2. CBD Oil- The Hindu-10-10-2022

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CONTEXT :
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a chemical in the Cannabis sativa plant, also known as cannabis or hemp. One specific form of CBD is approved as a drug in the U.S. for seizures.

Over 80 chemicals, known as cannabinoids, have been found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the most famous ingredient in cannabis. But CBD is obtained from hemp, a form of the Cannabis sativa plant that only contains small amounts of THC. CBD seems to have effects on some chemicals in the brain, but these are different than the effects of THC.

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, epilepsy, chronic headaches, anxiety, depression, drug addiction and other neurological conditions.
Is CBD oil legal in India?
The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, of 1985 (NDPS Act) outlaws the recreational use of cannabis. However, The NDPS Act, 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.
The use of cannabis as a medicine is not very prevalent in India.
The bottom line here is that, more research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of CBD oil in humans although several studies suggest that it can be helpful for managing a range of conditions.