In principle, the consumption of cannabis or hemp is prohibited throughout Switzerland. However, as in France and several other countries around the world, the country is gradually opening up to the marketing of products derived from this plant, including Swiss CBD. Moreover, the law has become increasingly flexible on this subject. As a result, the number of stores offering it continues to grow. But what does Swiss law say on the subject? Here’s some information.
Cannabis and legislation
In Switzerland, the law is clear regarding the exploitation, processing, marketing, and consumption of cannabis and, therefore, CBD. Not all products derived from legal hemp, that is, cannabis containing a small amount of THC, are prohibited. The hemp plant contains several active ingredients, including THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
Since THC has a psychotropic effect, it is not permitted in any form. And unlike this substance, CBD is non-euphoric. It is therefore not on the list of prohibited narcotics. On the contrary, Swiss CBD is considered an active ingredient with positive effects on the body. It has analgesic, calming, and anticonvulsant properties.
It should be noted that the authorized hemp varieties are those that have only 1% THC maximum.
Consumption of hemp and CBD in Switzerland
As a euphoric substance presented in the form of an herb or hashish, cannabis is prohibited in Switzerland. Anyone who violates these regulations may therefore risk penalties such as fines or imprisonment.
However, possession of less than 10g of hemp is not punishable, and the person must be an adult aged 18 or over.
Those wishing to consume CBD must purchase it from authorized stores, i.e., those that have agreed to only sell products with a THC level that meets the standard.
To learn about the various regulations regarding the production and sale of legal cannabis products, you should contact the Federal Office of Public Health, the Federal Office for Agriculture, the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office, or Swissmedic. These organizations have compiled a fact sheet on cannabis and CBD in Switzerland.
Cannabis is used in the medical field
It should be noted that cannabis has been used to prevent, cure, and reduce the various symptoms of several diseases since the dawn of time. As mentioned earlier, CBD, one of the main substances found in hemp, has analgesic and anticonvulsant effects. It can therefore be used as an ingredient in therapeutic and parapharmaceutical products. However, its use requires approval. In Switzerland, in particular, there is only one product that is approved: Sativex. This is also authorized in France.
