CBD, or cannabidiol, has gained popularity recently as a natural remedy for various ailments, from anxiety to chronic pain.
However, there has been some confusion around whether or not CBD is halal. "Halal" refers to anything that is permissible or allowed under Islamic law.
In this blog, we will explore whether CBD is halal — the ongoing debate about CBD's status in Islamic law, and the arguments for and against permitting CBD's use.
What Makes a Product Halal?
In Islam, halal refers to anything that is permissible or lawful under Islamic law. When it comes to food and other products, certain criteria must be met in order for them to be considered halal.
These criteria include the product's source, the preparation method, and the ingredients used.
Source of the Product
The source of the product must be lawful under Islamic law.
Because CBD is derived from the cannabis plant, this may arguably cause a problem for considering CBD halal. After all, marijuana, the most famous of the cannabis plant, is a halal (forbidden) intoxicating substance.
But it's not quite that simple: most CBD comes from the hemp plant — a non-intoxicating cousin of marijuana.
Ultimately, the use of hemp and hemp-based products in Islam is still a matter of some debate, but several Islamic scholars and authorities have argued for hemp being halal.
Method of Preparation and Ingredients Used
The preparation method must also be in accordance with Islamic law. This includes ensuring that the product has not come into contact with any haram (forbidden) substances or equipment during processing.
Additionally, users must avoid any alcohol or other prohibited substances in the preparation of the product. Ingredients used must also be halal, meaning they must not be derived from haram sources or contain any haram substances.
When it comes to CBD, the risks of haram preparations are generally minimal. However, certain CBD extraction methods use alcohol, which would make such products problematic. That said, most CBD products are made using CO2 extraction, which does not involve halal methods or components.
The Origins of CBD
Firstly, it is important to understand where CBD comes from. CBD is one of the many compounds found in the cannabis plant.
However, unlike THC, another compound found in cannabis, CBD is not psychoactive and does not produce a “high”. CBD is typically extracted from hemp, a strain of cannabis that contains low levels of THC.
Halal and CBD For Medical Purposes
In Islam, the use of drugs and alcohol is generally prohibited. However, there are exceptions for drugs that are used for medicinal purposes. In fact, Islamic tradition emphasizes the importance of seeking medical treatment when necessary.
Therefore, the use of CBD for medicinal purposes may be permissible under Islamic law.
The Ongoing Debate: Is CBD Halal?
There is currently no consensus among Islamic scholars on whether or not CBD is halal. Some argue that since CBD does not have psychoactive effects, and does not produce a “high”, it should be considered permissible. Others argue that since it is derived from the cannabis plant, which is still associated with drugs and intoxication, it should be avoided.
The Importance of Properly Sourced CBD
It is worth noting that the Islamic position on CBD may vary depending on the source and method of extraction
If CBD is extracted from hemp and does not contain any THC, it may be considered more permissible than if it is extracted from marijuana, which contains higher levels of THC.
Additionally, if CBD is extracted using methods that do not involve the use of alcohol or other prohibited substances, it may be considered more halal. CBD oil is also considered halal.
Is CBD Halal, In Conclusion
In conclusion, the question of whether CBD is halal is a complex one and there is no straightforward answer. While some Islamic scholars may consider it permissible for medicinal purposes, others may advise caution due to its association with the cannabis plant.
Ultimately, it is up to individuals to make their own informed decisions based on their personal beliefs and circumstances. If in doubt, it is always advisable to seek guidance from a trusted Islamic scholar or medical professional.
