Cannabis in Chinese and Ayurvedic Medicine

Cannabis has a long history of use in both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, with distinct applications and perspectives on its therapeutic potential.

Cannabis in Chinese Medicine

In China, Cannabis sativa L. has been cultivated for millennia for fiber, food, and medicinal purposes.[1] References to cannabis appear in classical Chinese literature, including philosophical, poetic, agricultural, and medical texts.[1] The achenes (seeds) of cannabis have been used in Chinese medicine for at least 1800 years, and are still used today.[1] All parts of the cannabis plant have been recorded in historical Chinese medical texts, including the achene (seed), female inflorescence, leaf, and root, as well as the cortex of the stalk and the water used to process the stalk into fiber.[1]

The achenes (seeds), known as huomaren 火麻仁, are frequently used as a moistening laxative and are official in the Chinese Pharmacopeia (CP, 2015).[1] In contrast to Western medicine, which often focuses on the female flowering tops, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) primarily utilizes the achenes.[1] The Compendium of Materia Medica (Ben Cao Gang Mu) from the late sixteenth century, dedicates a significant amount of text to the properties and indications of the achenes.[1] The achenes are also a key ingredient in the classical formula Cannabis Seed Pill (Ma Zi Ren Wan 麻子仁丸), which is still used in modern TCM.[1]

Cannabis in Ayurvedic Medicine

Early Chinese medical literature suggests that both drug and fiber biotypes of cannabis were known in ancient times.[1] However, most classical Chinese references focus on the use of cannabis for its seeds and fiber, with few explicit references to drug effects outside of the medical literature.[1] The historical divergence of fiber and drug biotypes likely influenced its applications in Chinese medicine.[1]

In Ayurveda, cannabis is known as bhaṅgā in Sanskrit and has a long history of use.[3] It is mentioned in ancient texts like the Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Shargandhara Samhita.[3] While considered a toxic substance, it has been used in healing preparations after purification.[3]

Ayurveda classifies cannabis as a toxic substance (visha or upavisha) and recommends purification before use.[3] The ancient texts detail procedures for purification, such as boiling in Babbula (Acacia arabica) decoction or soaking in water.[3] The recommended dosage is up to 250-500 mg of powdered herb, 1-3 times per day, and it is always used as part of formulas.[3]

Ayurveda also recognizes the potential for adverse effects, including damage to the liver, reproductive system, and mental health.[3] It is said to have tamasic (dulling) and rajasic (agitating) effects on the mind.[3]

In Ayurveda, marijuana has been used mainly to treat conditions of the digestive tract and respiratory tract.[3] It has been used specifically to treat sprue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, chronic malabsorption, loss of appetite, diarrhea, nasal catarrh, fever, and also used as a general tonic.[3]

Comparison of Approaches

Modern Perspectives

Both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine have a long history of using cannabis, but their approaches differ. Chinese medicine primarily utilizes the achenes (seeds) for their laxative properties, while Ayurvedic medicine uses various parts of the plant, including leaves and fruits, for a wider range of conditions.[1] [3] Both systems emphasize the importance of preparation and purification to mitigate potential adverse effects.[1] [3]

Conclusion

Modern research has focused on the cannabinoids, particularly THC and CBD, and their therapeutic potential.[2] [1] The effects of mixing cannabis with other drugs, including alcohol, prescription medications and over-the-counter medicines, are often unpredictable.[11] The use of cannabinoids is likely to be more dangerous when taken in combination with alcohol or other drugs, particularly stimulants such as crystal methamphetamine (‘ice’)[12]

Cannabis has a rich history in both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, with distinct applications and perspectives on its therapeutic potential. While both traditions recognize the potential benefits of cannabis, they also emphasize the importance of proper preparation, dosage, and awareness of potential adverse effects. Modern research continues to explore the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids, while also highlighting the importance of responsible use and the potential risks associated with misuse.

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