Gather around ladies and gentlemen, this conversation is about to get lit. Conversations around cannabis have become a hot topic right now and I see the appeal. We know that the herb has gathered quite a repute for its ‘capabilities’ but perhaps its time to also look at all the health benefits that it offers, many that offer respite to chronic illnesses or at least alleviate the ones that people have. There’s so much more to the plant than we may know.
Its derivative, CBD and variety, hemp can be helpful and offer benefits that go way beyond the just lighting up. India’s relationship with cannabis dates back to over 2000 years ago. An ancient medicinal practice recommends the plant extract as an effective treatment for respiratory ailments and diarrhoea. But it was in 1798 the the British parliament enacted a tax on cannabis byproducts to reduce consumption. Fast forward to 2022, CBD and hemp are legal in India, and used for healing your mind and body. In fact, earlier this year, the Central government did state that medical cannabis is permitted in India. Of course, it is listed for further hearing. But at least it’s a start.
And this is precisely the kind of benefit that brands are tapping into. These labels are going back to our ancient Indian roots and reviving the positive sides of cannabis. First, we sort you out so you know the difference between CBD versus hemp and know that this isn’t an article you have to be in the darkness of the night, under your blanket. A plethora of lifestyle business are introducing the health and wellness benefits of cannabis to our lifestyle including a cannabis retreat and hemp cigarettes.
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CBD Versus Hemp
Cannabidiol or CBD is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC (which is another component in the plant responsible for the high), CBD doesn’t have intoxicating effects on the body. Instead, it has therapeutic and calming effects, and helps in relieving pain and inflammation. It is very helpful in managing stress and anxiety. What it’s high on are nutrients and antioxidants, which is why it is also used extensively in skincare.
Legally, hemp is defined as a cannabis plant that contains 0.3 percent or less THC and more amount of CBD. The plant has multiple advantages from head to toe. It is one of the most eco-friendly plants as it needs very little water while cultivating (one tenth the amount of water cotton does). Its stem gives fibre which can be used for making clothing and the fabric only gets softer with every wash. The seeds give protein, and the leaves and flowers yield oil. Hemp oil is used to formulate skincare and wellness products while the seeds are abundant in protein.
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1. Asia’s First Cannabis Wellness Retreat in Kerala
No, this isn’t the kind of holiday you’re picturing. This is an experience that offers mindfulness in a different way. Say hello to AyurCann, the new venture by the Bombay Hemp Company (Boheco) and Poonthottam Ayurvedasram retreat, surrounded a medicinal herb garden with around 200 plant species. What you can expect? Cannabis-infused Ayurvedic treatments and food, guided yoga, tantric psychology, lifestyle and diet planning, and cannabis counselling. Your salad dressing, stir-fry veggies and the steam of idlis and dosas make use of hemp seeds, oil and powder. It doesn’t stop there–even your toiletries are made of hemp. Boheco’s cannabis leaf extract medicines and hemp nutrition products, which have been researched and manufactured in India, will be prescribed under the guidance of therapists. We feel relaxed already.
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2. India’s First Hemp Cafe In Kasol
Heading to Himachal Pradesh any time soon? Make are you add Off Limits cafe to your itinerary. Nestled in the hotel-bunk-villa property of the same name, the cafe overlooks the gorgeous view of the bubbling Parvati river. But it’s not just the view you get a kick from. This cafe is the first to serve hemp-infused food and beverages to elevate the taste and health benefits.
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3. India’s First Brand Making Hemp Cigarettes
Translating into ‘solace’ in German, Trost aims to change the public perception of cannabis in India with its sun grown hemp made in the form of hemp hearts, oil, protein powder, and more. But the homegrown label is best known for being the the first to introduce 100% safe and legal Earthy Rollens aka hemp cigarettes in India that can be used for medical use only. It can be purchased from the website only if you have a prescription for any of the ailments the smoke sticks can cure.
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4. CBD Oils For Mental & Physical Health
Making CBD more accessible, Awshad offers a range of CBD oil products that relieve you of stress, anxiety, insomnia, pain and inflammation (again, only on prescription). And going a step further, the label also takes your pooch’s wellbeing into consideration and has a CBD oil for pets too.
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5. High On Hemp
Taking the benefits of the super food to various heights, India Hemp & Co. offers everything from hemp oil to hemp hearts to hemp protein powder. This brand too goes a step further and provides hemp treats for your furry friends. In addition, you’ll also find a lot of hemp-infused recipes to whip up at home.
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If you’re on the lookout for CBD infused skincare products, check out the list here.
