What does the WHO say about CBD?

Last updated: 27 August 2026 Author: Rafa Mendiri, co-founder of Iguana Smoke

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What does the WHO say about CBD? In short, according to the critical review report on cannabidiol (CBD) published by the World Health Organization (WHO) Expert Committee on Drug Dependence in 2018, there is no evidence that CBD causes dependence, abuse or public health problems, and the committee recommended that CBD preparations meeting the established definition should not be placed under international control as a narcotic drug (WHO, 2018This does not mean that CBD is unregulated: both the European Union and Spain maintain specific legal frameworks that are worth knowing before buying or selling.

What does the WHO say about CBD?

The WHO Expert Committee on Drug Dependence (ECDD) evaluated CBD separately from other cannabinoids such as THC, precisely because it does not share its psychoactive profile. Its 2018 report describes a favourable safety and tolerability profile, with no indication of abuse or dependence potential associated with pure CBD (WHO, Cannabidiol Critical Review Report, 2018).

How does the European Union regulate CBD?

The European Commission classifies Cannabis sativa L. extracts and synthetic CBD as novel foods in its Novel food status catalogue, which means that its marketing in food or food supplements requires specific prior safety authorisation. In parallel, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has established a provisional tolerable intake level for adults, also noting that scientific information gaps persist and remain under review.

What is the legal status of CBD in Spain?

In Spain, the framework for narcotics and psychotropic substances is managed by the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS), which regulates the cultivation, production and use of cannabis and its derivatives. Currently, the only CBD-based medicine authorised in Spain is Epidyolex®, indicated as adjunctive treatment for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome, according to the Therapeutic Positioning Report published by the AEMPS itself. This approved medical use is different from general consumer CBD products, the marketing of which is subject to the THC limits and the novel food regulations mentioned above. If you want to find out more about the permitted THC limits for a product to be considered legal CBD, you can consult our guide on if CBD is legal in Spain and Europe.

Frequently asked questions

Does the WHO consider CBD a controlled drug?

No. Its 2018 report recommended that CBD, under the conditions defined by the report itself, should not be included in the international drug control schedules.

Can I sell CBD in food or supplements in the EU without formalities?

No. The European Commission classifies it as a novel food, which requires prior safety authorisation before it can be sold as a food or supplement.

Is there any CBD medication approved in Spain?

Yes, Epidyolex®, solely for two specific syndromes of childhood epilepsy, according to the Therapeutic Positioning Report published by the AEMPS. This does not equate to a general approval for the medical use of CBD.

Which authority regulates CBD in Spain?

The AEMPS, within the framework of narcotics and psychotropic substances.

Official sources

World Health Organization (WHO) — Cannabidiol (CBD) Critical Review Report, 2018
European Commission — Novel Food status Catalogue
EFSA — Provisional safe level for cannabidiol as a novel food
AEMPS Narcotics and psychotropic substances
AEMPS Therapeutic Positioning Report for cannabidiol (Epidyolex®)

This article is based exclusively on official sources (WHO, European Commission, EFSA and AEMPS) and is for general educational purposes. It is not a substitute for medical, legal or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional.