What are the benefits of Bhang
Bhang leaves have been used for various health benefits since very long time. It’s not just addiction but if taken in right dosage it offers many health benefits. In Ayurveda it is used in treating weak digestion,IBS, muscular pains and sleep problems. In this article we will dive deep into unlocking the numerous benefits of bhang .
Latin Name: Cannabis sativa
Vernacular Names:
- Hindi: Bhang
- Bengali: Sidhi, Ganja
- Tamil: Kanja, Chadumal
- Telugu: Ganjaayi
- Kannada: Bhangi, Bhangisappu
- Marathi: Bhang, Ganja
- Gujarati: Bhang
- Punjabi: Bhang
- English : Indian Hemp
Sanskrit Name:
Ganja, Ganjayika, Jaya, Vijaya, Indrasana, Bhangika, Matulani, Madani, Kinnab
Bhang Benefits & Ayurvedic Description
It is found in sub Himalayan tracts, grows in waste places. It is also found in Iraq , Iran and central Asia.
Ras ( Taste)
- Tikta (Bitter)
Veerya ( Potency)
- Ushna (Hot)
Vipaak ( Post-digestive effect)
- Katu (Pungent)
Guna ( Qualities)
- Laghu (Lightness)
- Teekshna ( Piercing)
- Vyavahi (Spreads to all body parts very fast)
Classical Categorization
Bhavprakash nighantu – Atisasara rog adhikar ( useful in diarhea ), Nasarog adhikar( useful in nasal problems)
Shodal Nighantu – There is reference of bhang
Raj Nighantu – There is a reference of therapeutic use and effects of bhang in this nighantu.
Chakradatt mentions bhang in Kushth chikitsa ( Skin diseases).
Benefits of Bhang
A potent Anti inflammatory
The non-psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, have indirect anti-inflammatory effect due to its pain relieving qualities. In addition to this the cannabinoid anti-inflammatory quality have effects on the nervous system that are related to inflammation.
Improves digestive health
One of the most well-known effects of bhang, especially higher THC strains, is an increase in appetite, or “munchies.” Cannabis has been used in some medical settings to increase appetite in patients receiving chemotherapy or other treatments.
Some patients receiving chemotherapy or other medical treatments may use cannabis to reduce nausea and vomiting. THC is one of the cannabinoids whose antiemetic (anti-nausea) qualities have been studied.
According to certain research, cannabinoids may play a part in regulating the immune system and intestinal inflammation.
Pain Relief Properties
There are several cannabinoids in cannabis, but two of the most researched are THC and CBD. Particularly THC is well-known for its psychoactive qualities and ability to influence pain perception. The cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system’s receptors, possibly helping to relieve pain. Cannabinoids may be useful in treating ailments like inflammatory bowel diseases and arthritis.
Neuro protective benefits
Antioxidant qualities that cannabinoid posses may help lessen oxidative stress in the brain. Neurodegenerative diseases are associated with oxidative stress.
According to certain research, cannabinoids may aid in the process of neurogenesis, or the growth of new nerve cells. This may be especially important when it comes to diseases that cause damage to neurons.
Stress reduction and relaxation
Mood, stress response, and relaxation are just a few of the physiological processes that the endocannabinoid system regulates. Bhang may help in inducing the feeling of calmness and relaxation. However this effect varies with individual tolerance, dosage and other factors.
However one should choose methods like pranayams( deep breathing technique) yoga poses, regular physical activity for stress reduction rather than depending on cannabis like substance.
Advantages of Bhang in Ayurveda
Pittala : Increases pitta dosha.
Grahi : Absorbent, useful in diarrhoea, IBS
Karshniya: Causes weight loss useful in obesity.
Deepaniya: helps to improve digestion strength
Ruchya : Useful in anorexia and helps to improve taste .
Madakrut : Causes intoxication.
Pachani : helps in relieving Ama from the body.
Nidrakar: Useful in inducing sleep
Kamada : increases libido
Vak Vardhini : Increases urge to speak
Chemical composition
The constituents of the bhang includes cannabinol, Telrahydro-cannabiol, Cannabidiol, Cannabichromene, i-dehydro tetrahydro acnnabinol, eugenol, sequiterpenenes, Cannabinodis etc.( Ref: illustrated dravyaguna vijnanaVol.2 by Dr J.N Shastry)
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC),is the primary psychoactive componenet of cannabis, which causes users of bhang to feel high after ingesting certain meals and drinks.
The cannabidiol (CBD), the primary ingredient believed to be responsible for the health benefits associated with bhang is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid.
Cannabidiol, Cannabinol, Cannatrichomere, iso, Cannabrispiran, dehydro Cannbispiram. Also cannbinol, tetrahydrocannabinol 1 dehyro cannabidiol and other phinolic compounds along with eugenol, guacol, amino acids c glycosy-favamaids.
How to use bhang
Bhang can be consumed in various forms, including:
- Bhang leaf powder: 125- 250 mg can be taken directly in powder form with warm water two times after meals.
- Ganja : T 60 -125 mg in divided doses per day. The trem Ganja is used to indicate female plant inflorescene containing a type of liquid.
- Charas: 30 mg in divided dosage per day. The term charas is used to indicate exudate found on leaves and branches.
- Part Used : leaves.
Home Remedies of Bhang
For relief from piles : External application and fumigation with this herb in beneficial in piles to relieve pain.
For Male sexual problems : Bhang benefits in male sexual problems such as premature ejaculation, low libido and decreased desire for sex.
In IBS : It is digestive and carminative in nature and helps to relieve abdominal cramp diarhea and malabsorption syndrome.
What are the side effects of bhang
While bhang has many benefits and is generally safe, however excess consumption may cause
- Decreased respiratory immunity: smoking bhang in form of charas or ganja has bad effect on lungs and it makes the lungs weak leading to reduced immunity.
- Increases blood pressure : A person’s heart rate and blood pressure rise after taking a cannabis based substance such as bhang.
- Anxiety & depression: The other side effects of excessive bhang use include insomnia,anxiety,paranoia, impulsive behaviour, loss of control, psychosis and lack of psychomotor co-ordination.
Pregnant or lactating women and those on medications should consult a healthcare professional before use.
Frequently asked question
1.Can this herb be used while taking homeopathic medicine ?
Yes. This herb does not react with homeopathic medicine.
2.Can this herb/medicine be continued while taking supplements like multivitamin, omega 3, spirulina ?
Yes .Generally this herb goes well with most dietary supplement. However if you are taking more than one product per day please consult your doctor for opinion.
3. With western/modern medicine
Seek your doctors advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic/modern) medicine. Some ayurvedic herbs can interact with modern medicine.
When taking ayurvedic medicine or herb with modern medicine it is best to keep one hour gap in between both the medicine.
4. How long does Bhang take to start showing result ?
It depend on any existing disease, overall health, your prakriti ( genetic make up) all these factors plays a role in how quickly Bhang shows benefits. However it is intoxicating therefore it can shows effect in hours also.
5.Can it be used in people with diabetes?
Yes. But always keep watch on your sugar levels. This herb can lower your blood sugar levels. Do not stop your diabetes medicine once you start taking this herb/medicine. Keep in touch with your ayurvedic doctor. They will guide you in this respect.
6.Are there any diet restriction( Pathya) while taking this seeds ?
No .There are no such restriction while taking this product. However if you have been advised with any specific diet based on disease, you should continue to follow it.
Ayurvedic medicine that contains Bhang
Bhang is one of the ingredient in following medicines
Pushpdhanwa Ras : It is one of the ayurvedic medicine which is used in treatment of sexual disorders such as low stamina and premature ejaculation.
Jatiphaladi churna: Useful in indigestion and respiratory conditions
Bahumutrantak Ras : This is very useful in treatment of frequent urination.
Mahajwarankush Ras : used in fever, chronic fever and intermittent fever.
Is bhang good for health
In Ayurveda it is said that there is no substance in the universe that cannot be used as medicine. Any substance can be used as medicine in right quantity and specific period of time. Because of this a lot of narcotic and poisonous substances are used in Ayurveda as medicine.
However one must also remember that though marijauna has many health benefits and it is used in Ayurvedic medicine but it should not be used as substance of recreation and addiction.
It is used in some Indian festivals but it is illegal here in India to use, possess or sell it.
Can bhang be used as painkiller
For people with chronic pain a study was conducted on 1100 people in Vancoure who were using opoids daily to get pain relief. They were given cannabis daily, it helped them to substitute illicit opoids. This proves that Bhang has pain relieving effect and can be used for pain relief . But always seek doctors advice before using this herb.
Conclusion
While bhang has long been woven into the cultural and spiritual fabric of regions like India, modern research is beginning to shed light on its potential health benefits. From pain relief and stress reduction to aiding digestion and enhancing mood, the compounds in bhang—especially cannabinoids like Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC),and Cannabidiol (CBD) offer promising therapeutic value when used responsibly. However, it’s crucial to approach its consumption with awareness of dosage, legality, and individual health conditions. As science continues to explore the medicinal properties of cannabis, bhang stands out as a traditional remedy with both historical depth and emerging relevance in holistic health.
Please consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
This Article is written by Dr. Ashutosh Tiwari B.A.M.S, PGDCR Director of Risha’s Health And Ayurvedaa Solutions.He is having more than 20 years of experience in field of Ayurvedic medicine.
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Disclaimer :The content provided here is for informational purpose only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek medical advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concern you may have regarding a medical conditions.
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