Hemp (Cannabis sativa)

Hemp (Cannabis sativa) is a member of the Cannabaceae family, native to Central Asia, Southern Europe, and Northern Africa. Traditionally, its leaves, flowers, and resin have been used for infusions, decoctions, and poultices.

This herb is particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory, sedative, and stimulant actions, and has a long history of use in ayurvedic medicine, traditional chinese medicine, and european herbal medicine.

Hemp (Cannabis sativa) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Hemp (Cannabis sativa) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Hemp
Scientific Name	Cannabis sativa
Plant Family	Cannabaceae
Genus	Cannabis
Species	sativa
Native Range	Central Asia, Southern Europe, Northern Africa
Plant Parts Used	Leaves, Flowers, Resin
Primary Medicinal Actions	Anti-Inflammatory, Sedative, Stimulant
Primary Traditional Systems	Ayurvedic Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, European Herbal Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods	Infusion, Decoction, Poultice

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Cannabis sativa
Common Name: Hemp
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Marijuana, Cannabis
Plant Family: Cannabaceae
Genus: Cannabis

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically grows to a height of 2 to 5 meters.
Leaves: Simple leaves with dorsiventral coloration, upper surface glabrous and green, lower surface with stomatal bands and pale green hue.
Flowers: Inflorescences are compound, racemose clusters with small, greenish-white flowers that are actinomorphic, having five sepals and five petals, with stamens and pistils arranged in a single plane.
Stems: Cylindrical, hollow, fibrous, somewhat woody, with opposite branching, smooth surface, and pith present.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

Ayurvedic Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine
European Herbal Medicine
Native American Herbal Medicine

Historical Preparation Methods

Infusion
Decoction
Poultice
Powder

Medicinal Actions

Anti-inflammatory: Traditionally described as a warming anti-inflammatory, for general calming applications.
Sedative: In herbal literature, noted as a gentle sedative, in nervous system–related contexts.
Stimulant: In herbal texts, considered a cooling stimulant, for vitality-related discussions.
Antispasmodic: Historically regarded as a mild antispasmodic, in smooth muscle contexts.

Active Compounds

Alkaloid: Plant-derived nitrogenous compounds found in various tissues.
Terpenoid: A chemical class commonly associated with volatile plant constituents.
Essential Oil: A mixture of naturally occurring compounds responsible for plant aroma.
Flavonoid: A group of naturally occurring compounds commonly present in many flowering plants.

Modern Research Overview

Scientific literature concerning this plant spans multiple areas, including phytochemistry and laboratory research. Detailed analysis of published studies is not included at this time and will be added as part of future editorial expansion.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: Precautionary considerations have been reported in relation to this herb.
Contraindications: Contraindications related to this herb have been noted in traditional use and available sources.
Allergies: Reports of allergic reactions to this herb are not well documented in available sources.
Drug Interactions: Interactions between this herb and prescription medications have been noted in traditional use and literature.
Toxicity: Toxic effects have been reported in association with the use of this herb.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: There is insufficient evidence to determine the safety of this herb during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Infusions are commonly prepared using hot water to release aromatic and soluble components.
Decoction: This method uses sustained heat to extract compounds from firm plant structures.
Poultice: Fresh or dried plant material is applied externally to the skin.
Infused Oil: Oils are infused with plant material over time to absorb constituents.
Powder: A preparation created by pulverizing dried plant material.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in full sun. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers well-balanced moisture levels. Tolerates periodic dry conditions.