Cannabidiol (CBD) in Psychiatry: Therapeutic Potential and Challenges in the Indian Context

Abstract

Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive component of the Cannabis sativa plant, is attracting increased attention for its potential therapeutic applications across various medical fields, including psychiatry. This viewpoint explores the current evidence regarding CBD’s effectiveness and safety in treating psychiatric disorders, while also addressing the regulatory challenges and the need for further research, specifically within the Indian context. The discussion emphasizes the unique barriers faced by Indian researchers due to historical and legal factors, including colonial-era prohibition and modern regulatory ambiguity. The article discusses the pharmacological profile of CBD, its potential mechanisms of action, and the available clinical evidence for its use in conditions such as anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and other neuropsychiatric conditions. It also highlights the complexities surrounding the legal status of cannabis in India and the implications for CBD research and clinical practice.