Can a Christian consider using CBD oil?

Answer

The question of the permissibility for a Christian to use CBD oil for medicinal or therapeutic purposes sparks an interesting discussion. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid constituent of cannabis. Most CBD oil distributors claim that their product contains a very low amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive component of cannabis that can induce a “high.” The health and wellness community asserts that CBD oil is beneficial for various conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, cancer-related symptoms, and more, without causing the mind-altering effects of THC present in marijuana.

Several ongoing medical studies are evaluating the efficacy of CBD oil in treating a range of conditions including epilepsy, pain, sleep disorders, depression, and social anxiety. Neurologists at the Mayo Clinic are particularly optimistic about the positive effects that CBD oil seems to have on two rare forms of pediatric epilepsy (source, accessed 7/9/21). Medical-grade CBD oil is demonstrating remarkable potential and seems to be well-tolerated by the young patients in the research.

What does the Bible say about the use of CBD oil by Christians? The Bible does not address the use of CBD oil. Instead, it advises us to obey laws and show respect to those in authority over us (Romans 13:1-2). The Bible also encourages readers to avoid intoxication “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:”, (1 Peter 5:8). Do either of these apply to the use of CBD oil?

The Farm Bill of December 2018 allows for the production and marketing of CBD oil in all fifty states of the U.S., provided that it is extracted from the hemp plant and not the related marijuana plant, and the oil has less than 0.3% THC content by dry weight measure (www.fda.gov, accessed 7/9/21). Even in large doses, such products do not create an intoxicated state. In June 2018, the World Health Organization reported CBD oil as safe, non-intoxicating, and non-addictive: “CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential” (www:who:int/medicines/access/controlled-substances/5:2_CBD:pdf, accessed 7/9/21).

So, what does that mean for those who might seek relief with CBD oil from annoying or even debilitating symptoms while desiring to live in a manner pleasing to the Lord? Like other medical treatments, the legal use of CBD oil is a gray area to be answered between the patient, his/her doctor, and God. Christians should pray for guidance and follow their convictions—and understand that sometimes two Christians can have different convictions on the same subject.

Romans 14 instructs Christians to accept one another’s convictions (verse 1). If a Christian believes eating a particular food is a sin, for him to eat it is a sin, while other Christians without that conviction are able to eat the food in peace. So might be the case with CBD oil. Some may believe anything connected to a plant in the marijuana family is sinful, while others may feel that God has created the plant for our godly use.

Christians considering the use of CBD oil should start by verifying the THC content in the

Individuals considering the use of CBD oil should consult their healthcare provider for advice. If one chooses to experiment with CBD oil, it is important to note that the industry is currently unregulated, resulting in a wide variety of products, strengths, and quality levels. It is prudent for everyone to reflect on God’s intentions and designs for their lives when dealing with physical or mental health issues.

When Paul encountered a condition that he believed was hindering his divine mission, he prayed on three occasions for the removal of the “thorn in his flesh” (potentially a painful physical affliction). Despite his pleas, God chose not to eliminate the thorn, stating that His grace was sufficient for Paul (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)—and sometimes, this may also be the response for us. It is possible that God has permitted suffering in your life so that you can serve as a trailblazing Christian example, showing that natural remedies like CBD oil can effectively alleviate symptoms. Alternatively, the pain in your life may be a means for God to showcase His grace in times of hardship, or it could be an area in which God is working within you through this trial. By seeking divine guidance through prayer, your desire to honor God in all decisions will be acknowledged.