The cultivation of the Vijaya plant in India dates back over 2000 years. Once integral to Indian culture, Vijaya now carries social taboos. Despite this, it remains significant in North Indian festivals. As research reveals the medicinal benefits of Vijaya and its derivatives, laws are beginning to evolve. But what are these laws? Is Vijaya legal in India? And what does the future hold for this ayurvedic herb in the country?
In this article, we delve into these questions so that you can make informed decisions about what is best for your body.
A Bit About Vijaya
The Vijaya flower, known by many names, is celebrated for its ability to heighten the senses due to a unique compound called tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. The rest of the plant, including stems, leaves, and seeds, contains another compound called CBD, which does not produce the ‘high’ sensation of THC. Both compounds offer health benefits by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), albeit in different ways.
THC influences the communication between nerve cells in the brain, affecting the psyche. Often used recreationally, THC-rich Vijaya can lead to addiction if misused. In contrast, CBD supports the ECS, helping it perform its usual functions more effectively, including regulating sleep, mood, pain, joint issues, heart problems, and more. You can explore the other benefits in our previous blog on Vijaya oil!
History of Vijaya In India
Dating back to the 10th century, Vijaya was known as ‘the food of the Gods,’ greatly influenced by Lord Shiva. Legend has it that Shiva consumed the leaves of the plant and was instantly rejuvenated. Since then, Shiva devotees have used a resin version of the plant called charas. Historically, charas has played a role in relieving battle fears among soldiers and has even been associated with the term ‘assassin’ through its use by 11th-century Persian military forces.
Vijaya is mentioned in Vedic literature, Sanskrit plays, and the Rajvallabh, with its healing properties acknowledged for both physical and mental wellness. Bhang, a drink made from Vijaya stems, leaves, and seeds, remains popular in modern India, particularly during Holi celebrations.
How Vijaya Became Illegal In India
For centuries, Indians used Vijaya until British colonization. In the 1890s, the Indian Hemp Commission studied its production, trade, and consumption effects, concluding that moderate use was “harmless.” Due to its religious significance, the British taxed Vijaya rather than banning it.
However, during the 1960s and 70s, the global drug revolution led India to align with international narcotics regulations, eventually categorizing Vijaya as an illegal substance in 1985 under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS), prohibiting its production, sale, or consumption.
Laws on Vijaya In India
Section 20 of the NDPS Act criminalizes the possession, trade, and consumption of Vijaya, with penalties including fines up to Rs. 1 lakh and imprisonment for up to 10 years, depending on the quantity.
However, there are exceptions. The central government permits the use of Vijaya for medical, scientific, industrial, and horticultural purposes. The NDPS Act differentiates between various parts of the Vijaya plant, treating products derived from leaves, stems, seeds, and fibers differently than those from its flowers.
Section 10 of the Act allows State Governments to issue licenses for cultivating Vijaya. Uttarakhand was the first state to permit commercial Vijaya cultivation, followed by Madhya Pradesh. In 2020, India’s first medical Vijaya clinic opened, sparking a wave of hemp-based startups nationwide. (Woohoo!)
The Future Of Vijaya In India
Vijaya’s side effects are generally less harmful than those of alcohol, and its medicinal side effects are fewer than traditional allopathic drugs. Vijaya protein is a nutritional superfood with significant health benefits and is FSSAI-approved as safe for consumption. As research progresses, the availability of safe Vijaya products will grow in India.
To alleviate chronic conditions, cancer treatments, and digestion issues, full-spectrum Vijaya extracts are now available in India. Companies like India Hemp Organics work to destigmatize the use of Vijaya oils and proteins, offering healing for the body and mind. For more on Vijaya oils and dietary proteins, visit our website! And remember, purchasing Vijaya oils or proteins is perfectly legal!
