HISTORY OF CANNABIS
Cannabis has a rich and storied history that spans thousands of years. From its historical use as a medication to the near endless uses as a textile, cannabis has played a significant role in the development of various civilizations. Here we'll take a short journey through time to explore the complete history of cannabis, shedding light on its cultural, medicinal, and societal significance.
Cannabis holds a long-standing history of being used as a medicinal plant. Ancient civilizations recognized its therapeutic properties and incorporated it into their medical practices. Here are some key milestones in the historical use of cannabis as a medication:
Egypt: Cannabis was also used in ancient Egypt for its medicinal benefits. Ebers Papyrus, an Egyptian medical papyrus from around 1550 BCE, mentions cannabis as a treatment for inflammation, glaucoma, and hemorrhoids. It was also believed to have properties that could ease childbirth.
India: In ancient India, cannabis had a significant role in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. The sacred Hindu text, Atharva Veda, dating back to around 1500 BCE, mentions cannabis as a plant that "releases anxiety." Cannabis, known as "ganja" in India, was utilized for pain relief, as an anesthetic, and to treat various conditions, including epilepsy and gastrointestinal disorders.
China: In ancient China, cannabis was an integral part of traditional medicine. The Shennong Ben Cao Jing, a Chinese pharmacopoeia from around 200 CE, listed cannabis as a treatment for various ailments, including rheumatism, malaria, and constipation. The plant's seeds were used as a sedative, while its leaves were employed to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Middle East: Cannabis is deeply tied with middle eastern culture which is the epicenter of judeo-christian history. There are numerous examples of cannabis being used in ancient Jewish traditions and ceremonies. Two alters were discovered near Jerusalem that contained trace amounts of the cannabinoids THC and CBD showing a use during times of worship.
During the medieval period, cannabis was widely used in the Middle East for medicinal purposes. Avicenna, a Persian physician and philosopher, praised cannabis for its therapeutic properties in his book "The Canon of Medicine" (1025 CE). Cannabis preparations were used to alleviate pain, induce sleep, and treat various neurological disorders.
19th Century Western Medicine: Cannabis found its way into Western medicine during the 19th century. Doctors in Europe and the United States prescribed cannabis extracts for treating conditions such as migraines, pain, and even mental illnesses like depression and epilepsy. Queen Victoria of England herself was reportedly prescribed cannabis for menstrual cramps.
From its early cultivation in ancient civilizations to its integration into traditional medical practices, cannabis has served as a valuable therapeutic resource for countless generations. While its legal and societal status has fluctuated over time, the recent reevaluation of cannabis has unveiled its potential as a modern medication. As we move forward, further research and exploration into the medicinal properties of cannabis may unlock new doors for medical advancements and patient care.