Cannabis, a herb embraced by cultures across millennia, isn’t merely a recreational indulgence but a beacon of relaxation ingrained in history. From ancient rituals to modern wellness, the plant’s soothing properties have resonated through time. Journey with us as we unveil the historical depth and contemporary relevance of cannabis in fostering relaxation.
Our exploration of cannabis’s soothing potential began centuries ago. Mystic inspirations and deities like Shiva have been depicted with cannabis. Also known as Vijaya, cannabis has been used in ayurvedic medicine to relieve both physical and mental stressors on the body. Cannabis calming effects were something not just coveted in Hinduism, but in cultures and religions around the globe.
Historical Trailblazers: Cannabis as a Comfort Companion
The annals of history paint cannabis as an elixir for serenity. In the 5th century BC, Herodotus chronicled the euphoric experiences of the Scythians in steam baths infused with cannabis. This Middle Eastern tradition showcased cannabis’s ability to uplift spirits in a communal, relaxed setting. The fog of cannabis-laden steam enveloped guests, inducing a sense of euphoria and joy – an ancient precursor to modern relaxation therapies.
Meanwhile, in Ancient China, the pioneering surgeon Hua Tuo employed cannabis as an anesthetic, tranquilizing patients before surgery – an early testament to its calming potential. The Chinese word for “anesthesia”, mázui, directly traces its origins to “cannabis intoxication,” highlighting the herb’s role in soothing both body and mind.
Even in Ancient Egypt, cannabis addressed menstrual pain; formulations in the Ebers Papyri utilized its anti-inflammatory qualities, marking a historical endeavor to alleviate discomfort and promote relaxation. These same practices have been adapted today, and cannabis is now being explored as an optional treatment for soothing menstrual discomfort and endometriosis.
Cannabis Soothes Anxiety: Modern Perspectives
In today’s world, cannabis remains promising as a remedy for anxiety and mood stability. Scientific inquiry into its benefits reveals a profound potential for alleviating symptoms of anxiety and stress.
Recent research from The University of New Mexico casts a new light, suggesting that inhaled cannabis predominantly eases rather than induces anxiety, contrasting its effect of triggering paranoia in some users. This finding offers a nuanced understanding, underscoring cannabis’s potential as a relaxation aid in contemporary therapeutic practices.
There is now evidence that CBG, the parent compound of THC and CBD may help reduce paranoia and anxiety. CBG is considered a minor cannabinoid, and is often found in low concentrations in cannabis, making it more difficult to find in abundance. Thankfully, there are plant-based products available that are formulated with higher amounts of CBG, and can be easily combined with your cannabis to unlock these synergistic effects.
Embracing Cannabis for Relaxation
Though cannabis has been known to cause side effects like paranoia, it is very likely this is due to higher concentrations of THC compared to the other “entourage” compounds in the strain, and can be somewhat avoided with a few precautions. Taking the occasional tolerance break, and seeking options containing minor cannabinoids like CBG are the best ways to avoid any discomfort or adverse effects while taking cannabis.
When used in this way, cannabis has a strong propensity to relieve both physical and mental symptoms of stress. This is why it is such a popular remedy for relaxation!
Techniques for a Calmer Mind
In the same way that aromatherapy and a cozy setting can help melt away your stress, cannabis can calm your body and mind with the right company and setting, and enhance any unwinding techniques you already love.
Here are a few tips for tapping into cannabis-induced tranquility.
Build the Perfect Cuddle Puddle: Setting up a comfortable space with peaceful lighting and some easy activities can be a great way to kick back. Meditative activities like coloring or listening to music can be great ways to set the mood for your cannabis experience. Inviting a friend to join you can be an amazing way to calmly connect and enjoy together. These simple but classic elements are essential, and can be customized to your taste.
Strains Matter: Depending on what symptoms of stress you are treating, there are many products formulated for specific uses. Even when it comes to fresh grown flowers, there are now hundreds of strains to choose from. Many of which are cultivated for their calming effects.
Some strains have been bred specifically for their use treating symptoms of stress. This can be achieved via their unique profile of cannabinoids and other phytochemicals found within the plant. Some classic strains known for their relaxing effects include: Granddaddy Purple, Wedding Cake, OG Kush, and Gelato. There are also many CBD heavy strains that are more subtle but offer uplifting effects paired with strong anti-inflammatory properties. Strains like harlequin and ACDC are great options if you want something with a little extra CBD.
Spice things up for enhanced chill effects: Seeking a very specific vibe? Pairing cannabis with other ingredients and herbs can level up your relaxation experience. Many medicinal herbs complement cannabis well, as the aromatic compounds and essential oils in herbs will work synergistically with the compounds found in cannabis.
If you’re looking for a subtle but pleasing effect that pairs well with THC dominant strains, blending cannabis into herbal smoking blends is an amazing way to tie all of these tricks together and relax in your unique way. Herbs like lemon balm and lavender are common choices to blend with cannabis for relaxation. Explore Bud Love’s line of calming mixers containing CBG and experience this deep relaxation yourself!
Incorporating Cannabis into Your Wellness Journey
Whether you’re following rituals of the past, or creating new relaxing traditions, there is always something amazing to be gained in experiencing the relaxing effects of cannabis. This quintessential and calming herb will remain an icon of relaxation for decades to come – as it has left such an impression on our culture with its soothing potential.
––This article comes to you from the Bud Love team.
