The History of Cannabis
Ancient Medicinal Use
Cannabis has been recognized for its medicinal properties for thousands of years. As early as 2800 BC, it was used to address various health issues and was included in Emperor Shen Nung’s pharmacopoeia.
Origins and Early Applications
The use of cannabis began in central Asia in western China. Its healing properties have been documented for millennia, with the earliest recorded use dating back to 2800 BC. This was when it appeared in the pharmacopoeia of Emperor Shen Nung, who is considered the father of Chinese medicine. Ancient texts from Indian Hindus, Assyrians, Greeks, and Romans also mention cannabis for treating numerous health problems such as arthritis, depression, amenorrhea, inflammation, pain, lack of appetite, and asthma.
Cultural Significance
In Hindu legend, Shiva, a supreme deity, was known as ‘The Lord of Bhang’ because of his fondness for cannabis. The ancient Hindus believed that the medicinal benefits of cannabis were due to its ability to please gods like Shiva. They thought that the anger of gods caused illnesses such as fevers and sicknesses, and using cannabis in religious rituals could appease these gods and alleviate the fever.
Modern Understanding
Contemporary scientific research offers a different explanation for cannabis’s effects. For instance, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a compound found in cannabis, acts on the hypothalamus in the brain to lower body temperature and bring full relaxation to the body.
Where Did Cannabis Originate?
Cannabis originated around 12,000 years ago near the Altai Mountains in Central Asia. From there, cannabis seeds spread as nomadic peoples migrated to different regions.
The Cannabis Time Frame from BC to 20016
2800 BC: Cannabis in Ancient China
In 2800 BC, cannabis was listed in Emperor Shen Nung’s pharmacopoeia.
Cannabis in Hindu Legend
Hindu legend holds that Shiva, known as ‘The Lord of Bhang,’ was given this title because cannabis was his favourite food.
129-200 AD
Galen used cannabis for its therapeutic properties and mood enhancement.
1841: Cannabis in Western Medicine
In 1841, William Brooke O’Shaughnessy introduced cannabis to Western medicine after living in India. He documented many therapeutic uses of cannabis, including a notable case where it stopped convulsions in a child.
1898: Isolation of Cannabinol (CBN)
In 1898, Dunstan and Henry successfully isolated cannabinol (CBN), one of the active compounds in cannabis.
1936: Release of Reefer Madness
In 1936, the film Reefer Madness was released, portraying cannabis as a highly addictive drug that led to mental disorders and violence.
1937: Marijuana Tax Act
In 1937, the Marijuana Tax Act was enacted in the USA, effectively ending the medicinal and recreational use of cannabis by imposing prohibitive taxes.
1940s
Adams and Todd independently isolated cannabidiol (CBD).
1964: Isolation of THC
In 1964, Raphael Mechoulam (pictured with Dave Allsop) successfully isolated tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) from the cannabis plant.
1970
In 1970, the United States implemented the Controlled Substances Act, categorizing cannabis as a substance with ‘no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.
1988
In 1988, Howlett identified CB1 receptors in the rat brain.
1992
In 1992, Devane and Mechoulam made the discovery of anandamide.
1993
In 1993, CB2 receptors were discovered.
1995
In 1995, both Mechoulam and Sugiura independently discovered 2-AG.
1996
In 1996, California legalized medical cannabis through the introduction of the Compassionate Use Act.
1991
In 1999, researchers found that endocannabinoids activate TRPV1 receptors, which are the receptors triggered by the spicy compound in chilli peppers.
2007
In 2007, it was demonstrated that endocannabinoids activate GPR55.
2012
In 2012, it was demonstrated that CBD alleviates symptoms of schizophrenia in patients to a degree comparable to a conventional antipsychotic drug.
2016
In 2016, Australia legalized medical cannabis and its cultivation for medical purposes.
2017
In 2017, CBD was shown to reduce seizures in childhood epilepsy in a placebo-controlled trial.
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