The taxonomy and classification of cannabis have been debated for centuries. As the industry matures, establishing standardized systems becomes crucial for regulation, research and trade. However, consensus remains elusive between different camps and schools of thought.
The taxonomy and classification of cannabis have been debated for centuries. As the industry matures, establishing standardized systems becomes crucial for regulation, research and trade. However, consensus remains elusive between different camps and schools of thought. Recent LinkedIn discussions have illuminated this complex history and the need for unified advocacy.
The Hazy Origins of Cannabis Taxonomy
In a lengthy post, Mike Robinson of CBGaCrumble.com traced the winding story of how cannabis was first categorized:
- In 1753, Carl Linnaeus classified Cannabis sativa as a single species based on European fiber crops.
- In 1785, Jean-Baptiste Lamarck designated psychoactive Asian varieties as Cannabis indica, a separate species.
- In 1924, Soviet botanist D.E. Janischewsky named short, auto-flowering Russian plants Cannabis ruderalis.
"The taxonomy of Cannabis remains a subject of scholarly contention, divided between the monotypic and polytypic viewpoints," Robinson explained.
This trifurcation into sativa, indica and ruderalis laid the groundwork for centuries of debate. But Robinson emphasized that in reality, "Cannabis is, unequivocally, Cannabis!" He called for moving beyond the three classifications to reflect the plant's true diversity.
Seeking Clarity Through Collaboration
Meanwhile, Geoff Whaling of the National Hemp Association shared efforts to advance global acceptance of industrial hemp:
"This establishes a framework for US Hemp Fiber and Grain Growers to sell into the international marketplace," Whaling said of a recent UN report.
But he noted work remains, including clarifying legal distinctions between hemp and psychoactive cannabis.
A Call for Unity
While debates continue, unity and collaboration will be key to future progress. As the industry matures, consistent taxonomy and terminology become essential for:
- Global trade and regulation: Unifying advocacy across supply chains and uses can help nations modernize hemp laws.
- Product labeling: Reliable classification empowers consumers and patients to make informed choices.
- Research: Standardized systems enable studying cannabis' complexity.
Join The Cannabis Framework Project - We're unifying all of the information, ideas, and efforts.
A path forward may integrate both traditional frameworks and emerging compound-based approaches into a comprehensive Cannabis classification system. But cooperation from all factions will be vital to legitimize Cannabis in all its forms.
Join The Cannabis Framework Project
There are still more questions than answers. Yet each discussion brings broader understanding of this diverse plant genus. Through collective dedication to the greater good, cannabis' winding road to clarity can straighten.