Cannabis, the subject of much fascination and debate, has a hidden treasure trove of weird and wonderful facts. From its space adventures to its historical Olympic roots and even its unlikely connection to George Washington, the world of cannabis is full of surprises. Take a journey with us as we find out 10 bizarre cannabis facts that will make you see this plant in a whole new light!

1. Cannabis in Space

In 2019, a SpaceX payload to the International Space Station included hemp seeds. This mission aimed to study how hemp seeds would germinate in microgravity, exploring the possibility of cultivating plants in space for various purposes.

2. Cannabis and the Olympics

Did you know that in ancient Greece, where the Olympic Games originated, athletes used cannabis to enhance performance and alleviate pain? Historical texts suggest its use before competitions.

3. George Washington and Hemp

America’s first president, George Washington, grew hemp on his plantation. He cultivated hemp for industrial purposes, utilizing it for textiles, paper, and rope, showcasing the plant’s versatility.

4. Cannabis and the U.S. Constitution

The drafts of the U.S. Constitution were reportedly written on hemp paper. Hemp was a widely used material for paper production at the time due to its durability.

5. Cannabis as Legal Tender

In the 17th century, American colonies used hemp as a legal tender for payments. It was considered a valuable and versatile commodity in trade.

6. The World’s Oldest Stash

In 2008, archaeologists discovered a 2,700-year-old tomb in China containing the world’s oldest-known stash of cannabis. The burial site included nearly two pounds of cannabis intended for use in the afterlife.

7. Cannabis and McDonald’s

McDonald’s restaurants in Sweden have experimented with using hemp-based bioplastics for trays and cutlery, showcasing efforts toward sustainability in fast-food packaging.

8. Cannabis and Electricity

Hemp has been explored for its potential in energy production. Its fibrous stalks can be converted into biomass fuel or used in the creation of biofuels, contributing to renewable energy sources.

9. Cannabis in Cosmetics

Some cosmetics incorporate hemp seed oil for its purported skincare benefits. Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, hemp seed oil is used in products like lotions and moisturizers.

10. Cannabis and Ancient Medicine

Ancient Chinese texts dating back thousands of years mention cannabis for its medicinal properties, used to treat various ailments like pain and inflammation.

Whether it’s sprouting in space, making history in ancient Greece, or getting cozy with George Washington, cannabis has more layers than you might have thought. From ancient times to modern innovations, this plant’s story keeps evolving. So, next time you think of cannabis, remember these offbeat tales that showcase its versatility and endless surprises.