Welcome to the world of Cannabidiol (CBD), a therapeutic derivative of the cannabis plant, making waves in India’s health and wellness scene. If you’re thinking about marijuana or hemp, commonly known as ganja, it’s time to set aside the stereotypes and dig into a more medicinal and legal side of cannabis that’s gaining rapid popularity across the country.
CBD is a natural remedy that’s been growing in acceptance, particularly as people seek alternative treatments for pain, anxiety, insomnia, and inflammation. Administered in various forms—such as oils, tinctures, or capsules—CBD is completely legal under Indian law when used for medical purposes. In fact, there are now more than 20 CBD-focused medicine manufacturers in India, with notable names like Bombay Hemp Company, Awshad, and Indian Hemp Organics (IHO) leading the charge.
The Rise of CBD: Medicine and Wellness
“With more people seeking natural remedies for conditions like pain, anxiety, and insomnia, the demand for safe, effective CBD products is on the rise,” explains Richa, co-founder of Awshad, one of the leading players in the sector. Her company, along with others in the space, is making significant strides in educating the public on the benefits of cannabis-based therapies.
Richa’s personal journey into the world of cannabis-based wellness began when she watched her beloved dog, Champ, struggle with cancer. “Witnessing his pain inspired me to explore plant-based wellness,” Richa recalls. This experience led to the founding of Awshad in 2021, a company focused on producing high-quality CBD-based products.
The Healing Power of CBD
CBD is known for its therapeutic properties. It’s used in the treatment of pain, anxiety, insomnia, and inflammation. There are different formulations available, including full-spectrum CBD, which contains all compounds of the cannabis plant, broad-spectrum CBD, and CBD isolate, which is the purest form with only CBD.
These CBD products are subject to strict regulations. The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Prevention) Act (NDPS) of 1985 remains a significant part of India’s cannabis regulation, though CBD products are specifically exempted from its prohibitions. CBD products, including those marketed by companies like Awshad, are classified as Schedule E-1 drugs and are strictly monitored by government bodies, such as the Ministry of AYUSH and state excise departments. Cannabis is cultivated on government-approved farms in states like Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh, ensuring that only top-quality, regulated products make it to the market.
Cannabis in Indian Culture: A Historic Perspective
It’s important to note that cannabis has long been a part of Indian culture and social life. From mythological references to its use in traditional medicine and during festivals like Holi and Shivaratri, cannabis has deep cultural roots in India. However, with the NDPS Act of 1985, cannabis was regulated heavily, following global pressure—especially from the United States during the Reagan era—to crack down on illicit drug trafficking.
Despite this, cannabis continues to be a natural healer and has found its way back into the mainstream as a legitimate and regulated therapeutic product.
Global Trends: Legalization and Growing Acceptance
The demand for cannabis-based products isn’t limited to India. Countries around the world are increasingly moving toward legalization. Nations like Canada, Thailand, and several US states have either fully legalized or decriminalized recreational and medicinal cannabis. In Europe, several countries have relaxed their cannabis laws, further contributing to the growing global acceptance of cannabis products.
In India, discussions about the legalization of recreational cannabis have started to gain traction. An expert committee in Himachal Pradesh even recommended legalizing cannabis to boost revenue and create jobs. The Indian government is also exploring the possibility of introducing legal cannabis frameworks, with discussions ongoing about the future of cannabis in the country.
The Road Ahead: A Green Future
As awareness about CBD’s therapeutic benefits grows, so does its availability. The increasing number of CBD-based product manufacturers is a testament to this shift. Companies like Awshad are leading the charge in educating consumers about the health benefits of cannabis, advocating for its role in the wellness industry.
Looking ahead, the potential for cannabis to be integrated into mainstream healthcare in India is immense. With regulations tightening and public awareness increasing, CBD products may soon be a household staple for those seeking natural remedies for a variety of health conditions.
As more people experience the benefits of CBD and the industry expands, it seems clear that the future of cannabis in India is not just about traditional uses or recreational consumption—it’s about its growing role as a legitimate medicine that’s both healing and legal.
Key Takeaways:
- CBD is a legal and medicinal product derived from cannabis, growing in popularity in India for its therapeutic uses.
- The industry is regulated by the Ministry of AYUSH and state excise departments, with cannabis cultivated on government-approved farms.
- Cannabis has deep cultural roots in India but was regulated heavily after the NDPS Act of 1985.
- Globally, countries are legalizing cannabis for medical and recreational use, and India is exploring similar options.
