Hemp Hermit, a hemp dispensary located in the sunny city of West Palm Beach, Florida, is proud to delve into the rich and complex history of cannabis in America. Our journey takes us back to a time when cannabis was not only legal but was also a significant part of the pharmaceutical landscape.
The Golden Age of Cannabis Medicine (1850-1937)
From 1850 to 1937, the United States experienced what many refer to as the “Golden Age of Cannabis Medicine.” During this period, cannabis was widely used and accepted as a therapeutic agent. Pharmaceutical companies, including giants like Eli Lilly and Parke-Davis Co., were at the forefront of cannabis research and development. These companies recognized the potential of cannabis and worked diligently to create standardized medicines that could deliver reliable outcomes for patients.
Eli Lilly and Parke-Davis, in particular, were instrumental in developing a specific strain known as “Cannabis Americana.” This strain was engineered to maximize the medicinal properties of cannabis while ensuring consistency and reliability in its effects. The development of Cannabis Americana was a significant milestone in the pharmaceutical use of cannabis, as it allowed for more precise dosing and improved patient outcomes.
The Role of Big Pharma
The involvement of these pharmaceutical companies in the cannabis industry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries highlights the once harmonious relationship between cannabis and mainstream medicine. Eli Lilly and Parke-Davis were not just passive observers in the cannabis space; they were active participants in shaping how cannabis was perceived and used across the country.
These companies invested heavily in research and development, exploring the various therapeutic uses of cannabis. They were pioneers in creating extracts and tinctures that were not only effective but also met the high standards required for medical treatments at the time. Their efforts were supported by a growing body of scientific research that underscored the medicinal benefits of cannabis.
Marketing and the Spread of Cannabis Medicines
The marketing strategies employed by these companies were also a testament to their commitment to integrating cannabis into mainstream medicine. They used sophisticated marketing techniques to educate doctors and the public about the benefits of their cannabis-based products. This not only helped in destigmatizing the use of cannabis but also ensured that it was accessible to those who needed it most.
The Marihuana Tax Act of 1937
However, the thriving relationship between cannabis and the pharmaceutical industry came to an abrupt halt in 1937 with the introduction of the Marihuana Tax Act. This legislation effectively criminalized cannabis, making it extremely difficult for companies to continue their work with the plant. The act imposed heavy taxes and strict regulations on the cultivation, sale, and use of cannabis, which led to a significant decline in its medical use.
Interestingly, the term “marihuana” itself, which was popularized around the time of the act, was seen by some as a deliberate attempt by the government to alienate the public from cannabis. By associating cannabis with foreign-sounding terminology, it was thought that the government aimed to create a negative perception of cannabis, overshadowing its medicinal benefits.
The End of the Hempire (1850-1937)
The Marihuana Tax Act marked the end of what had been a flourishing era for cannabis in American medicine. The stringent regulations and the shift in public perception created by the act led to a decline in the use of cannabis-based medicines. It was a significant setback for companies like Eli Lilly and Parke-Davis, which had invested considerable resources in the development of cannabis therapies.
Rediscovering Cannabis
Today, as we witness a resurgence in the interest and acceptance of cannabis for medical and recreational use, it is important to remember the historical roots of this versatile plant in American medicine. At Hemp Hermit, we are committed to honoring this rich history by providing our customers with high-quality hemp products that reflect the legacy of Cannabis Americana.
We believe that by understanding the past, we can better navigate the future of cannabis in America. Our goal is to continue exploring the therapeutic potential of cannabis, guided by the knowledge and experiences of those who came before us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Cannabis Americana?
A: Cannabis Americana was a strain developed by pharmaceutical companies like Eli Lilly and Parke-Davis in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was engineered to provide standardized medicinal benefits with reliable outcomes.
Q: Why was the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937 significant?
A: The Marihuana Tax Act of 1937 was significant because it marked the beginning of federal restrictions on cannabis. This act imposed heavy taxes and regulations on the cannabis industry, leading to a decline in its medicinal use.
Q: How are companies like Hemp Hermit influenced by the history of cannabis?
A: Companies like Hemp Hermit are influenced by the historical use of cannabis in medicine. By understanding its past, we can better appreciate its potential and advocate for responsible and informed use of cannabis today.