The History of Cannabis Use. Cannabis has been woven into human culture for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence shows its use in ancient China for textiles, medicine, and ritual practices. In India, it became part of spiritual traditions and Ayurvedic healing. By the 19th century, Western physicians were experimenting with cannabis extracts for pain and sleep disorders. The 20th century brought prohibition, driven by political, social, and economic forces rather than scientific evidence. Today, the global conversation has shifted again as researchers revisit historical uses and governments reconsider outdated policies. The plant’s long, complex history reflects changing cultural values and evolving scientific understanding.
