The Botanical Intelligence Network

W - E - E - D .CO

A comprehensive digital repository exploring the science, history, and culture of Cannabis—from ancient botanical origins to modern molecular medicine.

3+
Documented Species
100+
Known Cannabinoids
5000+
Years of History
200+
Terpene Profiles
Taxonomy & Classification

The Species Lab

Comprehensive documentation of Cannabis taxonomy, genetic lineages, and phenotypic expressions within the Cannabaceae family.

Cannabis sativa

C. sativa L.

Tall, narrow leaves, energizing effects. Dominant in equatorial regions with longer flowering cycles.

CHEMICAL PROFILE
THC
15-25%
CBD
0.1-1%
FLOWER
10-16 wks
THC CBD Terpenes
Origin: Central Asia

Cannabis indica

C. indica Lam.

Short, broad leaves, relaxing effects. Adapted to harsh mountain climates with faster maturation.

CHEMICAL PROFILE
THC
18-28%
CBD
0.5-2%
FLOWER
6-8 wks
THC CBD Terpenes
Origin: Hindu Kush Mountains

Cannabis ruderalis

C. ruderalis Janisch.

Auto-flowering, hardy, low THC. Genetics used in modern autoflower breeding programs.

CHEMICAL PROFILE
THC
0-5%
CBD
1-3%
FLOWER
3-5 wks
THC CBD Terpenes
Origin: Russia & Central Europe

Industrial Hemp

C. sativa (< 0.3% THC)

Fiber, seed, CBD production. Legal distinction based on THC content under 0.3%.

CHEMICAL PROFILE
THC
< 0.3%
CBD
3-15%
FLOWER
8-12 wks
THC CBD Terpenes
Origin: Global Cultivation

Strain Directory

Searchable database of documented cultivars

Phytochemistry

The Molecular Deck

Exploring the intricate chemistry of cannabinoids, terpenes, and the endocannabinoid system's role in human physiology.

THC

Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol

C₂₁H₃₀O₂

Psychoactive, euphoria, pain relief

CBD

Cannabidiol

C₂₁H₃₀O₂

Non-psychoactive, anti-inflammatory

CBG

Cannabigerol

C₂₁H₃₂O₂

Precursor compound, antibacterial

CBN

Cannabinol

C₂₁H₂₆O₂

Mild sedative, oxidized THC

Historical Record

Timeline of Truth

From ancient medicine to modern prohibition and reform—tracing the complex legal and cultural history of cannabis.

2737 BCE

First Recorded Use

Emperor Shen Nung of China documents cannabis in the pharmacopoeia Pen Ts'ao, noting its medicinal applications.

1000 BCE

Spread to India

Cannabis becomes integral to Ayurvedic medicine and spiritual practices. The plant is mentioned in sacred Vedic texts.

1839

Western Medicine

Irish physician William Brooke O'Shaughnessy introduces cannabis to Western medicine after studying its effects in India.

1937

Marihuana Tax Act

Federal prohibition begins. Harry J. Anslinger, head of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, leads the campaign against cannabis with racially-charged propaganda.

1970

Controlled Substances Act

Cannabis classified as Schedule I under Nixon administration, claiming "no accepted medical use" despite historical evidence.

1996

California Proposition 215

California becomes first state to legalize medical cannabis, beginning the modern reform movement.

2012

Colorado & Washington

First states to legalize recreational cannabis for adults, fundamentally shifting the national conversation.

2024

DEA Rescheduling Review

Federal momentum builds as the DEA reviews cannabis scheduling, signaling potential historic policy shift.

Harry J. Anslinger's Legacy

As the first commissioner of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics (1930-1962), Anslinger orchestrated the criminalization of cannabis through racially-motivated propaganda, sensationalized media campaigns, and testimony based on discredited evidence. His policies disproportionately targeted Black and Latino communities, creating systemic inequities that persist today.

Evidence-Based Research

Clinical Hub

Peer-reviewed medical research, therapeutic applications, and honest discussion of risks and contraindications.

Medical Cannabis

Cannabis-based medicines are approved in numerous jurisdictions for conditions including chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and chemotherapy-induced nausea. Delivery methods range from inhalation to oils, capsules, and topicals.

CITATIONS
Whiting et al., JAMA 2015
National Academies of Sciences, 2017

Therapeutic Effects

Clinical research has documented analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, and anxiolytic properties. The entourage effect suggests whole-plant preparations may offer advantages over isolated compounds.

CITATIONS
Russo, British J of Pharmacology 2011

Charlotte's Web

A landmark CBD-rich cannabis strain developed for Charlotte Figi, whose severe epilepsy (Dravet syndrome) was dramatically reduced from 300+ seizures weekly. This case accelerated CBD research and legislation.

CITATIONS
CNN, Weed Documentary 2013
Epilepsia 2016

Risk Awareness

Balanced, evidence-based information

Cannabis Use Disorder

Approximately 9% of users may develop problematic use patterns. Risk factors include early initiation, frequency of use, and genetic predisposition. Treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational enhancement.

Psychosis Risk

High-potency THC products may increase risk of psychotic episodes in vulnerable individuals, particularly adolescents and those with family history of psychotic disorders. CBD may have protective effects.

Note: This information is educational and not medical advice. Consult healthcare professionals before using cannabis for any medical purpose.

Heritage & Icons

The Culture Wall

Celebrating the people, movements, and traditions that have shaped cannabis culture across generations.

The Code

420

Originating from San Rafael High School's "Waldos" in 1971, 4:20 PM became the designated time to meet and partake. Now a global celebration every April 20th.

Ancient Concentrate

Hashish

Concentrated cannabis resin with origins in the Arab world, dating back over 1,000 years. The word derives from Arabic "ḥashīsh" meaning grass.

The Emperor

Jack Herer

Author of "The Emperor Wears No Clothes" (1985), Herer dedicated his life to cannabis legalization and hemp advocacy. A beloved sativa strain bears his name.

Reggae Legend

Bob Marley

The Rastafarian icon who introduced cannabis spirituality to global audiences through his music. His legacy continues through the Marley Natural brand.

Industrial Revolution

Hemp Movement

Hemp fiber, seeds, and CBD production represent a multi-billion dollar industry, from sustainable textiles to building materials and wellness products.

1960s-Present

Counterculture

From the Summer of Love to modern normalization, cannabis has been intertwined with movements for peace, civil rights, and personal freedom.

"Herb is the healing of a nation, alcohol is the destruction."
— Bob Marley
Reform & Commerce

Advocacy & Industry

The organizations driving legal reform and building the modern cannabis economy.

Advocacy

NORML

National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws

The oldest and most prominent cannabis advocacy organization, working to reform marijuana laws through education, litigation, and direct political action.

Est. 1970 norml.org
Industry

Curaleaf

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

One of the world's largest vertically-integrated cannabis operators, with operations spanning cultivation, processing, and retail across multiple states.

Est. 2010 curaleaf.com
Advocacy

Drug Policy Alliance

Drug Policy Alliance

Leading organization promoting drug policies grounded in science, compassion, health and human rights.

Industry

Cannabis Trade Federation

Cannabis Trade Federation

Coalition of cannabis industry leaders advocating for federal legalization and sensible regulation.

$33B+
US Market Size (2024)
38+
Legal States
400K+
Industry Jobs
$15B+
Tax Revenue