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Traditional use of Medical Cannabis

From Ancient Times to Modern Developments

Cannabis, a plant with a rich and storied history, has been utilized for medicinal purposes across various civilizations throughout the ages. From ancient China to modern times, its therapeutic potential has been recognized and harnessed for a myriad of ailments. Let's delve into the historical journey of medicinal cannabis, exploring its significance in different cultures and its evolution through the centuries.

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Ancient China:
The roots of medicinal cannabis can be traced back to ancient civilizations. In ancient China, cannabis was employed for its fiber, and its Chinese name "dàmá" translates to "big hemp." The "Shennong Bencaojing," an ancient Chinese pharmacopeia dating to around 100 AD, outlined the medicinal uses of cannabis, describing its flowers, fruit, and leaves for various therapeutic purposes. Remarkably, the Chinese surgeon Hua Tuo (c. 140–208) was among the first recorded to use cannabis as an anesthetic by creating a powdered form mixed with wine for pre-surgery administration.

 

Ancient Egypt:
The Ebers Papyrus, a medical text from ancient Egypt around 1550 BC, documented the use of cannabis for medical purposes. Additional Egyptian papyri revealed its application in treating hemorrhoids and soothing sore eyes.

Ancient India:
Ancient India embraced cannabis as both a medicinal and religious aid. Texts from this era attest to its psychoactive properties and its use in treating various ailments such as insomnia, gastrointestinal disorders, and even pain during childbirth.

 

Ancient Greece:

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Cannabis's use extended to ancient Greece, where it was employed in veterinary medicine to heal wounds on horses. Its seeds were utilized to expel tapeworms, while its extracts were applied to ease inflammation and pain in the ear.

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Medieval Islamic World:

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The medieval Islamic world saw extensive usage of Cannabis sativa for medicinal purposes from the 8th to 18th centuries. Arab physicians harnessed its diuretic, antiemetic, antiepileptic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties.

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Modern History:

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As time progressed, the intrigue surrounding medicinal cannabis intensified. In the mid-19th century, its integration into Western medicine gained momentum. Cannabis found its way into various patent medicines, resulting in a myriad of formulations. Dr. William Brooke O'Shaughnessy, an Irish physician, played a pivotal role in introducing cannabis to Western medicine, conducting experiments and utilizing it to treat pain and muscle spasms.

The dawn of the 20th century witnessed a shift in focus. Researchers made a breakthrough by discovering that smoking cannabis could reduce intraocular pressure, suggesting potential benefits in treating glaucoma. Synthetic THC emerged in the 1970s as Marinol, a capsule form of the drug, offering a novel approach to administration. However, smoking persisted as a popular method due to its rapid onset of effects, making dosing and titration more manageable.

 

The 20th Century and Beyond:


In a pivotal moment, between 1996 and 1999, several U.S. states rallied behind cannabis prescriptions, defying federal policies. This highlighted the growing acknowledgment of its therapeutic potential and the shifting perception of cannabis in medical contexts.

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From its ancient roots in diverse cultures to modern scientific advancements, the history of medicinal cannabis is marked by continuous discovery and evolution. The journey spans continents and centuries, reflecting both the changing societal attitudes towards cannabis and its enduring value as a potential therapeutic agent. As we move forward, ongoing research and understanding promise to uncover even more layers of this remarkable plant's potential benefits.

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References:

 

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