Today, cannabis is enjoyed by over 150 million people worldwide, making it one of the most popular recreational drugs. However, the origins of cannabis use and the first joint have always been a subject of speculation. Recently, a team of archaeologists from the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing discovered physical evidence of cannabis burning for its psychoactive properties on a remote mountain plateau in Central Asia, dating back 2500 years ago.
The Evolution of Cannabis
Cannabis, also known as hemp or marijuana, evolved approximately 28 million years ago on the eastern Tibetan Plateau. It is a close relative of the common hop found in beer and still grows wild across Central Asia. Chinese farmers began cultivating cannabis over 4000 years ago for its oil, fiber, and various practical uses.
Pinpointing the First Use of Cannabis
Archaeologists have made claims of ritual cannabis burning in Central Asian sites dating back 5000 years. However, further analysis of these plant remains revealed low levels of THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, suggesting that early strains lacked mind-altering properties. The recent discovery at the Jirzankal cemetery in far western China provides the earliest solid evidence of cannabis use for psychoactive purposes.
The Jirzankal cemetery, located 3000 meters high in the Pamir Mountains, was a burial site for the Sogdians, a people who followed the Persian faith of Zoroastrianism. Excavations uncovered wooden braziers, skeletons, and artifacts confirming long-distance trade with Western Asia and China. Isotopic analysis of the skeletons revealed that nearly a third were migrants. The wooden braziers contained unusually high levels of THC, indicating that mourners inhaled THC-laced fumes during funeral ceremonies.
The Spread of Cannabis Use
The high altitude and natural stress on the cannabis plants in the region could have led to higher THC levels. It is also possible that humans selectively bred cannabis for higher THC content. The use of cannabis for psychoactive purposes was likely restricted to elites until it began to spread along the Silk Road, connecting China and Iran. Greek historian Herodotus wrote about the nomadic Scythians inhaling hemp vapors in tents, and archaeological evidence supports the idea that elites in the region used cannabis and opium.
The Significance of the Discovery
The discovery of cannabis burning in the Jirzankal cemetery provides concrete evidence of cannabis use for psychoactive purposes. It adds to the growing body of evidence that ancient civilizations along the Silk Road were involved in the trade and use of cannabis. This research opens up avenues for further exploration of ancient cannabis use, with the potential to uncover even earlier instances of its consumption.
In Conclusion
The discovery of cannabis burning in the Jirzankal cemetery sheds light on the origins of cannabis use for its psychoactive properties. It confirms that cannabis was used for mind-altering purposes 2500 years ago in Central Asia. The findings contribute to our understanding of the historical trade routes and cultural exchanges along the Silk Road. As research continues, we may uncover even earlier instances of cannabis use and its significance in ancient civilizations.
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