A Plant That Connects Us
Cannabis has been part of human history for thousands of years – not just as a plant, but as a bridge between people, cultures, and generations. As stigma fades, we are rediscovering how this ancient ally was used for healing, celebration, and connection.
Global Roots of Cannabis
Africa: Healing and Spirit
In many African cultures, cannabis (often called dagga) has been used for centuries in both healing and spiritual work. Traditional healers, or sangomas, would burn cannabis to enter a meditative state, communicate with ancestors, and help patients release negative energy. Beyond medicine, cannabis was part of community rituals, storytelling circles, and coming-of-age ceremonies – an integral part of connecting generations.
Asia: Sacred Medicine
Cannabis use was documented as early as 2700 BCE in China's pharmacopoeia (Shennong Bencaojing), where it was recommended for pain relief and digestive issues. In India, cannabis (bhang) has been part of Ayurvedic medicine and is still consumed during festivals like Holi as a sacred drink dedicated to Shiva, the Hindu god of transformation.
Middle East and Europe: Ritual and Relaxation
Scythian tribes used cannabis smoke during funeral rites to purify the soul of the deceased. Greek physician Galen noted its relaxing properties, while hashish became popular in the Middle East during the Middle Ages and was associated with Sufi mysticism and poetry.
The Americas: Ceremonial and Practical
Indigenous groups burned cannabis in rituals, believing smoke carried prayers to the spirit world. By the 1800s, cannabis tinctures were common in Western pharmacies for ailments like headaches and cramps.
Wisdom That Endures
Traditional societies didn't just use cannabis casually – they integrated it as a tool for connection:
- Healing the body: pain relief, better sleep, improved digestion.
- Healing the mind: easing anxiety, grounding the spirit, enhancing mindfulness.
- Healing the soul: deepening ritual practices and strengthening ties to nature.
This perspective is re-emerging in today's wellness world, where cannabis is celebrated not as a vice but as a partner in holistic living. Research on the endocannabinoid system shows how cannabinoids help regulate mood, sleep, and pain, confirming what traditional healers already knew: cannabis restores balance.
Honouring the Past, Shaping the Future
Prohibition nearly erased this heritage, but education and responsible use are bringing cannabis back into mainstream wellness. By sharing knowledge, we honour generations past – and help the next generation see cannabis as more than just a trend, but a tool for connection and healing.
References and Recommended Reading
- Ethan B. Russo – History of Cannabis and Its Preparations (Chemistry and Biodiversity)
- A.W. Zuardi – History of Cannabis as a Medicine (Revista Brasileira de Psiquiatria)
- Project CBD: The Endocannabinoid System
- Fields of Green for All – Cannabis and African Heritage
- National Library of Medicine: Cannabis and Cannabinoids Overview
- World Health Organisation – Cannabis Fact Sheet
Disclaimer: This blog supports responsible cannabis use. The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.
Healing Generations