Prior to discussing the legality of CBD in Indiana, it is crucial for us to define CBD so that we are all on the same page.
What exactly is CBD?
According to the partly state-funded DRUGBANK, CBD (Cannabidiol) is one of the over 85 identified cannabinoids in the cannabis plant.
It is one of the major extracts of the Cannabis plant. (Forms about 40% of the plant’s extract)
It can also be extracted from the hemp plant.
Cannabidiol has multiple targets in the body’s endocannabinoid system. When it binds to those targets, it brings about some spectacular benefits.
DRUGBANK explains that CBD can possibly be used to make anti-psychotic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant medicines. The organization also argues that CBD can be used to provide pain relief, to remove muscle tightness, and even to treat nausea.
It also protects the brain from age-related degeneration.
These are proven benefits. What’s more, DRUGBANK is just one of the many reputable organizations and institutions that acknowledge the benefits of CBD.
DRUGBANK also acknowledges that the place of CBD in medical practice is still subject to heated debates.
This is the case worldwide and it is no different in Indiana!
However, residents and their legislators have somewhat unexpectedly agreed to allow the use of CBD oils and related products in the state.
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LAWS ON CBD IN INDIANA
CBD LAWS IN INDIANA
As mentioned in the previous section, the Indiana House recently unanimously (97-0) agreed to allow the possession and use of CBD oil in the state.
This makes Indiana one of the approx. two-dozen states that officially allow the trade and use hemp-derived CBD products.
When signing the bill, Governor Holcomb said that he appreciated the legislators’ efforts to address the needs expressed by the state’s residents.
The bill, which is now law, explicitly allow for the possession and use of CBD oil.
However, the product sold must not have more than 0.3% THC, the psychoactive cannabinoid in marijuana that makes users “high”.
Additionally, for CBD oils to be legal in the state, there are certain packaging requirements that have to be met. One of them is a certification that the oil is from industrial hemp and not marijuana.
Lawmakers believe (rightly so) that the new law allows Hoosiers to access the benefits of CBD oil.
SANCTIONS FOR BREAKING THE LAW
Though CBD is illegal, marijuana remains illegal in the state. Those selling marijuana disguised as CBD products can be punished by a $10,000 fine and a jail term of up to 6 years. Harsh, right?
Consumers are not spared either. Those who possess marijuana made to look like CBD may face a $5,000 fine and up to twelve months in prison.
CULTURAL ATTITUDES TOWARDS CBD IN INDIANA
Most Hoosiers seemingly support the legalization of CBD oils in the state.
As mentioned before, the Governor thanked the legislators for passing CBD oil laws in the state. In a statement, he specifically thanked them for “addressing the needs expressed by our citizens”.
This right here is proof enough that most Hoosiers were advocating for the bills to be passed.
In addition, the unanimous passing of the bill to legalize CBD oils in the house is also proof that the state is pro-CBD.
Those who buy, use or sell CBD oils face no stigma in the state. Even public officials openly associate themselves with CBD and its benefits.
One such official is Thomas McDermott, the Mayor of Hammond city. He thinks that CBD is a natural remedy with massive benefits for both humans and animals.
Mayor McDermott is one of the people who openly clashed with the official opinion of Attorney General (AG) Curtis Hill. The opinion implied that CBD is a marijuana-related product that shouldn’t be traded or used in the state.
The opinion was one of the reasons that led to the passing and signed of the law that now explicitly legalizes CBD oils in the state.
From these statements and from what can be gathered from Facebook groups, Reddit discussions, and blogs, it is clear that most Hoosiers support the sale and use of CBD products.
BEST PLACES TO BUY CBD IN INDIANA
BEST PLACES TO BUY CBD IN INDIANAPOLIS, IN
One of the best places to buy CBD in Indiana is the Fresh Thyme Farmers Market located at 4225 E 82nd Street in Indianapolis. Apart from buying fresh produce here, you could get yourself a host of healthy herbs and CBD oils.
They call themselves a farmers market but they are more of a grocery chain. They have competitive prices and provide great service. Their 82nd Street store is also really airy and has this feel-good vibe. Definitely a great place to get your CBD oils from.
Another great place to buy CBD oil from in Indiana is the Good Earth Natural Food located at 6350 Guilford Avenue in Indianapolis. Again, this is a fresh produce store. They have got organic produce, grains, pasta, a vegan-section and a host of natural supplements and CBD oils.
Good Earth has some very eager to help staff, who will help you select the best CBD oils for your needs. They have got some good brands at very reasonable prices. Check-in at the store and you could enjoy some discounts as they have many promotions running throughout the year.
CONCLUSION
As of 2018, CBD oils are legal in Indiana. There is no need for a prescription. You just walk into a store, buy what you need and walk out. However, even with the legalization of CBD oils, manufacturers have to be licensed. They also have to follow regulations in labelling their products. These efforts are meant to protect consumers from fraudulent products and claims.
As a consumer, you must also ensure you only buy CBD oils from professional stores. Buying from unprofessional stores could expose you to high THC levels and the related psychoactive effects related to marijuana.
The good news is that we have highlighted a couple of stores where you can get your fix of the natural remedy right now.