As a cannabis dispensary, “Where does weed come from?” is one of the most common questions we get asked. And while weed has origins in ancient history, knowing where any product you consume comes from is essential for prioritizing your health.
Studies show that weed has been smoked for over 2500 years. But when it comes to the quality of cannabis products, knowing where weed comes from is a much more streamlined process that has several governmental guidelines to ensure the product is accounted for from seed to store.
Read on to find the answer to, “Where does weed come from?” and learn how ancient cannabis use grew into the role it plays in society today.
Where Does Weed Come From Historically?
Ancient cannabis got its start in Eastern Asia over 12,000 years ago, according to anthropologists and researchers who have found depictions of the hemp plant, as well as writings about the usefulness of its fibers to make things like rope.
While the hemp plant was a staple in ancient societies, the usefulness of the plant for its psychoactive properties wasn’t as clearly defined in historical records until it appeared in Emperor Shen Nung’s pharmacopeia, a book containing 365 various plants that outlined their usefulness for various ailments.
Where Do Indica & Sativa Come From?
To answer, “Where does weed come from?”, we have to first look at the two main strains of weed, indica and sativa, each of which has its historic footholds in different parts of the world.
Sativa, generally regarded as the mentally uplifting strain, grew in the Southern Temperate areas in Asia. This strain of weed quickly made its way across the ancient world through trade routes such as the Silk Road and was known for its mental effects that were as popular for recreational use as they were for rituals.
Indica, on the other hand, comes from the dry and arid mountainous regions of Asia — specifically, the area around modern-day Pakistan and Afghanistan — which contribute to the names of popular strains such as “Hindu Kush,” according to Leafly.
Known best for its ability to provide the consumer with a body high, indica plants are uniquely accustomed to being grown in their respective environments and have thus remained in these areas.
Many dispensaries also carry a third category of weed: hybrids, which have blended characteristics of both indica and sativa. Choosing the best weed strain for you will depend on what you’re looking to get out of your weed. Always ask your dispensary, “Where does weed come from?” to be sure you’re buying high-quality product.
Where Does Weed Come From in New Mexico?
Due to federal guidelines, all weed sold in New Mexico is required to have been grown in New Mexico. Alongside this guideline, licensed producers must keep track of every product from seed to final sale. This documented chain of custody helps to ensure safety in products.
Some flowers are grown and harvested specifically for consumption as a flower; however, some strains are grown to meet the specific needs of processed products such as resins, inhalables, or even drinks.
While weed has been a staple in many cultures dating back millennia, the origins of the hemp plant have shaped how weed is cultivated and enjoyed today. From those humble origins has sprouted up an entire industry of medicinal and adult-use marijuana that we enjoy today.
Only the Best, From Seed to Sale, at TSFD
Knowing the answer to, “Where does weed come from?” is only the first step in ensuring you’re consuming the highest-quality weed and THC products. At The Santa Fe Dispensary, we work with outstanding cultivators and we grow our own cannabis at our cultivation at the Picuris Pueblo, so our customers can rest assured that they’re always getting the best products on the market.
Stop by the shop today, and let our experienced and knowledgeable staff guide you in selecting products that we truly believe can help you achieve relief and relaxation.