Topic: Industrial Hemp

A federal bill is moving toward legalizing industrial hemp for the first time in 80 years as part of the 2018 Farm Bill. The hosts discuss the economic potential of the CBD market and the historical reasons for hemp's prohibition. Dvorak attributes the original ban to William Randolph Hearst's desire to protect his timber investments from hemp-based paper competition.

The hosts addressed backlash from the cannabis community regarding previous discussions on "scromiting" (cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome). They clarified that their concerns center on the use of toxic pesticides in commercial marijuana cultivation rather than the plant itself, urging users to seek reputable sources that test for chemical contaminants.

Section 538 of the new omnibus bill effectively prevents the Department of Justice from using funds to interfere with state medical marijuana laws. The bill also protects industrial hemp research. In California, Governor Jerry Brown granted a pardon to actor Robert Downey Jr. for past drug and weapon convictions, a move the hosts suspect was influenced by Disney.

The discussion explores the versatility of the hemp plant, which can be used for milk, rope, paper, and fabric. It is suggested that the Hearst Corporation historically lobbied against hemp to protect its timber and paper mill interests. The hosts note that industrial hemp contains negligible THC and is an easy-to-grow "weed" that was unfairly criminalized.

Marijuana is the highest-valued crop in California, estimated at $17 billion annually, which dwarfs traditional agricultural products like milk ($7.3 billion) and grapes ($3.1 billion). Proponents argue that legalizing and taxing the industry could generate $1.4 billion in state revenue. Beyond its use as a drug, the hemp plant is noted for its potential in fuel and industrial production.

New research from Spain indicates that THC may prompt the death of brain cancer cells in mice without affecting healthy cells. Simultaneously, Representatives Ron Paul and Barney Frank have introduced a bill to legalize industrial hemp. The hosts discuss the historical reasons for hemp's prohibition, citing competition with the paper industry and William Randolph Hearst's media campaigns.

Hemp seeds are discussed as a nutty, healthy salad topping available at supermarkets like Sainsbury's. These seeds are de-shelled and guaranteed to contain no THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). The conversation shifts to the historical use of hemp for rope and paper, criticizing government propaganda that prevents the crop from being grown widely despite its low psychoactive content.