Ancient Scriptures of Cannabis

The use of cannabis in India can be traced back to ancient texts and scriptures. One of the earliest references to cannabis can be found in the Vedas, which are a collection of ancient Indian sacred texts. The Vedas, dating back over 3,000 years, mention a plant called "soma," which some scholars believe could be a reference to cannabis. Soma was used in religious rituals and is described as a sacred and intoxicating plant.

Additionally, in the Atharva Veda, another ancient Indian text, there are references to a plant known as "bhang." Bhang is prepared from the leaves and flowers of the cannabis plant and has been used both for medicinal and recreational purposes in India for centuries. The association of cannabis with spiritual and religious practices is also evident in the use of cannabis by sadhus, ascetic holy men in India.

Some sadhus use cannabis to aid in meditation and connect with the divine, particularly in devotion to Lord Shiva.

These historical references in ancient Indian texts provide insight into the long-standing cultural and religious significance of cannabis in India. While the exact identity of the plants referred to as "soma" and "bhang" in these texts is a subject of debate among scholars, there is a strong historical connection between cannabis and Indian spirituality.