In Jainism, the core principle is ahimsa (non-violence) and especially care for the mind and body. Intoxicants are generally discouraged because they affect one’s awareness, self-control, and ability to avoid harming living beings.

• For lay Jain households, using intoxicants (including cannabis) is normally discouraged.
• For ascetics, all intoxicants are strictly forbidden.
• Medical use: some Jain scholars acknowledge that medicines containing intoxicants might be permissible if they are prescribed by a qualified physician and are truly for healing, not for getting intoxicated. In such cases, the emphasis remains on minimizing harm, avoiding intoxication, and preserving mental clarity as much as possible.

There are no definitive, universal rulings that apply to every Digambar or Śvetāmbar community across all contexts, so local guidance from a trusted Jain teacher or monk is often sought.

If you’d like, I can share more about how Jain sources discuss ahimsa, purity of mind, and the stance on medicines and intoxicants.