A quote on hemp and cannabis attributed to Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the US, is as follows: “Hemp is of first necessity to the wealth & protection of the country.” This quote highlights the historical importance of hemp as a valuable crop in the US.
In recent years, the global perspective on hemp and cannabis has shifted dramatically. South Africa, with its rich agricultural heritage, is no exception. As the country navigates the complexities of these plants, understanding their differences, legislative framework, economic potential and farming requirements is crucial for all stakeholders.
UNDERSTANDING HEMP AND CANNABIS
Hemp and cannabis are both members of the Cannabis sativa plant species, but they differ significantly in their chemical composition and uses. Plants of the same species can have differences. For example, think of all the different kinds of wheat: bulgar, farro, freekeh, spelt, buckwheat, red wheat and einkorn. They are all different but they are all wheat. Hemp contains less than 0,2% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound found in cannabis. This low THC content means that hemp cannot produce the ‘high’ associated with cannabis. Instead, hemp is valued for its strong fibres, seeds and oil, which are used in a variety of products, including textiles, construction materials and health supplements.
Cannabis, on the other hand, contains higher levels of THC and is primarily cultivated for medicinal or recreational purposes. The flowers and leaves of the cannabis plant are used to produce marijuana, which is consumed for its psychoactive effects.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
ARC names best dairy producers of the year
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) recently announced the winners of the 2024 National Master Dairyman Awards at an event hosted by AgriExpo in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
Lion breeders to give up bone stockpiles?
The Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment issued an official notice in mid-November in which it called on lion breeders to voluntarily hand over their lion bone stockpiles to the state as soon as possible.
Thousands of British farmers march on parliament against inheritance tax
Thousands of UK farmers gathered in London, England, on 19 November to demand the government repeal a proposed inheritance tax on agricultural land, which they argued threatened the future of family-run farms (see page 4), Al Jazeera reported.
Avocado frittata with sundried tomatoes, feta and olives
This wholesome, vibrant frittata is perfect for brunch or a light supper. Recipe and photo: The South African Avocado Growers' Association.
Feed, hay, and other costs are up, so it's time to get creative
Breeders and riding schools need to explore innovative ways to generate income in order to ensure their survival, says Dr Mac.
How to make polystyrene seedling trays last longer
While thinking about how to prolong the lifespan of polystyrene seedling trays that are exposed to harsh sunlight, Bill Kerr began to wonder if a coat of paint might offer a solution.
Living the 'culture' in agriculture
Creation Wines has won numerous awards, was ranked fourth in the World’s Best Vineyards in 2023, and more recently won the V d’Or award for the Best Brand Experience. The owners, Carolyn and Jean-Claude Martin, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about how their winery became a top tourism destination.
Time to take a deep breath on the slopes of the Magaliesberg
Around 100km from both Johannesburg and Pretoria in Gauteng and a tad over 40km from Rustenburg in North West, Farmer’s Weekly found a fine retreat on a working farm where couples may kindle their romance.
African penguins could be extinct by 2035 how to save them
Protecting the critically endangered African penguin is good for the environment, other animal species, and the economy, say Lorien Pichegru and Dr Alistair McInnes of Nelson Mandela University, Katrin Ludynia of the University of Cape Town, and Peter Barham of the University of Bristol in the UK.
An urgent need to confront Nassella in SA
South American grass species from the genus Nassella were unwittingly introduced to South Africa over 120 years ago and continue to invade montane veld. As Mike Burgess writes, research-based action is required.
