Bhang Powder ( Cann. leaf )

Bhang powder is a preparation made from the leaves and sometimes flowers/buds of the Cannabis sativa plant. Here’s a description:  

What it is: Bhang powder is essentially the dried parts of the cannabis plant that have been ground into a fine powder. The potency and exact composition can vary depending on which parts of the plant are used (leaves, buds) and the specific strain of cannabis.

Traditional Use: Originating in the Indian subcontinent, bhang has a long history, dating back to ancient times. It is particularly associated with Hindu traditions, rituals, and festivals like Holi and Maha Shivaratri.  

How it’s used:

• Beverages: Bhang powder is commonly mixed with milk, sugar, spices, and sometimes fruits to create traditional Indian drinks such as bhang lassi and bhang thandai.  
• Food: It can also be incorporated into various food preparations, including sweets like laddoos and halva, and savory dishes such as pakoras and chutneys.  
• Ayurvedic Medicine: In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, bhang has been used for its potential therapeutic properties, and bhang powder is available at some Ayurvedic dispensaries.  
• Other forms: Bhang can also be found in forms like bhang goli (small pills).  

Effects: Bhang contains cannabinoids, including THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, leading to various effects:  

• Psychoactive effects: THC is the primary psychoactive compound and can induce feelings of euphoria, altered perception, increased appetite, and relaxation. However, it can also cause anxiety, paranoia, and impaired coordination, especially in higher doses.
• Other potential effects: CBD is non-psychoactive and is associated with potential health benefits like pain relief, anti-inflammatory properties, and anxiety reduction. Bhang is also reported to increase appetite and may help with nausea and vomiting.  

Important Considerations:

• The effects of ingested cannabis (like bhang) tend to take longer to manifest and can be more prolonged and intense compared to inhalation.
• Excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects such as confusion, dizziness, dry mouth, increased heart rate, anxiety, and in rare cases, hallucinations or panic attacks.  
• Bhang can be addictive with regular use.  
• Its legality varies across different regions and countries in India, with some states regulating or banning its sale and consumption, while it is legal in others. Notably, bhang, made from leaves and seeds, is not banned under the NDPS Act of 1985 in India, unlike ganja (flowering tops) and charas (resin).  

In summary, bhang powder is a traditional preparation of cannabis leaves with cultural, historical, and potential therapeutic significance, primarily consumed in beverages and food, with effects stemming from its cannabinoid content. Responsible and moderate use is advised.