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| Cannabis |
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| Basil |
Thee pictures above are of two plants that to some might seem a world apart.
First we have an unknown variety of Drug Cannabis, which to me particularly exhibits like squat and dense morphology of Cannabis Indica (or some type of Indica-Sativa Hybrid).
Secondly, we have a variety of Basil. I do not know much about basil, except that I grow what can be described as Sweet Basil... oh which the above picture of Basil looks strikingly familiar.
Admittedly, I know much more about Cannabis than Basil, so if there are any Basil experts that happen to stop on by, please feel free to enlighten me about this wonderful plant. =)
Now, what in the world could be the link between said plants? One is predominantly used for its medicinal, recreational and ceremonial/religious qualities -- While the other is used as a seasoning or a garnish.
It should also be mentioned that Cannabis is a Schedule 1 Drug in the United States, federally prohibited in all forms, not even recognized for its legion of medicinal qualities. Sad but true for those who have been enlightened enough to realize this tragedy. Basil however is completely legal and unregulated, so it's yours to have as much of as you like.
However, what could these two plants have in common? Well, to cut to the chase, they both contain copious amounts of Cannabinoids. Well, what the hell is a cannabinoid and why should you care?
Cannabinoids function in the body as neurotransmitters (chemical signals) whose job it is to regulate mental and body processes. In every one of us, our bodies create what are known as endocannabinoids (endogenous cannabinoids). These are critical in pretty much every bodily function.
Cannabis works by activating CB1 receptors (located in your brain), which are responsible for any effects that you feel 'in your head'. At the same time Cannabis also functions on the CB2 receptors (located throughout your immune system), which is responsible for the pain-relieving and immune boosting qualities of Cannabis.
Those people who wish to quell the symptoms of an endocannabinoid deficiency may consume the Cannabis plant to supplement their bodies own natural cannabinoids. Certain herbs like Basil and Oregano have been found to be CB2 agonists (at least, partially), which although is absent of CB1 activity is still a good way to boost cannabinoid levels.
This is why Cannabis, as well as herbs like Basil and Oregano have been used for thousands of years because of their medicinal properties. There's more to Pesto than just good taste.
The compounds in Basil for example have been found to have potent antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral and antimicrobial qualities. Thanks Wikipedia.
I like the idea of supplementing CB2 levels by consuming herbs like Basil, Oregano, or any others that contain the aromatic terpenoids. However, I even more prefer the idea of consuming Cannabis to supplement both CB1 and CB2 levels.
It just depends on what you like. I think that more people should experience, grow, and support Cannabis. Cannabinoid therapy, AKA 'smoking weed' (or consuming however) is a masterfully efficient method in which to prevent and destroy cancer cells. Oh, lets put it this way, THC and CBD (primary drug cannabis cannabinoids) are also anti-oxidants. Said cannabinoids are also anti-bacterial. I found an interesting little article called Killing Bacteria with Cannabis.
That's quite a bit of info (and time I've put into this), so maybe I should just chill for now, publish the article and continue watching America's Next Top Model.
Until next time...
Ciao *kisskiss*
