BHANGA (MARIJUANA INDIAN HEMP)

Description

Cannabis sativa is an annual herbaceous plant that typically reaches a height of 1 to 3 meters. It thrives in a variety of climates and is known to adapt to different environmental conditions. The leaves are palmate with serrated edges and are usually compound with 5 to 7 leaflets. The plant features unisexual flowers; male flowers are small and pale green, while female flowers are inconspicuous and clustered. The root system is fibrous, providing stability and nutrient uptake.

Chemical constituent:

Cannabis sativa is renowned for its diverse chemical constituents, notably cannabinoids like delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which exert various pharmacological effects. The plant also contains terpenoids, flavonoids, and alkaloids, each contributing to its distinct aroma, flavor, and potential therapeutic properties. THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects, while CBD is known for its potential medicinal benefits, including pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the plant contains fatty acids, proteins, and vitamins.

PROPERTIES

Ayurvedic:

• Rasa (Taste): Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)

• Guna (Quality): Laghu (Light), Snigdha (Unctuous)

• Virya (Potency): Ushna (Hot)

• Vipaka (Post-digestive taste): Katu (Pungent)a

• Doshaghanta (Effect on Doshas): Balances Kapha and Vata doshas.

Pharmacological Actions :

Cannabis sativa, or Bhanga, contains cannabinoids like THC and CBD, known for their psychoactive and medicinal effects. It exhibits analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, and neuroprotective properties, making it valuable in pain management, nausea relief, and neurological disorders, while also impacting mood and cognition

Benefits

1. Pain Management: Bhanga may help alleviate chronic pain conditions due to its analgesic properties. It can be beneficial for individuals suffering from conditions like arthritis, neuropathic pain, and migraines.
2. Anxiety and Stress Reduction: Some users report reduced anxiety and stress levels when using Bhanga, potentially due to its impact on the endocannabinoid system. However, individual responses can vary.
3. Nausea and Vomiting Control: Bhanga has antiemetic properties that can aid in reducing nausea and vomiting, making it beneficial for individuals undergoing chemotherapy or experiencing nausea due to various causes.
4. Appetite Stimulation: Bhanga may stimulate appetite, which can be useful for individuals with conditions causing appetite loss, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing cancer treatment.
5. Glaucoma Management: Bhanga can temporarily lower intraocular pressure, potentially offering relief for individuals with glaucoma. However, its effects are short-lived, and other treatments are often preferred.