Cannabis has a long history in Egypt, dating back thousands of years. The plant, known as “shemshemet” in ancient Egyptian, was cultivated and used for various purposes in ancient Egyptian society.
In ancient Egypt, cannabis was primarily used for medicinal and religious purposes. The ancient Egyptians believed in the healing properties of cannabis and used it as a remedy for various ailments. They used cannabis as a treatment for pain, inflammation, and other medical conditions.
Cannabis was also used in religious ceremonies and rituals. The ancient Egyptians believed that cannabis had spiritual and magical properties, and it was often associated with the god Shu. It was used as an offering to the gods and was believed to facilitate communication with the divine.
Additionally, cannabis fibers were used for making ropes, textiles, and other materials. The plant’s strong fibers were valued for their durability and strength, and they were used in the construction of boats, clothing, and paper.
Cannabis as medicine in egypt
Ancient Egyptians did use cannabis for medicinal purposes, and it is documented in various historical texts and artifacts. They recognized its potential therapeutic properties and employed it in different remedies and treatments.
One of the most well-known ancient Egyptian medical texts is the Ebers Papyrus, which dates back to around 1550 BCE. This papyrus contains a collection of medical prescriptions and formulas, including several that involve cannabis. It suggests the use of cannabis for treating various conditions such as inflammation, pain relief, and even as an aid for childbirth.
Cannabis was often combined with other ingredients to create medicinal concoctions. For example, cannabis flowers were sometimes mixed with honey to make a topical ointment for treating sore eyes. The Ebers Papyrus also mentions using cannabis in combination with other herbs to alleviate symptoms such as fever and excessive bleeding.
While ancient Egyptians recognized the potential medical benefits of cannabis, it’s important to note that their understanding of medicine and physiology was different from modern scientific knowledge. The effectiveness and safety of ancient Egyptian cannabis-based remedies have not been scientifically validated according to contemporary standards.
In the modern context, the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes in Egypt is illegal, and there are no legal medical cannabis programs or access to cannabis-based medicines. The country maintains strict drug laws, and the possession, use, sale, and cultivation of cannabis are prohibited. It’s crucial to abide by the current laws and regulations in Egypt regarding cannabis and other substances.
