Industry

The True Potential of Hemp: What the Future Holds

From the very start of cannabis stigmatisation and prohibition, hemp was unfairly lumped into the same category as 'marijuana,' 'weed,' or even the evocative 'ganja,’

National Reading Day: Medical cannabis resources

Every year on the 23rd of January, National Reading Day is recognised - a campaign to encourage a lifelong habit of reading from childhood to adulthood.

From curiosity to care: Releaf’s reach and online presence.

In December 2024, Releaf’s website attracted 9510 daily visits and nearly 1,000 page views an hour. In this blog we break down the data, and evaluate why thousands trust our reliable content about medical cannabis in the UK.

Clearing the Cancard confusion: What Releaf's medical cannabis cards prove.

As the first medical cannabis clinic in the UK to provide their patients with medical cannabis cards, at Releaf we’re often asked ‘what's the difference between Releaf’s medical cannabis cards and Cancard?’ - and, we’re here to clear up the confusion.

Reflecting on medical cannabis research: Yes We Can

Almost a year after launching, the Cannabis Industry Council’s ‘Yes We Can’ research report was published, revealing what UK based medical cannabis patients think about various aspects of the medical cannabis industry. Here, we take a look at what they found, and, what this could mean.

New 'Zero THC' regulation for UK CBD products

The Food Standards Agency (FSA)— the body responsible for the regulation of consumer CBD products in the UK—has hinted at ambitious new targets for CBD products in the UK market, which could see a push for zero detectable THC levels.

Releaf’s research recap: UK medical cannabis facts

At Releaf, one of our core commitments is to provide accurate, reliable and relevant information about medical cannabis treatments here in the UK, and in order to do this we’ve conducted our own research on numerous occasions.

Why medical cannabis is never prescribed in resin form

Cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) are now prescribed in a variety of forms in the UK. But one product type you won’t find in the formulary is cannabis resin.

Real stories, Real impact: How we’re making a difference across the UK.

At Releaf, our mission is to enhance the quality of life of individuals across the UK by giving them back control of their health. And throughout 2024, as well as providing patient-focused care and unwavering support through our expert clinical and patient support teams, we’ve had the privilege of speaking with our patients one on one to find out more about their health journeys. 

Medical cannabis treatment: What is an MDT?

Along with adapting to a whole new treatment option, patients just starting with medical cannabis treatment can sometimes find themselves feeling a little inundated by the terminology, acronyms, and jargon that accompany their treatment plan. One of the key terms for new patients to get their head around is MDT: Multidisciplinary Team.

New Year, new me, new treatment: Medical cannabis in 2025.

Explore the potential of medical cannabis in 2025 as an alternative healthcare option in the UK. Learn how Releaf helps patients address health concerns like anxiety, chronic pain, and more with personalised, patient-centred treatment plans. Discover the benefits, conditions eligible for treatment, and how to take the first step toward a healthier you this New Year.

When to consider alternatives: 57% of generic medicines in the UK in short supply

While most people look for alternative treatment options because conventional medicines haven’t met their needs, an increase in prescription drug shortages in the UK is leaving more patients without access to effective medications.

Discussing medical cannabis at Christmas

With extended families coming together and immediate families typically spending long periods of time together over the Christmas period, catching up on what everyone has been up to over the last year is a common course conversation takes.

Getting your head around medical cannabis accessories

With UK medical cannabis going nothing short of viral in the past 12 months or so (and patient numbers climbing at an exponential rate), the need for clear, concise information regarding medical cannabis accessories has never been more obvious.

CBD, THC-Free and prescribed cannabis products: Clearing the confusion

Growing awareness and acceptance of cannabis-based products has been on the rise in recent years. In addition to a flourishing CBD consumer market, medical cannabis has become increasingly accessible to patients with a variety of health concerns.

Releaf Unwrapped: What we got up to in 2024

This year, we’ve taken a leaf from Spotify’s book and put together a collection of our favourite moments during 2024. As the year draws to a close, here we reflect on our milestones, growth, and most importantly, the transformative difference we’re making for patients.

12 days till Christmas: Releaf’s opening hours and medication delivery cut-off

With the holiday season less than two weeks away, we want to make sure each and every Releaf patient is well-prepared for the slight changes to our normal operating schedule - and the minor adjustments to medication delivery during this year's festive period.

Planning a Winter retreat? What you need to know about travelling with medical cannabis

The holiday season is fast approaching, and with it, the yearly yearning to pack your bags, hit the road and hopefully escape the winter blues.

‘Tis the season: Refer a friend to Releaf

The days are drawing in and Christmas is right around the corner. Many of us will be working our way down Christmas lists, trying to find the perfect presents for our loved ones.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities: Celebrating Inclusivity with Releaf

Around the world, 1.3 billion, or 1 in 6, people live with a disability - yet many face barriers when accessing adequate healthcare services. At Releaf, it's important to us to participate in events like International Day of Persons with Disabilities, and so that’s exactly what we’re doing.

Green Friday UK: Releaf’s biggest ever discounts

Last year, our representative research found 68% of UK adults would consider medical cannabis treatment if their doctor recommended it, but around 1 in 4 said they would be apprehensive about, and perhaps discouraged by, the costs involved.

Can I get medical cannabis on the NHS?

There has been a huge resurgence in interest in plant-based health solutions in the past few decades. Not so long ago, most patients would just take whatever pharmaceutical options their GPs prescribed - but as we mature as a society and our collective understanding of alternative medicine grows, the understanding that plants can offer natural relief from a huge range of symptoms grows.

Disability History Month: How medical cannabis was legalised in the UK

Disability History Month, taking place from 14 November— 20 December highlights the history of the equality and human rights struggles of disabled individuals in the UK.

Medical cannabis and the NHS: A £4 billion solution for chronic pain

As new findings from an early health economic analysis suggest that prescribing medical cannabis on the NHS to treat chronic pain could save the state healthcare provider almost £4 billion every year, we take a closer look at the research.

Six years of medical cannabis: What does it mean to you?

Friday the 1st of November 2024 marks six years of medical cannabis in the UK. For the last six years, (since November 1, 2018) specialist doctors like those working at Releaf have been able to prescribe medical cannabis flower, and cannabis oil, to eligible patients when traditional treatments have proved ineffective.

Drug Science Research: medical cannabis education amongst healthcare professionals

While awareness of medical cannabis has grown in recent years, there remains a huge knowledge gap when it comes to healthcare professionals and their understanding of this treatment.

Who uses medical cannabis in the UK?

Medical cannabis was legalised almost 6 years ago as an alternative treatment option for a large volume of health conditions when conventional approaches have proved ineffective.

Why medical cannabis is not prescribed for schizoaffective disorder in the UK

Medical cannabis has been prescribed for a wide range of conditions in the UK since the legislation of cannabis-based treatments on the 1st of November 2018. Since then, tens of thousands of patients have received a prescription for cannabis-based medicines; however, there are several conditions, including schizoaffective disorder, for which medical cannabis is not considered a suitable option. But why is this?

THC Vapes: the what, the where, the why, and the warning

In this article, we explore the distinction between illegal, unregulated THC vape pens and legally prescribed medical cannabis flower. Understanding the difference is crucial— especially for patients— when it comes to making informed choices about your health.

2024 breakthroughs: The latest research shaping the future of cannabis-based medicines

The medicinal potential of cannabis and its derivatives has been a focus of medical research for hundreds of years. Yet, there remains a significant number of unknowns around this complex and versatile plant. With that in mind, we’re taking a closer look at some of the most significant medical cannabis research published so far in 2024.

Why medical cannabis is not prescribed for bipolar disorder

Now that medical cannabis has been legally available in the UK for almost six years, powerful patient testimonials are hitting the press highlighting how medical cannabis has helped people manage PTSD, depression, and anxiety symptoms.

Who are Releaf’s clinical team: Who can prescribe cannabis in the UK?

Curious as to who can prescribe medical cannabis in the UK? Well, meet Releaf’s team of specialists, from GPs to specialists n Neurology, Psychiatry, Oncology, Rheumatology and Palliative Care, our clinical team collaborate to create the best bespoke treatment plan possible, for each individual patient.

How to use the Flowerstick Home Fill System

With a large proportion of Releaf patients choosing the Omura Vaporiser to "heat, not burn" their prescribed medical cannabis flower options, we thought it was about time to quickly discuss how to use the Flowerstick Home Fill System.

Success stories: Medical cannabis to become widely available in France

Patients in France could soon have widespread access to medical cannabis on prescription as a three-year pilot study prepares to come to a close.

UK Savings Week: is medical cannabis affordable?

Much like all other treatment options in the UK, medical cannabis does come with costs. But, here at Releaf we do our best to balance bespoke, specialised care with affordable and accessible treatment plans, and our ever-growing patient numbers and reams of positive reviews on Trust Pilot, show we’re keeping the scales in check.

What's the difference between Releaf+ and Pay As You Go?

Understanding medical cannabis: a beginner's guide to irradiated and non-irradiated options

Starting your medical cannabis journey with Releaf ensures that you have access to some of the best medical cannabis specialists, treatment options, and patient care/support in the UK, but that doesn't mean you won't still have a few questions.

How quickly can I start medical cannabis treatments?

If you’ve been looking to try a new treatment option to manage your symptoms or health conditions for years and have only just found out medical cannabis is a legal option in the UK, you may be eager to find out how quickly you can start medical cannabis treatments.

Six monumental moments in the first six months of Releaf

We officially launched six months ago on February 1st after almost a year of hard work and preparation. We now have over 20,000 members in our community, and thought it was time to take a trip down memory lane to see how we achieved this, what we’ve learnt along the way, and what our patients have to say.

Medical Expert Insights: Interviews with medical professionals about the benefits and potential of UK-grown medical cannabis

Medical cannabis has recently hit the big time here in the UK. Although it's been legal for just over six years (since November 2018), the general public's understanding of this has been surprisingly lacking. That is, until now.

What is cannabidiol? The A-B-Cs of CBD

From Morrisons to medical cannabis clinics, CBD seems to be everywhere – but, what actually is it? For National CBD Day, we explain the A-B-Cs of CBD, from its plant-based origin to its clinical applications – here’s everything you need to know about CBD.

A day in the life of a medical cannabis Clinical Director

Welcome to a day in the life of a Medical Cannabis Clinical Director in the UK! We spoke to our very own Dr David Tang about his role and responsibilities as Releaf’s Clinical Director to lift the curtain on what happens behind the scenes in the UK’s fastest growing medical cannabis clinic in the UK.

Releaf medical cannabis: why a varied formulary is essential

Every patient is unique, and so are their medical needs. As a medical cannabis clinic, having a varied formulary allows us to cater to a large cohort of patients, from those with chronic pain or insomnia, to those with anxiety and depression, or MS and Parkinson’s, and offer them each unique, individualised treatment plans.

Omura’s precision controlled dosing: What a difference a vape can make.

We know what a difference the right vape can make, that’s why we’ve given out over £115,000 of Omura products to medical cannabis patients in the UK for free.

Why are different cannabis cultivars different prices?

In today's write-up, we will explain all the factors that can and do affect the price of medical cannabis cultivars. Here at Releaf, we want to ensure that our patients are well-informed about their medication options, including the pricing factors.

Plastic free July: Releaf's eco-friendly packaging

In the last two decades, global plastic production has doubled, with 400 million tonnes of plastic waste now produced every year. As one of the only UK clinics to provide medical cannabis flower in eco-friendly packaging, Releaf is committed to finding more sustainable solutions this Plastic Free July and is taking steps towards a plastic-free future.

Understanding the lingo: medical cannabis terminology

Cannabis-based remedies are mentioned as far back as the Ancient Egyptians and Ancient Greeks. In fact, the earliest mention of medical cannabis is believed to date back even further to the time of the Ancient Chinese Emperor Shen Nung - known as the Father of Chinese Medicine - almost 5,000 years ago!

Read all about it: Press coverage of our landmark UK-first partnership with Glass Pharms

One month ago, we announced our first-of-its-kind partnership with Glass Pharms® - an arrangement that aims to reduce hurdles between the prescription and receipt of medical cannabis products in the UK. One month on, we have been thrilled to see how this partnership has brought medical cannabis into the mainstream news once again.

Meet the dedicated team behind Releaf's Patient Support: Delivering first class patient care

Although our phone lines are open from 9 to 5 Monday through Friday, Releaf’s Patient Support Team work tirelessly around the clock behind the scenes, to ensure we provide the most seamless, and supportive service to medical cannabis patients in the UK.

What medications interact with medical cannabis?

All medications come with the possibility of interactions with other drugs/pharmaceuticals, and medical cannabis is no exception. Continuing on with our 'New Patient' series, we dig our teeth into the often-asked question: "What medications interact with medical cannabis?"

Understanding the differences between CBD flower and medical cannabis cultivars

CBD flower and medical cannabis cultivars are often conflated, but while they may look and smell similar, there are significant differences when it comes to their chemical composition, intended use, regulatory status, and effects.  CBD flower is illegal in the UK, while medical cannabis flower can only be prescribed by a specialist doctor.

Think our grass could be greener? Here’s how to switch to Releaf

Are you a medical cannabis patient in the UK that’s unhappy with the service your current clinic provides? Discover Releaf’s seamless transition process and experience UK-grown prescribed cannabis options, extensive clinical expertise, and an innovate all-in-one patient focused platform by making one simple switch.

Compliance and care: Who regulates medical cannabis in the UK?

Medical cannabis has been legal in the UK since 2018, but the prescription of cannabis-based products for medicinal use (CBPMs) is a strictly regulated and complicated process. Here we’ll take a closer look.

A UK first for medical cannabis patients: Releaf and Glass Pharms join forces to solve supply issues sustainably

Announced in The Sunday Times, Releaf have made history with the launch of a range of domestically, UK-grown medical cannabis cultivars. Releaf patient Chloe Durrington became the first person ever in the UK to receive prescribed medical cannabis flower that was grown here in the UK, by Glass Pharms®, just 200 miles from her home. Want to be among the first people in the UK to receive UK-grown medical cannabis on prescription? Check your eligibility here or speak to your Releaf clinician.

How the law changed: UK legalisation of medical cannabis

On the 1st of November 2018, legislation was introduced that was celebrated by patients, families, and advocates all over the UK. The rescheduling of cannabis meant that cannabis-based medicines could be legally prescribed for a range of conditions, marking a historic moment. But how did the law change come about? And has it lived up to the expectations of those who continue to fight for fair access to medical cannabis?

Green living: Simple eco-friendly changes for better health

As the health of our planet begins to deteriorate, the importance of adopting a greener way of life has never been more apparent. But could making some simple eco-friendly changes be just as beneficial for our own health? In the latest instalment of our Wellness Wednesdays series, we explore the health and environmental implications of adopting a more sustainable lifestyle.

Behind the scenes: The approval process for UK medicines

Have you ever read the list of side-effects for a newly-prescribed medication and wondered whether it’s really safe to consume? Rest-assured that the drug has been through a lengthy and strict approval process before making its way to your local pharmacy.

Medical cannabis and hayfever - friend or foe?

Longer days, lush green leaves—and a streaming nose; all sure-fire signs that spring is finally here in abundance. But is your medical cannabis prescription a help or a hindrance?

Update on Ukraine: legalising medical cannabis, one by law at a time

Ukraine’s President signed off on Law 3528-IX, also known as The Medical Cannabis Law, back in February. This kickstarted the legalisation of medical cannabis, designed to offer relief to those suffering from conditions like chronic pain and post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of the continued war with Russia. Here we take a look at some of the updates and amendments that have been made to accommodate for the legalisation of medical cannabis in Ukraine.

Modern medicine and mental health: promising findings from the last year

This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week, taking place from 13-19 May, 2024 is all about movement — and why it’s so important for our mental health. Can medical cannabis help get people moving more? We take a look.

Understanding medical cannabis: A guide for Fibromyalgia patients

Fibromyalgia is an incurable chronic pain condition and one that can be pretty complicated to treat. It affects around 2 percent of the UK population, more women than men, and while it does sometimes develop in children, it is more often picked up in middle age.

A summary of the statistics: Perceptions and awareness of medical cannabis in the UK

In November 2018, medical cannabis and cannabis-derived medicines were legalised as prescription only medicines in the UK. This means they can now be prescribed by specialist doctors to patients who have a condition that is known to respond to cannabis, if they have been unable to find success with conventional or licensed approaches.

5 common medical cannabis myths and misconceptions debunked

It has now been almost six years since the legalisation of medical cannabis came into effect in the UK, but still, prevalent misconceptions/myths about these treatments options persist today. Because these are often fuelled by stigmatisations or a lack of knowledge on the subject, we think debunking these common medical cannabis misconceptions can play an important role in improving the current education and awareness of cannabis-based options in the UK. And so, that’s exactly what we’ve done!

The complexities of medical cannabis clinical trials

Successful clinical trials are paramount in advancing modern medicines and care. They ensure efficacy and safety, raise the profile and awareness of these new treatment options, and ultimately, if their findings are positive, improve access to the therapy being trialled.

How medical cannabis may help endometriosis patients

Endometriosis is estimated to affect around 10% of those with a womb between puberty and menopause, but still, effective treatments, and research into the condition itself, are severely lacking. This can, understandably, be extremely frustrating for those affected.

Eco-friendly aspects of the medical cannabis industry

Earth Day (22 April) is an annual celebration of our natural environment — and more important than ever amid the global climate crisis. How can those entering the emerging medical cannabis industry ensure they adopt eco-friendly practices from the off?

The ins and outs of prescribed cannabis oil

We are living through what can only really be described as a health-care revolution. Cannabis, long seen by the UK 'powers that be' as nothing more than a recreational drug, now has the spotlight squarely aimed at its medicinal and therapeutic properties.

10 top tips for the first month of medical cannabis

We know that starting a new healthcare treatment plan, especially one that has only recently been made available, can feel daunting. When patients first consider trying medical cannabis, many aren’t quite sure of what to expect or know who to turn to for answers to their questions.

Irradiated and non-irradiated medical cannabis - what's the difference?

Many medical cannabis products in the UK have undergone a process known as irradiation, but what is the difference between these and non-irradiated products? Here’s everything you need to know.

World Parkinson's Month: a review of medical cannabis and Parkinson’s disease

Every hour, another two people in the UK are diagnosed with Parkinson’s, and while there is still no cure for the disease, there are treatments available to manage common Parkinson’s symptoms such as tremors, sleeping concerns, pain, and mental health concerns.

Experts explain: medical cannabis treatments for chronic pain

As part of our Experts explain series, we sat down with Dr Sue Clenton, an expert Oncologist and Specialist Consultant at Releaf, to speak about medical cannabis treatments and chronic pain.

Are you medicating with Dispenseree?

With millions of people thought to be self-medicating with cannabis in the UK, websites like Dispenseree have become increasingly popular despite their illegality. But there are numerous risks when it comes to buying cannabis online, especially when it's for medicinal use.

The World Health Organisation's involvement in medical cannabis

World Health Day is upon us once more, and with it comes the opportunity to reflect on how the World Health Organisation (WHO) has helped shape recent global medical cannabis policies, changed public perception towards this intriguing plant, and continues to lead the way in promoting health and well-being for all.

Sativa vs Indica: What’s the Difference, Effects & Benefits

The terms indica and sativa are widely used when talking about different types of medical cannabis, with each previously thought to have its own distinct therapeutic effects. But with little evidence to support this, experts are calling for a new, science-backed approach to classify products more accurately.

Experts explain: How GPs play a pivotal role in ongoing medical cannabis treatments

In the UK, General Practitioners sit on the forefront and frontline of healthcare, and they are typically a person's first port of call when something arises with their health. But, unfortunately, in the UK, GPs cannot issue a prescription for cannabis-based treatments to a patient who has never received them before. They can, however, assist in shared care agreements, hold follow-up appointments, and issue repeat prescriptions for medical cannabis. 

What we need to know before cannabis treatment commences

We want to make your first steps down the road towards better health as smooth as possible. That's why we've put together this straightforward guide to help you understand what we need to know before beginning your medical cannabis treatment.

What to expect: your first medical cannabis consultation

At Releaf, we’re on a mission to make accessing medical cannabis treatments as easy as possible for those that need them, and one of the ways we’re doing this is by breaking down barriers, answering FAQs, and debunking myths. So today, we’re discussing what to expect at your first medical cannabis consultation with Releaf.

The Releaf medical cannabis card explained

Releaf offers every patient a medical cannabis card with their prescription to help ensure peace of mind when administering their medicine in public. Here’s everything you need to know about how it works.

A Rheumatologist’s perspective: Q&A on medical cannabis and fibromyalgia

Hello, and welcome to the first of many conversations with Releaf’s specialist doctors. This week we’re speaking to our expert Rheumatologist, Dr Hanna Gul, about the benefits medical cannabis may be able to offer to patients who are struggling with fibromyalgia.

International Women's Day: Inspiring women in the health & wellness Industry

It’s International Women’s Day (IWD) - a day dedicated to celebrating the diverse and incredible contributions of women throughout history and continuing the fight toward gender equity and inclusion. As part of our Wellness Wednesday series, and in celebration of IWD 2024, this article highlights the work of some of the most inspiring women in the health & wellness industry today.

How the UK healthcare industry is investigating medical cannabis

This article will take a deep dive into the global evidence base for the medicinal use of cannabis, with a specific focus on clinical trials and emerging areas of research in the UK. We’ll explore how the findings can inform modern healthcare and potentially make a real difference to millions of patients in the UK.

Give the gift of giving this christmas: Medical cannabis friendly charities & organisations

The spirit of giving and generosity is amplified at Christmas, and often people choose to ask their loved ones or friends to donate to a charitable cause on their behalf as opposed to buying them a gift.

Thai government plans to scale back cannabis legalisation to medical-only

The Thai government has announced their intention to scale back cannabis legalisation in favour of regulations that support the use of cannabis as a medicine only. Newly elected Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin of the Pheu Thai Party has announced his plan to implement these changes quickly within the next six months with the backing of his 11-party coalition government.

Women in cannabis: celebrating inspirational voices at Product Earth

Two weeks ago, the cannabis community shone a special spotlight on some of the industry’s most influential and inspirational women at Product Earth - the UK’s largest natural medicine experience.