What is CBD?
CBD stands for Cannabidiol. One of the two well known compounds found in the Cannabis Sativa plant. The other compound is THC, short for Tetrahydrocannabinol.
What are the uses of CBD?
Cannabis was used in ancient India for its healing properties which comes from the compounds CBD and THC.
Cannabis’ healing properties may help you with many modern ailments such as:
Is CBD legal in India?
Yes, CBD is legal in India under specific conditions.
What does the Law say about CBD?
According to the NDPS Act 1985, cannabis resin (charas) and flowering/fruiting tops (ganja) are classified as narcotic drugs. However, leaves and seeds are excluded from this definition when they are separated from the flowering tops. This is why bhang (made from cannabis leaves) is legal in many states, though it’s still regulated under state excise laws as an intoxicant.
Cannabis flower and bud are considered a narcotic (drug). However, the leaves and seeds of the cannabis plant are not considered drugs.
This makes the CBD extracted from the leaves of the cannabis plant legal. But you need to follow four conditions before you can legally buy CBD products:
- Usage – The CBD product(s) for medicinal and research purpose only.
- Ayush License – Buy from brands licensed by the Ministry of Ayush
- Check Lab Reports – The cannabis extract/product(s) don’t exceed 0.3% THC. Products that don’t exceed 0.3% THC are legal to use. Make sure to check the lab reports of the products before purchasing. .
- Get a Prescription – You must have a prescription from a medical practitioner before buying any CBD product.
Meeting these four conditions allows you to obtain CBD legally in India.
Indian Government’s stand on CBD
The Ministry of Ayush has stated that CBD is not a drug. But products containing CBD are listed in Schedule E-1 needs medical supervision.
Source – Government cautions on Cannabidiol use, says it’s not a drug – The Tribune
-2nd August 2023
Dr. N. Srikanth, Deputy Director General, CCRAS, said-
“Dried leaves of Cannabis collected from cultivated or wild source are not covered under psychotropic substance act and are legal as an ayurvedic drug. However collection and transportation of cannabis leaves is a matter of state. One can take permission and easily use it for medicinal purpose.”
Source – AYUSH experts pitched for legalization of medicinal use of Cannabis at Oja Festival
-12th August 2019
Conclusion
CBD consumption for medical reasons is legal in India. You can buy CBD products as medicine for various ailments or for research.
People use CBD products to help themselves with lifestyle ailments but remember, you need to have a prescription to buy CBD oil in India.
