Ayurvedic Cannabis, , means to consume cannabis according to the preventive or curative formulations specified in the Ayurvedic texts of India.
The Ayurveda doesn’t just mention the therapeutic properties of cannabis but also the different ways of its preparation and consumption for particular symptoms.
To cite some examples:
- Madnanand Modak is a peculiar type of tonic with aphrodisiac action.
- Kamashwar Modak is a formulation to cure asthma, cough, piles, indigestion, and debility.
- Grahani Shardool aims to cure diarrhoea, dysentery, and fever.
Ayurvedic Cannabis simply refers to using the cannabis plant to relieve the symptoms of one or more medical conditions in the formulations mentioned in the Ayurveda—the ancient Indian medical science.
Why do I need a prescription for Medical Cannabis in India?
While Ayurveda describes the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, it also warns against the side effects and misuse of the plant. Ayurveda says that even poisons, when used appropriately can become medicine. But it also says that medicine used inappropriately can turn into poison.
Ayurveda is a balance-based tradition and therefore requires that the benefits of a remedy must be supported by proper use. The stronger the medicine, the more drastically it can affect the body. Cannabis is a very strong medicinal plant and that is why it needs to be managed carefully.
Cannabis is a Schedule-E1 drug that is regulated by the Excise Department and the Ministry of AYUSH. Though its medical use is allowed in India, it requires a valid prescription from a certified doctor.
Cannabis is included in the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia (Part 1, Volume 1, National Institute of Drug Abuse) and can be used for medicinal purposes with a valid ayurvedic prescription for conditions such as:
- Insomnia
- Indigestion
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Acute Diarrhoea
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
What diseases can Ayurvedic Cannabis help with?
Cannabis has a presence in more than 80 traditional Ayurvedic formulas, that are effective for diseases such as pain, digestive disorders, and dysentery. Different parts of the cannabis plant act as analgesics, nervous system stimulants, sedatives, diuretics, spasmolytics, and aphrodisiacs.
Ayurvedic Cannabis, therefore, helps with:
- Pain & Inflammation
- High Blood Pressure
- Glaucoma
- Mental Illnesses
- Digestive Disorders
- Gout and Arthritis
- Fever & Infections
- Hard Tumours
- Sexual Dysfunction
- Kidney & Bladder Problems
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases
- Cough, Bronchitis, and Asthma
- Piles, Diarrhoea, and Indigestion
- Excessive Gastrointestinal Activity
- Skin Burns and Infections (e.g. Eczema, Chickenpox)
These are just some of the many, many health problems that Ayurvedic Cannabis can help cure or manage. According to the formulas in the text, cannabis can be used in combination with other ayurvedic herbs for the desired effect.
Where to get an Ayurvedic Cannabis prescription in India?
It is always best to have a practising and certified Ayurvedic doctor sign off a prescription for Ayurvedic Cannabis. Ideally, India has abundant capable Ayurvedic doctors. However, if you’re still unable to find an ayurvedic doctor in your vicinity, you can use online medical consultations such as CannabisDoctors to schedule an audio or video medical consultation with a certified Ayurvedic doctor from India and receive a valid prescription.
Featured Read: How to Get a Medical Cannabis Prescription in India
