English YouTuber Sam Pepper’s India exploration took an unexpected twist after drinking bhaang lassi in MP’s Ujjain. Bhaang lassi is a cannabis-infused drink that's traditionally enjoyed during festivals. Pepper shared a video on X explaining his experience and how he fell sick and landed up in a hospital.
1. Source and Hygiene
Always check where the food or drink is coming from. Street vendors may not always follow proper hygiene standards, and consuming food or drinks prepared in unsanitary conditions can lead to stomach infections or food poisoning. Look for places where the locals eat, as they tend to know the safest vendors.
2. Potency and Dosage
If you're trying bhang lassi, especially for the first time, start with a very small amount. Bhang can vary in potency, and the effects may not be immediate, sometimes taking 30 minutes to an hour to kick in. Overconsumption can lead to overwhelming effects, including hallucinations or severe discomfort.
3. Your Tolerance and Health
Bhang contains cannabis, which affects everyone differently. Make sure you understand your own tolerance to substances, and if you have any pre-existing health conditions (especially heart issues, anxiety, or respiratory problems), consult with a doctor before trying it. Bhang is not recommended for people with such conditions.
4. Supervision and Environment
Make sure you’re in a safe, familiar environment, and ideally, have someone trustworthy with you who is not partaking. The effects of bhang can last several hours and may cause confusion, disorientation, or heightened emotions. A friend can help you stay grounded and provide assistance if needed.
5. Risk of Contamination and Foodborne Illness
Street food, if not prepared or stored properly, can easily become contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Common side effects from consuming contaminated street food include food poisoning, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps. Always opt for vendors who maintain cleanliness and serve freshly prepared food to reduce the risk of illness.
Known for his engaging travel content, the YouTuber wanted to immerse himself in the local customs but got more than he bargained for when the drink's potent effects kicked in.
What started as a casual taste test quickly evolved into a wild, surreal experience. The YouTuber, who often shares his adventures with his millions of subscribers, described the bhang lassi as “tasty and refreshing” at first. However, within an hour, his mood and perception began to shift. He noted how his sense of time distorted, and colors seemed more vibrant.
In his vlog, he openly shared both the highs and lows of his experience. Initially, he felt euphoric and relaxed, marveling at the cultural significance of the drink. But as time went on, his calmness turned into confusion, as he struggled to keep track of his surroundings.
“I thought I’d be okay with just one cup, but I severely underestimated how strong bhang lassi could be,” he confessed, adding that the effects lasted much longer than he anticipated.
The YouTuber concluded his video with a reminder for his audience: "If you're going to try something new, especially in a different country, do your research, know your limits, and always have someone you trust around."
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