SPACE WEED: NASA’s Experiments with Growing Hemp on the International Space Station

In the world of cultivation, we find ourselves on the verge of the next frontier: space-grown hemp. That’s right! We’re talking about the nerdiest stoners at NASA 🤓 getting their green thumbs on and taking their innovative spirits beyond the stratosphere 🧑‍🚀🚀🚀!

And, NO… this isn’t an episode of Trailer Park Boys. Despite the ridiculous and cartoonish premise of growing intergalactic pot, there are some earthshattering implications for this potential venture!

What’s the Buzz About Space-Weed 🚀🌿?

While talk about space-WEED is a mostly unmaterialized premise, space-HEMP —hemp being an industrial, non-psychoactive form of cannabis — is a genuine reality. In August of 2022, Redwire Corporation’s commercially-owned space greenhouse was set to put forth plans to develop agricultural methods for growing hemp, as well as other crops, for NASA missions Artemis and beyond.

With increasingly shifting consensus on the state of marijuana legalization, it’s not much of a stretch to see the very inevitable future of having a high that’s out of this world. We here at the Z-Leaf Digest want you to be prepared for the real effects of this eventuality. Here’s some things you need to consider:

• Guaranteed Innovation: Given NASA’s track record for delivering on cutting-edge research, we can expect an entirely new set of innovations in the world of cannabis cultivation. Without them, we wouldn’t have the computer mouse or wireless headphones. One can only imagine what the power of getting bullied in high school can do for basically ANY field NASA has their finger in ☝️.

• New Environments, New Possibilities: Cultivation in space could lead to discovering new strains with unique properties, thanks to the different environmental factors in space. I hate to see scientists get dibs on naming new strains, given their history with over-complicated naming systems, but we’re just gonna have suck it up!

• Sustainability: Space farming could be a step towards sustainable cultivation practices, reducing the strain on Earth's resources. Methods such as vertical farming are being explored for space-efficient and precise agriculture.

Potential Drawbacks

• High Costs and Limited Accessibility: The financial implications of space research and cultivation are enormous, potentially making space-grown hemp a luxury item. As with many products in the early adoption phase, it may require a diffusion of innovation by other companies before we ever roll a joint without having to open new credit cards.

• Unknown Risks: Growing hemp in a completely new environment comes with unforeseen risks and challenges. But if we know anything about the human condition, people will do anything for their fix!

With any emerging concept, there are very stark limitations. The incentive to leap from industrial hemp to marijuana may not materialize immediately. However, we should still look to the future with a sense of optimism. Stoners will no doubt have their place in the final frontier!

CBD for Recovery 🏋️‍♂️💧 The Next Fitness-Industry Superfood?

As with any new fitness-industry obsession, it can be hard to discern hype from helpful. Influencers will have you forking over your hard-earned cash for miscellaneous concoctions that would pull any witch-doctor out of squalor and have him riding a private jet by Sunday. With shifting regulations, the interest around CBD products comes as a rife opportunity for corporations and conmen alike to get in on the craze.

What’s the Deal with CBD in FITNESS?

• Natural Healing that’s Been Around for 100s of Years: Studies bear out that CBD offers a natural alternative to traditional medicines for recovery post-workout, helping to reduce inflammation and pain through the endocannabinoid system. This makes sense, in a space where the next heavily promoted supplement ingredient is always one you’ve never heard of.

• Better Sleep and Recovery: Many swear by CBD for a more restful sleep, which is vital for recovery. Rob Gronkowski, former Patriots and Bucs tight end, Klay Thompson, the Warriors shooting guard, and Paul Rodriguez, professional skateboarder are just a few famous examples of athletes that incorporate CBD products into their regimen.

• Mental Wellness: Research shows that CBD can potentially aid in reducing anxiety and stress. This is key for fitness enthusiasts who will no doubt develop body dysmorphia.

Some Issues

• Regulatory Hurdles: The CBD industry faces regulatory challenges, which can affect the availability and quality of products.

• Individual Responses May Vary: Not everyone may find relief with CBD; individual responses can vary significantly. Nothing is worse than being left out!

• Potential Side Effects: Like any supplement, CBD comes with its own set of potential side effects, including dry mouth and low blood pressure.

Indica Intellect 🧠🌱

In a significant shift, Republicans are softening their stance on federal marijuana reform, a move that could pave the way for legal marijuana businesses to gain access to major financial and banking institutions. This development, as reported by NBC News, is a promising step towards a more inclusive and regulated cannabis industry, fostering growth and innovation.

Knowing the pace that government moves at when it comes to reform, this may not mean much just yet. However, it surely is a promising sign that we are moving past the times of marijuana misinformation — if this newsletter wasn’t enough…

High History

In the spirit of space, we have two scientists who openly wrote about their own cannabis use! To those who think smoking weed makes you stupid, just remember that you didn’t have much brainpower to spare anyways compared to these studs!

Carl Sagan (1934-1996): The renowned astrophysicist and science communicator Carl Sagan wrote under a pseudonym about his positive experiences with cannabis in an essay titled "Mr. X." He discussed how it enhanced his creativity and understanding of the universe.

 Richard Feynman (1918-1988): The Nobel Prize-winning physicist Richard Feynman experimented with cannabis and wrote about his experiences, reflecting on its impact on his perception and thought processes.

Obligatory Legal Disclaimer

This newsletter is for informational purposes only and not for providing legal, professional, financial, or medical advice. Information may change and may not reflect current legal developments. We do not endorse illegal activities; comply with all laws regarding the use of marijuana, CBD, hemp, and related products. Seek advice from a professional and use this information at your own risk. We are not liable for actions taken based on this content.