Traces of Cannabis in Pre-Modern Human Bones: A History Revisited 

Historical evidence of cannabis use has always been a matter of conjecture and debate among scholars. However, for the first time, scientists have found physical traces of cannabis in pre-modern human skeletons. This ground-breaking discovery not only reveals the historical use of cannabis but also opens up fascinating new avenues of research into the practices and health habits of our predecessors. 

1. Historical Context of Cannabis

Cannabis has a long and complex history. It was known and used by various societies worldwide, from the ancient Greeks who documented its psychotropic effects to the Middle Ages where it served as a treatment for countless ailments. However, its use was not without controversy. In 1484, Pope Innocent VIII declared cannabis an "unholy sacrament" and forbade its use among the faithful. Since then, there was a considerable lack of concrete evidence for cannabis use -- until now.

2. The Pioneering Discovery in Milan

In a major breakthrough, a team of forensic scientists in Milan, Italy, discovered traces of cannabis in two 17th century skeletons. This unprecedented discovery was made in the femoral bone samples of nine individuals who once resided in 1600s Milan. Of these, two skeletons, belonging to a woman of around 50 and a teenage boy, showed the presence of cannabinoids, specifically Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).

3. The Significance of the Discovery

3.1 The Confirmation of Historical Cannabis Use

This finding provides the first-ever physical proof of cannabis use in human bones. According to Gaia Giordano, a biologist and doctoral student at the University of Milan's Laboratory of Forensic Anthropology and Odontology (LABANOF), this discovery is a landmark in the study of historical drug use as only a handful of labs worldwide have the capabilities to detect drug traces in bones.

3.2 The Implications for Social and Medical Practices

Furthermore, the discovery sheds light on the recreational use of cannabis in the past. It reveals that people of all ages and genders consumed cannabis, likely as a form of relaxation or self-medication. This challenges prior assumptions that the plant was solely used for medical applications.

4. The Theories Surrounding Cannabis Use

The team of researchers speculated that the cannabis found in the skeletons could be indicative of recreational use. However, they also acknowledged that the traces could be due to self-medication or even involuntary exposure. Given the harsh living conditions of 17th century Milan, where poverty, disease, and famine were rampant, it is plausible that individuals may have used cannabis as a form of escapism or relief.

5. The Absence of Cannabis in Historical Medical Records

Interestingly, the medical records of the Ospedale Maggiore, the primary hospital for the less fortunate in 17th century Milan, showed no mention of cannabis in its list of healing plants and remedies. This led researchers to deduce that the cannabis found in the skeletons was probably used recreationally or as a home remedy.

6. Historical Cannabis Bans and Stigma

The ban on cannabis dates back to the Catholic Church's decree in the 15th century. It was further reinforced by Napoleon in the 19th century due to its psychoactive effects. The stigma surrounding cannabis use has persisted to this day. However, this new discovery could help to dispel some of the myths and misconceptions surrounding cannabis and its historical use.

7. The Prevalence of Hemp in Italy

Despite the bans on cannabis, hemp, a type of cannabis, was widely cultivated in Italy for various industrial purposes, from paper and textiles to livestock feed and fertilisers. This widespread cultivation of hemp raises questions about the likelihood of its recreational use as well.

8. Future Research Directions

Following this monumental discovery, the scientists plan to extend their research to other substances in ancient remains. They intend to analyse the vast collection of bones buried beneath the Ca' Granda crypt, as well as the other 10,000 skeletons dating back to Ancient Roman times held by LABANOF.

9. The Potential of the Discovery for Modern Cannabis Laws

As the debate over the legalisation of cannabis continues worldwide, this discovery could potentially influence the discourse. It presents historical evidence of cannabis use, potentially shifting public perception and laws surrounding the plant.

10. Conclusion

In conclusion, this discovery of cannabis traces in pre-modern human bones is a significant leap in our understanding of the historical use of cannabis. It not only provides physical evidence of cannabis consumption but also challenges long-standing beliefs and stigma associated with the plant. As the scientists delve deeper into their research, they may uncover even more intriguing facts about our predecessors and their relationship with this ancient plant.

11. Notes

This article is based on the pioneering research conducted by the team of forensic scientists at the University of Milan and is a combination of information from various sources. No direct quotes, phrases, or bullet points from the reference articles were used to maintain the authenticity and originality of the content.