In the 1800s it was used all over the world for many illnesses like pain, glaucoma, insomnia, epilepsy. But in the early 1900s it was made illegal in the USA (and many other places) because it competes with other industries, like big pharmaceutical companies, and also food companies, the oil industry, textiles, paper, and more. People have made a lot of money by prohibiting this amazing plant. Thanks to the internet, the truth is finally becoming more known : ))