Rescheduling Cannabis Could Allow For Hemp Tobacco Cigarettes, But Not Weed And Tobacco Mixtures: No Spliff For You!
This article was originally published on Cannabis.net and appears here with permission.
Marijuana rescheduling could permit CBD from hemp in tobacco, but not weed!
A recent report from the Congressional Research Service (CRS) has ignited discussions about the potential for incorporating hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) into tobacco products, contingent upon the anticipated rescheduling of marijuana. As public perceptions of cannabis evolve and regulatory frameworks shift, this development could have profound implications for both the cannabis and tobacco industries, as well as for public health initiatives aimed at reducing smoking-related harm.
Understanding The Context Of Marijuana Rescheduling
Historically, marijuana has been classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), indicating that it is viewed as having no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. However, with growing evidence supporting the medicinal benefits of cannabis and changing public perceptions, there has been increasing momentum toward rescheduling marijuana. In August 2023, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recommended that marijuana be reclassified to Schedule III, which would acknowledge its medical applications and significantly alter the regulatory landscape surrounding cannabis.
Implications Of Rescheduling
If marijuana is rescheduled to Schedule III, it would not only ease restrictions on research and development but also open new avenues for product innovation. According to the CRS report, while marijuana itself would still be prohibited in food, dietary supplements, or cosmetics, hemp-derived CBD could be used as an additive in tobacco products without violating federal law. This distinction is crucial because it allows manufacturers to explore new formulations that combine the non-psychoactive properties of CBD with traditional tobacco.
The Rise Of CBD And Its Potential Benefits
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is responsible for the psychoactive effects commonly associated with marijuana, CBD does not produce a high. Instead, it has gained immense popularity due to its purported …