History of medical cannabis

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History of Medical Cannabis

The history of medical cannabis stretches back thousands of years, with its use in various cultures for a multitude of health conditions. The plant, Cannabis sativa, has been utilized for its medicinal, psychoactive, and physical properties since ancient times. This article explores the journey of medical cannabis from its ancient origins to its current status in the modern world.

Ancient Use

The use of cannabis as a medicine is believed to have begun in ancient Asia, around 5000 years ago. Ancient Chinese texts, including the Pen Ts'ao Ching, compiled by Emperor Shen Nung in 2737 BCE, mention cannabis as a treatment for rheumatism, gout, malaria, and absent-mindedness. Cannabis was also used in ancient India, where it was considered one of the five sacred plants. The Atharvaveda, a sacred text of Hinduism, describes cannabis as a source of happiness, a joy-giver, and a liberator.

Spread to the Middle East and Europe

Cannabis spread from Asia to the Middle East and then to Europe. In the Middle Ages, it was used in the Islamic world to treat epilepsy, and by the 19th century, it had made its way into Western medicine. Irish physician William Brooke O'Shaughnessy, who worked in India, introduced cannabis to Western medicine after observing its use in traditional Indian medicine. He published a comprehensive study on its therapeutic effects, particularly in easing the pain of rheumatism and convulsions.

Prohibition Era

The early 20th century marked the beginning of cannabis prohibition in many parts of the world. The 1912 Hague International Opium Convention and subsequent treaties aimed to control drug use globally, leading to the criminalization of cannabis. The United States passed the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937, effectively banning its use, including for medicinal purposes. This era saw a significant decline in the medical use of cannabis, as it became associated with recreational use and addiction.

Modern Resurgence

The late 20th century witnessed a resurgence of interest in medical cannabis. Scientific research began to uncover the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids, the active chemicals in cannabis. In the 1990s, several U.S. states legalized cannabis for medical use, challenging federal laws. This movement gained momentum globally, with countries like Canada, the Netherlands, and Israel adopting medical cannabis programs.

Current Status

Today, the legal status of medical cannabis varies by country. In some places, it is fully legal and regulated for medical use, while in others, it remains illegal or is subject to strict controls. The medical community continues to research cannabis, studying its efficacy in treating conditions such as chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and chemotherapy-induced nausea.