There are many beliefs associated with the Bhang Tree. It is believed that a guardian lives in the Bhang leaf. To see in a dream the plant or water or leaves of Bhang is considered lucky as it brings wealth and prosperity into the dreamer’s power. To meet someone carrying Bhang is a sure sign of success. Bhang is a popular drink made of the leaves and flowers of the Bhang tree and considered to be a “prashad” on Mahashivratri.
Cannabis in Ayurveda
Ayurveda, a sub-script of Atharvaveda, recognises cannabis plant as one of the five sacred plants in the Vedas. Ayurvedic scripts mention cannbis or marijuana as vijaya, translated from Sanskrit. Cannabis, otherwise know as ganja, bhang is well-known for its connection with Lord Shiva, is believed to have been introduced to the humankind by Lord Shiva. Citations in history write Lord Shiva, known as the lord of vijaya, once stormed off to the fields after a feud with his family. It was only then that he was enchanted by an aromatic smell, which calmed his nerves. His intriguing nature, led him to further investigation of the plant. And soon, due to the plant exhibiting properties of acting as a driver into the higher consciousness, it was also used by many great sages for their advancement in spirituality. Indian hemp, cannabis sativa, is being cultivated since then, as a source of oil and medicine, since its non-psychcoactive constituent CBD, exhibit properties of being highly nutritious and therapeutic. Vetvier, organic name of cannabis grass, is hailed for its actions of that of an antidepressant, women hormones balancer, analgesic, appetizer and many more.
The nutritional composition of Indian hemp seed is approximately 20-25% protein, 25-35% oil, 20-30% carbohydrates and 10-15% insoluble fiber. This composition, when filtered for its unwanted constituents, such as small amount of THC in it, does not only act as a cure for diseases but also as a source of raw material for manufacturing products, such as CBD oil, which has been ingested by many in a vaporizer, as it dissolves in the bloodstream, producing better effects. The cannabinoid, terpenes, in cannabis plant, is also used for it’s fragrance in the perfume industry.