Know more about the benefits of Indian Hemp

Healing Power of Indian Hemp

Botanical Description: Indian Hemp is a tall, robust, erect annual herb that grows between 1 to 5 meters in height. It usually features male and female plants in equal numbers. Its angular stems support palmately divided leaves and small greenish flowers. The plant is a source of three main products: fiber (from stems), oil (from seeds), and narcotics (from leaves and flowers).

Origin and Cultivation

Originally native to Western and Central Asia, Indian Hemp has been cultivated in Asia and Europe since ancient times, reaching China over 4,500 years ago. In India, its cultivation is strictly controlled and permitted only in select regions such as Almora, Garhwal, and Nainital (excluding Terai and Bhabar areas) in Uttar Pradesh. It is also grown in Kashmir, Travancore, and Nepal.

Constituents

The plant contains various compounds including cannabinol, pseudocannabinol, cannabinnin, cannin (a resin), and several alcohol and phenolic compounds responsible for its biological activity. The crystalline compound cannin is a key active component.

Traditional and Medicinal Use

Preparations of Indian Hemp like bhang, ganja, and charas have been used as intoxicants for centuries in Asia and Africa. Western medical texts from the 19th century even included it in their pharmacopoeias for its sedative and anodyne properties.

Types of Narcotics from Hemp

• Bhang / Hashish: Dried leaves and flowering shoots (low resin content).
• Ganja: Dried unfertilized female flowers from specially cultivated varieties.
• Charas: Crude resin obtained by rubbing the tops of the plant.

Source:

Health Benefits and Uses

1. Diarrhoea and Dysentery

Two grams of dried leaves taken with sugar and black pepper can help treat diarrhoea and dysentery.

2. Insomnia

The leaves, as well as ganja and charas, can induce deep sleep in cases where opium is not suitable.

3. Digestive Disorders

Small doses of bhang aid in digestion and act as an appetizer.

4. Nervous Disorders

Charas helps in treating migraines, neuralgia, acute mania, convulsions, and mental exhaustion. Recommended dose: 1.5 to 6 centigrams.

5. Gonorrhoea

An infusion of hemp seeds (non-narcotic) is useful, and bhang can also assist in treatment.

6. Dandruff and Head Lice

The juice of hemp leaves effectively removes dandruff and lice.

7. Skin Disorders

A paste made from fresh leaves resolves tumors. Leaf powder can dress wounds and sores. Ganja is applied externally for itch relief.

Precautions

Excessive consumption is harmful, causing mental and physical issues, including appetite loss and gastric disturbances. Hemp primarily affects the cerebrum, similar to alcohol or opium.

Other Uses

• Poison Antidote: Smoke from burning ganja is inhaled as an antidote to orpiment poisoning (arsenic mineral).
• Narcotic Use: Consumed directly or in beverages, often smoked for euphoric effects. Overuse can lead to insanity.
• Industrial Use: Seeds produce drying oil; fibers are used for rope making.