Get In My Face

Scientists have discovered the oldest stash of marijuana in a far outback part of China. The hidden cannabis is 2,7000 years old and it was grown for psychoactive necessities, not like fabric for clothes or food.

Approximately 789 grams of dried cannabis was buried next to a light-haired and blue-eyed Caucasian man, who was 45 years old, probably a shaman of the Gushi tribe, bear Turpan in North-West China.
Alkaline soil and dry conditions preserved the plant, which was still green, although it had lost its odour, thus allowing the scientists to carefully analyse it.
- To our knowledge, these investigations provide the oldest documentation of cannabis as a pharmacologically active agent – said doctor Ethan B. Russo, US neurologist.
Marijuana intended for the afterlife
A team of 18 scientists subjected the stash to a pelting of tests – genetic analysis and carbon dating. Scientists have also tried to separate 100 seeds found in the plant, but failed to succeed.
Marijuana had a high percentage of THC, but the sample was too old for the exact percentage to be determined.
Scientists could also not determine if the cannabis was smoked or digested, seeing how no pipes were found.
They assume that the found marijuana was intended for the afterlife, because it was found in a leather basket and a wooden bowl.
- It was common practice in burials to provide materials needed for the afterlife. No hemp or seeds were provided for fabric or food. Rather, cannabis as medicine or for visionary purposes was supplied – doctor Russo said.

Used for medicinal purposes
The tomb also included reins, a bow and arrow and a hook, which confirms the person`s high position in society.
The substance was found in two out of 500 Gushi tombs excavated so far in China, which assumes that cannabis was either limited to individuals or was used by shamans as a cure.
- It certainly does indicate that cannabis has been used by man for a variety of purposes for thousands of years – doctor Russo said.