclopedia of plant remedies. 

Cannabis was already being used in China throughout the Neolithic period, around 10,000 B.C., according to other archaeological evidence, such as hemp rope imprints on shattered pottery.
One of the oldest crops in human history is cannabis. All cannabis genetics may be traced to a single plant that originated in the Hindu Kush region of what is now Afghanistan and Pakistan, according to botanists.

The first wild cannabis strain was utilized for everything from religious and therapeutic purposes to the production of textiles and rope.

The very beneficial cannabis plant was brought west by the ancient Greeks and Romans to the Middle East and Russia. Later, Germanic tribes transported it further west, and the Ottomans transported it south to Africa. African cannabis species arrived in the Caribbean and Central America in 1545 with the first colonial voyages, when they were utilized for rope, animal feed, painting oils, and a variety of other things.

Many of these areas saw the flourishing of the very adaptable cannabis plant, which organically evolved growth traits that were best suited to the varied environments of Asia, Africa, and Central America. These were the first landrace strains, identified by traits adapted to their unique growth circumstances and called after their nation or region of origin.

Why is it challenging to find landrace strains?

It might be challenging to locate authentic landrace strains outside of their native habitat. Cannabis growers started experimenting with hybridization in the 1970s and 1980s, combining landrace strains to produce the first hybrids like Skunk #1 and Chemdawg. The breeding of new cannabis generations diluted the original landrace genetics as many breeders competed to have the most significant strain possible.

Cannabis growers started experimenting with hybridization in the 1970s and 1980s, combining landrace strains to produce the first hybrids.

Because many of the strains we refer to as landraces all descended from a single genetic origin, the term “landrace” is likewise problematic. Technically, the strain cultivated in the Hindu Kush region, where humans first discovered cannabis, is the only true landrace strain.

However, according to Merriam-Webster, the term “landrace” is simply “a local variety of a species of plant or animal that possesses distinctive features deriving from development and adaptation over time to conditions of a confined geographic location.” This makes it challenging to grow an Afghan landrace strain, for example, in Southern California because the growth environment is very different.

Landrace strains create phenotypes or variations of the plant with similar genetics but different features when their seeds are grown outside the region in which they evolved. 

These variations can be observed in the size, growth, and chemical composition of a heritage cannabis plant. It could lead to changes in terpene levels, cannabinoid profiles, and flowering dates. In keeping with the previous illustration, even though an Afghan landrace seed may still be from the original plant, its phenotype will be very different from that of a seed cultivated in the Hindu Kush Mountains due to Southern California’s drier and sunnier climate.  

Heirloom strains

Cannabis strains classified as “heirloom” are landrace varieties with genetics that have undergone at least 50 years of human cultivation outside the landrace’s natural habitat. When landrace strain phenotypes acquire genetic stability in their new growing habitat, they become heirlooms. 

Cannabis strains classified as “heirloom” are landrace varieties with genetics that have undergone at least 50 years of human cultivation outside the landrace’s natural habitat. 

Finding authentic landrace strains is more challenging because the line between heirloom and landrace strains is sometimes blurred in the cannabis world. Even though many people believe Angola Red to be Latin American landrace cannabis, Angola Red is a Latin American heritage developed from a cultivar initially discovered in Africa.

  Identifying landrace strains

Landrace strains are frequently given their geographic origins as names. They are simple to spot. For instance, songs like Acapulco Gold (South America) and Durban Poison (Africa) flourished close to the equator in warmer, drier regions. These plants have protracted flowering periods that take advantage of abundant sunlight, massive, dense fan leaves, 

and enormous heights. Shorter plants with broad fan leaves that are better adapted to greater moisture levels and higher altitudes with less sunlight are produced by cultivars like Afghan (Middle East) and Hindu Kush (Asia).

Popular landrace strains

There are still a lot of landrace strains available in dispensaries and as seeds from respectable breeders on the cannabis market today.

Taller plants with elongated buds, high calyx-to-leaf ratios, and an abundance of lateral branching characterize Latin American landraces, including Acapulco Gold, Colombian Gold, and Jamaica’s Lamb’s Bread. These strains often include more significant amounts of caryophyllene and limonene compounds, which give them a peppery, lemony scent.

Landraces from the Middle East, such as Afghan and Hindu Kush, are small, stocky plants with broad leaves and big, fat buds known for their high resin content. Due to the presence of caryophyllene and pinene in these strains, they emit the distinctive pepper and pine scent of Kush.

Durban Poison, the most well-known African landrace strain, was developed in South Africa by local tribes. Durban Poison has long, fluffy buds and reaches a medium height. The song is well-known for its sweet, fruity flavour and is also vital in THC, myrcene, and limonene.

Near the equator, Asian landraces like the Thai and Nepalese flourished as tall plants with numerous dense branches, long, serrated leaves, and fluffy blooms coated in resin. High concentrations of caryophyllene and humulene in these aromatic varieties provide their sweet and spicy scents.

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What is Pinene & what does it do?

What is Pinene & what does it do?

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What is Pinene?

Pinene is a terpene found in many plants, including pine trees and certain cannabis strains. It is known for its woodsy, piney aroma and has shown potential therapeutic benefits. Pinene is a monoterpene, which means it is composed of two isoprene units and has the molecular formula C10H16. It is one of the most abundant terpenes in nature and one of the oldest known terpenes, with a history of use in traditional medicine.

Pinene has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects and may help treat conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It may also have the potential as a cognitive enhancer and memory aid. In addition to its potential therapeutic benefits, pinene is believed to enhance the absorption of other terpenes and cannabinoids in the body, making it a potentially valuable component of cannabis-based medicines.

In terms of its effects on the user, strains of cannabis high in pinene may have more alerting and uplifting effects, making it a good choice for those looking for a more energetic and focused experience. Overall, pinene is an important terpene found in many plants, including cannabis, and it has a wide range of potential therapeutic benefits.

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Terpenes in Cannabis Plants

Terpenes in Cannabis Plants

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Terpenes in Cannabis

Terpenes are a diverse class of organic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. These compounds are responsible for the distinct aromas and flavours of many plants, including the characteristic scent of cannabis. In addition to their role in providing unique bouquets of cannabis strains, terpenes also have a range of potential therapeutic benefits.

The term “terpene” is derived from the word “turpentine,” which is produced from the resin of certain pine trees. Like turpentine, terpenes are hydrocarbons, meaning that they are composed of only carbon and hydrogen atoms. They are produced by many plants, including cannabis, and play a crucial role in the plant’s defence mechanism, as they can repel insects and other predators.

There are over 100 different terpenes found in cannabis plants, each with its unique scent and potential therapeutic benefits. Some of the most common terpenes found in cannabis include myrcene, limonene, and pinene.

Myrcene is a common terpene found in cannabis plants and other plants such as mangos and hops. It is known for its earthy, musky aroma and has been shown to have potential sedative effects. Limonene, also found in citrus fruits, has a citrusy scent and may have antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects. Pinene, found in pine trees and certain other plants, has a woodsy, piney aroma and may have anti-inflammatory effects. These are just a few examples of the many different terpenes found in cannabis plants, each with its unique scent and potential therapeutic benefits.

In addition to their potential therapeutic benefits, terpenes also play a role in the effects of cannabis when it is consumed. The specific combination of terpenes in a particular cannabis strain can affect the strain’s overall potency and impact on the user. For example, a strain with high levels of myrcene may have more sedative effects, while a strain with high levels of limonene may have more uplifting effects.

The potential therapeutic benefits of terpenes have led to a growing interest in their use in medical cannabis. Many medical cannabis products, such as oils and tinctures, are designed to provide specific ratios of terpenes for specific therapeutic effects.

One study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry found that a combination of terpenes and cannabinoids, the active compounds in cannabis, may have potential as a treatment for depression and anxiety. The study found that a combination of the terpene limonene and the cannabinoid CBD had an antidepressant effect in mice. In contrast, a variety of the terpene linalool and the cannabinoid THC had an anxiolytic effect.

Another study published in the journal Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research found that terpenes may have the potential as a treatment for pain. The study found that the terpene beta-caryophyllene, found in cannabis and other plants, had a potent analgesic effect in mice. The authors suggest terpenes may be valuable to current pain management strategies.

In conclusion, terpenes are a diverse class of organic compounds found in cannabis plants responsible for different strains’ unique aromas and flavours. In addition to providing the characteristic scent of cannabis, terpenes also have potential therapeutic benefits, including the treatment of depression and anxiety and pain management. The specific combination of terpenes in a cannabis strain can also affect its overall potency and effects on the user. Further research is needed to understand the potential therapeutic benefits of terpenes in cannabis fully.

References:

  1. Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7),

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terpenes found in cannabis plants

Flavonoids – What are they and what do they do?

Flavonoids – What are they and what do they do?

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“Flavonoids – What are they and what do they do?”

Flavonoids are a class of plant-based compounds that have gained increasing attention in recent years for their potential health benefits. Found in a wide range of foods, including fruits, vegetables, tea, and wine, flavonoids are believed to play a role in the prevention of certain diseases and conditions. But what exactly are flavonoids and how do they work?

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There are over 6,000 known flavonoids, which are classified into six main groups: flavonols, flavones, flavanones, isoflavones, catechins, and anthocyanidins. Each group has its own unique set of properties and potential health benefits.

One of the most well-known flavonoids is quercetin, a type of flavonol found in onions, apples, and red wine. Quercetin is known for its antioxidant properties, which means it can help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress in the body, leading to the development of certain diseases and conditions.

Another group of flavonoids, known as catechins, are found in high concentrations in green tea. Catechins are also powerful antioxidants, and have been shown to have a variety of potential health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease, improving brain function, and aiding in weight loss.

Isoflavones, which are found in soybeans and other legumes, are a type of flavonoid that has received particular attention for its potential to improve women’s health. Some studies have suggested that isoflavones may help to reduce the risk of breast cancer and improve symptoms of menopause.

Flavonoids have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which means they can help to reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a normal immune response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation has been linked to the development of a number of diseases, including heart disease and cancer.

In addition to the potential health benefits listed above, flavonoids may also have other positive effects on the body. Some studies have suggested that flavonoids may help to improve cognitive function, reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, and improve skin health.

It’s important to note that while the potential health benefits of flavonoids are promising, more research is needed to fully understand their effects on the body. That being said, incorporating flavonoid-rich foods into your diet is generally considered a healthy choice. Some good sources of flavonoids include berries, apples, onions, tea, red wine, and soybeans.

In conclusion, flavonoids are a diverse group of plant-based compounds with potential health benefits. While more research is needed to fully understand their effects on the body, adding flavonoid-rich foods to your diet is generally considered a healthy choice.

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