The fascinating history behind cannabis genetics spans continents and centuries. Cannabis, also called marijuana, has long been used by humans to treat their spiritual, medicinal and recreational needs. The cannabis gene pool has changed through human intervention, creating a wide variety of cannabis strains and their distinct effects.
Central Asia is believed the origin of cannabis. The plant grew wild in mountains in southern Siberia and Mongolia. Around 2700 BC, the Chinese discovered that cannabis had medicinal properties. They were also the first to cultivate this plant for its spiritual and medical uses. They used it for constipation and malaria treatment, and to meditate and relax.
Cannabis spread quickly to other countries, including India where it was used religiously and spiritually. Hindu deity Shiva believed to have meditated on cannabis, and it was used in various Hindu ceremonies and rituals. The Indian cannabis gene pool evolved to produce high quality cannabis strains. These were then used to make charas.
Trade and conquest are the key to cannabis’ spread throughout Europe and the Middle East. It was brought to these countries by the Greeks and Persians. Galen, a Greek physician who treated earaches and inflammations, as well as colic, used cannabis medicinally.
Cannabis was first introduced to Americas during colonial times. It was then used primarily for industrial purposes. The plant was also used to treat medical conditions and it evolved into the wide variety of cannabis strains we have today.
The 1960s-1970s witnessed the rise and fall of the counterculture movement, one of the most important developments in cannabis genetics. Cannabis breeders began crossing strains to create unique hybrids. These hybrids had higher potency and yields as well as faster flowering time. This allowed for the creation of many new strains like Skunk #1, Northern Lights, or Haze. They have since become some the most loved strains in the entire world.
Today, the cannabis industry is in constant evolution. There are new strains and hybrids constantly being developed. Due to legalization in many places around the globe, more research has been done into the genetics of the cannabis plant and new breeding techniques have been developed. This has resulted in more refined and precise breeding programs which allow breeders create strains with specific medicinal effects and properties.
The evolution of cannabis genetics has been a complex and rich story. This is due to the plant’s significance in culture and history. From its early origins in Central Asia, to its widespread spread across the globe, cannabis genetics have evolved by human intervention to create a wide range of strains and effects. As the cannabis industry evolves, we can expect to see more exciting developments as breeders continue pushing the boundaries of this remarkable plant.
Laura McQueen is a writer for MJGreenNews.com.
She has been writing for different cannabis websites and publications since 2018.