The Truth About Bhang Addiction: Symptoms, Effects, and Treatment

Bhang, made from cannabis, has been a crucial element of Indian cultural practices for centuries. Its psychoactive qualities have contributed to its varied traditional uses.

Historically, bhang was used for both medicinal and recreational purposes in India, as noted in ancient texts like the Vedas. It was typically consumed in drinks or edibles.

In modern Indian culture, bhang is most notable for its use in religious and festive events, such as Holi, where it is celebrated for its spiritual significance and ability to enrich the festival experience.

What is Bhang?

Bhang is an edible paste prepared from the leaves of the Cannabis sativa plant. In India, Bhang has been consumed for thousands of years and is a common part of Hindu religious practices and festivals, especially during the festival of Holi.

Although Cannabis is considered to be illegal in most parts of India, the law permits the sale and consumption of bhang. However, the consumption of parts of the plant other than the leaves can lead to a penalty and a year in prison.

A common way in which bhang is consumed is by blending it with curd and whey to make a beverage called “bhang lassi.” It can also be used to make sweets.

For most of the people in India, Holi is incomplete without Bhang. So, we simply call it the festival of 'Rang Aur bhang' in Hindi. But there is something beyond you should know about what Bhang actually is, what it does to you, and how it can lead to an addiction. 

What Is Bhang Addiction?

Bhang addiction, stemming from prolonged use of the cannabis-based paste, can significantly impact mental and physical health. The side effects of bhang often include impaired memory, anxiety, and reduced coordination, making it crucial to recognise the early signs. Effective bhang addiction treatment, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and medication, can help individuals overcome dependency. If left untreated, bhang addiction can lead to long-term complications, highlighting the importance of timely intervention and support.

What Are the Symptoms of Bhang Addiction?

The symptoms of bhang addiction that you need to look out for in yourself or your loved one include the following:

•         Red or Bloodshot eyes
•         A constant mucus-filled cough
•         Dry mouth
•         Rapid heartbeat
•         Irritability
•         Poor memory and concentration
•         Paranoia
•         Anxiety  
•         Loss of control
•         Poor decision-making skills and coordination

What Makes Bhang (so) Addictive?

There are hundreds of chemicals present in the leaves and flowers of the cannabis plant from which bhang is made. The component that makes one “high” is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. This chemical compound is responsible for making cannabis-based products like bhang addictive.

When THC enters the bloodstream, it binds itself to the cannabinoid receptors, causing the brain to release the feel-good chemical dopamine. These feelings of pleasure and reward cause the individual to indulge in the activity again, and the individual keeps anticipating more pleasure and reward through bhang. This eventually leads to bhang addiction.

This mechanism can be seen in other normal behaviours as well, such as listening to music and being creative, but they eventually fade out. However, with THC, the association built with the pleasure of bhang can be so strong that any other recreational activity or hobby won’t be able to provide the dopamine release that the individual craves. That’s when the vicious side effects of bhang addiction can show up.

Bhang can have a number of effects on the body. Below listed are a few of them.

Bhang Side Effects: Why It’s Bad

Understanding the side effects of bhang is crucial, as they include cognitive impairments, nausea, and even psychosis in severe cases.

Common Effects of Bhang Consumption

•  Change in the perception due to a small hallucinogenic effect can create a distorted illusion of space and time.
• Change in the mood leads to feelings of low energy, euphoria, or a state of relaxation.
• Higher heart rate
• A reduction in blood pressure
• Cognitive impairment of memory and concentration  
•  Reduced psychomotor coordination
•  Feeling of nausea
•  An increase in appetite
•  Sleep issues such as Insomnia
• Psychosis

Are you looking for Bhang Addiction treatment? Call us to book an appointment with our counsellor or mental health professional.

Side Effects of Bhang Addiction on the Brain

Bhang addiction can have severe effects on brain function, impacting mental clarity and emotional well-being. Among the most concerning bhang side effects on the brain are memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and impaired decision-making abilities. Prolonged use can lead to heightened anxiety, paranoia, and even psychosis, as bhang side effects on the brain disrupt normal cognitive processes. Recognising these symptoms early is crucial, as untreated bhang side effects on the brain may result in long-term neurological damage. Seeking professional help can prevent further complications and support recovery.

Bhang Overdose Symptoms

Bhang overdose symptoms can vary but often include rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, nausea, and impaired coordination. In severe cases, individuals may experience hallucinations, anxiety, or even psychosis. Recognising bhang overdose symptoms early is critical to preventing further complications and ensuring timely treatment. If left unaddressed, these bhang overdose symptoms can lead to significant health risks, highlighting the need for medical intervention.

Effective Treatments for Bhang Addiction: How to Find Lasting Relief

The treatment for bhang addiction begins by helping and supporting the individual to cut down on consumption at a pace decided by the doctor. The addiction treatment procedure will depend on the rate of consumption, the length of time for which it was consumed, as well as any other medical and health issues that the individual might have. Effective therapies like CBT and group counselling are often used in bhang addiction treatment to ensure lasting recovery.

Medications

Generally, medication like anti-anxiety drugs is prescribed to ease the process and reduce withdrawal symptoms. Medications for Bhang addiction treatment can play a role in a successful recovery, but they cannot be used alone. The most effective substance abuse treatment programs will use drug abuse preventative medication as well as several types of counselling and therapy. Medication can make treatment more successful when combined with the right types of counselling.

Psychotherapy

• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment method that helps individuals manage their thinking patterns, essentially controlling their negative thought behaviours that may lead to drug abuse.
• Motivational enhancement therapy (MET) is often used in Bhang addiction treatment. Usually, a therapist helps the person to improve their motivation to resist the use of drugs.
• In addition to these, recovering individuals benefit from family therapy. Since family members often serve as a core support system for people once they exit a rehabilitation centre, it’s important that family members understand the recovery process of individuals so that they can serve as the best source of support.
• Group Therapy helps the person with addiction behaviour to learn and share their emotions with other peers who have similar problems.
• Individual therapy is a solution-oriented approach that focuses on helping the person maintain abstinence from drug abuse. Individual counselling is essential for success, and this should be provided several times a week.

How to Prevent Bhang Addiction Relapse

A relapse prevention plan helps maintain progress by outlining strategies to manage triggers and challenges of bhang addiction. It should include clear goals, a step-by-step action plan, and regular updates. Collaborating with a therapist to tailor the plan ensures it effectively supports ongoing recovery.

Identifying Triggers and Stressors

Recognising triggers and stressors is essential for preventing relapse. Common triggers may include specific environments, emotional states, or social situations that can provoke cravings or urge a return to old habits. Regular self-reflection and keeping a journal can help individuals identify these triggers early, allowing them to develop strategies to manage or avoid them.

Developing Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Adopting healthy coping mechanisms can significantly reduce the risk of relapse. Techniques such as mindfulness, exercise, and engaging in hobbies can provide alternative ways to handle stress and emotional challenges. Developing a strong support network and practicing stress-relief strategies can help maintain stability and resilience.

Ongoing Support and Counseling

Consistent support and counselling play a crucial role in preventing relapse. Regular sessions with a therapist or counsellor provide ongoing guidance, accountability, and encouragement. Participating in support groups and maintaining open communication with a mental health professional can help address challenges and reinforce recovery goals.

Why Choose Cadabams to Overcome Bhang Addiction?

At Cadabams Hospitals, we ensure that you get the treatment you need and deserve. Our team of psychiatrists is expert in the treatment modalities used for bhang addiction. Our multispecialty team of psychiatrists, psychologists, counsellors, and physicians work round the clock and are with you every step of the way. We offer world-class, evidence-based treatment that is fit for all stages and all types of addiction.

Cadabams is widely trusted by various healthcare experts to help addiction relief with care and love. It is a comfortable facility where individuals are treated with attention, love, care, and concern. We offer an exclusive range of solutions and treatments based on the conditions and issues an individual faces. 

To learn more about bhang addiction or have any queries, please send them to info@cadabamshospitals.com or visit Cadabam’s Hospitals. You can alternatively call us at our 24/7 helpline number- +91 97414 76476.

Disclaimer – We strive to treat our patients with dignity and the utmost sensitivity. We understand that addiction is a disease and that it is not a sign of weakness. The term alcoholic or alcoholism is used not in a derogatory fashion but to remain relevant to user search trends and common usage. In case you or your loved ones are struggling with bhang addiction and share a unique viewpoint on how we can improve this content for our readers, please reach out to us at info@cadabamshospitals.com. 

FAQs 

What are the side effects of bhang?

This prevalent belief that bhang is safe to consume is incorrect and flawed. It can cause many side effects, including a higher pulse rate, lower blood pressure, nausea, and more. To that there are specific groups that are recommended to avoid consuming bhang, like people with diabetes, heart disease, depression, allergies, weak immune systems, and more. 

Is Bhang Addictive?

Yes, bhang can be addictive. Derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, it has hallucinogenic and psychological effects. Overuse may lead to dependence and health issues. If you notice cravings or difficulty controlling its use, seek professional help for effective treatment.

How long does bhang high last?

It varies from one individual to another. In general, the effect of bhang peaks anywhere between 2 and 3 hours. And the high can last between 4 and 12 hours. 

Can bhang affect mental health?

Yes, bhang affects mental health. And if you get addicted to it, the risk of developing mental illness increases. It can be the cause of depression, anxiety, mood disorder, sleep disorder, psychosis, and other mental health problems.

Does psychotherapy help with bhang addiction?

Yes, psychotherapy is one of the recommended treatments for bhang addiction. The professional can rely on cognitive behavioural therapy, motivational enhancement therapy, individual therapy, or/and group therapy to help individuals recover from their bhang addiction and prevent relapse.