Bhang vs. Ganja: Differences, Effects, and Health Impacts

The blog post discusses the differences between two popular intoxicants in the Indian subcontinent — Bhang and Ganja — both derived from the Cannabis plant. While both are widely consumed, their preparation, effects, and legal status vary significantly. Bhang is a mixture of dried and ground buds and leaves from the Cannabis Sativa plant. It is commonly added to food and drinks during festivals and is consumed regularly in rural areas. Bhang consumption is tolerated despite Cannabis being largely illegal in India. It’s often consumed in the form of intoxicating drinks like “bhang lassi” and “bhang goli.” Ganja, on the other hand, is a highly potent form of Cannabis prepared for smoking. It consists of dried leaves, flowers, and resin from the hemp plant. Ganja is known for its strong psychoactive effects and is commonly referred to as marijuana or weed.

Key differences between Bhang and Ganja include their preparation, with Bhang using leaves and Ganja using flowers and resin, leading to differing levels of addiction and intoxication. Ganja’s effects are quicker, while Bhang’s peak effects take longer to manifest. Both Bhang and Ganja contain CBD and THC, compounds that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, affecting functions such as learning, decision-making, and motor functions. Controlled consumption of Cannabis has been associated with health benefits like pain relief, mental health treatment, nausea alleviation in chemotherapy, and epilepsy management.

However, Cannabis also poses health risks. Bipolar disorder can worsen with consumption, regular use can lead to depression and suicidal thoughts, and some research links Cannabis to certain forms of testicular cancer. Smoking Cannabis also poses risks to lung health.