Bhaang, a cannabis-infused drink, has been a part of Indian festivals for centuries, especially during Holi and Maha Shivaratri. Known for its psychoactive effects, it is often consumed in the form of bhaang thandai, a milk-based drink mixed with spices, almonds, and rose petals. In many regions, it is a symbol of joy and spirituality, with devotees offering it to Lord Shiva, who is believed to have consumed it for meditative bliss. While bhaang is often seen as a harmless cultural tradition, it carries significant health risks.
A few weeks back while on our Indore Food Trail with @WesternRoutes, we tried the bhaang thandai. A cloth banner in the middle of Indore's sarafa bazaar caught Aarati's attention and on her insistence we went looking for the Jai Shri Mahakal Bhaang Thandai Dukaan! pic.twitter.com/KsqOQlhH52
— Jayesh Paranjape (@jayeshparanjape) March 7, 2023
How Bhaang is made and consumed?
Bhaang is derived from the leaves and flowers of the cannabis plant. The preparation involves grinding the leaves into a paste, which is then mixed with milk, sugar, and traditional spices like cardamom and fennel. Apart from thandai, it is also used in bhaang lassi and bhaang pakoras. During Holi, many people gather to enjoy this intoxicating drink, enhancing the festive spirit.
The hidden risks of Bhaang consumption
Dr. Harshal Ingle MD DrNB Cardiology Interventional Cardiologist Ruby Hall Clinic Pune,"As a doctor, I often see patients who assume bhang is just a harmless festive drink. But what many don’t realize is that it can have serious effects on the heart, especially for those with underlying cardiovascular conditions. While it may be part of Holi traditions, bhang can trigger dangerous heart complications-even in young adults."
One of the lesser-known risks of bhaang consumption is its impact on heart health. Studies suggest that cannabis can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which may lead to severe cardiovascular complications. A study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) highlights that cannabis use is linked to an increased risk of heart attacks, particularly in younger individuals.
Dr. Harshal further said,"One of the first things I tell my patients is that bhang can rapidly increase heart rate. THC binds to receptors in the heart and blood vessels, activating the 'fight or flight' response. This can:
1. Increase heart rate by 20-50 beats per minute.
2. Put extra strain on the heart, especially for those with coronary artery disease (CAD).Research shows that the risk of a heart attack increases nearly fivefold within an hour of cannabis consumption. That means even one glass of bhang could be a trigger for a cardiac event."
Who should strictly avoid Bhaang?
If you have any of the following conditions, bhang is especially risky for you:
1. A history of heart attack or stroke
2. High blood pressure (hypertension)
3. Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
4. Heart failure or weak heart muscles
5. Atherosclerosis (narrowed arteries)
As much as bhang is a festive tradition, it’s important to recognize its risks, especially for heart patients. If you have any cardiovascular condition, it’s best to avoid bhang altogether. And if you’re ever unsure, speak to your cardiologist before consuming anything that could put your heart at risk. After all, celebrating Holi should be about joy, not health emergencies. Stay safe, and take care of your heart!