Article

Tantric Cannabis Use in India

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Abstract

The oldest religion on earth for which we have the complete texts, that of the Vedas with texts composed in North India in the 2nd millenium B.C., was based on ritual ingestion of a psychotropic drug, a plant hallucinogen made into a sacred beverage called Soma, the 'nectar of immortality' ('amrita'). Although the Vedas do not specifically identify Soma, the landmark study by Wasson and O'Flaherty ('Divine mushroom of immortality,' 1971) has argued that it was probably 'Amanita muscaria', the fly agaric mushroom. The mounting evidence that Soma was hallucinogenic is of great importance, according to the author (curator of the Fitz Hugh Ludlow Memorial Library, San Francisco), for it means that the fountainhead from which sprang the Indo-European religions may have had as an essential element the ritual use of drugs, which in turn must alter our concept of the origins of the human religious spirit, particularly in India. Tantric Cannabis use in India arose in about the 7th century A.D. in an explosive mingling of the doctrines and practices of Shaivite Hinduism and Tibetan Buddhism. The most important Hindu Tantric text available in English, the 'Mahanirvana ('greatest liberation') Tantra ('that which is woven together'), was composed about the 11th century A.D. There are 3 strands of Indian tradition, derived from the Vedic Soma cult, interwoven in the Tantras. The 1st is the magical or ceremonial use of marijuana, which can be traced back to the Atharva and is almost as old as the use of Soma. While Soma was the official sacrament, 'bhang' (Cannabis) was a special plant of the Atharvan magicians and shamans. As in so many other shamanistic traditions of ancient Asia, the earliest use of cannabis in India was both medical and religious. As time wore on, bhang became a mainstay of folk medicine, first prescribed by Hindu physicians as an antiphlegmatic agent and used by Buddhist monks as a remedy for rheumatism. Thereafter, it appears regularly in medical and religious texts. A 2nd strand of Hindu tradition is the concept of poison-drinking as a divine act, whose origins go back to the late Vedic period when the Aryan migrations deeper into the Indo-Gangetic plains cut them off from their supply of Soma in the mountains. In the search for substitute sacred intoxicants, some plants were called 'poison' because of their powerful effects; these became identified in the Tantric rituals, with the use of 'poisonous', dangerous, or forbidden elements in the pursuit of salvation or enlightenment. The 3rd strand of Indian tradition is much more familiar, the practice of yoga. What distinguishes Tantric practice is the profound emphasis on experimenting with physical and mental exercises to produce altered states of consciousness, 'experimenting with one's own mind'. Regardless of the preachings of contemporary orthodox swamis who urge their followers not to use drugs, the tradition of drug yoga is an ancient and honorable one in India, developed to its fullest extent in Tantric practice. Sex yoga developed concurrently with drug yoga in the late Vedic period. The Tantras transform Hindu sexual practices into a means of meditational yoga. Marijuans fits into sex yoga as well, for in Hindu folk medicine it is the aphrodisiac par excellence. Tantric practice brings together these 3 elements-- the ceremonial use of marijuana; the conscious employment of 'poisonous' or dangerous substances; and the practices of drug and sex yoga-- into a fully developed system for achieving 'mahanirvana'. A detailed description of the advanced Tantric rite is given. The marijuana drink ('vijaya', the victory drink) is sometimes only a little round green ball of moistened bhang in milk or water, or more often a delicious marijuana milkshake flavored with almonds, pepper, cardamon, poppy seeds, and other spices. The time that elapses between the drinking of the 'vijaya' in the first half of the rite and the climax of the ceremony in the second half is about 1 1/2 hrs, 'just long enough to get really 'high' on the drug'. From the moment of first awakening, the initiate's every action is intentionally made sacred and intensified. As he starts to feel higher and higher, going through carefully selected rituals for consecrating the 5 M's, the 'vijaya' functions as a sense-heightener, a euphoric booster of awareness. In this heightening of feelings and awareness, rather than as a mere disinhibiting agent, 'vijaya' is essential to the ceremony. Large oral doses of marijuana are truly hallucinogenic. Suggestibility is increased, and time and space become distorted. In such conditions the marijuans high augments the practice of yoga and vice versa. It seems an ideal way to attain a sense of one's own divinity through euphoric experimentation with the powers of one's mind. The role of cannabis in Tantric ceremony is thus to enable the worshippers to feel the divinity within and without themselves.

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... (Aldrich, 1977). The Vedic texts extol cannabis as a source of happiness and liberation, a divine gift bestowed upon humanity to evoke joy, dispel fear, and aid in the pursuit of spiritual fulfilment (Abel, 1980;Sharma, 1977).The cultural ties between Himachal Pradesh and cannabis run deep, with its use in religious, spiritual, and medicinal contexts going back centuries. ...
... During religious festivals and ceremonies dedicated to Lord Shiva, cannabis finds its place as an offering and sacrament (Aldrich, 1977). The belief is that cannabis facilitates a deeper connection to the divine and aids in transcending worldly limitations. ...
... Cannabis Chronicles: Unveiling Himachal Pradesh's Green SecretThe Vedas, ancient Hindu scriptures dating back to approximately 1400 BCE, recount a profound connection between Lord Shiva and Cannabis indica, a variety indigenous to the Indian subcontinent. As recounted byAldrich (1977), a sacred narrative from Hindu texts describes the Gods churning the celestial ocean using Mount Mandara's peak, during which a drop of 'amrita' (divine nectar) descended from the heavens. Where this sacred drop touched the earth, the first cannabis plant is said to have sprouted. ...
... Since ancient times, humans have used cannabis to enhance sexual pleasure (Aldrich, 1977;Dwarakanath, 1965;Koff, 1974). Aldrich (1977) extensively documented the tantric use of cannabis in India from the 7th century onward to aid sexual pleasure and enlightenment. ...
... Since ancient times, humans have used cannabis to enhance sexual pleasure (Aldrich, 1977;Dwarakanath, 1965;Koff, 1974). Aldrich (1977) extensively documented the tantric use of cannabis in India from the 7th century onward to aid sexual pleasure and enlightenment. The ...
... Cannabis has been used throughout history to enhance sexual practices (Aldrich, 1977). ...
Article
Introduction Up to 41% of women experience female orgasm disorder/difficulty (FOD), a statistic unchanged for 50 years. Despite this, there is a paucity of validated treatments. Research has suggested cannabis as a treatment for female sexual disorders for more than 50 years. Yet a literature review revealed no studies evaluating cannabis as a treatment specifically for FOD and no studies comparing women with and without FOD. This study is the first to evaluate cannabis as a treatment for FOD specifically in women with and without FOD. Objective Evaluate the effect of cannabis use before partnered sex on women with and without FOD. Methods This IRB-approved observational study conducted between March 24, 2022, and November 18, 2022, evaluated baseline demographics, sexual behavior, mental health, cannabis use, and the orgasm subscale questions of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), evaluating orgasm frequency, orgasm satisfaction, and orgasm ease, with and without cannabis before partnered sex. Results Of 1,037 survey responses, the researchers received 410 valid, completed surveys; failure to meet the study’s criteria required excluding 23 (5.6%) surveys. Among the 387 valid survey participants, the majority of women, 52% (n = 202) reported orgasm difficulty, were between the ages of 25–34 (45%, n = 91), reported their race as white (75%, n = 152), and were married or in a relationship (82%, n = 165). Among respondents reporting orgasm difficulty (n = 202), cannabis use before partnered sex increased orgasm frequency (72.8%, n = 147/202, p < .001), improved orgasm satisfaction (67%, n = 136/202, p < .001) or made orgasm easier (71%, n = 143/202, p < .001). Frequency of cannabis use before partnered sex correlated with increased orgasm frequency for women with FOD (n = 202, p< .001). Orgasm response to cannabis depended on the reasons for use (n = 202, p = .022). Women with FOD reported 24% more mental health issues, 52.6% more PTSD, 29% more depressive disorders, 13% more anxiety disorders, and 22% more prescription drug use than women without FOD. Women with FOD were more likely to report sexual abuse history than women without FOD (38.6%, n=74/202). Conclusions Fifty years of sexuality research support use of cannabis for sexual difficulties. This is the first study to look at FOD specifically, demonstrating significant benefit. Randomized controlled studies are needed to evaluate cannabis’ efficacy on FOD sub-types, mental health and physical health conditions and other clinical implications; evaluating dosage, strain, timing, and method of intake. References Laumann et al., 2005 Kontula & Miettinen, 2016 Keiman & Meston, 1997 Dawley et al., 1979 Gorzalka et al., 2010 Klein et al., 2012 Lewis, 1970 Moser et al., 2023. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: inhaleMD.
... Since ancient times, humans have used cannabis to enhance sexual pleasure (Aldrich, 1977;Dwarakanath, 1965;Koff, 1974). Aldrich (1977) extensively documented the tantric use of cannabis in India from the 7th century onward to aid sexual pleasure and enlightenment. ...
... Since ancient times, humans have used cannabis to enhance sexual pleasure (Aldrich, 1977;Dwarakanath, 1965;Koff, 1974). Aldrich (1977) extensively documented the tantric use of cannabis in India from the 7th century onward to aid sexual pleasure and enlightenment. The ...
... Cannabis has been used throughout history to enhance sexual practices (Aldrich, 1977). ...
Thesis
Full-text available
This mixed-methods observational study, conducted between March 24, 2022, and February 28, 2023, is the first to evaluate cannabis use and female orgasmic disorder (FOD). Up to 41% of women experience FOD, a statistic unchanged for 50 years. A paucity of validated treatments exists. Researchers have suggested cannabis as a treatment for FOD for decades. This study’s statistically significant results align with and expand upon 50 years of cannabis research, revealing that cannabis helps women orgasm and increases orgasm frequency, satisfaction, and ease for women with and without FOD. A survey collected data on demographics, sexual behavior, mental health, cannabis use, and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) orgasm subscale questions with and without cannabis before partnered sex. The interviews evaluated cannabis-assisted orgasm, dosage, preferred strains, and timing of cannabis use before partnered sex. Of the 1,037 survey responses, 387 were suitable for analysis. Among respondents reporting orgasm difficulty, 45% were between the ages of 25-34, 75% reported their race as white, and 82% were married or in a relationship. Cannabis use before partnered sex increased orgasm frequency (72%), improved orgasm satisfaction (67%), or made orgasm easier (71%). Frequency of cannabis use before partnered sex correlated with increased orgasm frequency. The reasons for cannabis use by women with FOD before partnered sex that created the most positive orgasm response was to manage pain or enhance sexual pleasure. Not all women found cannabis helpful in orgasm. Moreover, the study’s findings may not be generalizable to women who rarely or do not use cannabis before sex or who have never experienced an orgasm. The researcher did not assess the cultivar of cannabis for effectiveness, nor were study participants asked about their cannabis chemotype of choice or the amount of cannabis used. The study suggests that treatment for women with orgasm difficulty should incorporate cannabis and that U.S. states and countries with medical marijuana programs should make it a condition for use. At the same time, the researcher emphasizes the need for prioritizing further randomized controlled studies to assess cannabis dosage, timing, and other clinical implications for women experiencing orgasm difficulty.
... Cannabis sativa belongs to Cannabiaceae as a medicine was used before the Christian era in Asia, mainly in India, China, Bhutan, Nepal, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran, Persians (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19)(20). Cannabis has been used for thousands of years for recreational, medicinal, or religious purposes . ...
... Cannabis has a long history in India, recorded in legends and religion . The earliest mention of Cannabis has been found in The Vedas, or sacred Indian Hindu texts (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19)(20). Cannabis sativa L. is a widespread species in nature. ...
... This was the first Indian written evidence to support the medicinal value of Cannabis plants which was well documented in Ayuverda in India . The earliest written reference to Cannabis in India may occur in the Atharvaveda, dating to about 2500 BCE (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19)(20). It is found in various habitats ranging from sea level to the temperate and alpine foothills of the Indian Himalaya Region from where it was probably spread over the last 10,000 years . ...
Article
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This review paper highlights about the Cannabis botany, problems of cross pollination, lack of Germplasm collection and absence of Genebank facilities have been discussed. Cannabis is a dioecious species, meaning that male and female flowers are borne on separate plants. The risk of cross-pollination in Cannabis is one of the unique major challenge in Cannabis industry. More research can be conducted to assess the risk of cross-pollination in Cannabis and policy should be created to mitigate that risk. Cannabis research work remains years behind than other crops because of the long legacy of prohibition and stigmatization.
... Since ancient times, humans have used cannabis to enhance sexual pleasure (Aldrich, 1977;Dwarakanath, 1965;Koff, 1974). Aldrich (1977) extensively documented the tantric use of cannabis in India from the 7th century onward to aid sexual pleasure and enlightenment. ...
... Since ancient times, humans have used cannabis to enhance sexual pleasure (Aldrich, 1977;Dwarakanath, 1965;Koff, 1974). Aldrich (1977) extensively documented the tantric use of cannabis in India from the 7th century onward to aid sexual pleasure and enlightenment. The ...
... Cannabis has been used throughout history to enhance sexual practices (Aldrich, 1977). ...
Article
Introduction Cannabis helps women orgasm who have difficulty orgasming and enhances the frequency and quality of women's orgasm. Studies have not yet shown if cannabis helps women orgasm who have female orgasmic disorder (FOD). Up to 41% of women worldwide suffer from FOD and the percentage of women suffering from FOD has not changed in 50 years. Objective The objective of this literature review is to present theories that support a hypothesis that cannabis may help women who have lifelong, acquired, or situational FOD. There is only one empirically validated treatment for lifelong FOD and no empirically validated treatments for acquired or situational FOD. Method Literature Review Results The dishabituation theory presents that Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), causes a dishabituating effect. Information processing of higher brain structures under the influence of THC reduces the routine represented by habits. Multiple studies have established the habits of cognitive distraction during sexual activity may distract a woman from her sensations and ability to orgasm. The theoretical rationale for the dishabituation theory proposes that THC could dishabituate the habit of being cognitively distracted and may explain why women who had never experienced an orgasm discovered they could orgasm when using cannabis before sex and why women who reported difficulty experiencing orgasm said it was easier to experience orgasm while using cannabis before sex. Neuroplasticity theory is a broad theory to describe how the human brain grows, changes, and rewires. Cannabis and endocannabinoids, the cannabinoids created by the human body, are increasingly recognized for their roles in neural development processes, including brain cell growth and neuroplasticity. The theoretical rationale for the neuroplasticity theory is that this theory may explain why some women learn to orgasm while using cannabis before sex and, once they learned to orgasm, found that they no longer required cannabis. The multi-modal treatment theory proposes that cannabis can treat multiple symptoms and conditions simultaneously. Multi-modal treatment is a broad area of study that involves combining two or more modalities targeting different aspects of a disease. The theoretical rationale for the multi-modal treatment theory is that this theory may explain why women who use cannabis for any reason may decrease their FOD. One researcher found that cannabis use decreased sexual dysfunction by up to 21% and that the reason women used cannabis had little to do with sexual functioning. The amygdala reduction theory proposes that cannabis can reduce the activity in the amygdala, a part of the brain associated with fear responses to threats. Hypervigilance, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are responses of the amygdala and commonly impair sexual response. The theoretical rationale for the amygdala reduction theory is that reduced amygdala activity can positively affect FOD. A reduction in anxiety associated with a sexual encounter could improve experiences and lead to improved orgasm and satisfaction. Conclusion Theories and anecdotal evidence from the existing body of cannabis, sex and women's orgasm research support that cannabis may be a treatment for FOD. Research needs to be conducted to evaluate cannabis as a treatment for FOD. Disclosure Work supported by industry: no. A consultant, employee (part time or full time) or shareholder is among the authors (Dr. Tishler is President and COO of inhaleMD, Inc. he is one of my dissertation advisors).
... Therefore, the plants are obligatory out-crossers. In commercial production, medical Cannabis (marijuana type) plants are all genetically female; male plants are destroyed as seed formation reduces flower quality (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19)(20). Cannabis sativa is a dioecious cross pollinated plant with compound racemose type of inflorescences (Figure-2) producing separate male and female plants (15,(16)(17)(18)(19)(20)(21)(22)(23)(24)(25). ...
... In commercial production, medical Cannabis (marijuana type) plants are all genetically female; male plants are destroyed as seed formation reduces flower quality (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19)(20). Cannabis sativa is a dioecious cross pollinated plant with compound racemose type of inflorescences (Figure-2) producing separate male and female plants (15,(16)(17)(18)(19)(20)(21)(22)(23)(24)(25). ...
Article
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This review paper highlights the medicinal value of Cannabis sativa belongs to Cannabaceae family. The use of the female inflorescence of Medical Cannabis sativa (marijuana or drug type) for medical purposes has increased greatly in the past decade. The constituents of Cannabis sativa responsible for its pharmacological effects are known as Cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are terpenophenolic compounds, and the most abundant and well-known phytocannabinoids are Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD). According to Ayuverda in India, the medicinal value of the Cannabis sativa was well documented more than 3,000 years ago. However, chemistry of biomolecules responsible for narcotic principle of Cannabis sativa was unknown. The Botanical originated Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is known for the psychoactive activity accumulated in the trichomes of female inflorescences of Cannabis sativa. The official discovery of Cannabidiol (CBD) in 1963 and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in 1964 isolated and identified from Cannabis sativa at Israel's Weizmann Institute of Science is commonly attributed to Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, known as the Godfather of Cannabis science died at the age of 92 on 9th March 2023. The discovery of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has led to the Endocannabinoid system (ECS) which is a major breakthrough in medical science. The lower concentrations (0.2 to 0.3%) of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is used as medicine for pain management, cancer, for controlling nausea and omitting in AIDS patients and etc. However, the consumption of very high concentration (20-30%) of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) for a long period led to psychoactive activity and other adverse side effects in terms of emotional instability, body movement disorder, cognitive functioning, mental health effects such as a dependence syndrome and schizophrenia.
... 13 In southern Asia, cannabis usage was established for medicinal purposes and religious events. 14,15 In other major countries of the ancient world, such as Rome, the Islamic empire, Greece, India, Egypt and Assyria, cannabis was utilized as medicine. [16][17][18] However, access to cannabis for medicinal purposes was extremely limited during the rst millennium A.D. and it seems that in Europe the species were mainly cultivated for hemp ber. ...
... The results are veried by their comparison and overlap with the output values of head space solid-phase microextraction. 120 A study performed on six cannabis chemovars demonstrated that the chemical prole of extracts obtained via scCO 2 is not representative of the original ower (Table 3, entries [14][15][16][17][18][19]. 118 Specically, the scCO 2 -derived concentrates are characterized by higher THC and CBD potency than the ower (THC: 75%, CBD: 41% vs. THC: 28%, CBD: 11%), while the observed decrease of monoterpene content and the increase in terpene alcohols and sesquiterpenes fail to reproduce the organoleptic characteristics (avor, fragrance) of the ower (Fig. 10). ...
Article
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Historically, cannabis has always constituted a component of the civilized world; archaeological discoveries indicate that it is one of the oldest crops, while, up until the 19th century, cannabis fibers were extensively used in a variety of applications, and its seeds comprised a part of human and livestock nutrition. Additional evidence supports its exploitation for medicinal purposes in the ancient world. The cultivation of cannabis gradually declined as hemp fibers gave way to synthetic fibers, while the intoxicating ability of THC eventually overshadowed the extensive potential of cannabis. Nevertheless, the proven value of certain non-intoxicating cannabinoids, such as CBD and CBN, has recently given rise to an entire market which promotes cannabis-based products. An increase in the research for recovery and exploitation of beneficial cannabinoids has also been observed, with more than 10 000 peer-reviewed research articles published annually. In the present review, a brief overview of the history of cannabis is given. A look into the classification approaches of cannabis plants/species as well as the associated nomenclature is provided, followed by a description of their chemical characteristics and their medically valuable components. The application areas could not be absent from the present review. Still, the main focus of the review is the discussion of work conducted in the field of extraction of valuable bioactive compounds from cannabis. We conclude with a summary of the current status and outlook on the topics that future research should address.
... Traditionally Hindu yogis have used Cannabis to aid in deepening their meditations, and male devotees use Cannabis as a symbol of fellowship in their frequent bhajan. Aldrich states that at the beginning of the ceremony, a potent cannabis preparation is consumed, with the peak effects of the drug not felt until about an hour into the meditation practice (Aldrich 1977). This method is also used in tantric ceremony practices to create a state of bliss. ...
... This method is also used in tantric ceremony practices to create a state of bliss. The role played by Cannabis in the tantric ceremony, or Kundalini yogi, allows the worshipers to feel their divinity within and without themselves (Aldrich 1977). It has also been said that those who are too old to work in the fields anymore stay home and consume ganja to help pass the time. ...
Chapter
Ayurveda has delineated a unique classification entitled ‘Upavisha varga’ comprising of certain semi-poisonous medicinal plants. Bhanga (Cannabis) is one amongst them in this category depicting its narcotic nature from Sanskrit synonyms. Bhanga has been in use since the Vedic age under the controversial plant of Soma that had special importance due to its mystical effects on the brain. All the texts of Ayurveda have described Bhanga in detail of its pharmacological properties, indications, various dosage forms, doses, pharmacovigilance aspects, and its extensive use in Indian Alchemy. The following review throws light on the occurrence and usage of Bhanga in excerpts from classical texts of Ayurveda from a pharmacological and pharmaceutical point of view thus, providing a rationale for its safe medical usage.KeywordsAyurveda Bhanga CannabisClassicalEvidenceReviewUpavishaVijaya
... Traditionally Hindu yogis have used Cannabis to aid in deepening their meditations, and male devotees use Cannabis as a symbol of fellowship in their frequent bhajan. Aldrich states that at the beginning of the ceremony, a potent cannabis preparation is consumed, with the peak effects of the drug not felt until about an hour into the meditation practice (Aldrich 1977). This method is also used in tantric ceremony practices to create a state of bliss. ...
... This method is also used in tantric ceremony practices to create a state of bliss. The role played by Cannabis in the tantric ceremony, or Kundalini yogi, allows the worshipers to feel their divinity within and without themselves (Aldrich 1977). It has also been said that those who are too old to work in the fields anymore stay home and consume ganja to help pass the time. ...
Chapter
Bhanga (Cannabis) has been reported with numerous therapeutic, traditional, commercial, and sacred uses in India and across the globe. Its uses are deeply rooted in the cultural, social, and economic lives of the people. The inclusion of Cannabis under ‘Scheduled E1’ drugs in India restricts its use. However, being a crop of economic and medicinal importance, the pharmaceutical and various other sectors are showing much interest in the plant. The present review article delineates traditional, culinary, cosmetic, ritual, social, spiritual, recreational, economic, and therapeutic uses of Cannabis. The review illustrates various uses of Cannabis across the globe; noted from articles, publications, and books providing description of various parts, viz. leaves and seeds (Bhanga), flowering and fruiting tops (Ganja), resin (Charas), extract, tincture, and whole plant, stalks (Fibers). The review may be helpful to researchers, clinicians, and pharmaceutical companies to carry out further research for developing cost-effective healthcare options.
... The use of cannabis in America is assumed to begin in South America, introduced to Brazil by the African slaves in the 16 th century. While in Europe, during this period, cannabis was cultivated exclusively for fibers [4]. Along with this, in course of time, cannabis was introduced in the western medicine in the middle of the 19 th century with the usage of cannabis extracts to treat epilepsy, tetanus, rheumatism, migraine, asthma, trigeminal neuralgia, fatigue and insomnia The western medicinal usage of cannabis declined significantly in the first decades of the 20 th century due to difficulties in obtaining consistent results from various batches of plants having different compounds. ...
... Similarly, in Madras, Kama (god of love), as well as Shiva and Kali, are worshiped with cannabis offerings [18]. Cannabis has different names in ancient India [4] as cannabis is held to bestow supernatural influence and powers on the user [18]. This practice of using cannabis in the socio-religious functions or rituals continue even to this day. ...
Article
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Cannabis usage is controversial both in India and Thailand. Cannabis has a history of social, religious, recreational and medicinal usage dating back centuries. This article, based on literature review, focuses on the history of cannabis usage in India and Thailand in order to highlight the importance of more research regarding the medicinal use of cannabis in oncology in different countries as India and Thailand. As more countries approve cannabis use for therapeutic uses, physicians need to research more information regarding the risks and benefits of use. Hence the present article reviews the history, the importance of cannabis usage in different societies from the past to the present. There is difference in the form of cannabis usage between India and Thailand in the past as it was used for social, religious and medicinal purpose in traditional India. On the other hand, in Thailand, it was used mostly for recreational culture and industrial purpose. One similarity of the two countries at present is in the medicinal usage. Both countries are trying to legalize the use of cannabis for medical research and medicinal purposes. On the whole, more research should be done with the legalization of cannabis usage for therapeutic purposes and research in medical science.
... Cannabis is named one of the five holy plants in the Atharvaveda, one of Hinduism's earliest texts, and is so revered (Aldrich, 1977). This acknowledged Cannabis as a plant worthy of preservation and veneration as a result of its religious and cultural acceptability. ...
Article
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Purpose The present work highlights the outstanding properties of Cannabis sativa that can be harnessed for various utilitarian functions and its climate friendly properties. Design/methodology/approach In this paper, the authors reviewed current research on all possible utilities from household work to manufacturing of various products that are environmentally sustainable. The authors have presented some of their research on this materials and also exploration of hemp as an archaeological material based on the findings from wall paintings of Ellora caves. Findings There are references of hemp use in mixing with earthen/lime plaster of western Indian monuments. Around 1,500 years of Ellora’s earthen plaster, despite harsh climatic conditions, survived due to the presence of hemp in the plaster that adds durability, fibrosity and its capacity to ward off insects and control humidity. Furthermore, the outstanding quality of Cannabis as carbon sequestrant was harnessed by Indians of ancient times in Ellora mural paintings. Research limitations/implications This work discusses some relevant literature on the potential use of hempcrete aligned with Agenda 2030 of sustainable development goals. Practical implications There are several research going on in producing sustainable materials using hemp that have the least environmental impact and can provide eco-friendly solutions. Social implications The authors impress upon the readers about multifarious utility of the hemp and advices for exploration of this material to address many environmental issues. Originality/value This paper presents both review of the existing papers and some components coming directly from their laboratory investigations.
... Besides, its leaves are also used as offering during daily worship of lord Shiva. It is reported as one of the five sacred plants in Vedas and its leaves, flowers and fruits are considered sacred (Aldrich, 1977, Bohra et al., 2017 ...
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Current study deals with the use of wild hemp by the native communities of Manikaran valley, district Kullu of Himachal Pradesh in the North Western Himalaya. Data was collected during 2015 to 2017 through various field visits, questionnaire surveys, interviews with the locals and herb practitioners in the valley. Traditionally, the communities have being using the herb as medicine for treating various ailments like, arthritis, abnormal menstrual disorder, wounds, sores, joint pain, sting pain and recorded their usage pattern. Hemp plant fibers are used for making ropes, pullan, etc. Its seeds are also used for flavoring traditional foods like Siddu/Aaksalu. Further research is needed to explore and harness the many other benefits of the herb.
... Traditionally thought to be the favorite food of Shiva and frequently consumed by wandering ascetics as a "medicine of meditation" (Morningstar 1985, 144), cannabis is considered by many in India to be "at least as significant and respected as the wine used in Holy Communion is to Christians" (Touw 1981, 25). Cannabis is viewed as sacred in Tibet and was used to heighten meditative awareness by Tantric Buddhists (Aldrich 1977). Ancient Zoroastrians in Persia, who helped originate the religious doctrines of monotheism, the Last Judgment, and life everlasting (Boyce 2001), used cannabis for visionary purposes (De Jong 1998). ...
Article
Like many mind-altering plants, cannabis has been part of spiritual practices for thousands of years. It has deep roots in Hinduism, Islam, Rastafarianism, and indigenous traditions in Asia, Africa, and elsewhere. Yet almost no attention has been given to how contemporary adults employ it spiritually. A sample of 1087 participants (mean age = 38.9) completed an online survey assessing their use of cannabis and other substances, as well as spiritual and psychological characteristics. Spiritual benefit from cannabis was reported by 66.1% of the sample, and 5.5% reported it had sometimes been a spiritual hindrance. A MANOVA showed that those who reported spiritual benefit differed significantly from those who did not on several outcome variables, and a post hoc descriptive discriminant analysis revealed that expansiveness motivation, non-theistic daily spiritual experience, meditation frequency, and two mindfulness facets contributed most to differentiating the two groups. The majority of the sample (63%) was free of cannabis use disorder. Compared to disordered groups, the non-disordered group was significantly older and scored lower on experiential avoidance, psychological distress, and several motives for use. Results suggest that spiritual motives for cannabis use may be widespread. Implications for future research on spiritual use of cannabis are discussed.
... This secret virtue eventually became part of numerous religious rituals in India. In Atharveda, the sacred book of Hinduism plant also holds religious importance and is considered one of the five sacred plants worshipped (Aldrich, 1977). In 'Sushrita' the first record of medicinal uses of Cannabis in India was compiled around 1000 BC and also in Indian texts like Tajnighuntu and Rajbulubha Cannabis has been listed (Bouquet, 1950;Schultes, 1970). ...
Article
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The concern for the issues related to the growing needs of human civilization like resource depletion, pollution, climate changes, and health risk has led to a search for eco-friendly alternatives to environmental problems. Recently, hemp started gaining popularity for its medicinal, nontoxic, greenhouse negative, and biodegradable properties. Originating from the steppes of Central Asia, Cannabis sativa L. (hemp) is one of the oldest domesticated plants known to humans. Since 5000–4000 BC, different parts of the plant were used for spinning, weaving, papermaking, the seed for human feed, animal feeds, medicinal, and health purposes. Reports also suggest the use of hemp as an organic additive in the historic earthen plasters of Ellora Caves, India (6th Century). Due to its psychoactive and recreational properties, this environmentally friendly plant lost its importance eventually in the 19th century and its cultivation was made illegal. People, in general, changed their outlook towards the plant and considered it a sign of moral indignation. Recently, food, pharmaceutical, textile, paper, building, energy, and other industries found hemp to be a promising solution for synthetic-based economies. Since then, the cultivation of hemp has been reintroduced, legalized in some countries, and now in recent times, there has been a good reimplementation of the plant in creating a green economy. This review will highlight the application of hemp and display its outstanding qualities in minimizing environmental and health issues. Based on the knowledge gained from various scientific resources; the commercial, industrial, and agricultural potential of the plant will be unveiled to give more push towards the hemp cultivation.
... For example, an ancient mystical sutra tells us that Siddhartha (later known as lord Buddha) survived for six years, prior to his enlightenment, on a single Cannabis seed per day 2 . Cannabis is believed to be the favorite plant of Hindu god Shiva, and has been an integral part of Hindu practice and culture for ages [3][4][5][6][7][8][9] . Also, Muslims regarded it as a holy plant and in Unani Tibbi (the Muslim system of medicine) Cannabis was used for treating numerous diseases 10-12 . ...
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The history related to the use of medicinal Cannabis has been intimately intertwined with India since the beginnings of human civilization. Since its origin in the lower Himalayas, the diverse cultural, medical and religious uses of the Cannabis plant slowly disseminated around the world. After being outlawed as a narcotic drug in the 20th century, Cannabis has been rediscovered as a much needed medicine for chronically ill patients. Since 2000, a number of countries have initialized national programs to cultivate and distribute Cannabis for medical use, and to stimulate research and development to produce modern medicines from this ancient plant. Unfortunately and ironically, India has not benefitted from these developments, despite the countries’ claim to fame as a major source of information about the medicinal uses of Cannabis. In India untreated chronic pain is one of the major sources of patient’s sufferings and Cannabis medicine can prove to be a welcome alternative to the much more risky opioids derived from the Opium poppy. This review paper explores the origins of Cannabis medicine in India, its historical use as a treatment for chronic pain, and recent scientific developments with Cannabis and its main active constituents, the cannabinoids. Finally, the cannabinoids are compared to opioids for the treatment of pain, in order to make a recommendation for the reintroduction of Cannabis medicine for pain treatment in India today.
... En ese sentido hubo un cambio en el chamanismo y sacerdocio existente de esa época a nivel profundo. Otros autores como Aldritch (1977), Touw (1981), Sharma (1977) y Quirce, Tyler y Maickel (1988) han mantenido que el soma del Rig Veda era preparado a través del uso del Cannabis sativa. ...
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p>Este trabajo intenta abordar algunas de las teorías más modernas y prevalentes sobre el chamanismo. Se han incluido tanto las teorías tradicionales como las modernas que parecen indicar las tendencias interpretativas de tipo neurofisiológico sobre los estados alterados y superiores de la conciencia. Se ha mencionado el uso prevalente y central de los diversos psicodélicos y plantas que contienen sustancias alterantes entre las diversas culturas precolombinas. Los trabajos de la antropología psicodélica han sido incluidos y su contraste con las escuelas influenciadas por Mircea Eliade.</p
... Hemp cultivation spread to Asian countries from China and it was adopted in India, where it served a religious purpose. In Atherveda, one of the oldest book of Hinduism, Cannabis has been mentioned as one of the five sacred plants and accordingly worshipped 7 . This recognized it as a plant with the protection and reverence engendered by cultural and religious acceptance. ...
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Cannabis sativa L. (hemp) has preserved the ancient artwork in India’s sacred Ellora Caves for 1500 years. The long life of earthen plaster of Ellora, despite damaging environmental parameters, may be attributed to the material properties of hemp which is fibrous and durable as studied through stereo and scanning electron microscope. The properties of Cannabis sativa (hemp) including its ability to repel insects and regulate humidity must have been known to the ancient Indian technicians in 6th CE. Moreover, Cannabis has an excellent carbon dioxide sequestering capacity and is green house negative and these properties were exploited by ancient Indians in cave murals of Ellora. The finding could be applied in future construction technology, as well as conservation of historical structures, where more sustainable materials are being sought. However, it would be illegal in places where Cannabis is banned. The numerous useful properties of hemp can also be exploited for several environmental friendly applications. This paper deliberates upon the utilization of this plant from the ancient period to its present use to regulate green house impact.
... Substance abuse was present since ancient times in every culture and civilizations. [1][2][3] Substance abuse considered as social problems but in recent decade extensive development of neurobiology evident that substance abuse an outcome of bio-psycho-social interactions. [4][5][6] Advancement of the neurobiology of substance revealed effects of the substance on brain development and behavior of abnormality of substance. ...
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Introduction: Substance abuse a major concern for the modern era, current practices give the opportunity to manage this problem effectively. Current treatment practices show very less number of subject abusing substance seek medical facility. Along with this tertiary psychiatric care provided by the medical college and mental hospital both. But the pattern of treatment-seeking subjects for substance abuse differs markedly. The aim of the study to assess pattern and prevalence of substance abuse at the tertiary psychiatric care center and study the different pattern of substance abuse at the medical college and mental hospital centers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the department of psychiatry, medical college center and Mental hospital centers for one year. Subjects attending OPD at study centers for substance abuse recruited for the study. Total 516 treatment seeking subject included in the study from both centers. Data was collected on socio-demographic characteristics, Clinical profile and pattern of abuse substance were recorded. Results: Prevalence of substance abuse subjected seeking treatment was 7.67% per year. Most commonly abuse substance was Alcohol 44%, followed by Opioid 20%, Cannabis 19%, Volatile substance 5% and Multiple substance cases of abuse 12%. Subjects had physical complication prefer to attend medical college centers on other side subjects had behavioral complication choose the mental hospital for treatment for substance abuse. Conclusion: Subjects attending mental hospital belong to lower socioeconomic status than subjects attending medical college. Alcohol was most common treatment seeking abuse substance followed by Opioid, Cannabis. Alcohol and Opioid abuse subjects commonly presented with withdrawal symptoms, and cannabis abuse subjects presented with psychotic symptoms at tertiary psychiatric care centers.
... Cannabis later spread to Asian countries and it was adopted in India, where it served a religious function. The Atharva Veda, one of the oldest books of Hinduism, included Cannabis as one of the five sacred plants and worshiped it (Aldrich, 1977). This provided the plant with the protection and reverence engendered by cultural or religious acceptance. ...
Article
Cannabis Sativa (Marijuana) is a crop which is grown all over the world. The plant is one of the most hated, maligned and detested any where in the world and huge sums of money and efforts are being expended to annihilate its production, distribution, marketing and consumption. Cannabis sativa is erroneously believed to cause deleterious health problems among other controversies. However, studies have shown that this plant, apart from being regarded as one of the five sacred crops, has a lot of medical, recreational, commercial and social uses. Evidences have also shown that marijuana is useful in the control and management of chronic diseases such as HIV/AIDS, Cancer, Asthma, Glaucoma, Cachexia, Hypertension, Depression, etc. Nevertheless, further research is required to make this wonderful plant more useful to humanity.
... In addition, some writers assert that people may use drugs as a means of spirituality enhancement (e.g., Aldrich, 1977;Stafford, 1977), in search of transcendence or divine contact (Galanter, 2006). That is, there exist spiritual practices facilitated by drug use (Sussman et al., 2006). ...
... In the light of the consensus that most psychiatric disorders are multi-factorial in genesis, cannabis use and dependence is also linked to multiple factors, including biological, social, and psychological (Gruber & Pope, 2002), as well as cultural. Cultural use of mind altering substances has been a part of Indian reality, as Indian religious texts (such as Vedas), mention cannabis as sacred plants (Aldrich, 1977) and refer to it as "source of happiness," "joy-giver" and "liberator" (Sharma, 1977). Historically, Indian farmers gave it to their oxen to provide them strength to plough the fields (Margoob, 2008). ...
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This study was taken up to investigate emotional intelligence and self esteem in cannabis abusers. Cross sectional hospital based study, Study is based on a sample of 200 individuals. 100 Cannabis dependent, diagnosed based on DSM-IV TR was selected from two different hospitals in north India. 100 healthy matched subjects constituted the control group. Assessment was done using MINI, General Health Questionnaire, Indian Adaptation of Emotional Intelligence Scale and Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale. Significant differences were seen in Emotional Intelligence between the Cannabis dependent group and normal control group. The cannabis dependent groups scored significantly low on emotional intelligence in comparison with control group. Further, cannabis dependent group scored significantly lower on score of self esteem than the normal control group. Relationship between emotional intelligence and self esteem was found to be positively correlated. Our study suggests an association between low emotional intelligence, low self esteem and cannabis dependence and the prevention and treatment of cannabis dependence should lay focus on these factors.
... Historically, cannabis is believed to be the loved substance of Hindu God Shiva, and has been an integral part of Hindu practice and culture. [1][2][3][4][5][6][7] Every year, in religious celebrations such as Shivaratri -a celebration in reverence of Lord Shiva, many people smoke cannabis and drink bhang (drink made from ground leaves and flowers from the female cannabis plant, spices and milk). The association of cannabis and Shiva has been described as 'benign' as it affords devotees the 'means of honouring the deity while more fully celebrating the festivals' and, for sadhus, 'union with the divinity by facilitating arduous physical and mental spiritual practice'. ...
... Prevention programs in schools focus on children's social and academic skills, including enhancing peer relationships, self-control, coping, and drugrefusal skills. [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9] Prevention programs work at the community level with civic, religious, law enforcement, and other government organizations to enhance anti-drug norms and pro-social behaviors. Many programs coordinate prevention efforts across settings to communicate consistent messages through school, work, religious institutions, and the media. ...
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Life throws up innumerable situations, which we greet with both negative and positive emotions such as excitement, frustration, fear, happiness, anger, sadness, joy et al. All human beings are not equipped to take on changes or difficult situations in life, naturally. Out of them, many don't adapt to those situations. The result normally is— those situations and accompanying stress overwhelm people. The mind-boggling changes in every sphere of life—culture, profession, modes of transportation and rapid lifestyle changes put pressure on men to adjust with equal speed. Stress begins to wear them out and there is a loss of resiliency against adverse situations of life. Consequently, they begin to pull away from others and give in to depression. It is said that life acts and you react. Our attitude is our reaction to what life hands out to us. A significant amount of stress symptoms can be avoided or aroused by the way we relate to stressors. Stress is created by what we think rather than by what has actually happened. For instance, handling adopted children, adolescents, academic failures, retirements or sudden loss of money needs a relaxed attitude, focused will and preparedness to face the quirks of life positively. Otherwise one tends to feel stressed and reacts in anger and frustration. Children of stressed out parents are more likely to be ill equipped to handle stressors positively. They may suffer from emotional disturbances, depression, aggressive behaviour or confusion besides chances of weak physical constitutions, which again can be a source of anxiety. With a better control of attention one can feel that the world is a more congenial place to live in. A right attitude can make a resilient person out of us in the face of stressful situations. We can choose to stand aside; or to take weak and ineffective measures; or to implement robust and enduring measures to protect the health and wealth of populations.
... Historically, cannabis is believed to be the loved substance of Hindu God Shiva, and has been an integral part of Hindu practice and culture. [1][2][3][4][5][6][7] Every year, in religious celebrations such as Shivaratri -a celebration in reverence of Lord Shiva, many people smoke cannabis and drink bhang (drink made from ground leaves and flowers from the female cannabis plant, spices and milk). The association of cannabis and Shiva has been described as 'benign' as it affords devotees the 'means of honouring the deity while more fully celebrating the festivals' and, for sadhus, 'union with the divinity by facilitating arduous physical and mental spiritual practice'. ...
Article
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Background: Despite being illegal in Nepal, cannabis grows wild, is cultivated, readily available and often consumed during religious festivals, such as those in honour of the Hindu god Shiva. Holy men (sadhus) also consume cannabis to aid meditation, and many are believed to suggest that as a substance favoured by Lord Shiva, and, as such, should be used. However, there are concerns that all cannabis use in Nepal is not benign, and that there are negative health and social consequences from its use for some consumers. Objectives: This study sought the views of sadhus in Nepal. Method: During the major Shiva festival at Pashupathinath temple complex in Kathmandu, Nepal, 200 sadhus were surveyed. Results: Most used cannabis daily, a quarter believed cannabis and its use to be legal in Nepal, and a further ten percent were unsure, about one third believed cannabis should be used by Hindus, but only fourteen believed Lord Shiva promoted its use. Those less educated and from the Naga sect were more likely to hold such views, and provide cannabis to devotees. Conclusions: Sadhus with evidence-based information about cannabis and its potential harms can play an important role in assisting to reduce harm and facilitate engagement in treatment. J Psychiatric Association of Nepal Vol .3, No.2, 2014, pp:9-14 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpan.v3i2.12379
... En ese sentido hubo un cambio en el chamanismo y sacerdocio existente de esa época a nivel profundo. Otros autores como Aldritch (1977), Touw (1981), Sharma (1977) y Quirce, Tyler y Maickel (1988) han mantenido que el soma del Rig Veda era preparado a través del uso del Cannabis sativa. ...
Article
Resumen Este trabajo intenta abordar algunas de las teorías más modernas y prevalentes sobre el chamanismo. Se han incluido tanto las teorías tradicionales como las modernas que parecen indicar las tendencias interpretativas de tipo neurofisiológico sobre los estados alterados y superiores de la conciencia. Se ha mencionado el uso prevalente y central de los diversos psicodélicos y plantas que contienen sustancias alterantes entre las diversas culturas precolombinas. Los trabajos de la antropología psicodélica han sido incluidos y su contraste con las escuelas influenciadas por Mircea Eliade. Abstract This article presents some of the most current and widespread theories on shamanism. Both traditional and modern theories which lean towards neurophysiologic interpretations of altered and higher states of consciousness are dealt with. The generalized and central use of psychedelics and plants containing altering substances by the different pre-Columbian cultures are discussed. Moreover, work by psychedelic anthropologists has been contrasted with the schools of thought influenced by Mircea Eliade.
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Jaimini’s Book of the Horse Sacrifice (Jaiminīya Āśvamēdhikaparvan) is a late mediaeval Vaiṣṇava text that is unusual for several reasons. In this article we examine the interplay of violence, devotion and ritual in the Sanskrit vorlage and its Kannada transfiguration—the Jaiminibhārata of Lakṣmīśa (ca. 1500 CE). Violent emotions or extreme feelings are deeply imbricated in South Asia religious discourse. Extreme feeling is entangled with the history of texts that emerged as a result of interreligious and intra- religious debate. Our article puts forth the idea of violence as a mode of bhakti devotion, and we historicize the emergence of violence-as-bhakti in the Vaiṣṇava context, using the tale of Mayūradhvaja from Jaimini’s Book.
Preprint
Cannabis has been used for thousands of years for recreational, medicinal, or religious purposes and the therapeutic potential of medicinal Cannabis was demonstrated in various medical conditions. The legalization of Cannabis is an important source of economic growth as it contributes to the growing revenue tax, and the creation of new workplaces.
Preprint
Cannabis has been used for thousands of years for recreational, medicinal, or religious purposes and the therapeutic potential of medicinal Cannabis was demonstrated in various medical conditions. The legalization of Cannabis is an important source of economic growth as it contributes to the growing revenue tax, and the creation of new workplaces.
Article
Full-text available
Cannabis has been used for thousands of years for recreational, medicinal, or religious purposes and the therapeutic potential of medicinal Cannabis was demonstrated in various medical conditions. The legalization of Cannabis is an important source of economic growth as it contributes to the growing revenue tax, and the creation of new workplaces.
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This review paper highlights about Medical Cannabis sativa (Marijuana or drug type) containing psychoactive molecule, Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) as a part of educational awareness programme in India. Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica were originally a native of India growing as a wild notorious noxious weed in the Indian Himalayan region. Marijuana (Charas, Ganja and Bhang in India) is a mind-altering (psychoactive) drug, produced by the Cannabis sativa plant. Marijuana (Charas, Ganja or Bhang drink in India) is an illicit drug containing very high levels (25-35%
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This review paper highlights about the story of the discovery of psychoactive constituent, Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) isolated from the Cannabis sativa (Marijuana or Drug type). Medical Cannabis sativa is also commonly known as Indian hemp, marijuana, Bhang, Ganja, and Charas, which are banned in India as an illicit drug. Sales and cultivation of Medical cannabis (marijuana type) are still illegal in India. According to Ayuverda in India, the narcotic effects of Cannabis plants was well documented more than 3,000 years ago. This was the first Indian evidence to support the medicinal value of Cannabis plants. Cannabis sativa is widely found as a weed in the Himalayan mountain regions of India, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan and Afghanistan. However, the chemistry of biomolecules responsible for narcotic activity of Cannabis was unknown. This has created a wide interest of many scientists to study cannabis and its compounds. The official discovery of Cannabidiol (CBD) in 1963 and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in 1964 isolated from cannabis sativa at Israel's Weizmann Institute of Science is commonly attributed to Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, known as the Godfather of Cannabis science. Professor Raphael Mechoulam was active in Cannabinoids research work at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Israel. He died at the age of 92 on 9th March 2023, and his outstanding contribution in the field of Cannabis research work is very much appreciated. Finally, the contribution of Dr. Roger Adams and the Nobel laureate Dr. Alexander Robertus Todd, Robert Sidney Cahn and Frantisek Santavy and Roger G. Pertwee towards the Cannabinoids research work were also deserved mentioning. Finally, the Cannabis medicines, Sativex (Nabiximols), Epidiolex and Dronabinol are available in the market and used by Doctors prescriptions. This review paper is written in the Memory of Professor Raphael Mechoulam and Dedicated as a token of respect for his outstanding contribution in the field of Cannabis Science Research
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Cannabis is one of the oldest crops grown, traditionally held religious attachments in various cultures for its medicinal use much before its introduction to Western medicine. Multiple preclinical and clinical investigations have explored the beneficial effects of cannabis in various neurocognitive and neurodegenerative diseases affecting the cognitive domains. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the major psychoactive component, is responsible for cognition-related deficits, while cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid, has been shown to elicit neuroprotective activity. In the present integrative review, the authors focus on the effects of cannabis on the different cognitive domains, including learning, consolidation, and retrieval. The present study is the first attempt in which significant focus has been imparted on all three aspects of cognition, thus linking to its usage. Furthermore, the investigators have also depicted the current legal position of cannabis in India and the requirement for reforms.
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Background The cultivation and use of cannabis is historically rooted in the Indian subcontinent and this rich heritage of cannabis use dates back to at least two thousand years. Cannabis remains an illicit substance in India despite its changing status globally with many countries legalizing cannabis use in recent years. Scientific research on cannabis use in India has also been sparse. Method Extensive search of online databases resulted in the identification of 29 original research studies pertaining to one of three areas of cannabis research; a) prevalence of cannabis use b) psychological correlates of cannabis use, c) cannabis use in substance use treatment settings. Findings We found that most Indian studies used very basic quantitative research designs and had poor scientific rigor. Samples were small, region specific and included only males. Data analyses were limited to descriptive methods. The criteria for cannabis use in most of the reviewed studies were not rigorous and prone to biases. Conclusion & Implications With changing attitudes and loosening of restrictions on cannabis use, the prevalence of new users is rising dramatically particularly in the college going population. This presents a strong need for research on motivations and attitudes to cannabis use and how those can influence patterns of use, and also the short- and long-term effects of use. More studies with stronger research designs (both cross sectional and longitudinal) are required for the study of cannabis use and this knowledge will be critical for managing the growing substance epidemic, generating public health solutions as well as formulating effective policy frameworks.
Chapter
Hemp has a long and complex history with humans—from an essential commodity in the Age of Exploration to widespread prohibition in the 20th century. Recent changes in perception precipitated a renewed interest in this ancient crop. Hemp provides opportunities for environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable agriculture production systems. Each type of hemp crop distinctly contributes to air, soil, and water health. The hemp-derived metabolites and the nutrient-dense grain impact human health. However, the benefits of hemp production come with challenges. Production of hemp for metabolite rapidly expanded during the last decade and quickly resulted in overproduction. The crop continues to face regulatory hurdles, which are exacerbated by industry pushing the boundaries of legality. Despite the challenges, hemp could become a key component of agriculture production around the world.
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The building and construction sector is responsible for global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Hence the use of environmental-friendly building materials is becoming increasingly important. Several studies have stated that Hempcrete is an enviro-friendly building material that reduces waste and decreases natural resources and energy use. Despite its many benefits, Hempcrete does have a few disadvantages that make it less than ideal as a building material. For instance, the porous structure of the Hempcrete decreases its mechanical performance and increases its ability to retain water. Though these issues are not so befouling as to prevent the use of Hempcrete within the construction sector altogether, they do provide substantial limitations regarding what it can be used for. Although Hemp does not increase structural strength by what we had assumed, it does exhibit structural properties like fiberglass. The paper examines the opportunities and challenges associated with using hempcrete as a building material. The paper is based on secondary sources and gives an overview of hempcrete research and identifies the gaps, thereby suggesting a further area of research.
Chapter
Historically, India has continued to produce and use Cannabis for medicinal, nutritional, spiritual-religious, and socio-cultural purposes, as documented in ancient Indian literature. Furthermore, various indigenous medicinal practices unique to India, such as the Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani, indicate wide use of Cannabis in treating various disorders. Cannabis has had a very long unbroken tradition of cultivation and application in India for ages till the present. Various parts of the plant (Cannabis sativa Linn.), such as the flowers, leaves (and the resinous matter derived from there), fruit, young twigs, and stalk/stem, are commonly used in India and other parts of the world for different purposes. This book chapter gives an overview of the broad applicability of Cannabis in India, including cultural, medicinal, agricultural, commercial, and recreational uses.
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Cannabis: The journey from medical to Intoxicant and back again
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Adverse effects associated with cannabis used for medical Problems
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Role of “Exercise” An Adjunct tool in addiction rehabilitation
Chapter
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The Cannabis plant commonly is known for its viable psychoactive substance. In India it is served in religious functions. Cannabinoids in the cannabis plant include delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), Cannabidiol (CBD), and cannabinol (CBN). THC is the primary psychoactive compound, with CBD, and it is a non-psychoactive compound. Despite of being an psychoactive compounds it has many medicinal effect, such as, treatment of various diseases and other health problem such as HIV/AIDS, glaucoma, treatment of pain, eye problem, muscle spasticity, convulsion, asthma, insomnia, hypertension, depression etc. The current studied was undertaken for phytochemical analysis, estimation of protein, and evaluation of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial activity of the studied plant against S.aureus and E.coli. Standard protocol had followed for analyzing phytochemicals. And from the result it was concluded that there are many bioactive phytochemicals present in the extracted plant. The reported phytochemicals are phenol, terpenoids, steroids, saponin, tannin, glycosides, carbohydrate and proteins. Various extract were prepared out of which protein concentration was evaluated for methanol and chloroform and was compared. The antimicrobial activity were evaluated and a recommendable zone of inhibition was seen in methanol extract.
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This paper demonstrates that cannabis can evoke “peak-experiences”—the name psychologist Abraham Maslow gave to fleeting moments of expanded perception indicative of self-transcendence—when used alongside more traditional religious practices such as meditation, fasting, contemplative prayer, and sacramental ritual. For that reason, religious seekers around the globe have deployed cannabis as a deliberate psychoactive to trigger the peak-experiences that stir feelings of ecstasy, wonder, and awe and resolve the “dichotomies, polarities, and conflicts of life.” As such, peak-experiences exemplify a form of spiritual revelation that has played a pivotal role in the history of religion, and because of its ability to elicit unitive consciousness at the heart of mystical insight, cannabis has been utilized as a mild entheogen across culture and tradition for millennia.
Chapter
Cannabis sativa has been utilized for millennia, primarily as a source of a stem fiber (both the plant and the fiber termed “hemp”) and a resinous intoxicant (the plant and its drug preparations commonly termed “marijuana”), and secondarily as a source of edible seeds. In domesticating the species for these divergent purposes, humans have altered the morphology, chemistry, distribution and ecology of cultivated forms by comparison with related wild plants. Wild-growing plants appear to be either escapes from domesticated forms or the results of thousands of years of widespread genetic exchange with domesticated plants, making it impossible to determine if unaltered primeval or ancestral populations still exist. There are conflicting botanical classifications of Cannabis, including splitting it into several alleged species. The different approaches to classifying and naming plants such as Cannabis, with interbreeding domesticated and wild forms, are examined. It is recommended that Cannabis sativa be recognized as a single species, within which there is a high-THC subspecies with both domesticated and ruderal varieties, and similarly a low-THC subspecies with both domesticated and ruderal varieties. Alternative approaches to the classification of Cannabis that do not utilize scientific nomenclature are noted.
Chapter
Marihuana is a crude preparation made from the leaves or fruiting tops of Cannabis sativa. The principal psychoactive ingredient in marihuana, l-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9-THC), was identified and synthesized in the 1960s.
Chapter
Millions of years ago, humanoid creatures descended from the trees in Africa. These first men stood erect, their eyes peering into the beyond, their hands grasping rudimentary weapons and tools, ready to bend nature to their will.
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Though some estimate that marijuana use has cost U.S. companies billions of dollars in lost productivity, the relationship between use of marijuana and job performance is far from clear. In this paper, I review studies on this topic from four different methodological perspectives and discuss models to account for their apparently contradictory findings. This discussion suggests hypotheses for future research addressing possible reasons for inconsistencies in past findings.
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Due to recent evidence of the increasing frequency of marijuana use among adolescents and young adults, and due to the many remaining research issues regarding this drug, it is appropriate to summarize some of the important data about marijuana and to suggest some directions for research and service. This article first provides a review of the history, botany, active ingredients, effects, and negative consequences of marijuana use. Next, prevention and cessation of marijuana use are discussed. Finally, this paper provides a selective examination of current issues in marijuana research. Several salient issues are highlighted including its preference among certain subgroups (high risk youth and ethnic differences), its relations with illegal behavior (marijuana use and driving, current marijuana-related legislation, and marijuana use and violence), and its recent portrayal in the media.
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Objective: The current legal, medical and diagnostic aspects of cannabis use are outlined as a resource for clinical practice. Cannabis, commonly known as marijuana, is the most widely used illicit substance in the world (Sofuoglu, et al., 2010). The public discussion about cannabis includes very diverse and polarized positions. There are large advocacy groups who see the use of cannabis as a sacred herb, a criminal activity, a harmless recreation, a medical treatment, or a harmful addiction that may even be a gateway to more dangerous drugs. This module will update clinical staff on the key issues related to cannabis use.
Book
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Cannabis, one of humanity’s first domesticated plants, has been utilized for spiritual, therapeutic, recreational, and even punitive reasons for thousands of years. Humans have excellent practical knowledge of Cannabis uses, yet limited understanding of its sociocultural consequences, past or present due to its widespread prohibition. In Cannabis, Chris Duvall explores the cultural history and geography of humanity’s most widely distributed crop, which supplies both hemp and marijuana. This book provides a global view of the plant, with coverage of little-studied regions including Africa and Australia. This book focuses on the plant’s currently most valuable product, the psychoactive drug marijuana. Cannabis also covers the history of hemp and its use as a fiber source for ropes and textiles; as a source of edible hempseeds; and as a source of industrial oil for paints and fuel. This book does not advocate either the prohibition or legalisation of the drug but challenges received wisdom on both sides of the debate. Cannabis explores and analyses a wide range of sources to provide a better understanding of its current prohibition, as well as of the diversity of human–Cannabis relationships across the globe. This, the author argues, is necessary to redress the oversimplistic portrayals of marijuana and hemp that dominate discourse on the subject, and ultimately to improve how the crop is managed worldwide. This highly accessible, richly illustrated volume is an essential read given rapidly evolving debates about prohibition, and in light of changes in the legality of marijuana in Uruguay, some U.S. states, and other jurisdictions worldwide.