Sanskrit Name:Bhaṅga
Devanagari Name:भंग
English Name: Hemp
Description:
Bhanga, commonly known as Marijuana, Indian hemp, or Ganja, is an ancient medicinal herb scientifically classified as Cannabis Sativa. This plant belongs to the Cannabaceae family and is characterized as an annual herb with an erect stem that can grow between 3 to over 10 feet tall. Its stem is slightly branched and covered in greyish-green hairs.
The leaves of Bhanga are palmate and stipulate, arranged alternately on the stem. They have long petioles and are smooth, dark green, serrated, and lanceolate in shape, typically numbering between 3 to 11 leaflets. Each leaflet can grow up to 10 cm long and 1.5 cm wide, featuring acute stipules at the base and tapering ends. Additionally, there are basal leaves that are oppositely arranged, known as vegetative leaves.
The flowers of the Bhanga plant are small and unisexual. The female flowers possess a five-veined leaf encircling an ovary, which is glandular and hairy. This ovary is single-celled and contains a hanging ovule with thread-like stigmas, with the stigma extending beyond the flower itself. The male flowers have five segments that are generally separate, downy, and pale yellow in color. The fruit produced by Bhanga is small, filled with seeds, and has a brownish-grey hue.
Historically, Bhanga has been linked to ancient rituals and has been cultivated for its fibers, food, and medicinal properties. Its use as a drug dates back to Vedic times, where it was referred to as vijaya in medicinal contexts. Bhang has been utilized as an intoxicant in India since around 1000 BC and holds significant cultural importance in Hinduism. In the Artharvaveda, it is recognized as a beneficial herb for managing anxiety and is associated with the sacred Lord Shiva, often used as Prasad during the Maha Shivratri festival.
Benefits:
Bhanga, also known as Cannabis, has a long history in Ayurveda for its medicinal uses. It helps relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and treat insomnia. Bhanga is also used to manage stress, anxiety, and is considered beneficial for digestive health.
Medical Conditions(Relief):
Bhanga is used for its calming and therapeutic effects. It is traditionally used to treat conditions like anxiety, stress, and insomnia. Bhanga is also beneficial for digestive issues and is used to alleviate bloating, indigestion, and gas.
Medical Conditions(Avoid):
Bhanga should be avoided in individuals with a history of substance abuse, as it can have psychoactive effects. It should also be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
