Bhang is typically found as a ground paste, powder, or incorporated into various consumable products.
- Source: It is derived specifically from the leaves and seeds (and sometimes a minimal amount of flowers) of the Cannabis sativa plant, but strictly excludes the potent flowering tops and resin.
- Appearance/Form: The leaves are ground into a distinctive green paste using a mortar and pestle. This paste or powder is then mixed with liquids like milk or curd and various spices to create beverages such as bhang lassi or bhang thandai. It is also formed into small, peppery balls called goli or mixed into sweets (halva, laddoos).
- Active Compounds:Â Bhang contains the primary active compounds Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD), but generally in lower concentrations of THC compared to ganja or charas.
- Properties:Â In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, it is described as bitter-tasting, light, strong, hot in potency, and an appetite stimulant with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Uses and Effects
Bhang holds deep cultural and religious significance in India, where it is often consumed during festivals like Holi and Maha Shivaratri.
- Traditional/Cultural Use:Â It is considered sacred to Lord Shiva and consumed during religious festivals and social gatherings to promote relaxation, enhance mood, and aid meditation.
- Medicinal Use:Â When used in controlled, purified doses under expert supervision, it is part of Ayurvedic treatment for various ailments, including:
- Pain management (chronic pain, muscle aches, headaches)
- Digestive issues (appetite stimulation, IBS, nausea, vomiting)
- Nervous system disorders (anxiety, stress, insomnia, seizures in epilepsy/MS)
- Psychoactive Effects:Â Ingestion results in a mild euphoric or meditative state and relaxation. Effects are slow to appear (peaking around 2-3 hours after consumption) and long-lasting due to the digestive process.
- Potential Side Effects:Â Overconsumption or long-term heavy use can lead to side effects such as low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, anxiety, nausea, reduced short-term memory, and potential dependence.Â
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