Legal
Explore the complex world of cannabis laws and regulations with Releaf. Keep updated with the latest legal changes affecting cannabis use.
A tale of two tolerances: Is Texas really banning THC?
You may have heard of the Texas THC ban - a new initiative introduced by lawmakers concerned about public health. But, while the State seeks to ‘ban THC’ and criminalise even trace amounts of THC in over the counter products, they’re simultaneously proposing to widen access to medical marijuana products, by altering the Texas Compassionate Use Program parameters.
Royal Rumours: Medical cannabis fit for a king?
Rumours are circulating that King Charles III may be using medical cannabis to ease cancer symptoms—but is there any truth behind the tabloid headlines? In this blog, we unpack the claims, explore the monarch’s long-standing support for alternative therapies, and explain how medical cannabis is legally accessed in the UK today.
Experts Explain: Not what the doctor ordered. Why smoking medical cannabis is harmful
At Releaf, we’re keen to share our Expert’s insights, especially those that explain the benefits of vaping medical cannabis, and why the UK medical cannabis law is the way it is - and that’s exactly what we’re doing in this blog.
Decriminalising cannabis: What Sadiq Khan’s proposal could mean for medical cannabis patients
While Sir Sadiq Khan’s proposal for cannabis decriminalisation could change the future of cannabis policing, in the present day patients still need clarity, and ultimately, protection. At Releaf we’re proud to stand beside them, offering legitimacy, safety, and support - but as we look ahead, we won’t forget the complex history that’s brought us to this point.
What the public wants to know about medical cannabis
Despite being legalised in 2018, public education around medical cannabis in the UK remains relatively under-developed. As a result, many prospective patients will find that they need to actively seek out information for themselves. For this reason, we here at Releaf are on a mission to make that this information is as simple to access as possible. Over the last few years, we have published a wide range of educational resources to give patients the answers they need. In this article, we’re taking a look at some of the top queries and answering the questions the public really wants to know about medical cannabis. So, let’s dive in!
What is HHC: Is it legal or prescribed in the UK?
HHC is a synthetic cannabinoid with growing online hype but no clinical backing. In this guide, we explain what HHC is, how it’s made, what it does in the body, and why it’s not a safe substitute for medical cannabis, especially under UK law.
Seized cannabis repurposed for research in Thai/UK operation
Following a joint Thai/UK customs operation, over two tonnes of confiscated cannabis are being redirected to medical research. It's an unusual yet symbolic shift in how governments are choosing to handle cannabis: not as mere contraband, but as a potential public health asset.
Synthetic cannabis - what is it exactly, and is it dangerous?
Synthetic cannabis has nothing in common with real cannabis, despite the name. It’s an unregulated, dangerous class of drugs with unpredictable and often severe effects. In this blog, we break down the science, the history, and the human cost of synthetic cannabinoids like Spice and Black Mamba
UK Police say the smell of cannabis no longer constitutes grounds for stop and search
Last week, Avon and Somerset Police announced they have trained their frontline officers to no longer use the smell of cannabis as grounds for stop and searches, following IOPC guidance, and ISoPP recommendations.
Accessing medical cannabis in Northern Ireland
Patients across the UK are facing significant challenges when it comes to healthcare, from long waiting lists, to an increasing prevalence of mental health issues and complex, chronic conditions. This blog aims to answer some common questions about accessing medical cannabis treatment in Northern Ireland and walk you through it step-by-step.
The Impact of Smoking on Chronic Health Conditions: Why Quitting Matters
These days, we are all well aware of the health implications of smoking tobacco. As a result, smoking rates have been consistently on the decline in recent decades. But for many, quitting smoking is easier said than done - and for those with chronic health conditions, this could pose an even more pressing concern. In honour of No Smoking Day 2025, we’re taking a closer look at how smoking impacts chronic conditions such as chronic pain, neurological disorders, and mental health.
MPs show greater support for medical cannabis than the British public
A recent YouGov poll found greater support for prescription cannabis among MPs than the general public, challenging the common assumption that public opinion is more progressive than political sentiment. We take a closer look at the potential factors behind these figures.
Can medical cannabis patients grow their own plants in the UK?
Medical cannabis has been a legal treatment option in the UK since November 1, 2018, but it has only become more 'popular' in the past year or so.
Unlocking rights: Key housing guidance for medical cannabis patients
Medical cannabis may have been legal in the UK since 2018, but many patients have been left feeling confused about their rights when it comes to taking their medication - both in public and the comfort of their own homes. Recently, the Cannabis Industry Council published further, much-needed guidance regarding medical cannabis and housing.
Westminster Hall debate: Barriers to accessing medical cannabis in the UK
Jim Shannon, MP for Strangford, led Thursday’s Westminster Hall debate, highlighting critical issues in the medical cannabis industry, with the most apparent being the masses of patients that could benefit from these treatments, yet struggle to access them.
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.
What is and isn't legal for medical cannabis patients in the UK
Medical cannabis has been legal in the UK since 2018, but there is still a lot of confusion and misinformation out there around its regulation and the rights of medical cannabis patients.
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.
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.
FAQ: Is it illegal to smoke medical cannabis in the UK?
In the UK, it is always illegal to smoke cannabis. While medical cannabis can be prescribed to suitable patients in the UK through private healthcare clinics like Releaf, it is only prescribed with the intention, and with strict instructions, of being vaped - not smoked.
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.
Road safety tips for medical cannabis patients
Last week, it was Road Safety Awareness Week, an important annual event that aims to raise awareness around road safety and improve funding and care for victims of road traffic accidents.
THC edibles and THC gummies: what patients need to know
Cannabis edibles have been a popular product for decades among individuals consuming them for recreational, wellness, and medicinal uses. In markets with legal recreational supply, consumers can buy THC edibles easily from licensed dispensaries, and in other areas, they can often be purchased from illicit sources.
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.