Endemic to the steppes of Central Asia, cannabis (Cannabis sativa) – also known as ganja, weed and marijuana – was first cultivated by the ancient Chinese, according to researcher Barney Warf, adding that the history of cannabis use goes back as far as 12,000 years.
This, Warf said in a paper published in Geographical Review, makes cannabis one of humanity's oldest cultivated crops.
Contrary to how it’s being used in modern times, the ancient cultures who grew and used cannabis did so for medicinal and spiritual purposes – ancient Vikings and medieval Germans often used cannabis to relieve pain during childbirth and for toothaches.
Currently, at least several million Americans are using cannabis for medical purposes. (Related: Cannabis is a revolutionary, healing plant.)
What makes cannabis an effective medicinal plant?
Despite being used as medicine for centuries, it was only during the tail end of the 19th century that scientists and doctors identified the chemical responsible for cannabis’ healing properties: tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). A second component, cannabidiol (CBD), was identified in the 1960s.
Cannabis, according to studies, can help alleviate conditions such as the following:
- Chronic pain
- Muscle tremors
- Glaucoma
- Insomnia
- Inflammations
- Seizures
- Mood disorders
How is cannabis taken?
Cannabis is normally smoked in the form of cigarettes, which are colloquially known as “joints.” According to studies, this is considered to be one of the fastest ways to get THC and CBD into the body.
Another method is through oral consumption, which is done by consuming edibles – baked goods or candies laced with cannabis – or capsules and oils. According to experts, the effects of cannabis are stronger and last longer when taken in this manner, thereby making it one of the more efficient and practical ways to consume the herb.
Cannabis, as it turns out, can also be turned into an infusion, which can then be enjoyed as a drink.
How to make cannabis tea
Cannabis tea can be made using two different methods.
The first method involves using just the buds together with some green or black tea, while the other, uses the leaves and stems of the cannabis plant. The former results in a brew that is stronger and more intense, while the latter produces a much milder drink.
When prepared without using green or black tea, the resulting drink will instead be classified as a tisane.
Here is a basic recipe that you can try:
RECIPE: Basic Cannabis Tisane
Ingredients:
- ½ g cannabis buds/flowers
- ½ tsp organic grass-fed butter or extra virgin coconut oil
- 2 cups filtered water
- 1 tsp Manuka honey or organic coconut sugar
Directions:
- Heat the water over a medium flame.
- Grind the cannabis buds into a fine powder. Add the butter or coconut oil and mix well in a bowl.
- Continue to stir the two ingredients together, until all of the cannabis has been coated with a thin layer of butter or oil.
- Once the water is gently simmering, gently spoon in the cannabis and butter mixture.
- Stir the mixture for about 30 minutes or until the cannabis has been infused with the water. Do not let the mixture come to a rolling boil.
- Once sufficiently steeped, remove the mixture from the flame and let cool.
- Once the mixture has cooled, strain into individual cups or mugs. Add honey or sugar for taste.
- Serve and enjoy.
For more information regarding cannabis, visit CBDS.news.
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