Hemp, a member of the Cannabaceae family, has a long and varied history that dates back thousands of years in Asia and the Middle East. It is believed to have originated in central Asia, particularly southern Siberia. The plant, initially categorized by the renowned Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus in 1999, is divided into three distinct species according to their specific uses: fiber production, seed cultivation, and medicinal or recreational use [1]. Hemp, a botanical relative of cannabis, exhibits comparable leaf and stem features but displays notable differences in its chemical makeup. THC, a psychoactive substance, causes excitement, whereas CBD has qualities that reduce anxiety. Hemp is distinguished by its higher CBD-to-THC ratio, which is in contrast to the heightened THC levels found in cannabis [2]. Both plants exhibit taproot systems with highly branching roots, but, they display differing morphological characteristics.
Hemp is characterized by its elongated, cylindrical stems with square cross-sections and rounded bases, which distinguish it from the shorter, cylindrical stems of cannabis. The foliage of hemp differs from that of cannabis in terms of density and adhesiveness [3]. It exhibits a distinctive spatial organization along the stem, featuring elongated joints and tiny gaps between leaves. The distinction in morphology also applies to the fibers and seeds of these plants [4]. Hemp fibers are delicate and may be readily processed for the creation of pharmaceutical-grade materials, whereas cannabis fibers are rougher and not as appropriate for high-quality fiber production. Hemp seeds, which are little and glossy, differ from the larger and more adhesive inflorescences of cannabis, renowned for their elevated THC concentration [5].
The utilization of cannabis and hemp in the field of medicine, namely for the treatment of illnesses such as cancer, has attracted significant attention in the continued pursuit of viable therapeutic methods [6]. The revival of their popularity has resulted in their legalization in different areas of Europe and the United States, promoting the adoption of advanced growing methods such as tissue culture propagation. By utilizing regulated sterile conditions, this technology allows for the production of superior, disease-free medical hemp plants employing plant pieces immersed in a nutrient-rich media [7]. Ongoing scholarly research is actively investigating the medicinal possibilities of cannabis and hemp in addressing a wide range of conditions, including glaucoma, asthma, neurological disorders, and chronic pain [8]. This study is focused on the emerging field of research and aims to clarify the impact of organic compounds on the growth and primary production of medical hemp strains in a controlled and sterile environment.
The project aims to utilize tissue culture techniques to produce plant tissues and organs in a nourishing media enriched with organic components such as coconut water, yeast extract, and charcoal powder. These additives, which include a high concentration of minerals and hormones, play a crucial role in the development of organs and the promotion of growth [9]. This extensive research is crucial for comprehending the complexities of cultivating medicinal hemp. It specifically examines the effects of organic chemicals in a controlled setting, the ideal circumstances for hemp cell growth, and the impact of different colors of LED light on plant development [10,11]. Combining light-enhanced technology with organic biorefinery technologies represents significant advancements in sustainable agriculture [9,12]. These techniques utilize artificial light and organic waste to enhance plant growth and convert biomass efficiently. Researchers can enhance photosynthesis, plant growth, and biomass production by utilizing specific light wavelengths [13,14]. Effective light control can enhance crop production in controlled environment agriculture setups such as vertical farms and greenhouses. These techniques can alter plant metabolic pathways to enhance the synthesis of secondary metabolites used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food additives.
Organic biorefineries process biomass to create bio-based products and energy, supporting a circular economy. This utilizes biochemical and thermochemical conversion methods to manage agricultural wastes, food waste, and other organic products [15,16]. An integrated biorefinery approach can efficiently generate biofuels, biochar, bioplastics, and other biochemicals sustainably, reducing reliance on fossil resources and minimizing environmental impact [17]. Light-enhanced technology and biorefinery practices collaborate to advance a comprehensive approach to contemporary agriculture and bioenergy, encouraging innovations that boost resource efficiency, minimize waste, ensure food security, and promote renewable energy. Furthermore, its objective is to measure the quantities of bioactive substances present in the plant. The primary objective of this research is to develop sustainable and efficient techniques for growing medicinal hemp, which could potentially bring about a significant transformation in its therapeutic uses.
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