History of Cannabis

The History of Cannabis

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, has a long and complex history. The plant is believed to have originated in Central Asia and has been used for medicinal, religious, and recreational purposes for thousands of years.

Some of the earliest known evidence of cannabis use comes from ancient China, where it was used as a medicine as early as 2700 BCE. It was also used in ancient India for medicinal and religious purposes, and the plant was mentioned in early Hindu texts.

Cannabis spread throughout the world over time and was used by various cultures for different purposes. In ancient Egypt, it was used to treat glaucoma and other eye conditions. In ancient Greece, it was used as a pain reliever and to treat inflammation.

In the 19th century, cannabis was widely used in Western medicine for various ailments, including pain, inflammation, and seizures. However, by the early 20th century, its use began to be restricted and eventually banned in many countries due to concerns about its potential for abuse and negative side effects.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the medicinal properties of cannabis, and many states and countries have legalized its use for medical purposes.

Sources:

• "The History of Cannabis and Its Impact on Western Civilization" by Dr. Ethan Russo, The Journal of the International Association for Cannabis as Medicine (2004)

• "The History of Medical Marijuana" by Dr. Karen M. Tandy, National Institute on Drug Abuse (2017)

• "Cannabis in Chinese Medicine: Are Some Traditional Indications Referenced in Ancient Literature Related to Cannabinoids?" by Dr. Ethan Russo, Journal of Cannabis Therapeutics (2002)

• "Marijuana: The First 12,000 Years" by Ernest L. Abel, Plenum Press (1981)

• "Medical Marijuana: The History and Science of the Plant Medicine" by Dr. David L. Nathan, Oxford University Press (2019)