Is It Legal to Buy CBD Oil Over the Counter in Australia?

CBD oil has been legal in Australia since the passing of the Narcotic Drugs Amendment in 2016. However, this law authorizes using cannabis products only for medicinal purposes.

As for non-prescribed CBD oil use, there are still several restrictions. From having a fixed warranty to getting approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration, here are things to know about CBD oil legality in Australia.

When Did it Become Legal to Buy Over-the-Counter CBD Oil in Australia?

Even though all cannabis products, including CBD oil, are still largely prohibited items, there has been a relaxation in its use in recent years. For example, since 2020, it has been legal to buy CBD oil Australia directly from the pharmacy without needing to produce a prescription.

However, according to TGA regulations, this product must contain 1% or less THC and have a 30-day use limit, providing a maximum daily dosage of 150 mg daily. Due to these strict rules, there are currently no TGA-approved over-the-counter CBD oil products available in Australia. However, this is bound to change soon as major manufacturers take notice of this legal loophole.

Why Should You Use Low Dose CBD Oil?

If you are looking to add CBD oil as part of your treatment, then starting with a low dose is always a great idea. Not only will this trick help judge your body's reaction to the oil, but it will not run the risk of overwhelming you.

You will also appreciate a lower dosage if you have a low metabolism or lead a sedentary lifestyle. Instead of suddenly ingesting strong doses of CBD oil, it is best to let your body get gradually used to the substance. Studies suggest that using small amounts of CBD could help treat conditions like anxiety disorders long-term.

At the same time, higher doses of the substance could potentially exacerbate your symptoms by either enhancing the power of your medication or by totally nullifying its effects. Therefore, for best results, you should start with a low-dose CBD under medical supervision. Such a precaution is necessary if you are using medication simultaneously with the product, as you never know how the oil could react with the pharmaceuticals.

What's Next for the CBD Market in Australia?

A 2019 survey showed that over 41.1% of Australians supported the legalization of cannabis, in contrast to 37% who were against it. Growing trends like this, especially seen in the light of the Health Department's slowing changing sentiments, like the legalization of over-the-counter CBD products, reveal some interesting things.

For one, these factors could suggest that a big change is on the horizon for the CBD market in Australia. The public support in the Senate and the TGA's changing stance could mean that Australia could follow in the footsteps of countries like Mexico and Canada and fully legalize cannabis.

There are no over-the-counter CBD products approved by the TGA in the market yet. However, many publications suggest that this could change as soon as 2023. As many major manufacturers rush to get TGA-certified, the market in Australia could be looking at an incoming boom. At the moment, you can check here the rules to buy CBD oil abroad and get shipped to Australia.

However, the same publication reports that CBD products in Australia could get priced significantly higher than in other countries. At 5 cents per mg, people would have to pay up to $230 for a 150 mg bottle of CBD oil. The higher pricing could be to make up for the amount taken up by the research required to get a TGA approval and be a marker of the oil's high CBD concentration.

See also: Articles, Australia, CBD, Laws, Oils

Enny Soyinka

PharmacologistExpertise : Research on cannabinoids, Brand Reviewer

Enny Soyinka stands at the forefront of hemp research, blending a deep-rooted passion for holistic health with a robust scientific background. As an accomplished pharmacologist, Enny's extensive research into hemp has made them a pivotal figure in demystifying its health benefits. Their expertise shines a light on the nuanced relationship between cannabinoids and wellness, offering well-informed insights in the dynamic world of cannabinoids.