A Rhode Island Cannabis Brand Built on Purpose and Family

Before Hank’s Herbs became a 13-time award-winning cannabis brand, it was simply a lifeline. For Henry “Hank” Ritchotte, the Rhode Island founder behind the brand, cannabis entered his life out of necessity, not ambition, and gradually grew into something far more meaningful.

Ritchotte’s journey began with a Crohn’s disease diagnosis, which led him to explore cannabis as a way to manage symptoms. “Eventually, though, using cannabis helped with my Crohn’s,” he says. What started as personal relief sparked a deeper curiosity, pushing him to study the science behind cultivation, from lighting and HVAC systems to nutrients and plant care.

A defining moment came in 2013, when his sister was diagnosed with stage four cancer. As traditional treatments fell short, the family turned to medical cannabis. The shift was undeniable. “What the pain medicines couldn’t do, cannabis did,” Ritchotte recalls. “We laughed, we reminisced, we cried, and we shared her final weeks. Yes, she was high, but she was smiling.” After her passing, he stepped into a caregiver role, marking the beginning of his path into the cannabis industry.

Today, Hank’s Herbs reflects both precision and purpose. Ritchotte built the brand alongside his son, creating something rooted in Rhode Island and grounded in shared experience. “I’m very fortunate to have this opportunity to build, develop, and grow this company together,” he says. “I’m enjoying all aspects of working with him.”

That same care carries through every product. Each harvest undergoes rigorous testing before reaching dispensaries. “Every crop we harvest has to pass testing before we can offer it for sale,” Ritchotte explains. Teams test for microbials, heavy metals, pesticides, terpene profiles, and potency to ensure safety and consistency. “What all this means for passing testing is that we have to operate in a very clean environment.”

As cannabis continues to evolve, Ritchotte encourages newcomers to approach it with curiosity and confidence. “Visit a dispensary; they’re friendly, knowledgeable, and there to help you,” he says. “Start easy with a low-potency item.” To learn more about Hank’s Herbs or to find their products, visit them online at hanksherbs.com.