Benefits of Bhang
Holi is close and preparations have sprung in different parts of the country. Of all the things that Holi is about, the most important is bhang, the absence of which can leave the celebrations incomplete. So much for drinking bhang and its aftermath, what goes unnoticed is the fact that drinking bhang has several benefits. Here are some.
[Read : How to Make Bhang Lassi]
A Herb since Ages
Unlike alcohol, the after-effects of which is similar to Bhang, the latter is deep rooted in the lives of Hindus. It has been a part of the Hindu culture since 1000 B.C. Described as a stress releaser in the scriptures of ancient India, Bhang is considered a must-have on Holi. It has special reference in the Atharvaveda, which is an important scripture in India. The drink is particularly associated with Lord Shiva as per mythology, which explains the discovery of Bhang’s transcendental properties to have been made by Lord Shiva. Sufis and Sadhus have been known to use Bhang to boost meditation and achieve a transcendental phase. Sufis use the drink to attain spiritual ecstasy.
Medicinal Properties
Bhang is medically termed as Cannabis Sativa and is widely used in Ayurvedic treatments ever since the herb’s discovery by humans. The medical properties of Bhang help in releasing stress and anxiety and the herb is therefore, used as an intoxicant. It aids in inducing sleep. Besides, bhang is used in treating several ailments such as nausea, pain, vomiting, weight loss, neurologically induced spasticity etc.
If taken in the right quantity, bhang can cure fever, severe sunstroke, dysentery, phlegm etc and quicken digestion. In several parts of the country, people drink bhang before the main meal in moderate amounts as they believe that the drink not only enhances the taste of the food but also quickens and improves digestion. It is also believed to be therapeutic in lisping, speech imperfection and in healing hearing problems.
Bhang can treat many medical conditions such as multiple sclerosis, arthritis, depression etc. Moreover, it has also proven to be effective in treating skin problems.
Effects of Bhang Overdose
Having talked about the benefits of Bhang, one must not overlook the fact that the benefits of Bhang surface only if it is taken in moderate amounts. If taken in excess, bhang can pump the heart rate up, cause psychosis and blood pressure. Here are a few tips that you must keep in mind before and when consuming bhang.
• Never consume bhang on empty stomach. Munch on some food such as snacks before consuming bhang.
• Never mix bhang with alcohol.
• Keep bhang-laced drinks as well as snacks away from children.
• Avoid it completely if you suffer from heart problems, have high blood pressure or have nerve diseases.
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