What is Charas? How youth is being affected by this drug?
Charas is a type of cannabis resin, which is obtained from the flowering buds of the cannabis plant. It is a highly potent drug that is commonly used in South Asia, particularly in countries like India, Nepal, and Pakistan. Charas has been used for centuries in these countries, and it has a long history of cultural and religious significance. However, in recent years, its use has become increasingly popular among young people, and it has become a major cause for concern. In this blog, we will explore the effects of Charas on the youth and the wider society. What is Charas? Charas is a type of cannabis resin that is made from the flowering buds of the cannabis plant. It is commonly referred to as ‘hashish‘ or ‘hash’ in other parts of the world. The process of making charas involves rubbing the flowering buds between the hands to extract the resin, which is then collected and rolled into small balls or blocks. The resin contains high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive component that produces the ‘high’ associated with cannabis use. Charas is commonly smoked in a variety of ways, including in pipes, cigarettes, or through water pipes known as ‘hookahs.’ It is also sometimes mixed with tobacco or other drugs to enhance its effects. Charas is often used recreationally, but it is also used for medicinal purposes in some cultures. The cultural and religious significance of Charas: Charas has a long history of cultural and religious significance in South Asia. In India, it is often used in religious ceremonies and is associated with the worship of the Hindu god, Shiva. Charas is also seen as a symbol of social status, and its use is often associated with the wealthy and powerful. The impact of Charas on youth: The use of Charas has become increasingly popular among young people in South Asia, and it has become a major cause for concern. The use of Charas among young people has been associated with a range of negative effects, including: Health effects: Charas use has been linked to a range of health problems, including respiratory issues, cardiovascular disease, and mental health problems. The psychoactive component of charas, THC, can cause a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and psychosis. Educational and career impacts: The use of Charas can also have a significant impact on a young person’s education and career prospects. Charas use can lead to a range of negative outcomes, including poor academic performance, increased absenteeism, and lower career aspirations. Social impacts: The use of Charas can also have a significant impact on a young person’s social life. It can lead to social isolation, decreased social skills, and an increased risk of engaging in criminal behavior. Addiction: Charas is a highly addictive drug, and its use can quickly lead to addiction. Addiction can have a range of negative impacts on a young person’s life, including decreased cognitive function, decreased motivation, and increased risk of mental health problems. Process Of Making Charas: The process of making charas involves rubbing the flowering buds of the cannabis plant to extract the resin. Selecting the cannabis plant: High-quality charas is typically made from the flowering buds of female cannabis plants. The plants are usually grown in warm and humid conditions to maximize resin production. Harvesting the cannabis buds: Once the cannabis plants have reached maturity, the buds are harvested. The buds are typically harvested by hand and are carefully trimmed to remove any unwanted parts, such as stems and leaves. Rubbing the buds: The harvested buds are then rubbed between the hands to extract the resin. This process is typically done by a group of people who sit in a circle and pass the buds around, each person rubbing the buds to extract the resin. Collecting the resin: The resin that is extracted from the buds is collected and rolled into small balls or blocks. The resin is typically dark brown or black in color and has a sticky, gooey texture. Drying the resin: The collected resin is then allowed to dry. The drying process can take several days or even weeks, depending on the climate and humidity levels. Storing the charas: Once the resin has dried, it can be stored in an airtight container for later use. Charas can be smoked in a variety of ways, including in pipes, cigarettes, or through water pipes known as “hookahs.” It’s important to note that making charas is illegal in many parts of the world, including the United States and many European countries. The use and possession of charas can also lead to legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment. What in Charas Cause Addiction Charas contains a high concentration of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the primary psychoactive component of the cannabis plant. THC interacts with the brain’s reward system, producing a surge of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This surge of dopamine can create a euphoric high that users find pleasurable and reinforcing, leading to repeated use and potentially leading to addiction. Repeated use of charas can also lead to changes in the brain’s structure and function, particularly in areas involved in motivation, reward, and decision-making. These changes can make it difficult for individuals to control their use and can increase the risk of addiction. Furthermore, charas use can cause withdrawal symptoms when an individual stops using the drug. Withdrawal symptoms can include irritability, anxiety, insomnia, and a loss of appetite, which can make it difficult for users to quit the drug. It’s important to note that not everyone who uses charas will become addicted. Factors such as genetics, environment, and mental health can all play a role in an individual’s susceptibility to addiction. How Does Charas effect mental health: Charas use can have a range of effects on mental health. Here are some ways that charas can impact mental health: Mood and anxiety disorders: Charas use can cause mood swings, anxiety, and paranoia in some individuals. These effects
