Global Perspectives: Cannabis Use Across Cultures and Eras

Cannabis has been used for various purposes across different cultures and eras, from religious ceremonies to medicinal treatments. In ancient India, cannabis was used in rituals and as a sacred substance in the form of bhang. In medieval Islamic culture, hashish was widely used for its psychoactive effects, despite varying degrees of acceptance. Indigenous cultures in Africa and the Americas also incorporated cannabis into their spiritual and healing practices. As cannabis legalization spreads globally, these historical and cultural uses provide valuable insights into how the plant might be integrated into modern society. Understanding the diverse ways in which cannabis has been utilized across the world helps in appreciating its potential as a tool for healing, spirituality, and recreation in the contemporary era.