The History of Cannabis in Medicine

Despite waves of legalization across the U.S., cannabis has a long and well-documented history as a medicinal plant, dating back thousands of years. From ancient civilizations to modern science, its therapeutic potential has been recognized across cultures, with evolving applications over time.

Ancient Beginnings: Cannabis in Early Medicine

China and India: The Earliest Records

Archaeological evidence links cannabis to ancient civilizations in China and India. In tombs within China’s Xinjiang-Uighur autonomous region, mummies were discovered alongside hemp-related artifacts—some containing intact trichomes, the resinous glands responsible for producing cannabinoids.

Ancient Chinese medical texts from the 2nd century CE describe cannabis as a remedy for nerve protection and age-related degeneration, a concept that modern science supports today. Research suggests cannabis has neuroprotective properties, which could help in treating conditions such as multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease. (Russo, 2007:1636)

Egypt: Cannabis in the Medical Papyri

The Egyptian Medical Papyri further illustrate early medicinal cannabis use. These ancient documents describe cannabis-based remedies for treating glaucoma, in the form of eye compresses, and for soothing inflamed or infected nails when applied as a poultice.

A particularly fascinating aspect of Egyptian medicine is its holistic approach—cannabis was rarely used alone but combined with other herbs to enhance its healing properties. Scholars believe it was also utilized as an anesthetic and as a cooling agent to combat fever and inflammation. (Russo, 2007:1622)

The Fall and Rise of Medical Cannabis

Cannabis in the United States: From Legal Remedy to Prohibition

For much of early American history, cannabis was legally cultivated and widely used in medicinal formulations. However, the landscape changed drastically in 1937, when the U.S. government enacted the Marihuana Tax Act, effectively criminalizing the plant.

This shift was fueled by xenophobic associations with immigrant laborers, despite hemp’s role in producing essential goods. The War on Drugs, launched by President Nixon in 1971, further intensified prohibition efforts, demonizing cannabis and stalling scientific research into its medicinal potential.

A Slow Return to Legitimacy

The first breakthrough in modern cannabis policy came in 1996, when California became the first U.S. state to legalize medical cannabis. Over the following decades, other states followed suit, leading to significant shifts in public perception and regulatory frameworks.

By 2015, the American Chemical Society (ACS) officially recognized the Cannabis Chemistry Subdivision (CANN) under its Chemical Health & Safety (CHAS) division, further legitimizing cannabis research within scientific communities. (Arora & Salm, 2021)

The Future of Cannabis in Medicine

As more U.S. politicians acknowledge the failures of the War on Drugs, efforts are underway to decriminalize cannabis and expand research into its medical benefits. Studies continue to explore its potential in treating chronic pain, epilepsy, anxiety, and neurodegenerative diseases—bringing us full circle to the ancient civilizations that first recognized its healing power.

While legal and political challenges remain, the resurgence of medical cannabis signals a renewed appreciation for its role in human health—one rooted in thousands of years of history.

References

• Arora, N. B., & von Salm, J. L. (2021). Fall 2020 Proceedings of the Cannabis Chemistry Subdivision. ACS Chemical Health & Safety, 28(2), 73-93.

• Russo, E. B. (2007). History of cannabis and its preparations in saga, science, and sobriquet. Chemistry & Biodiversity, 4(8), 1614-1648.