Search Results for “hemp” – The Mind Unleashed https://themindunleashed.com News - Health - Science - Media - Exploration Mon, 23 Dec 2024 10:45:19 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://themindunleashed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/cropped-2022-32x32.jpg Search Results for “hemp” – The Mind Unleashed https://themindunleashed.com 32 32 Doctors Warn Cooking Oil Used By Millions May Be Fueling Explosion Of Colon Cancers In Young People https://themindunleashed.com/2024/12/doctors-warn-cooking-oil-used-by-millions-may-be-fueling-explosion-of-colon-cancers-in-young-people.html Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:38:38 +0000 https://themindunleashed.com/?p=115382 For many of us, cooking oil is an unassuming kitchen staple—a foundation for countless meals. But what if the very oils we rely on every day are quietly contributing to a growing health crisis? Recent research has uncovered a startling link between popular cooking oils and a dramatic rise in colon cancer cases, particularly among young people.

While the convenience and flavor of these oils have made them a mainstay in modern diets, scientists are now questioning their long-term impact on our health. Could the oils we trust be fueling more than just our recipes?

What Are Seed Oils and Why Are They Popular?

Seed oils are edible oils extracted from the seeds of various plants, including canola (rapeseed), sunflower, corn, and grapeseed. They have become ubiquitous in modern diets, largely due to their neutral flavor, high smoke points, and cost-effectiveness, making them ideal for cooking and as ingredients in processed foods.

Common Seed Oils:

  • Canola Oil: Derived from rapeseed, canola oil is widely used for frying and baking due to its mild taste and high smoke point.
  • Sunflower Oil: Extracted from sunflower seeds, this oil is popular for sautéing and as a salad dressing base.
  • Corn Oil: Commonly used in frying and margarine production, corn oil is valued for its affordability.
  • Grapeseed Oil: A byproduct of winemaking, grapeseed oil has a neutral flavor and is often used in dressings and high-heat cooking.

The extraction of seed oils typically involves mechanical pressing or chemical solvents. Mechanical methods include cold pressing or expeller pressing, which may retain more nutrients. Chemical extraction often uses solvents like hexane to maximize yield; however, concerns exist about potential residues and nutrient loss during refining processes.

The rise of seed oils in the American diet began in the early 20th century, with consumption increasing from about one gram per day in 1900 to approximately 80 grams by 2018. This surge is attributed to their incorporation into a wide array of processed foods, from salad dressings to baked goods, driven by their economic advantages and versatility.

Nutritional Profile: Seed oils are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), particularly omega-6 fatty acids. While these are essential fats that the body needs, excessive intake, especially in relation to omega-3 fatty acids, has raised health concerns.

Contemporary Usage: Today, seed oils are prevalent in both home kitchens and the food industry. Their high smoke points make them suitable for frying and sautéing, and their neutral flavors do not overpower dishes. However, their widespread use, especially in ultra-processed foods, has led to debates about their health implications.

The Science Behind the Warning

Recent research has raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with certain seed oils, commonly used in cooking, and their link to the increasing incidence of colon cancer among young individuals. A study conducted by the University of South Florida and Tampa General Hospital Cancer Institute analyzed over 100 tumor samples from patients with colorectal cancer. The findings revealed elevated levels of bioactive lipids—molecules that can promote inflammation—in the tumors. These lipids are believed to originate from the metabolism of seed oils such as sunflower, canola, corn, and grapeseed.

Bioactive lipids play a dual role in cancer progression. Firstly, they promote inflammation, creating an environment conducive to tumor growth. Secondly, they suppress the body’s immune response, hindering its ability to combat cancer cells effectively. This combination facilitates the development and progression of tumors in the colon.

The study’s lead author, Dr. Timothy Yeatman, emphasized the impact of diet on inflammation and cancer development: “It is well known that patients with unhealthy diets have increased inflammation in their bodies.” He further noted, “We now see this inflammation in the colon tumors themselves, and cancer is like a chronic wound that won’t heal.”

These findings align with previous research indicating that diets high in ultra-processed foods and unhealthy fats contribute to chronic inflammation, a known risk factor for various cancers, including colorectal cancer. A study published in Cancer Prevention Research demonstrated that consumption of frying oil exacerbated colonic inflammation and tumor growth in mice, suggesting a similar mechanism may be at play in humans.

Colon Cancer Surge in Younger Populations

In recent years, a concerning trend has emerged: a significant increase in colorectal cancer diagnoses among individuals under 50. This shift has prompted extensive research into potential causes, with dietary habits, particularly the consumption of ultra-processed foods, coming under scrutiny.

A pivotal study published in The BMJ examined the association between ultra-processed food intake and colorectal cancer risk. The research revealed that men with the highest consumption of ultra-processed foods had a 29% higher risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to those with the lowest intake. Notably, this association was not observed in women.

Further supporting these findings, a study highlighted by The Times reported that England has experienced a 3.6% annual increase in bowel cancer cases among individuals aged 25 to 49 over the past decade. Experts attribute this rise to factors such as poor diet, increased consumption of ultra-processed foods, obesity, and lack of exercise.

The link between diet and colorectal cancer is further emphasized by research from the University of South Florida and Tampa General Hospital Cancer Institute. Their study found elevated levels of inflammation-causing bioactive lipids in tumor samples, which are believed to originate from the metabolism of seed oils like sunflower, canola, corn, and grapeseed. These oils are prevalent in ultra-processed foods, suggesting a connection between their consumption and increased cancer risk.

Healthy Alternatives to Seed Oils

Given the potential health risks associated with certain seed oils, incorporating healthier alternatives into your diet can be a proactive step toward reducing inflammation and supporting overall well-being. Researchers from the University of South Florida and Tampa General Hospital Cancer Institute suggest that “restoring dietary balance using healthy, unprocessed foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids” can help mitigate the adverse effects linked to seed oils.

Healthy Alternatives to Seed Oils:

  • Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Its use is a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, associated with numerous health benefits, including a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
  • Avocado Oil: Similar to olive oil, avocado oil contains monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, promoting heart health and reducing inflammation. Its high smoke point makes it suitable for various cooking methods.
  • Coconut Oil: Containing medium-chain triglycerides, coconut oil is easily metabolized and may offer antimicrobial benefits. However, it is high in saturated fats, so moderation is advised.
  • Butter and Ghee: These traditional fats are free from trans fats and, when sourced from grass-fed cows, contain beneficial fatty acids. They are stable at high temperatures, making them suitable for cooking.

By making informed dietary choices and opting for healthier cooking oils, you can take meaningful steps toward reducing inflammation and potentially lowering the risk of conditions such as colon cancer. As always, it’s advisable to consult with healthcare professionals when making significant changes to your diet.

How to Protect Yourself

Protecting yourself from the potential risks associated with certain seed oils involves informed dietary choices and mindful consumption habits. Here are practical steps to consider:

1. Limit Consumption of Ultra-Processed Foods

Many processed foods contain seed oils high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation when consumed excessively. Reducing intake of these foods can help balance your fatty acid profile.

2. Read Food Labels Carefully

Identify and limit products containing oils like soybean, corn, sunflower, and canola. Being vigilant about ingredients helps you avoid unintended consumption of seed oils.

3. Prepare Meals at Home

Cooking at home allows control over the ingredients and cooking methods, enabling healthier choices and the use of preferred oils.

4. Balance Omega-6 and Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Incorporate foods rich in omega-3s, such as flaxseed oil, chia seed oil, and hempseed oil, to counterbalance omega-6 intake.

5. Be Cautious with High-Heat Cooking

Some oils can produce harmful compounds when overheated. Use oils with appropriate smoke points for your cooking methods to minimize this risk.

Taking Charge of Your Health: Small Changes, Big Impact

The potential risks associated with seed oils and ultra-processed foods underscore the importance of dietary awareness in protecting your health. While research continues to evolve, prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods and choosing healthier cooking oils can significantly reduce inflammation and lower the risk of conditions like colon cancer.

As Dr. Timothy Yeatman aptly put it, “Cancer is like a chronic wound that won’t heal.” By making informed choices, such as opting for oils rich in omega-3 fatty acids, you can support your body’s natural healing mechanisms and take proactive steps toward long-term wellness. Remember, even small, consistent changes in your diet can have a profound impact on your overall health.

Sources:

  1. Colorectal cancer statistics, 2020. CA Cancer J Clin 2020; https://acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.3322/caac.21601
  2. Dietary intake of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids and risk of colorectal cancer in a prospective cohort of U.S. men and women. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2009;18:516–25. https://aacrjournals.org/cebp/article/18/2/516/166742/Dietary-Intake-of-6-and-3-Fatty-Acids-and-Risk-of
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5 Breakthrough Inventions That Could Eradicate Pollution (And Their Challenges) https://themindunleashed.com/2024/11/5-breakthrough-inventions-that-could-eradicate-pollution-and-their-challenges.html Thu, 14 Nov 2024 17:11:41 +0000 https://themindunleashed.com/?p=114797 Climate change is an urgent, global challenge impacting every aspect of life, from rising sea levels to the increasing severity of natural disasters. With temperatures climbing worldwide, we’re also seeing droughts, wildfires, and crop failures becoming more common. These changes aren’t just predictions—they’re realities we’re facing right now.

Yet, amid these challenges, science and technology offer a glimmer of hope. Researchers and innovators worldwide are developing groundbreaking solutions that could curb, or even reverse, some of these climate impacts. While no single invention can solve everything, a combination of promising technologies might just give us a fighting chance. From capturing carbon to cultivating lab-grown meat, these advancements reveal how innovation can play a vital role in building a sustainable future—if we’re willing to address the challenges and work together.

1. The Promise and Challenge of Carbon Capture

One of the most innovative ways to tackle rising carbon dioxide levels is through carbon capture technology. Carbon capture, particularly Direct Air Capture (DAC), works by filtering air through specialized machines to remove CO₂, which can then be stored or used in various applications. It’s a straightforward yet powerful concept: if we can pull CO₂ from the atmosphere, we can directly reduce greenhouse gases. Some experimental facilities are already capturing CO₂ and finding ways to store it underground or repurpose it in fields like agriculture.

Despite its potential, carbon capture faces considerable challenges. The main drawback is the amount of energy needed to run these machines. Since many capture facilities still rely on traditional energy sources, they risk adding to emissions unless they’re powered by renewable energy. This has led scientists and engineers to focus on creating more energy-efficient capture systems that use solar, wind, or other clean energy sources. But the issue isn’t just energy efficiency; it’s also about the technology’s overall scale and accessibility.

Scaling up carbon capture to a level where it makes a global difference is no small task. It requires enormous investments and coordination across industries and governments. While smaller DAC facilities show promise, they currently only scratch the surface in terms of global CO₂ reduction. However, ongoing research and innovation in this field suggest that, over time, carbon capture could become a key part of climate action, especially as we learn to make it more cost-effective and sustainable.

2. Plastic-Eating Enzymes – A New Frontier

Plastic pollution has become one of the most persistent environmental issues, filling landfills and polluting oceans with waste that takes centuries to break down. Scientists have recently discovered enzymes that can speed up the degradation process, breaking down plastic at a molecular level in a fraction of the time it would naturally take. These “plastic-eating” enzymes have the potential to revolutionize how we handle plastic waste, offering a glimpse into a future where plastic no longer lingers in the environment indefinitely.

The environmental impact of plastic-eating enzymes could be profound. With the ability to degrade different types of plastics, these enzymes could help reduce the amount of waste polluting oceans and landfills. Additionally, using these enzymes could lessen the need for new plastic production by creating a more circular economy. By breaking down existing plastics and recycling them into new products, the enzyme technology could significantly reduce our dependence on new plastic materials and curb the pollution associated with their production.

Despite the excitement, there are hurdles to overcome. Producing these enzymes on a large scale is a costly process, and scientists are still investigating potential side effects on ecosystems. Additionally, ensuring that enzymes only target waste plastics—and not essential infrastructure—requires careful control. Nevertheless, with continued research and investment, plastic-eating enzymes hold promise as a sustainable solution for managing plastic pollution worldwide.

3. Distributed Renewable Energy: Cutting Air Pollution Locally

Distributed renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power, has been gaining traction as a practical way to generate electricity closer to where it’s used. Instead of relying solely on large, centralized power plants, distributed energy resources (DERs) allow for local energy production, reducing transmission losses and making power systems more resilient. With rooftop solar panels and local wind turbines, communities can produce their own energy, cut costs, and even sell excess power back to the grid, making clean energy accessible at the grassroots level.

The environmental benefits of distributed energy are clear. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, DERs can significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, local energy generation supports energy independence, which can be especially valuable in remote areas or communities vulnerable to power outages. As DERs continue to expand, they provide a way for individuals and businesses to directly contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future, supporting the global shift toward green energy on a local level.

However, scaling distributed energy systems poses its own set of challenges. For one, the production and disposal of solar panels and wind turbines can impact the environment, and the upfront costs of installation are still high for many households. Additionally, as more people and businesses turn to renewable energy, utilities must adapt to manage the influx of decentralized power sources. Despite these obstacles, advances in renewable technology and supportive policies are helping distributed energy become a mainstream solution in the fight against climate change.

4. Cultured Meat: Reducing Agricultural Pollution

The agricultural sector, especially livestock farming, is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. As an alternative, scientists are developing cultured meat—also known as lab-grown meat—which involves growing animal cells in a lab to produce muscle tissue without raising livestock. Cultured meat could help reduce the environmental impact of traditional meat production, cutting down on emissions, land use, and water consumption while providing a more sustainable way to meet the global demand for protein.

In addition to its environmental benefits, lab-grown meat addresses ethical concerns associated with conventional livestock farming. Cultured meat does not require animal slaughter, which appeals to those concerned with animal welfare. This technological breakthrough could also make food production more efficient, as cultured meat can be produced in controlled conditions that reduce the need for antibiotics and hormones. The result is a cleaner, potentially healthier alternative to traditional meat that could have far-reaching benefits for consumers and the planet alike.

Yet, cultured meat faces several barriers to widespread adoption. It remains expensive to produce and is not yet available on a commercial scale in most places. Public acceptance is another factor; consumers may need time to adjust to the idea of lab-grown meat as a regular part of their diets. Researchers are also working to ensure that cultured meat has the same taste and texture as conventional meat, which will be key to its success. Over time, with technological advancements and increasing consumer awareness, cultured meat could play a critical role in transforming the food industry.

5. Solar Geoengineering – The Controversial “Sunshade”

Solar geoengineering is an emerging field that seeks to counteract climate change by reflecting sunlight away from Earth. One of the most discussed methods involves releasing reflective particles or aerosols into the atmosphere to create a sort of “sunshade” for the planet. By reducing the amount of solar radiation that reaches Earth’s surface, this approach could potentially lower global temperatures, acting as a temporary measure to slow down the effects of climate change while other solutions take hold.

The appeal of solar geoengineering lies in its potential for large-scale impact. Unlike other climate solutions that address emissions gradually, solar geoengineering could theoretically provide immediate relief from warming temperatures. However, it is not without risks. Reflecting sunlight could alter precipitation patterns, potentially causing droughts or affecting agriculture. Additionally, once begun, the process would likely need to continue indefinitely to prevent a sudden rise in temperatures if it were stopped.

Ethical and governance issues also surround solar geoengineering. Deciding who controls and monitors such a powerful tool could become a point of contention among nations, and there are concerns about unintended consequences on biodiversity and ecosystems. For now, solar geoengineering remains a controversial topic, with scientists continuing to research its feasibility and potential impacts. While it may not be the ultimate answer, it represents one of the more ambitious attempts to tackle climate change head-on.

Clean Energy Is the Key

While innovative technologies offer hope, they cannot replace the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions directly. Achieving a sustainable future requires a combination of advanced technology and a commitment to reducing fossil fuel reliance. Clean energy solutions, such as solar and wind power, should be at the forefront of climate action, supported by efforts to improve energy efficiency and conservation across all sectors.

Embracing green energy is not only crucial for reducing emissions but also for creating economic incentives that drive further innovation. As more individuals, businesses, and governments adopt sustainable practices, the demand for clean energy will rise, pushing companies to innovate and find new ways to harness and distribute power sustainably. Over time, this shift could create a self-sustaining cycle that fosters both economic growth and environmental protection.

Ultimately, while we cannot rely on technology alone, these advancements show that we have the tools to make a difference. With global cooperation, investment, and a shared vision for a healthier planet, we can harness the power of innovation to mitigate climate change and pave the way for a sustainable, resilient future.

Sources:

  1. World Health Organization: WHO. (2023, October 12). Climate change. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/climate-change-and-health
  2. Plastic-eating enzymes could help solve pollution problem. (n.d.). https://www.brunel.ac.uk/news-and-events/news/articles/plastic-eating-enzymes-could-help-solve-pollution-problem
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Hemp is the New Plastic: 3 Companies That Ditched Regular Plastic for Hemp Plastic https://themindunleashed.com/2020/02/hemp-is-the-new-plastic-3-companies-that-ditched-regular-plastic-for-hemp-plastic.html Fri, 28 Feb 2020 22:12:16 +0000 https://themindunleashed.com/?p=85274 (TMU) Plastic has become the most visible pollution issue facing the world. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, now twice the size of Texas, is the subject of many environmental cleanup efforts while plastic waste from all over the world continues to pour into our oceans at an alarming rate. Governments around the world are now debating laws restricting plastic use, with many U.S. cities and states passing bans on single-use plastic bags and straws.

As the plastic problem rages on unabated, some companies are taking it upon themselves to come up with new solutions to tackle the issue. With the passage of the 2018 U.S. Farm Bill, which legalized industrial hemp, a fresh look is being given to the versatile commodity for use in everyday items, including eco-friendly plastic. The Mind Unleashed caught up with three U.S. companies who have quietly embraced the use of hemp plastic into their business models, and their products have already hit the market.

1. Higher Hemp

Higher Hemp is a CBD dispensary that sells hemp-derived CBD products online nationwide and also offers free same-day delivery in San Diego county. They use hemp plastic packaging for many of their products including CBD flower, CBD joints and blunts, and CBD vape cartridges. Higher Hemp also uses sustainable packaging for their CBD oil and other products.

What makes Higher Hemp different from other CBD companies?

Co-founder Andrae Aldrete: “We place a lot of focus on convenience, transparency, and sustainability. Higher Hemp provides 3rd-party lab testing alongside all of the products we sell. We started out using hemp plastic for all of the products we possibly could, and we’re always looking for methods of operating where we can replace traditionally wasteful products and practices with those that are more responsibly and sustainably sourced. We seek to make CBD accessible and affordable to the masses while continuously reducing our carbon footprint by using plant-based, minimal packaging. Even the shrink wrap we use in the final sealing and packaging of our products is made from biodegradable bioplastic. We’re ok with sacrificing some aesthetic properties to prove there’s a way of doing business that’s better for our customers and the planet.”

Why does Higher Hemp use hemp plastic instead of regular plastic?

“One of the things that was non-negotiable from the start was that we weren’t going to go the traditional route of using excessive petroleum-based plastic to package our products. Hemp is the new plastic. To us, it’s unacceptable how much packaging of all types goes into even very small products in the cannabis industry and elsewhere. It’s a compounding problem both for our environment and our health when you consider that most of this plastic ends up in our oceans, polluting the food chain at every level. Considering we are selling and promoting products focused on wellness, we should also be focusing on the wellness of the planet as the health of both are correlated. 

“Luckily, when we were starting out last year, we quickly found that there were already sustainable non-plastic solutions readily available. It’s a way of doing business that we believe is simply the right thing to do. The use of plant-based plastics will be the norm in the coming years and we’re happy to be one of the companies leading the way and hopefully we’ll influence others to do the same.”

You can check out their website at HigherHempCBD.com.

2. Sana Packaging

Sana Packaging launched the cannabis industry’s first 100% plant-based hemp plastic packaging solutions in July 2018, and in March 2019, Sana Packaging launched the cannabis industry’s first 100% reclaimed ocean plastic packaging solutions.

Why did you start Sana Packaging?

CEO and co-founder Ron Basak-Smith: “Our co-founder James Eichner and myself have lived in Colorado since 2011 and were really just disgruntled cannabis users looking at the amount of packaging waste coming from this industry. We thought we could make an impact in the cannabis space since it was such a new industry, whose norms were less developed, to create new packaging that would help move away from this disposable mindset, while creating practical products that would work for the industry.”

Do you think hemp plastic can compete with regular plastic on price/durability?

“It’s tough to compete on price because petroleum-based plastics are subsidized, but as advancements in technology continue, prices continue to drop for hemp plastic solutions. And as more companies embrace hemp and plant-based plastics, their accessibility will increase. On durability, we have to remember that we’re still at the early stages of development with hemp plastics. Just like early cars had to compete with horses, as the industry matures I believe hemp plastics will be able to compete against traditional plastic. Depending on how they’re made, yes, absolutely hemp plastics can be as strong as petroleum-based plastics. We just have to remember we’re still at the very beginning stage of development for viable plant-based plastics.”

Do you think more plastic products will be replaced by hemp in the future (such as plastic bags/straws)?

“Sana Packaging is currently focused on the cannabis industry because hemp plastic makes so much sense in this space. I think the idea here is that plant-based materials can definitely replace these products, it just depends on the consumers wanting to move forward with these options. We also have to consider our waste system because if we don’t have a way to process these plant-based products after they’ve been used, then we’re really doing an injustice to everyone and the environment.”

3. The Hemp Plastic Company

The Hemp Plastic Company produces biopolymer products made from renewable materials that are sustainable and, in some cases, compostable. Their unique process uses different hemp materials to create biopolymers that can be used in many facets of the plastics industry. They create the raw materials for manufacturers to create hemp-plastic products with.

Why did you create the Hemp Plastic Company?

Co-founder Kevin Tubbs: “It all started because a client came to me looking for hemp-based packaging for their hemp products. I have a background in developing eco-packaging and thought making packaging out of previously unusable hemp waste was a great idea. One client led to another, and suddenly people from all over the world became interested in what we were doing.”

Are you seeing demand rising?

“We’ve had a huge number of new customers looking for solutions in hemp plastic, and our customers are coming up with many new use-cases all the time. We supply the raw materials and customers are finding new uses to mold our hemp plastic into. We now have a library of fine hemp plastics including propylene, ethylene, ABS, and PLA.”

Where do you see the hemp plastic industry going?

“We’ve reduced plastic pollution down to a design decision. Designers need to buy into the idea of using hemp plastic and take another look at their designs to make sure they’re easy to degrade. Imagine Legos being made from hemp ABS! Consumers are also starting to think about packaging beyond single-use and what these containers can be re-used for after they’ve served their initial purpose. Some new products I’m excited about are hemp-based films we’re developing that could provide renewable options even for leather, and degrade 100% back into plant material.”

Creative Commons | TheMindUnleashed.com

(Disclosure: Higher Hemp is a sponsor of The Mind Unleashed.)

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EXCLUSIVE: Sister Kate (Weed Nun) on the Divine Feminine and the REAL Holy Trinity https://themindunleashed.com/2017/11/exclusive-sister-kate-weed-nun-on-the-divine-feminine-and-the-real-holy-trinity.html Fri, 10 Nov 2017 03:12:30 +0000 https://themindunleashed.com/?p=22225 Raise your hand if you’ve heard of Sister Kate of the Sisters of the Valley. The bad-ass activist, who was formerly known as Sister Occupy (and still is to some), founded the organization which grows CBD-rich strains of marijuana for medicinal purposes. Located near Merced, California, the 1-acre property exists as an oasis and education center for a handful of women who call themselves nuns but aren’t associated with any religion.

Recently, I had the pleasure of chatting with Sister Kate (Christine Meeusen) to pick her brain about the women’s work. As our conversation evolved, she dropped copious amounts of wisdom on the subjects of marijuana, the divine feminine, and how the mainstream media continues to re-hash a lie about cannabis being a “Holy Trinity.”

Watch the interview below:

A recap:

The Sisters of the Valley farm was founded in 2014, shortly after Sister Kate became known as “Sister Occupy.” During our interview, she relayed that she donned a nun’s habit in response to authorities declaring pizza (due to the tomato sauce) a vegetable. According to her, the development was further evidence of America being a conquered and oppressed nation.

She said,

“I learned from my travels in Europe that you learn to tell the difference between a conquered nation and the conquerers. Go to where the people are conquered, and you see a shabby version of the conquerers.”

After leaving Europe following a messy divorce, “America looked to me like a conquered people,” she said. “We dress like a conquered people, we act like a conquered people. Also, the sign of a conquered people is that you fight against your leadership instead of with it.”

“I was very disgusted,” she added.

When Sister Kate joined the Occupy movement, she felt as if she had finally found her “people.” Those she marched with encouraged her to follow through with her plan of donning a nun’s habit, so she did. “Within one visit, the Occupy movement had dubbed me ‘Sister Occupy’,” said Sister Kate. Before long, supporters began asking how they could join the movement she had inspired. Her response was, “No, you don’t understand! I’m an activist, anarchist, single nun!” 

But eventually, she realized something did need to be organized. “That led to about a three-year discussion before Sisters of the Valley was formed,” she said.

Before Sister Kate declared herself a nun, she spent most of her time delivering CBD oil to the sick and “raising, cooking and cleaning” for a family with six kids. Because of this, she already felt like a nun. As a result, she didn’t find the lifestyle transition too difficult.

Credit: Northwest Cannacast

Sisterhood and the Divine Feminine

In the interview, Sister Kate goes on to explain that though the women implement pagan practices into their ceremonies, they don’t align with any one religion. Rather, most of their inspiration is drawn from the Beguine nuns, who were the precursors to the Catholic nuns.

She explained that the Beguine nuns were self-empowered, spiritually empowered, natural healers, and scholarly women. Because of this, they were considered “dangerous” and many of them were burnt at the stake. The Sisters of the Valley look to the Beguine nuns as their role models, because they hope to empower new generations of women don’t degrade or cheapen themselves to get ahead.

Sister Kate added that now is a very important time for women in history. This is because change is not only desired by both men and women, it is needed. And finally, females have an opportunity to do better than their husbands, fathers, brothers, etc… This isn’t to say men aren’t needed — in fact, the contrary is true. For sustainable, positive change to result as is intentioned, men and women need to work together.

Credit: NBC News

The REAL Holy Trinity

When the Sisters of the Valley began sharing their vision with the world, journalists were eager to interview the change-makers. However, one reporter made a mistake and wrote that the Sisters of the Valley consider the cannabis plant to be the real Holy Trinity.

As Sister Kate incredulously explains in the interview, one thing cannot be a trinity.

“I think it’s hilarious, because a newspaper reporter said the cannabis plant is our holy trinity. How can one thing be a trinity? No one in the media called him on it,” she said.

However, because the media wouldn’t stop “whispering,” she ended up inventing three traits that make the cannabis plant a trinity. Said Sister Kate,

“Because so many people have said that the cannabis plant is our holy trinity, I actually, in the last couple of days, came up with a cannabis plant holy trinity analogy. That is, that the plant is compassionate, it is cooperative, and it is intelligent.”

So there you have it.

Credit: News.Trust.org

Why Women Should Plant Cannabis To Eliminate Crime

In addition to sharing several compelling anecdotes from people who have improved their conditions with CBD oil and CBD-containing lotions and tinctures, Sister Kate relayed how women can rid the world of criminals by planting CBD-rich strains — which are legal in all 50 states. She said,

“Order from Attitude Seed Bank, out of the UK, strains of seeds that are meant to be under 1 percent THC and over 10 percent CBD. And every women should take the seeds and grow them inside and outside in their yard, and grow them everywhere… Because, one time a thief would steal that weed and try to sell it, and the thieves would be killed because they’re going to sell it like it’s going to get someone high. They’re going to sell it for $1,000/lb, and they’re going to get killed and bingo — we’ve just wiped out all the thieves, and we’re free to go forward.”

“So, my point is women need to grow this everywhere. And then dare the law to shut them down. Because all the laws were made for psychoactive cannabis, not for hemp,” she concluded.

Credit: Refinery29

Please watch the full interview above, as Sister Kate talks about many more topics, including why people should use CBD oil, why the nuns’ crops are legal in all 50 states and can be distributed to other countries, the organization’s plan(s) to cultivate marijuana in Canada, and much, much more.

It was an amazing experience connecting with this activist. Sister Kate is proof that one person can make a positive difference in the world. Hopefully, her efforts inspire you. Learn more by visiting the Sisters of the Valley website and Facebook page.

What are your thoughts? Please comment below and share this news!

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