Cannabis, known as Vijaya (the one who conquers) and Siddhi (subtle power or achievement) in Ayurveda, holds a profound place in India’s cultural, spiritual, and medicinal heritage. From its mention in ancient Vedic texts to its regulated use in modern Ayurvedic formulations, cannabis has been both revered and stigmatized. The lengthy history of cannabis in Ayurveda is examined in this blog post. , , its traditional applications, legal complexities, therapeutic potential, and the evolving landscape of medical cannabis in India today.
The Historical Roots of Cannabis in Indian Culture
Cannabis has deep roots in India, interwoven with mythology, religion, and traditional medicine. The Atharva Veda, one of the four sacred Cannabis is one of the five most sacred plants, according to Hindu writings written between 2000 and 1400 BCE. It is described as a “source of happiness,” a “joy-giver,” and a “liberator.” Its leaves were said to be home to a guardian angel. emphasizing its spiritual significance.
In Hindu mythology, cannabis is closely associated with Lord Shiva, the god of transformation. One popular legend recounts how Shiva consumed bhang (a cannabis-based preparation) to rejuvenate himself after drinking a lethal poison during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean). This tale underscores cannabis’s role as a restorative herb in ancient narratives.CannaMed Vijaya Oil 1000mg 10ML
Cannabis in Ayurvedic medicine grows wild in the Himalayas, from Kashmir to Assam, and is cultivated in India’s tropical and subtropical regions. Its Latin name, Cannabis indica (later Cannabis sativa), reflects its historical use in India. By the Middle Ages, cannabis began appearing in Ayurvedic texts, such as the Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Shargandhara Samhita, where it was recognized for its medicinal properties.
Cannabis in Ayurveda: A Sacred Yet Toxic Herb
The traditional Indian “science of life,” Ayurveda, sees cannabis as a powerful but potentially toxic herb that requires careful preparation and purification before use. The Ananda Kanda, a medieval Ayurvedic text, dedicates an entire chapter to cannabis, detailing its toxicity, purification methods, cultivation, and therapeutic applications.
Ayurveda categorizes cannabis into three therapeutic parts, each with distinct effects on the body:
- Bhang: The leaves of male and female cannabis plants (sometimes including male flowers in certain regions). Bhang is the mildest form and is often consumed orally as a paste, drink (bhang lassi), or confection.
- Ganja: The flowering tops of the female plant, which are more potent and typically smoked or used in formulations.
- Charas: The resin extracted from the leaves, stems, and fruits of high-altitude cannabis plants (2000–3000 meters). Charas is the most potent and narcotic part, reserved for specific medical conditions.
According to Vijaya Vati principles, cannabis has a warming virya (energy) and can dry the body with prolonged use. It acts as a nervous system stimulant, analgesic, sedative, spasmolytic, diuretic, and aphrodisiac, but its effects depend on the part used and the accompanying herbs. However, habitual or unpurified use can disrupt the equilibrium between the three doshas (Pitta, Kapha, and Vata). leading to poor digestion, melancholy, sexual impotence, Magiccann Full spectrum Cannabis and body wasting.
Ayurvedic practitioners emphasize purification processes, such as boiling cannabis with milk or combining it with sattvic (pure, balancing) herbs like ashwagandha, brahmi, or sandalwood, to mitigate its tamasic (dulling) and rajasic (agitating) effects. Medical cannabis India is rarely used alone and is administered in minuscule doses to avoid toxicity.
Traditional Uses of Cannabis in Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, cannabis has been employed for a wide range of ailments, often in combination Using additional herbs to maximize its medicinal benefits and reduce any negative effects. Some traditional uses include:
- Pain Relief: Cannabis, particularly charas, is used for chronic pain, such as in terminal tuberculosis or cancer, due to its potent analgesic properties. Ayurvedic doctors prefer it over opium as it does not cause nausea, constipation, or loss of appetite.
- Digestive Health: When mixed with digestive herbs like cumin, fennel, or anise, bhang stimulates appetite and aids digestion. It has been used to treat gastrointestinal issues, including diarrhoea and irritable bowel syndrome.
- Neurological Disorders: Bhang juice is applied to lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma and stimulate the nervous system in the short term. Charas is used for chronic insomnia, manic states, and aroused psychiatric conditions.
- Respiratory Ailments: The Sushruta Samhita recommends cannabis extracts for respiratory issues and chronic dry coughs, such as in pertussis or lung cancer, due to its anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.
- Aphrodisiac Properties: When combined with aphrodisiac herbs like almonds, saffron, or sesame seeds, bhang enhances libido. Conversely, when mixed with tobacco, it acts as an anti-aphrodisiac, suppressing appetite and sexual drive.
- High Blood Pressure: Bhang is used temporarily to manage hypertension until other Ayurvedic measures stabilize the condition.
- Spiritual and Ritualistic Use: Cannabis India, particularly bhang, is integrated into spiritual practices to enhance meditation and promote heightened awareness. Historically, Sadhus (Hindu ascetics) used it to focus inward, aligning with its association with Lord Shiva.
In northern India, martial artists, Cannazo – Vijaya Ambrosia especially wrestlers, consume bhang with a nutrient-rich paste of almonds, pistachios, black pepper, saffron, and rose petals mixed with milk. This preparation supports prolonged concentration during training and aids in digesting large food quantities to maintain body weight.
Legal Framework for Cannabis in India
The use of Cannabis Sativa tablets is governed by a complex interplay of laws, balancing its medicinal potential with its narcotic properties.Cannabis is governed under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act), which defines it as:
Charas: Hashish oil and other resin.
- Ganja: The cannabis plant’s blooming or fruiting tops, leaving out the seeds and leaves when the tops are absent.
- Any mixture or drink prepared from the above.
Notably, cannabis leaves (bhang) and seeds are excluded from the NDPS Act’s definition of narcotic drugs, making their use in Ayurvedic medicines less restricted. However, state laws treat cannabis leaves as an intoxicant, Bilwadi Churna requiring licenses for production and commercial use, along with taxes or duties.
The 1940 Drugs and Cosmetics Act (DCA) governs the production and sale of medicines, including Ayurvedic formulations. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, which require clinical trials to establish safety and efficacy, Ayurvedic medicines containing cannabis leaves (Vijaya extracts) can be produced without trials if they adhere to traditional formulations. This makes cannabis leaves more prevalent in Ayurvedic products than in modern pharmaceuticals.
In 2024, the Ministry of AYUSH introduced stricter oversight, requiring state drug authorities to seek clearance from the central authority before approving Ayurvedic drugs containing cannabis. This aims to ensure compliance and uniformity in standards.Despite these regulations, bhang remains legally sold in government-authorized shops, especially during festivals like Holi, reflecting its cultural acceptance. Cultivation of Cannabis medicine for medical research is permitted under strict licenses, as seen in Uttarakhand and Jammu & Kashmir.
Modern Applications of Ayurvedic Cannabis
In recent years, India has witnessed a resurgence of interest in cannabis-based Ayurvedic medicines, driven by global research on cannabinoids like cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Alleviating Anxiety with an Ayurvedic Approach Ayurvedic cannabis products, primarily Vijaya leaf extracts, are full-spectrum formulations that leverage the plant’s therapeutic properties.
Therapeutic Benefits
Modern Ayurvedic cannabis medicines target a range of conditions, including:
- Chronic Pain: Studies, such as one by the Ayurvedic Sciences Central Council for Research (CCRAS) have shown cannabis leaf-based drugs alleviate pain in cancer patients post-chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
- Neurological Disorders: Cannabis is explored for epilepsy, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and anxiety, with clinical trials underway at institutions like the Tata Memorial Centre and AIIMS.
- Gastrointestinal Health: Its antiemetic and appetite-stimulating effects help manage nausea, liver disorders, and pancreatic issues.
- Mental Health: Cannabis aids in treating depression, Magiccann Canna Gummies PTSD, and fibromyalgia by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates mood and stress.
- Diabetes and Inflammation: Its anti-inflammatory properties promise to manage diabetes and arthritis.
Product Forms
Cannabis in Ayurveda medicines are available as:
- Oils and Tinctures: Administered sublingually for rapid absorption.
- Capsules and Tablets: Standardized doses for consistent effects.
- Edibles: Traditional forms like laddoos, burpees, or sabbats (sweet drinks).
Companies like Vedi Herbals and Noigra produce high-quality, vegetarian cannabis-infused products. They often use full-spectrum extracts combined with coconut or MCT oil. These products adhere to AYUSH regulations and require a valid prescription.
Challenges and Risks
Despite its potential, cannabis use in Ayurveda faces challenges:
- Toxicity: Unpurified cannabis can harm the liver, reproductive system, and nervous system, causing issues like impotence, dryness, and cognitive impairment. Ayurveda recommends nerve herbs like calamus, Brahmi, and ashwagandha to counteract these effects.
- Dosha Imbalance: Prolonged use disrupts Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, leading to chronic health issues.
- Legal Barriers: While bhang is less regulated, CBD The Potent Treatment for Arthritis ganja and charas face strict controls, limiting research and raw material availability.
- Stigma: Cannabis’s recreational use and association with intoxication create social and religious stigma, hindering its medical acceptance.
The Future of Ayurvedic Cannabis in India
The global movement toward cannabis legalization has spurred India to revisit its traditional wisdom. Government bodies like the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) are developing cannabis-based drugs for cancer, epilepsy, and sickle. India’s growing interest in Ayurvedic cannabis reflects a blend of ancient knowledge and modern science. The future looks promising with ongoing clinical trials, regulatory reforms, and increasing public awareness.
Ayurvedic cannabis offers a holistic approach to healing, balancing the body, mind, and spirit. As India navigates this evolving landscape, it must honour its heritage while embracing evidence-based innovation, ensuring that Vijaya continues conquering ailments and inspiring wellness.
FAQ
What is Ayurvedic Cannabis?
Ayurvedic Cannabis refers to the use of cannabis in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its therapeutic properties. It’s utilized in various forms like oils, tinctures, and powders for healing purposes.
How does Ayurvedic Cannabis differ from regular cannabis?
 Ayurvedic Cannabis is used with specific herbs, oils, and treatments, following ancient Ayurvedic principles. It’s focused on holistic healing and restoring balance, rather than just recreational use.
What are the benefits of Ayurvedic Cannabis?
It’s believed to help with pain management, anxiety, stress relief, insomnia, inflammation, and improving mental clarity. Ayurvedic formulations also focus on balancing the body’s energies.
 Is Ayurvedic Cannabis legal in India?
 Yes, in India, cannabis use for medicinal purposes is legal in some states, but it’s regulated. It’s essential to ensure you’re purchasing from certified, reputable sources.
Are there different types of Ayurvedic Cannabis products?
Yes, Ayurvedic Cannabis comes in various forms such as oils, tinctures, capsules, and topical creams. These products are often infused with other herbs to enhance their effectiveness.
 How should Ayurvedic Cannabis be used?
Dosage and usage depend on individual health needs and conditions. It’s advised to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized recommendations and dosage guidelines.
Are there any side effects of using Ayurvedic Cannabis?
 When used correctly and in moderation, Ayurvedic Cannabis is generally safe. However, excessive use may cause drowsiness, dry mouth, or mild dizziness. Always consult with a healthcare provider before use.