Hemp has been making headlines in wellness communities worldwide, but did you know it’s been a staple of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for thousands of years? Hemp carries a rich history of usage in ancient Chinese medicinal practices, offering many wellness-boosting properties.
This blog explores hemp's role in Chinese medicine, how it is understood to promote overall health, and how modern practice is evolving around this ancient plant. Whether you're a natural medicine enthusiast or simply curious about alternative therapies, stay tuned for useful insights and practical advice.
Hemp, scientifically known as Cannabis sativa, dates back over 5,000 years in Chinese history. Known in ancient texts as "ma," hemp was a versatile crop used for its fibers, seeds, and medicinal properties. According to the Chinese medical text Shennong Bencao Jing ("The Divine Farmer's Materia Medica"), hemp seeds were utilized to treat constipation, regulate digestion, and nourish the body’s yin energy.
Traditional concepts view hemp as a neutral herb with sweet and bitter flavors, mainly working on the liver, spleen, and stomach meridians. This classification highlights hemp’s capacity to nurture balance within the body and address specific imbalances, from skin issues to gastrointestinal blockages.
For a deeper dive on the uses of hemp in TCM, we recommend this article: Cannabis in Chinese Medicine: Are Some Traditional Indications Referenced in Ancient Literature Related to Cannabinoids? - PMC, to see more historical mentions of hemp.
Fast forward to today, hemp continues to captivate the attention of herbalists and wellness seekers who appreciate its holistic benefits.
Hemp’s unique properties make it a standout herb in TCM and beyond. Here's how it has been used to support various areas of health and wellness.
Hemp seeds, or huo ma ren, are particularly valued in TCM for their ability to alleviate constipation. They stimulate the intestines gently, making them an ideal option for those seeking natural relief from digestive issues.
The seeds and leaves of hemp plant are believed to calm the body and mind. This aligns with modern findings suggesting that hemp compounds, like cannabidiol (CBD), may reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.
Hemp is classified as nourishing and moistening in TCM. This makes it an effective remedy for conditions associated with dryness, such as dry skin or throat irritation.
Hemp's cannabinoids (like CBD) are known to have anti-inflammatory properties, reducing chronic pain and improving mobility.
TCM practitioners often recommend hemp for restoring clarity by countering emotional imbalances. This is echoed in modern wellness as hemp extracts are increasingly used to support mental well-being.
Hemp is celebrated not only for its medicinal properties but also for its environmental benefits (as a sustainable crop) and its nutritional value (packed with protein, omega-3s, and magnesium).
While hemp has an impressive past, its presence in modern Chinese medicine is growing steadily. The global legalization of hemp-based products has sparked renewed interest, and many wellness centers worldwide now offer hemp as a part of alternative treatments.
However, legal barriers persist in certain regions, and practitioners are navigating these cautiously. Always ensure you’re obtaining hemp products from reputable sources with certifications and compliance checks. At Green Monke, all of our drinks are tested at FDA-certified labs and the Certificates of Analysis are available on our website.
Interested in trying hemp yourself? Here are a few practical tips to get started.
Hemp’s role in Chinese medicine is a testament to its ability to promote harmony and balance in our bodies. Whether through its seeds, oils, or extracts, this ancient plant continues to evolve as a modern-day solution for various health challenges.
If you’re ready to explore the benefits of hemp for yourself, consult a qualified herbalist to guide your wellness journey. Who knows? You could discover that the secret to timeless remedies lies in this humble, versatile plant.
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news, exclusive insights.
Find us or Socials or Contact us and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
