These days, there are diverse opinions rising regarding the legalization of CBD oil in India after recent controversy rose after the alleged suicide of an actor.

What is CBD oil?

• CBD oil is an extract from the cannabis plant.
• The two main active substances in it are cannabidiol or CBD and delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC.
• The high that is caused by the consumption of cannabis is due to THC.
• CBD, however, does not cause a “high” or any form of intoxication.
• CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant, then diluting it with a carrier oil like coconut or hemp seed oil.

What are the effects of Cannabidiol?

• Cannabidiol has effects on the brain, preventing the breakdown of a chemical that aggravates the pain and affects mood, and mental function. It can reduce pain and anxiety.
• It also reduces psychotic symptoms associated with conditions such as schizophrenia as well as epilepsy.

Is it legal in India?

• The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act) outlaws the recreational use of cannabis.
• The NDPS Act, however, does not apply to the leaves and seeds of cannabis plants. In case the CBD is extracted from the leaves of the cannabis, then technically it is not illegal.
• CBD oil manufactured under a licence issued by the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 can be legally used.
• However, the use of cannabis as a medicine is not much prevalent in India.

Now try this PYQ:

Q. Widespread resistance of malarial parasite to drugs like chloroquine has prompted attempts to develop a malarial vaccine to combat malaria. Why is it difficult to develop an effective malaria vaccine?

A) Malaria is caused by several species of Plasmodium

B) Man does not develop immunity to malaria during natural infection

C) Vaccines can be developed only against bacteria

D) Man is only an intermediate host and not the definitive host

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now