Hemp

Cannabis sativa

The hemp plant is more than just a source of CBD; it is a complex plant with a rich history and a variety of bioactive compounds. By understanding these compounds and how they interact with our bodies, we can make informed choices about the use of hemp-related products.

In this blog we dive deeper into the origins of the hemp plant, its key constituents such as CBD, CBDA, THC and THCA, and their interaction with the human body.

If you'd rather experiment in the kitchen, head over to our recipes page .

As always, it is advisable to seek medical advice before starting to use cannabis products.

The stigma surrounding cannabis, fact or fiction?

Cannabis still elicits mixed reactions, largely due to its decades-long association with illegal use and negative stereotypes. But with the rise of CBD and growing awareness of its medicinal benefits, this stigma is slowly starting to disappear. It’s our mission to show that cannabis can be safe, versatile, and even culinary—when used responsibly.

Whether you are a seasoned cannabis user or just curious about its possibilities, I hope our recipes inspire you to discover new flavors and uses. Let’s explore the world of cannabis in the kitchen together!

Below we have 4 statements about cannabis, do you know which one is fact or fiction?

Facts and fables

Cannabis use has no negative aspects:

In some users, cannabis use can lead to the development or worsening of mental disorders, such as anxiety, depression or psychosis.

This is especially true for young people and for people who are extra sensitive to mental disorders.

Smoking cannabis can be harmful to the respiratory tract, despite some people believing it clears the lungs.

Cannabis works the same for everyone:

Cannabis does not work the same for everyone because different factors influence its effects.

First of all, the body’s own biology plays a huge role; our endocannabinoid system (ECS) regulates how cannabinoids like THC and CBD are absorbed, and this system differs from person to person.

In addition, genetics , tolerance and metabolism can make someone react more strongly or less to cannabis. External factors such as dosage, consumption method (smoking, edibles, oil) and environment also influence the experience.

Where one person feels relaxed, another can experience anxiety or dizziness. That is why it is a misconception that cannabis works the same for everyone.

Cannabis has medicinal uses:

Under medical supervision, cannabis can help with certain conditions, such as chronic pain, epilepsy, and chemotherapy-induced nausea. In some countries, medical cannabis is legal and prescribed by doctors.

Cannabis is a 'gateway drug':

There is no hard evidence that cannabis use leads to experimentation with harder drugs.

Although many hard drug users start out smoking marijuana, cannabis is not necessarily the cause of other drug use.

Anyone who uses cannabis is lazy and unmotivated:

There is a persistent stereotype that all cannabis users just lie on the couch all day and get nothing done. In reality, there are plenty of successful people, from entrepreneurs to artists, who use cannabis without it interfering with their productivity. As with anything, the effect depends on the person, the frequency, and the circumstances in which it is used.

CBD and THC only bind to animal fat;

No! Vegetable fats work just as well, as long as they contain enough fatty acids . So as long as there fat, CBD can bind to it and is better absorbed by your body. In this recipe we give you a few examples that you can use.

It is not possible to overdose on cannabis:

Although a cannabis overdose is not fatal , excessive use of THC or CBD can have unwanted side effects

CBD: CBD overdose is extremely rare and not fatal; extremely high doses can cause side effects such as fatigue, diarrhea, or changes in appetite.

THC: THC overdose can cause anxiety, paranoia, dizziness, or nausea, but is not fatal; there have been no known cases of fatal THC poisoning.

History of hemp

Humans’ relationship with the hemp plant dates back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that hemp was used as early as 8,000 BCE in regions such as China and Taiwan. These early civilizations valued hemp for its versatility, using it in textiles, rope, and even as a food source. Hemp was also used medicinally in ancient China, with Emperor Shen Nung writing about the therapeutic properties of cannabis around 2700 BCE.

Introduced to Europe around 800 AD, hemp played a crucial role in shipping because of its strong fibers, which were used for ropes and sails. In the 16th century, King Henry VIII of England encouraged farmers to grow hemp to support the growing demand of the navy.

The renewed interest in cannabis has led to a growing number of studies into the therapeutic applications of its compounds. Although much of the research is in the preclinical phase, preliminary results are promising. It is essential to note that the scientific understanding of these compounds is constantly evolving, and further research is needed to determine their full potential and safety.

How does hemp grow?

Hemp is a naturally strong and self-sufficient plant that originates from Central Asia, especially Mongolia, Southern Siberia and the Himalayas. Wild hemp often grows in open fields, along rivers and on wastelands. As a pioneer plant, it can quickly establish itself in poor soils and even helps with soil regeneration. In spring, the seeds germinate naturally when temperatures rise and there is sufficient moisture, after which the plants grow quickly and develop strong roots.

In the vegetative stage, wild hemp grows tall, often more slender and taller than cultivated varieties, sometimes reaching a height of four metres. The plant requires plenty of sunlight and develops characteristic, elongated leaves. Flowering begins around late summer, with male plants spreading their pollen through the wind to fertilise female flowers. Once ripe, the seeds fall to the ground or are dispersed by wind and animals, allowing the plant to reproduce naturally.

Wild hemp, also known as Cannabis ruderalis , tends to have lower concentrations of CBD and THC than cultivated varieties, but is known for its short growth cycle and strong resistance to cold and disease. Because this plant does not rely on light changes to flower, it can produce multiple generations in a short period of time. This makes wild hemp an efficient survivor in harsh and changeable environments.

How to grow hemp at home?

Well begun is half done

To grow CBD hemp legally, start by checking the laws in your country or region. In many countries, it’s only allowed if you have a permit and use certified hemp strains that are below the legal THC limit. Once you’ve got that sorted, you can start growing organically.

Choose a CBD-rich hemp strain that is on the approved strain list. It all starts with choosing the right seeds or maybe you can get a healthy clone from someone.

Soil preparation

Prepare the soil by enriching it with organic compost and natural fertilizers, these will help the young plants get off to a good start. Provide a well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.

Vegetation phase

After a few days you will see the first shoots emerge. In this phase the plants mainly need light, water and protection. By using natural methods such as crop rotation and ground cover you prevent weed growth and keep the soil healthy. Instead of pesticides you can use beneficial insects such as ladybirds against pests.

After about a month, the plants will grow rapidly and develop sturdy stems and leaves. In this vegetative phase, they need plenty of sunlight and organic nutrients. Regular checks for pests and diseases are essential, and any problems can be addressed with organic products such as neem oil or seaweed extract.

Flowering phase

When the flowering period begins, usually after 8 to 12 weeks, the CBD-rich flowers appear. This is the time when the plant produces its valuable ingredients. Give extra phosphorus and potassium-rich nutrition to stimulate flowering, but keep everything organic. Towards the end of flowering, test the flowers for ripeness: as soon as the trichomes – the resin glands on the flowers – turn milky white, it is time to harvest.

Harvesting and storing

Harvesting is a careful process. The plants are cut and hung upside down in a cool, ventilated space to dry slowly. After one to two weeks, the flowers are ready for further processing or extraction. By using the right drying technique, you will retain the maximum CBD value and taste.

This is how the organic and legal cultivation of CBD hemp works, from a small seed to a final product full of natural power.

The internet is full of helpful tips and videos for this entire process if you are looking for more in-depth information.

Key Ingredients

CBD vs CBDA: What's the Difference?

  • CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid popular for its potential therapeutic properties. It is often used in oils, tinctures, and other supplements.
  • CBDA (cannabidiolic acid) is the precursor to CBD and is naturally found in raw cannabis plants. When exposed to heat, CBDA undergoes a process called decarboxylation, converting into CBD. This process can occur when the plant is smoked, vaporized, or cooked.

THC and THCA: Psychoactive vs. Non-Psychoactive

  • THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the most well-known psychoactive component of cannabis. It is responsible for the 'high' feeling associated with recreational cannabis use.
  • THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is the acidic precursor to THC and is found in the raw plant. Similar to CBDA, THCA is converted to THC by decarboxylation (when heated) .

Our products contain THC and THCA, these levels are below 0.2% which means you cannot get 'high' when consuming our product, even when it is heated.

In addition to the above cannabinoids such as CBD and CBDA, the hemp plant contains a range of other important compounds:

CBG (cannabigerol):

Often referred to as the 'mother' of all cannabinoids, as it is the precursor to CBD and THC, CBG has no psychoactive effects and is being studied for potential therapeutic applications, such as anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

CBN (cannabinol):

Created by the oxidation and breakdown of THC. Although found in low concentrations, CBN is being studied for its potential calming and sleep-promoting effects.

Terpenes:

Aromatic compounds responsible for the characteristic smell of cannabis. Terpenes such as myrcene, limonene, and pinene can work synergistically with cannabinoids, a phenomenon known as the "entourage effect." You can find more information about this on our terpenes page .

Flavonoids:

These compounds contribute to the color and flavor of the plant and have antioxidant properties. They may also contribute to the overall therapeutic effects of cannabis.

Interaction of cannabis with the human body

The human body has an endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors and enzymes involved in regulating various physiological processes, such as pain, mood, appetite, and immune response. Cannabinoids from the hemp plant can interact with this system:

How Do CBD and CBDA Work in the Body?

  • CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system by indirectly modulating the CB1 and CB2 receptors, which may help maintain homeostasis in the body. It also affects other receptor systems, such as serotonin and vanilloid receptors, which may contribute to its calming and anti-inflammatory effects.
  • CBDA, on the other hand, has a different mechanism of action. Instead of binding to cannabinoid receptors, CBDA inhibits the COX-2 enzyme, which plays a role in inflammatory processes. This suggests that CBDA has potential anti-inflammatory properties.

How Do THC and THCA Work in the Body?

  • THC binds directly to the CB1 receptors in the brain, which leads to its psychoactive effects. It also influences pain perception, appetite and mood.
  • THCA, on the other hand, is not psychoactive and does not bind directly to CB1 or CB2 receptors. Research is being conducted into the potential therapeutic benefits of THCA, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice.
If you notice that cannabis use is affecting your mental health, such as anxiety, depression or psychotic symptoms, do not hesitate to seek help.
In the Netherlands you can go to your GP, addiction care institutions such as Jellinek ( www.jellinek.nl ) and Novadic-Kentron ( www.novadic-kentron.nl ).
You can also ask for anonymous advice via the Drugs Info Line (0900-1995).
You are not alone, and there is always help available.