7 Surprising Bhang Benefits That Will Take Your Holi 2025 Celebration to the Next Level (Plus, Amazing Recipes and Side Effects)

Arey, Rang Barse, Bheege Chunarwali song ko lagao… kyunki Holi hai! With the festival of colors just around the corner, everyone in the country is buzzing with excitement. Colors, holiday fun, and pure awesomeness are on the horizon, and that inevitably brings us to a topic that's low-key controversial but at the same time gains sudden traction throughout the nation.

Yup, you guessed it right — bhaang.

Now, before your brain races ahead (because we know it just did), let’s set the record straight—this blog is purely for informative purposes. We’re all about moderation and safety while celebrating this vibrant festival.

From bhang benefits to bhang side effects (bhang khane ke fayde aur nuksan), we’ve got it all covered. Plus, we’re spilling some amazing bhang recipes that will take your Holi 2025 celebrations to the next level. Now, enough talking, let’s go!

What Is Bhang And Is It Safe & Legal To Consume It In India?
8 Surprising Bhang Benefits (Bhang Ke Fayde)
Traditional Bhang Recipes To Indulge In Holi 2025
Side Effects Of Bhang (Bhang Ke Nuksan)
Dietitian’s Recommendation
The Final Say
FAQs
References

What Is Bhang And Is It Safe & Legal To Consume It In India?

Bhang is a mixture made by drying, grinding and soaking the stem and leaves of the Cannabis sativa plant to form a ball, powder and paste that is added to food and drink. Bhang has been consumed in India for centuries. Although other parts of cannabis, such as buds, roots and seeds, are considered illegal in most parts of the country, the consumption of bhang stem and leaves are tolerated.

This can be particularly true in religious cities where food and drinks filled with bhang can be purchased from both street vendors and government-approved shops.

The Indian National Policy on Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances

states that bhang is legal and also safe, and only allows the addition of leaves and no other parts of the cannabis plant. So not only is it safe and legal, but bhang also has social and cultural acceptance. In fact, bhang is important, the necessary part of the celebrations of the Holi and Shivratri.

But before continuing, remember the word caution: moderation is required while consuming bhang in any form because overconsumption can have bad effects (bhang ke nuksan) on health, too.

Also Read: Clean Your Lungs Naturally: 8 Lung Exercises For Smokers, Tips & Lifestyle Changes

7 Surprising Bhang Benefits (Bhang Ke Fayde)

Is bhang good for health? Well, bhang has been used as a medicinal preparation in an ancient Indian medicine system. The use of bhang in Ayurveda is concentrated around the treatment of symptoms of depression and related disorders. Recent research has found other benefits of bhang, such as:

1. Prevents Nausea And Vomiting

Bhang has well-documented anti-nausea and anti-vomiting properties. This becomes particularly useful during chemotherapy treatment in cancer patients.

Tetrahydrokannabinol (THC) is the main chemical compound found in cannabis, which is responsible for bhang's anti-vomiting and nausea properties. To further combat nausea, you can also have ginger on an empty stomach, which complements the bhang benefits during Holi.

2. Reduces Pain

Bhang has an influence on the nervous system, especially the pain receptors. This explains a gentle feeling associated with bhang intoxication. This effect makes bhang a powerful painkiller for people with chronic pain conditions. The primary psychoactive compound, THC, plays a significant part in this pain inhibition by affecting the body's cannabinoid receptors that are responsible for the feeling and control of pain.

3. Prevents Muscle Cramps And Seizures

Bhang can also be used to reduce muscle cramps and seizures. For instance, research indicates that cannabis-based medication, such as bhang, is effective in reducing muscle spasms in people with multiple sclerosis (MS), a neurological disease of the brain and spinal cord and a typical cause of muscle spasms.

Moreover, cannabinoids such as CBD have proven to be effective in controlling seizures, especially where traditional treatments do not work. This renders bhang a possible therapeutic agent for persons afflicted with such ailments, though it must be taken under medical supervision.

4. Helps In Treating Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety is perhaps the most common condition for which people have used Bhang, and a preclinical study has found that bhang can be effective in the treatment of generalised anxiety disorders, panic disorders, social anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.

5. Can Protect Against Cancer

Cannabidiol's component found in bhang was used to alleviate the effects of chemotherapy, but the study also found that it can prevent cell growth and induce cell death in cellular lines of cervical cancer and has numerous anti-cancer effects that can help prevent various cancers.

6. Improves Sleep Quality

Bhang, like any other cannabis product, can enhance the quality of sleep by inhibiting stress and anxiety that are known sleep obstacles. It leads to quicker falls asleep and fewer interruptions during the night, especially in people suffering from chronic pain or PTSD. Moreover, cannabinoids in bhang can enhance the deeper stage of sleep, giving a better general satisfaction and quality of rest.

7. Reduces Inflammation

Bhang, which contains high levels of cannabinoids such as CBD and THC, is also reported to suppress inflammation by acting on the body's endocannabinoid system. The interaction modulates immune responses and eases symptoms of inflammatory diseases. The anti-inflammatory effects of bhang make it a candidate for helping to control diseases that are defined by chronic inflammation.

Also Read: 10 Proven Methods And Foods To Increase Stamina For Running With Tips For Enhancing Endurance!

Traditional Bhang Recipes To Indulge In Holi 2025

Here are some traditional bhang recipes to indulge in:

1. Healthy Bhang Thandai

Bhang Thandai Recipe, as the name suggests, is a cooling drink made specifically on the day of the stick. This healthy version of Bhang Thandai recipe uses bhang, which is an important ingredient if you want this holi effect. Wrapped up with spices and nuts, this Bhang Thandai recipe is a must try.

Ingredients

Low Fat Milk - 1 litre
Sugar Free Powder - 2 tbsp
Saffron Strands - 2
Almonds (balanced and skin removed) - ¾ cup
Poppy Seeds - 2 tbsp
Fennel Seeds - 1 tbsp
Bhang Paste - 1 tbsp
Black Pepper - 1 tsp
Cardamom - 3 to 4

Instructions

If you want to start making a recipe for Bhang Thandai, first prepare all the ingredients. Blanch almonds, peel the skin and hold aside.
Use a mixer and powder grinder with all the ingredients listed under Bhang Thandai Masala - Poppy seeds, fennel seeds, blanched almonds, whole black pepper, cardamom seeds and bhang paste in mixing into smooth powder or paste.
Bring milk and saffron to a boil in a pan. Once the milk gets to the boil, stir in Bhang Thandai Masala, sugar and stir. Mix well or use an electric hand blender to blend Thandai well.
Turn off the heat and allow Thandai to cool. Once cooled, Bhang Thandai for at least 5 to 6 hours. You can also add ice to cool it faster.

Serves Bhang Thandai during the Holi celebrations along with some snacks like Gujiya, Malpua, Dahi Bhalla.

2. Vegetable Bhang Pakora

Ah, no Holi celebration is complete without delicious pakoras!

Ingredients

Besan - 200 g
Potato - 2
Fresh Bhang Leaves - 100 g
Spinach - 100 g
Bhang Stem Powder - 10 g
Ajwain - 5 g
Fresh Green chillies - 4
Salt - To taste
Soda - 2 tsp
Mustard Seeds - 1 tsp
Whole Red Chilli - 2 nos

Instructions

Wash and cut the vegetables in long pieces,In a bowl mix all the vegetables , besan,salt and baking soda together.
After mixing all these ingredients, add the bhang paste and powders, ajwain and chopped green chili.
Add water till the dough is at a dropping consistency.
Fry the paste with the pakoras one by one in the air fryer or in hot oil in a kadhai and serve hot together with Tamarind chutney and green chutney.

Also Read: Shed Pounds Guilt-Free: 10 Healthy Sweets And Desserts For Weight Loss

Side Effects Of Bhang (Bhang Ke Nuksan)

Common side effects include:

Confusion: Difficulty in thinking clearly.
Dry Mouth: Reduced salivation, which can lead to oral discomfort and poor dental health.
Fatigue: Feeling tired or lethargic.
Anxiety: Increased anxiety levels, especially in those prone to anxiety disorders.
Mood Swings: Rapid changes in mood.
Increased Heart Rate: A faster heartbeat, which can be risky for those with cardiovascular issues.
Dizziness: Feeling unsteady or lightheaded.
Headaches: Pain in the head, often due to dehydration or other factors.

In rare cases, high doses of bhang can lead to more severe side effects such as:

Hallucinations
Paranoia
Panic Attacks
Nausea and Vomiting

To avoid these negative effects, have bhang in moderate amounts, like in those recipes which have been mentioned before.

Dietitian’s Recommendation

Holi is a festival of entertainment and encouragement, and everything that contributes to its taste is welcome. However, I would suggest that you be a little careful and limited, especially when it comes to consuming Bhang, you can avoid unfavorable incidents that can affect this pleasant festival. You can accept spiritual counseling, physical activity, nutritional support, and other factors that provide the necessary tools for permanent recovery from Bhang effects.

Dt. Lavina Chauhan

The Final Say

For centuries, Bhang has been an integral part of Indian culture and Ayurveda. Although its diverse benefits are qualified as great, it is necessary to play cautious and moderating exercise. If you want to use it for health benefits, it deserves the guidance of a renowned Ayurveda doctor. Holi Bash with Bhang may sound really great and not denying, but consuming responsibly and slightly is crucial.

FAQs

1. How long does bhang last?

Bhang’s effects typically last 3 to 6 hours, depending on dosage, metabolism, and tolerance. Since it is consumed orally, it takes 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in. The aftereffects, like drowsiness or lethargy, can linger for up to 24 hours in some individuals.

2. How does bhang affect the brain?

Bhang contains cannabinoids, which interact with the brain’s endocannabinoid system, altering perception, mood, and coordination. It can induce euphoria, relaxation, or anxiety, depending on the dose and individual response. Long-term use may impact memory, cognition, and motivation.

3. Is bhang bad for kidneys?

Moderate consumption may not harm healthy kidneys, but excessive use can lead to dehydration and toxin buildup, straining kidney function. People with kidney disease or hypertension should avoid bhang, as it can affect electrolyte balance and worsen existing conditions.

4. Who should avoid bhang?

Pregnant women, individuals with heart disease, psychiatric disorders, or low blood pressure, and those on medications affecting the nervous system should avoid bhang. It may worsen anxiety, impair judgment, or cause sudden blood pressure drops.

5. What does Ayurveda say about bhang?

Ayurveda recognises bhang as medicinal in small doses, and it is used for pain relief, digestion, and stress reduction. However, it warns against excessive use, which can aggravate Vata dosha, leading to mental fog, anxiety, and digestive issues.

6. Does bhang reduce weight?

While bhang may temporarily boost metabolism, it also increases cravings for high-calorie foods (munchies). Any weight loss effect is negligible, and long-term use can lead to poor eating habits rather than sustainable weight management.

7. Does bhang increase dopamine?

Yes, bhang stimulates dopamine release, leading to a sense of pleasure and relaxation. However, frequent use may desensitise dopamine receptors, reducing natural dopamine production over time, which can affect motivation and mood regulation.

References

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