Specific terpenes found in cannabis and their potential advantages have been acknowledged by numerous cultures throughout history. The necessity to utilize traditional wisdom and knowledge in formulating policies and practices to tackle health disparities is also recognized by the Declaration of Astana. TCP-based practices not only stem from thousands of years of traditional knowledge but are also centered around and driven by the community. A high risk of bias was not indicated, as participants were randomly selected using a computer-generated schedule, adherence to the intervention was monitored throughout the study, and missing data were identified and considered in the analysis. Participants in five of the studies were from either inpatient or outpatient substance use treatment programs — while two focused on specific reservation communities; one study targeted inmates, another homeless individuals, and one focused on college students. To evaluate quality, the NIH Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies was utilized to assess the cross-sectional studies. Fourteen items are included in this list for evaluating quality criteria, with quality scores assigned according to how adequately each criterion is addressed in the study. Nevertheless, the historical record lacks sufficient detail to determine if the references to cannabis for wind-withdrawal in the seventh century were related to epilepsy or seizures, or if the interpretation was mainly confined to mental illness and/or erratic behavior.
The chosen texts were arranged in chronological order based on dynasty — and various monographs on cannabis from bencao texts across different historical periods were examined. For analysis, representative bencao texts were chosen, including significant bencao texts from various dynastic eras, thematic texts focused on specialized subjects, and regional texts addressing specific geographic areas , Zhao and Chen, 2014,. A systematic review was conducted on pre-modern Chinese materia medica texts — known as bencao, to explore the historical uses of different parts of the cannabis plant. In more central areas of China, archaeological findings reveal a wealth of evidence for hemp fiber, but scant evidence for drug cannabis, indicating that the historical separation of fiber and drug biotypes likely occurred early on , Clarke and Merlin, 2013,. Conversely (numerous Chinese publications investigating historical aspects of cannabis speciation within Chinese medicine across various dynasties have typically employed a polytypic nomenclature approach that primarily distinguishes the genus into two species based on their chemotype), describing varieties aimed at fiber and seed production as C. Since the distinction between drug and fiber cannabis varieties is predominantly driven by genetics, the historical and geographical distribution of various cannabis biotypes in China has likely shaped their applications in traditional Chinese medicine.
Since prehistoric times, humans have used natural products, such as plants, animals, microorganisms, and marine organisms, in medicines to alleviate and treat diseases. Traditional African healing practices and the use of cannabis are deeply intertwined in many cultures across the continent (though the specifics vary greatly depending on the region), community, and spiritual practices. Yoga and acupuncture are also examples of traditional healing practices that have been successfully used to address chronic health issues. For centuries across countries, people have turned to traditional healers, home remedies and ancient medicinal knowledge to address their health and well-being needs.
Historical Use of Cannabis by Indigenous Cultures
Studies were included if they made reference to traditional medicine, or if they noted specific traditional medicine interventions or practitioners , i.e., sweat lodge, traditional healers, etc.,. No limits were put on the type of research conducted, whether qualitative, Haze strain origins and characteristics quantitative, commentary, or otherwise given the specific nature of the topic and the assumed limited studies available for review. Considering the paucity of accessible information on traditional Indigenous medicine (in addition to the lack of cohesive understanding on what traditional healing is within the Western context), the purpose of this present study is– When Canadian Indigenous communities were asked about the challenges currently facing their communities, 82.6% stated that the most common issue was alcohol and drug abuse and that traditional medicine itself is a critically important part of Indigenous health , including in the support of addictions.
Hashish’s Emergence in the Middle East
In other words (herbs have become commonplace in American households and other developed countries to support a healthy), active lifestyle. Yet, very few of us are aware of the history and origins of the herbs we rely on today. It is crucial to respect and recognize the rights, customs, and practices of indigenous peoples in relation to cannabis and ensure that their voices are heard and their rights are protected.
Approval for this study was granted by the Institutional Review Board. By combining ancient healing practices with contemporary medical science, a more holistic and patient-centered healthcare approach can be developed, addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of individuals and communities. For instance, drug delivery systems utilizing nanoparticles can specifically target cancer cells, reducing side effects while enhancing therapeutic results.
How significant is Cannabis in the history of traditional medicine?
With time (those natural products have undergone interesting and meaningful developments in their ability to interact with numerous), varied biological targets, and some have become the most important drugs in health care system 14,22,23. Considering their incomparable chemical diversity and novel mechanisms of action, natural products have continued to play a pivotal role in many drug development and research programs. That is especially true in the case of antihypertensives — where about 64% of newly-synthesized drugs have their origins in natural product structures . In that 22-year time frame, drugs derived from natural products have been significant. During the period between 1981 and 2002, the application of natural products in the development of new drugs—especially in the search for novel chemical structures—showed conspicuous success.
Systems of belief and cultural contexts
Marijuana was frequently used by indigenous peoples to address digestive health issues. Moreover, cannabis addressed conditions such as skin infections, joint inflammation, and inflammatory bowel diseases. Traditional healers and shamans have harnessed the medicinal properties of cannabis to alleviate pain — reduce inflammation, and address digestive disorders. The consumption of bhang is believed to bring joy, spiritual ecstasy, and a sense of divine connection.
For example, a researcher in 2003 found that plants used by curanderos , shamans, in the highlands of Mexico for the treatment of “sweet blood,” or diabetes, could be shown to successfully treat rats and humans with type 2 diabetes. A major belief of TCM is that illness results from the disruption or blockage of qi (or vital energy), which flows with blood through a network of twelve primary channels called “meridians.” Blockages are treated with acupuncture, acupressure, manipulative massage, or herbal medicines. The yin represents blood, spirit, and specific organs such as the heart, liver, and lungs, while the yang represents qi (pronounced “chee”) and organs such as the stomach, intestines, and bladder. The effectiveness of shamanic practices is difficult to study without impacting the cultures one is researching. In comparison with biomedical physicians who attempt to cure a disease, shamans strive to heal the condition. While some of these practices have been maintained only in small communities within their countries of origin — other practices remain in use as complementary and alternative healing practices in Western countries.
In addition to cultural adherence (each study was evaluated for methodological quality using the RoB 2), ROBINS-I, or NIH checklist. For example, in their 2014 study, Dickerson et al.31 talk about how the processes of making drums and learning songs were adapted to meet the needs of a multi-tribal, urban community. The structure of the TCP measures varied broadly from a rigorous delivery schedule to cross-sectional surveys asking about participation in TCP during a specific period , e.g., last 12 months,.
Conversely, countries like Canada and Uruguay have federally legalized both medical cannabis and recreational use. In some African countries like Nigeria and Egypt (cannabis use is illegal), and those caught in possession can face imprisonment or other punitive measures. In the Middle East — countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have stringent anti-cannabis laws with severe punishments, including lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines. Several countries have implemented strict laws banning cannabis use and imposing severe penalties for its possession, cultivation, or distribution. Ancient Indians were likely familiar with different strains of cannabis, although specific cultivation practices and strain differentiation from that period are not extensively documented.
Due to the relatively recent incorporation of TCPs into clinical and academic research, no standardized terminology exists to streamline literature reviews. The research team comprised four researchers, including two who are American Indian and two others with extensive experience working with AIAN populations. They also pledged to support the formulation of policies and practices that incorporate traditional knowledge and wisdom.
Natural products exhibit a vast array of multi-dimensional chemical structures, and their utility as biological function modifiers has garnered significant attention. The ongoing utilization of natural products will continue to meet the pressing demand for effective drug development — playing a crucial role in discovering treatments for human diseases, particularly critical illnesses. Increased focus on natural products in the quest for innovative drugs has risen over the past twelve years, especially when combined with new technologies like high-throughput selection. Many large pharmaceutical companies are encountering significant difficulties in creating new products. Various types of medications — including anticancer, antihypertensive, and antimigraine drugs, have derived considerable benefits from natural products. Nonetheless, natural products are crucial for new drug development and have been consistently utilized over time.
Now, turning to the more mystical aspects—cannabis has also held a prominent place in spiritual practices. This article will explore the relaxed landscape of Native American cannabis use — beginning with its historical roots that are deeply embedded in time. The use of cannabis by indigenous peoples globally emphasizes its versatility and cultural importance.
