If any country has cemented its role in the marijuana debate, it has to be the Asian nation of India. For thousands of years (since 2,000 B.C., in fact), Indians have praised the cannabis plant as a religious sacrament, a means of healing, and a seductive tool for young lovers. Likewise, Hindu texts even mention how a prominent god consumed the plant. Despite the religious significance of this little herb, though, the Indian government has still stepped lightly on the issue of marijuana legalization. However, the country seems to be taking one step closer to making this decision (in the medical cannabis department). Recently, Indian researchers are preparing to conduct clinical trials that will investigate the herb’s benefits for patients suffering through cancer treatment or epilepsy. So what is India planning specifically? Let’s take a closer look and find out more.
From Controversial to Beneficial
Recently, officials announced that hemp-based medications for cancer pain and epilepsy (manufactured in India) will be available in 2019, with the supervision of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), as part of its advanced clinical trials for two drugs. Based on national news sources, the unanimous decision to initiate the creation of medications that utilize hemp takes some of the negative light off the otherwise negative views on cannabis (which is still viewed as a potentially harmful drug).
However, officials are anticipating the release of these drugs due to their non-addictive qualities. For years, doctors have used morphine to help cancer patients endure treatment. Unlike this addictive painkiller though, the hemp medication will not cause underlying psychological problems.
Medical Trials
As part of the trials for cancer pain management, the CSIR’s Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM) had teamed up with the Tata Memorial Hospital. On the other hand, New Delhi’s AIIMS will be conducted the clinical trials on epilepsy medication. Meanwhile, the Ratan Tata-supported marijuana research group Bombay Hemp Company (Boheco) will serve as a funding partner to CSIR and will market the two medications in India.
Overall, both medications are CBD-based (cannabidiol), meaning the drugs will not deliver the “high” that is associated with THC consumption.
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