28) On the trail of Cannabis

Complete History of Cannabis: From the First Traces to the Present Day

1. Ancient Origins

First Archaeological Traces

The earliest known traces of cannabis use date back around 10,000 years to the Neolithic era in Central Asia, in regions that correspond to present-day Mongolia and southern Siberia. Archaeological evidence suggests that cannabis was used for its fibers.

Chinese Civilization

In China, cannabis was cultivated as early as 4,000 BCE for its fiber and medicinal properties. TheShennong Bencao Jing, A Chinese medical text dating back to around 2700 BCE mentions cannabis as a medicinal plant. Shen Nong, the legendary Chinese emperor and father of medicine, used cannabis to treat various illnesses.

2. Expansion in Asia and the Middle East

India

In India, cannabis has a long history of religious and medicinal use. TheVedas, Hindu sacred texts dating from 2000 to 1400 BCE mention cannabis as one of the five sacred plants. Used in the form ofbhang, Cannabis was used in rituals to honor the god Shiva.

Middle East

Around 1000 BCE, cannabis spread to the Middle East, particularly through the Scythians, a nomadic people who used the plant for its psychotropic effects and fibers. Herodotus, a 5th-century BCE Greek historian, wrote about the Scythians using cannabis seeds in purification rituals.

3. Broadcast in Europe and Africa

Europe

Cannabis was introduced to Europe as early as the beginning of our era. The Germans and Celts used the plant to make ropes and textiles. Cannabis seeds have been found in archaeological sites in Germany dating back to this time.

Africa

Cannabis was probably introduced to Africa by Arab traders. In East Africa, the Bantu used cannabis for its medicinal and psychoactive properties..

4. Egyptian Pyramids

Traces of cannabis have been found in Egyptian tombs, including those of Ramesses II (died 1213 BC), showing that the ancient Egyptians were aware of and used cannabis. Although cannabis is not native to Egypt, it is likely that it was introduced via trade routes.

5. The Middle Ages and the Renaissance

Islam and Cannabis

In the Middle East, cannabis continued to be used for its medicinal properties. Muslim scholars, such as Avicenna, documented its beneficial effects. Cannabis, often consumed in the form ofhashish, was popular despite religious debates.

Medieval Europe

In Europe, cannabis was primarily cultivated for its fibers, which were essential for the production of ropes and textiles. Medieval herbalists also used cannabis to treat various ailments.

6. The Modern Era

Colonization and Global Expansion

In the 15th and 16th centuries, cannabis spread around the world thanks to great explorations. The Spanish introduced hemp to South America, and the British began cultivating hemp in North America to support their navy.

19th Century

In the 19th century, cannabis was commonly used in Western medicine for its analgesic and sedative properties. However, in the early 20th century, prohibition movements began, particularly in the United States.

7. The 20th and 21st Century

Prohibition and Controversy

LeMarijuana Tax Act of 1937 marked the beginning of the worldwide prohibition of cannabis. This period was characterized by strong stigmatization and repressive policies.

Rehabilitation and Legal Reforms

Since the 1990s, a wave of legal reforms has emerged, with California legalizing medical cannabis in 1996. Many countries and states have followed, recognizing the medicinal benefits of cannabis and legalizing its recreational use in some areas.

Conclusion

The history of cannabis is long and complex, stretching back millennia and spanning many cultures and civilizations. From early traces in Central Asia to modern legal reforms, cannabis has played a crucial role in the evolution of medicine, spirituality, and industry. Today, the rehabilitation of cannabis and the recognition of its many therapeutic benefits mark a new era for this ancient and revered plant.