Cannabis is deeply woven into the human story, stretching from the earliest civilizations to today’s innovative dispensaries like The Bakery. Reflecting on its history not only enhances our appreciation for this extraordinary plant, but also grounds the way we approach cannabis culture, product selection, and community engagement in the present. At The Bakery, we see ourselves as stewards of this tradition—continually learning from the past to better serve our customers with knowledge, variety, and respect for cannabis’s remarkable journey.
Ancient Roots: The Beginnings of Cannabis
Long before the emergence of modern cannabis dispensaries, humans cultivated and revered cannabis for its fiber, seeds, and medicinal potential. Evidence points to cannabis’s use as far back as 10,000 years ago, particularly in Central Asia, where it likely served as an important agricultural crop. Ancient societies recognized and celebrated cannabis in rituals, healing practices, and daily life:
- China: Medicine and material culture. Cannabis first appears in written records of Emperor Shen Nung (circa 2737 BCE) as a remedy for a variety of ailments. Hemp fibers provided fabric for clothes and rope, and later for the first types of paper.
- India: Spiritual and therapeutic use. By 1500 BCE, cannabis (“bhang”) featured in religious ceremonies and Ayurvedic medicine. It was known for its calming and euphoric properties.
- Middle East & North Africa: Cultural exchange. As trade routes expanded, cannabis spread through the Silk Road into new regions, where its consumption shifted from purely practical to social and spiritual contexts.
Cannabis Through the Ages: Spreading Across Continents
As civilizations grew, cannabis moved with them—evolving in meaning and method of use. Here’s a quick look at its migration and transformation across time and place:
- Classical period: Ancient Greeks and Romans adopted cannabis for medical and practical reasons, including pain management and wound care.
- Medieval times: Use spread throughout the Islamic world, often appearing in poetry, philosophy, and apothecaries.
- Colonial era: By the 17th century, European and American farmers began cultivating hemp in earnest for industry—rope, sails, textiles, and even early banknotes depended on this durable fiber.
- 19th century: Cannabis was incorporated into the pharmacopoeia of many Western countries and became a common ingredient in medicinal tinctures and patent medicines.
Prohibition & Rediscovery: The Road to Modern Cannabis
The 20th century saw drastic swings in cannabis perception and legality. While early decades embraced cannabis medicine, changing political and social climates led to prohibition in much of the world. Yet, beneath the surface, scientists continued to uncover the plant’s hidden chemistry—discovering THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids which explain the diverse effects we now appreciate. Curiosity and advocacy seeded the groundwork for today’s legal, regulated markets.
- 1930s–1970s: Widespread prohibition created stigma, restricted research, and marginalized communities who continued traditional cannabis use.
- Late 20th century: Grassroots activists, medical pioneers, and patients began to reclaim cannabis’s place in health and culture. States and countries started to decriminalize and investigate therapeutic benefits.
- 21st century: Legalization movements swept North America and beyond. New product categories, sophisticated cultivation, and educated consumers reshaped cannabis into the booming industry we know today.
Modern Dispensaries: Where Ancient Tradition Meets Contemporary Craft
Now, dispensaries like The Bakery reflect the full arc of this history—rooted in thousands of years of global tradition, while embracing innovation and inclusivity. Our shelves showcase the evolution of cannabis from bulk flowers to expertly formulated edibles and vapes, making cannabis accessible for every lifestyle and need.
The Many Forms of Cannabis Today
- Flower: The heart of ancient cannabis culture, flower remains a favorite for tradition and versatility. We offer an extensive range of expertly cured buds, including classic favorites and cutting-edge strains.
- Pre-Rolls: Combining convenience with craftsmanship, pre-rolls allow anyone to enjoy top-quality flower with zero prep. Different strains and infusions provide something for newcomers and aficionados alike.
- Edibles: Edibles have roots in ancient India (bhang), but today’s options are dazzling in variety, from gummies to chocolates to beverages—perfect for those who seek discretion or prefer not to smoke. If you’re interested in learning more about this category, see our in-depth guide: How to Read a Cannabis Edible Label: Dosage, Effects, and Ingredients Explained.
- Vaporizers & Cartridges: Modern technology enables smoother, cleaner inhalation of cannabis extracts. These are popular among users seeking precision, portability, and a lower-profile experience.
- Concentrates: History meets cutting-edge science. Concentrates such as wax, shatter, and live rosin offer unparalleled potency and flavor for experienced users. Explore the difference between solventless live rosin and live resin in our blog: Solventless Live Rosin vs. Live Resin Dabs.
- Tinctures, Topicals & CBD: The plant’s healing properties live on in non-psychoactive formulations for targeted relief, wellness routines, and pet care.
Shop the History: The Bakery’s Product Lineup
Our product menu reflects an ongoing respect for tradition and commitment to progress. Here’s how you can explore our offerings:
- Discover all product categories at once:
- Sample the breadth of cannabis flower traditions with our rotating selection:
- Taste the evolution with edibles inspired by ancient recipes and modern innovations:
- Looking for targeted benefits, like sleep? Explore our specially formulated products:
Bringing History Full Circle: Cannabis Community & Culture at The Bakery
One of the most rewarding aspects of working at The Bakery is helping our customers connect with the legacy and future of cannabis. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a first-time explorer, you’re part of a story that began long before any of us, and continues to evolve.
We encourage you to:
- Ask our team about the origins and genetics of your favorite strains
- Try something new—a classic edible or a state-of-the-art vape—to experience cannabis’s evolution firsthand
- Explore educational resources to deepen your understanding of terpenes, cannabinoids, and product ratios
- Participate in the ongoing conversation about cannabis’s place in wellness and culture
For an introduction to cannabis terpenes and their role in your experience, read our popular guide: What Are Cannabis Terpenes and Why Do They Matter for Your High?.
What’s Next for Cannabis?
As we move forward, legalization and scientific research will continue to shape how the world interacts with cannabis. At The Bakery, we remain dedicated to honoring the ancient traditions while embracing the opportunities for sustainable cultivation, responsible enjoyment, and groundbreaking product development. Our mission is to keep this heritage alive in every product, every conversation, and every customer interaction.
Explore Cannabis the Modern Way with The Bakery
We invite you to experience the living history of cannabis at The Bakery. Browse our full product archive for a closer look at what’s in store, or stop by our product menu for curated categories, including:
For inspiration, use our sliders throughout this blog to see featured and seasonal offerings—perfect for every interest, from traditional flower to inventive edibles.
Continue Your Cannabis Journey
Our team is always here to answer your questions about product history, effects, or best ways to enjoy your selections. The story of cannabis continues—and you’re part of it. Connect with the heritage of this extraordinary plant and enjoy all it offers at The Bakery.
Ready to explore? Browse our latest cannabis products or visit our full menu to start your journey!