The plant Cannabis sativa is the source of both Bhang, hashish and hashish oil. The leaves, flowers, and twigs of the plant are crushed to produce marijuana; its concentrated resin is hashish while an extract of hashish using vegetable oil gives hashish oil. The active ingredient in Bhang is delta -9 -tetrahydrocannabinol or THC.
Bhang is preparation from the leaves and flowers (buds) of the female cannabis plant. It is consumed either as a beverage or smoked.
Marijuana
(THC) in Bhang has been found to have high affinity for the fatty structures hence in addition to the brain, Bhang has been found to affect the liver, the respiratory, reproductive, and blood cell systems.
Bhang use causes: a state of relaxation, accelerated heart beat rate, perceived slowing of time, and a sense of heightened hearing, taste, touch, and smell. These effects vary depending on the amount of drug consumed and the circumstances under which it is taken. Bhang and hashish are not thought to produce psychological dependence except when taken in large daily doses. The drug can be dangerous, however, especially when smoked before an activity requiring concentration like driving.
Although chronic effects are not yet clear, Bhang is injurious to the lungs in much the same way as tobacco.
A source of concern is its regular use by children and teenagers, because the intoxication markedly alters thinking and interferes with learning. A consensus exists among doctors and others working with children and adolescents that its use is undesirable and may interfere with psychological, and possibly physical, maturation.
Quick Facts about Bhang (Cannabis)
- Bhang (cannabis) contains more than 400 chemicals, many of which are harmful
- Bhang (Cannabis) smoke has more cancer-causing agents than cigarette smoke.
- The chemicals in Bhang smoke can remain in the body for up to a month.
- Bhang (cannabis) affects co-ordination and slows down thinking and reflexes.
- Bhang (cannabis) reduces people’s memory and affects comprehension.
- Bhang smokers often lose interest in schoolwork, sports, and other extracurricular activities
- Smoking Bhang is especially harmful for young people because their bodies are still growing.
- Bhang is psychologically addictive.