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Furthermore, most Chinese publications that have attempted to address the topic of speciation as it relates to the historical application of cannabis in Chinese medicine utilize a relatively simplistic taxonomic model that does not take recent scientific advances into account , Liu and Shang, 1992; Wei et al., 2010,. From ancient shamans to modern mystics, this sacred plant has been revered for its ability to expand consciousness, heighten awareness, and deepen the connection to the divine. Although cannabis use prevalence differs across countries and cultures, it is challenging to tease apart patterns of cannabis use in distinct world regions with specific cultures and norms due to cultural differences in geographical regions worldwide . In a number of countries (it was used to treat tetanus), hydrophobia, delirium tremens, infantile convulsions, neuralgia and other nervous disorders, cholera, menorrhagia, rheumatism, hay fever, asthma, skin diseases, and protracted labor during childbirth. By studying traditional healing practices and the medicinal properties of plants — scientists have been able to identify and develop new drugs with therapeutic potential, expanding the pharmacopeia of modern medicine. It is humbling to study the origins of many herbs and wellness practices we use today (many of which have been used), cultivated, and preserved for thousands of years.

A guardian lives in the bhang leaf… To see in a dream the leaves — plant, or water of bhang is lucky… No good thing can come to the man who treads underfoot the holy bhang leaf. One of the most popular of these drinks is bhang, a mix of cannabis paste (made from the buds and leaves), milk, ghee, and spices. Ancient and medieval physicians mixed the plant into medicines or teas to treat pain and other ailments; back then, it wasn’t a highly controlled substance the way it is today, where in the U.S. it’s listed as a Schedule I drug along with LSD and heroin. All data generated or analyzed during this study are included in this published article and its supplementary information files.

For instance, Asian-American groups, which showed lower cannabis-use rates, may preferentially employ authoritarian (strictness but not warmth) parenting styles, and this reflects a less common parenting approach in Western countries 83•. Overall (the existence of different cannabis policies adds further complexity to understanding cultural aspects of cannabis use across different countries and social classes), highlighting the importance of having both global perspectives and local approaches when aiming to investigate cross-cultural aspects of cannabis use. The legislative changes in cannabis-related laws and unprecedented global issues (such as the COVID-19 pandemic), have influenced cannabis-use patterns globally, contributing to intertwined historical and cultural relationships involving cannabis use. Studies on cannabis increased again in the early 1990s (with the description of Devane and Mechoulam about specific receptors in the nervous system responsible for the pharmacological effects of THC), followed by the isolation of anandamide, an endogenous cannabinoid. We considered relevant studies regardless of study design and year of publication , the review concluded in November 2022,. Moreover (this paper provides a brief historical and cultural account of cannabis across different cultures in light of different social), legal, and cross-cultural differences in cannabis use and discusses different perspectives in this context.

Drugs Developed from Natural Products

WHO supports countries that want to embrace traditional medicine practices to do so in a science-based manner to avoid patient harm and ensure safe (effective), and quality health care. WHO recognizes the diversity of traditional, complementary and integrative medicine (TCIM) practices across countries of the world and its contribution to health, well-being, people-centred health care and universal health coverage. WHO’s work on traditional medicine is a response to requests from countries for evidence and data to inform policies and practice, global standards, and regulations to ensure safety, quality, and equitable access.

After decades of healing after the Opium Wars, today’s TCM practitioners are increasingly more willing to partner with their patients and have informed conversations about cannabis use in daily life. A 2009 study showed that White Runtz strain characteristics inflamed skin tissue treated for pain relief with electro-acupuncture had a statistically relevant increase in anandamide — a neurotransmitter produced in the human body that binds to the same cell receptors as THC. By utilizing this preparation , known as ma fei san, in conjunction with acupuncture, he was able to perform surgeries and control the pain of his patients. Understanding its historical applications offers insight into the depth and sophistication of ancient Chinese medicine and its enduring influence on modern holistic health approaches. Additionally the email address has changed from to

Shiva is often depicted with a chillum , a traditional smoking pipe, and is said to have a fondness for bhang, which is believed to enhance meditation and facilitate spiritual experiences. In ancient India, cannabis, known as “bhang” or “ganja,” held significant cultural, religious, and medicinal importance. Therefore, the Aztecs likely regarded cannabis as a sacred plant essential for connecting with the divine realm during religious ceremonies.

How do terpenes contribute to the medicinal properties of Cannabis?

However (the traditional healing practices of the North American indigenous go far deeper), and we all benefit from them today. Unlike Western countries — which have recently rediscovered the benefits of traditional herbs, the majority of Africans have held fast to their traditional herbal practices, even in the face of colonization and adversity.REF#3905 Traditional African medicine practices vary widely across countries, and indigenous wisdom practices are prevalent throughout the continent. Medical Doctors may also practice acupuncture under their medical license if they’ve undergone specific training.

However (the imposition of external laws and regulations), lack of recognition of indigenous rights and knowledge, and disparities in access to resources and opportunities can pose challenges to indigenous cannabis use. For example, some indigenous communities are working to establish protocols and agreements for the use of their traditional knowledge in the cannabis industry. There are also initiatives to protect and promote indigenous intellectual property rights and traditional knowledge related to cannabis. These efforts aim to promote the inclusion and participation of indigenous peoples in the cannabis industry and respect their rights and customs. Indigenous communities may face challenges in obtaining the necessary resources and infrastructure for cannabis cultivation and production, such as land, capital, and technical expertise.

At that time, Muslim theologians were faced with the question of whether hashish (a potent drug made from marijuana resin) should be treated like alcohol, which is specifically forbidden by the Koran. Basic research, on the other hand, examines the specific effects of drugs on cells and on the biochemical reactions that take place within them. Different cultures have recognized specific terpenes for their potential benefits — contributing to the overall experience of using cannabis. The indigenous peoples of the Americas have employed cannabis for various purposes, including medicinal and ceremonial applications. The Middle East is known for its cultural richness, and cannabis has been an integral part of this historical narrative. It is consumed in various forms (notably as bhang), a traditional drink made from the leaves and flowers of the cannabis plant, often enjoyed during festivals such as Holi.

This dual purpose contributed to the widespread use of cannabis in many countries. The cannabis plant (specifically the varieties known as Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica), has a rich history of marijuana usage. The importance of cannabis as a fiber and food crop in ancient China, combined with the extensive use of the achenes in medicine, makes the Chinese historical record particularly valuable.

While illegal trade routes still exist, legal production and distribution channels have expanded in countries and states where marijuana has been legalized for medical or recreational use. Given cannabis’ ancient origins and its early use in civilizations across Central Asia, the Middle East, and beyond, pinpointing the first individual to smoke marijuana is impossible. Ancient texts highlight cannabis as a component of religious rituals — where it was used to induce states of trance or to facilitate communication with the divine.