Here's an analysis of cannabis use in ancient China, based on archaeological findings:
The use of cannabis in ancient China dates back thousands of years, with archaeological evidence suggesting its presence in various contexts, including ritualistic practices, medicinal applications, and possibly as a food source. The earliest evidence comes from the Haimenkou Bronze Age site in Yunnan, dating back to 1650–400 BC, where over 800 cannabis seeds were recovered.[1] Further evidence is found in the Xinjiang region, specifically in the Yanghai Tombs, where cannabis sativa leaves, fruits, and shoots were discovered as grave goods, dating back approximately 2500 years.[2] The Jirzankal Cemetery (500 BCE) provides evidence of ritualistic use, with the discovery of wooden braziers containing cannabis traces, suggesting their use for smoking during rituals.[3]
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The Jiayi Cemetery (2400–2800 years old) revealed a unique funerary practice: 13 whole female cannabis plants were placed over a corpse, acting as a funerary shroud. This suggests the plant's significance in medicinal, ritual, or symbolic contexts.[4] During the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), traces of cannabis were found in a soldier's tomb, indicating its potential use as a staple food, medicine, or ritual component.[5]
The archaeological findings indicate that cannabis use in ancient China was multifaceted, encompassing ritualistic, medicinal, and potentially dietary purposes.
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