Education

The time it takes for you to feel the effects of THC depends on the methods of administration as well as your own physiology. Fortunately, there are fast and slow-acting options, as well as ways to take low or high doses in order to facilitate control over the way your body reacts to your medicine.

Ever wonder why some CBD oils feel more calming, energising or balanced than others? The answer could lie in the terpene profile. This guide explains what terpenes are, how they shape the effects of CBD oil, and why full-spectrum or broad-spectrum extracts may offer more complete support. We cover common terpenes like myrcene, linalool and limonene, and how to choose a better-quality CBD product by checking lab reports, cannabinoid profiles and extraction methods.

Medical cannabis is finally here in the UK, and it's here to stay. With the UK government legalising medical cannabis in 2018, patients now have access to this complementary treatment option for a vast range of medical conditions, at least when it is prescribed through a private clinic. Unfortunately, since medical cannabis became a reality, securing a prescription for medical cannabis through the NHS is still extremely rare, and is only applicable for three specific conditions.

After decades of lobbying by patient advocates and healthcare professionals, on the 1st of November 2018 here in the UK, medical cannabis became legally available to patients suffering from a huge range of conditions including (but nowhere near limited to) chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, epilepsy, mental health concerns, and cancer treatment-related nausea. But with this new availability comes many questions, and these are necessary for the safe application of medical cannabis. In this article, we'll have a closer look at the pros and cons of taking medical cannabis as a complementary treatment option.

Incorporating CBD into your daily routine is made easy with CBD gummies. They offer a cost-effective and easily obtainable option, commonly found in health food shops across the UK, or can also be sourced online. Each package of CBD gummies provides dosage information, ensuring you are aware of the CBD content in each individual gummy and the total pack. It is important to note that not all gummy brands offer the same dosage, so exercise caution if you are sensitive to their effects. Take gummies as needed, finding the optimal dose for your needs, and observing the duration of their effects.

CBD gummies provide a new option for people looking to integrate the potential benefits of CBD into their medical or health and well-being routine. They are often affordable, easily accessible, and come in different mg doses to help people titrate their healthcare regimen. Patients can take one or more gummies at a time one or more times a day at a level they find most helpful.

Medical cannabis in the UK has grown sharply in recent years, with around 60,000 active patients in 2025 and projections to reach 100,000 before year-end. Access remains uneven, NHS prescriptions are rare, and private clinics carry the load. This guide explores patient numbers, conditions, clinics, access challenges, and how the UK compares internationally.

The term 'CBD edibles' refers to any food item that has been infused with cannabidiol (CBD), a naturally occurring cannabinoid produced by the cannabis sativa L. genus. Edibles provide a simple and discreet, yet effective, way to introduce the benefits of CBD into your daily diet in a balanced and interesting way. 

With the social and political acceptance and awareness of medical cannabis growing here in the UK, the need for both patients and the wider public to have a better understanding of how cannabis (and its contained active ingredients) interacts with the body is more pressing than ever before. Deep within our bodies, there is a remarkably intricate regulatory system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS) that is still somewhat overlooked in the wider medical field, despite its crucial role in our wellbeing. This complex network is made up of receptors, enzymes, and naturally produced cannabinoids called endocannabinoids. 

From a chemical standpoint, THC and CBD are actually isomers. This means that although they have the same chemical formula, their structure differs. They are both classed as phytocannabinoids, or cannabinoids produced by the cannabis plant, but their differences in structure mean that they interact with our body’s receptors in entirely disparate ways – and this is what results in their unique therapeutic properties.

THC levels in UK medical cannabis range from lower-strength oils and flower to highly concentrated extracts. This guide explains what different THC percentages mean, how specialists decide on the right strength, and why safe prescribing is essential. It also looks at how the law works in practice and how Releaf supports patients.

THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, but its role goes far beyond the classic “high” associated with recreational consumption. This guide explains how THC works in the body, the medical benefits being researched, the risks to be aware of, and what medical cannabis prescribing looks like in the UK today.

With the truly monumental global shift that we are currently living through regarding both medicinal cannabis, and consumer CBD products, it should come as little wonder that people are becoming increasingly curious about the different cannabis extracts on offer. Cannabis oil is an often employed term that encompasses a huge range of both over-the-counter and prescribable products, all made from the same source: cannabis plants.

For the vast majority of patients, CBD is perfectly safe to take whilst taking other pharmaceuticals. Whilst CBD is relatively safe, non-toxic and generally well tolerated, there are a few side effects that we all should be aware of. The number of people who have a negative experience with CBD where side effects occur is low, but possible.

Cannabis oil is an overarching term, and as such there is a certain degree of confusion surrounding it. Generally speaking, cannabis oil is an extract from the leaves and buds of the cannabis sativa L. plant and can contain certain cannabinoids like THC and CBD, as well as other chemical compounds like terpenes and flavonoids.

The cannabis sativa L. plant has a fascinating and deep-rooted history here in the United Kingdom. A profoundly important and versatile plant in terms of both medicinal application and use in the industrial sector, it has been utilised for various purposes throughout the ages. Without hemp, our country's past would have been quite different indeed.

The private sector can prescribe medical cannabis for a much wider range of health issues than the NHS. There is actually no definitive list of conditions and symptoms that may qualify, as it is up to the discretion of the individual clinician.

Hemp tea is made from the flowers or leaves of the hemp plant. Hemp is closely related to cannabis, but has a much lower THC content. THC is the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, but thanks to the extremely low THC levels in hemp, ingesting hemp products produces zero intoxicating effects. 

Many are curious: will the UK move beyond its current medical cannabis laws and join the select few nations that have nationally legalized recreational cannabis? Let's delve into the factors at play and explore the current positions from across the political spectrum, as well as the viewpoints of influential individuals who hold the power to enact change.

While we have seen some enormous changes in the past five years regarding the legality of medical cannabis here in the UK, recreational cannabis remains strictly prohibited. The penalties for being caught with or supplying recreational cannabis can be severe, including fines and even potential jail time, or both. With more than a handful of countries now legalising the use of recreational cannabis, and many looking at the plant as a potential revenue stream, it begs the question – why is recreational cannabis still illegal in the UK?

It is possible to obtain a commercial medical cannabis cultivation licence in the UK, but it is not a straightforward process. Companies looking to produce cannabis-based medicinal products need to seek authorisation from two regulatory bodies – the MHRA and the Home Office. The burgeoning medical cannabis cultivation market has forced some changes to the overall process of applying for these licences.

In the UK today, hemp can be legally grown for commercial purposes provided the farmer or grower receives a special licence from the home office. Growers are also only able to cultivate hemp varieties that contain lower than 0.2% THC. This is because cannabis (or more specifically, cannabis plants that contain more than 0.2%THC) is still considered a class B drug.

‘Medical cannabis’ is a term used to describe any kind of cannabis-based medicine used to relieve the symptoms of a medical condition. From pain management to restoring a healthy sleep pattern, medical cannabis can be integral to alleviating some of the discomfort and issues people with chronic medical conditions face.

Although recreational cannabis is still illegal in the UK, medical cannabis has been legally available to patients suffering from a wide range of health concerns since November 2018. However, obtaining it through the NHS is quite challenging, which is why many patients are turning to private clinics.

In the UK, it is a legal requirement to drive only when you are in a suitable condition to do so, which means being mentally alert and physically capable of controlling the vehicle at all times. However, many don't know that medical cannabis patients are permitted to drive so long as, they are not impaired, they can prove their medication has been prescribed to them, and they are following the directions given by both their doctor, and medication manufacturer. The Cannabis Industry Council state patients are not breaching the law by driving with over 2μg/L of THC in their blood so long as these three criteria are met.

‘Medical cannabis’ is a term used to describe all forms of cannabis-based medicine. This medicinal option became a legal reality here in the UK on the 1st of November 2018, and since that time, we have seen a slow but steady incline of patients receiving prescriptions for a wide range of health issues. From anxiety and depression to chronic pain, medical cannabis can alleviate the discomfort that those dealing with medical conditions experience and can improve their quality of life. 

When most people hear the word ‘cannabis’ in the UK, their first instinct is to think of recreational cannabis. But, thanks to changes in the law regarding medical cannabis back in 2018, and the rise of ‘over the counter’ CBD options, there are now many other products with the word cannabis in them that enjoy vastly different legal statuses. 

Cannabis edibles are legal for ‘over-the-counter’ sale in the UK as long as they don’t contain more than 0.2% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. Edibles that do have more than 0.2% THC are still illegal in the UK unless they are prescribed through the medical cannabis scheme introduced in 2018.

As interest in medical cannabis spreads around the UK, it’s understandable that accessing reliable information about its legal status has become a bit of a minefield. In this article, we will offer accurate and up-to-date information on UK cannabis classification, so that you can feel more confident in assessing your own position with regard to making a distinction between medical cannabis, and the cannabis that we associate with illegal substances.

While CBD use is on the rise in the United Kingdom, with trendy coffee shops even offering to add a few drops to your flat white for a small extra charge, there is still some confusion surrounding its legal status in the UK. This is perhaps particularly true when it comes in the form of CBD edibles, with many wondering if it’s a prohibited substance. Let's dive in and find out what the law does and does not allow when it comes to CBD products.

Sleep apnoea can affect concentration, energy levels and overall wellbeing. This updated guide explains how medical cannabis and CBD may support people living with sleep apnoea, what current research shows and how treatment works in the UK. It also covers risks, product types and the role of established treatments such as CPAP.

It’s Movember once again - a time when moustaches become commonplace on our streets, at work, and even in our homes. But this important event is about much more than questionable facial hair. It is a time of raising awareness around men’s health and bringing people together to talk, support, and donate. In honour of this Movember 2024, we’re taking a closer look at men’s health, including testicular and prostate cancer, mental health and suicide prevention, and the potential role of medical cannabis.

Medical cannabis is finally here in the UK, and it's here to stay. With the UK government legalising medical cannabis in 2018, patients now have access to this complementary treatment option for a vast range of medical conditions, at least when it is prescribed through a private clinic. Unfortunately, since medical cannabis became a reality, securing a prescription for medical cannabis through the NHS is still extremely rare, and is only applicable for three specific conditions.

After decades of lobbying by patient advocates and healthcare professionals, on the 1st of November 2018 here in the UK, medical cannabis became legally available to patients suffering from a huge range of conditions including (but nowhere near limited to) chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, epilepsy, mental health concerns, and cancer treatment-related nausea. But with this new availability comes many questions, and these are necessary for the safe application of medical cannabis. In this article, we'll have a closer look at the pros and cons of taking medical cannabis as a complementary treatment option.

With the social and political acceptance and awareness of medical cannabis growing here in the UK, the need for both patients and the wider public to have a better understanding of how cannabis (and its contained active ingredients) interacts with the body is more pressing than ever before. Deep within our bodies, there is a remarkably intricate regulatory system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS) that is still somewhat overlooked in the wider medical field, despite its crucial role in our wellbeing. This complex network is made up of receptors, enzymes, and naturally produced cannabinoids called endocannabinoids. 

With the introduction of medical cannabis here in the UK, patients are now able to access cannabis based medical products (CBMPs) in the treatment of pain. And while this is great news for many, the world of CBMPs can be daunting – especially when there are so many cannabinoids at play.

Housed in the tiny trichomes that coat the surface of cannabis buds, cannabinoids like CBD and terpenes like Myrcene are produced by female cannabis plants in a potent resin. These minuscule orbs of resin give cannabis its crystal-like encrusted appearance, and they can be extracted from the plant to be used in the manufacturing of cannabis-based products.

The ECS may be influential in the treatment of psoriasis in a number of ways. Importantly, studies suggest that the main physiological function of the cutaneous ECS is to control the well-balanced proliferation, differentiation, and survival – as well as immune competence and/or tolerance – of skin cells. 

Flower production begins once the vegetative stage of growth finishes up (anywhere between 3 weeks to 4 months after the seed sprouts), with the largest flower typically found on female cannabis plants in a cluster, or a cola, at its highest point. Flowers are also produced on the branches, but in smaller sizes than the main cola. 

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering ‘What are the potential medical benefits of cannabis?’ you’ve come to the right place. Medical cannabis is a term used to describe the medical application of cannabis or cannabis-based medicines to help relieve symptoms associated with certain health conditions.

Originating from Western China and Central Asia, the cannabis plant has been cultivated for thousands of years for a variety of different reasons. Its roots deeply permeate our history, and up until one hundred or so years ago, also our culture.

The brain is an incredibly complex organ, made up of billions of nerve cells that collectively control almost every aspect of human functioning. But, did you know that the brain also contains more receptors for cannabinoids alone, than it does for serotonin, noradrenaline, and dopamine combined?

The cannabis plant contains over 110 cannabinoids occurring naturally, providing potentially potent and distinct benefits for mind and bodily functions. Thanks to the recent explosion in cannabis legality, researchers are finally gaining the type of access they need to delve into the vast potential of these compounds for medical applications. 

Medical cannabis continues to increase in popularity, with more people turning to this natural remedy for a wide range of issues.

We understand that starting your journey with medical cannabis can be daunting. With so many different types of medical cannabis products, medical cannabis strains and a variety of administration or consumption methods, it can be hard to know where to start.

For anyone in the UK, embarking on a journey across the African continent sounds like an incredibly exciting and exhilarating experience, however the intricacies of travelling with prescribed medications, particularly medical cannabis, require careful consideration.

Europe is a fantastic continent where ancient castles and cathedrals majestically meet modern cities and beautiful beaches, offering almost any kind of adventure you could dream of. We’d love for everyone to have the opportunity to explore different European cities like Rome, Barcelona, Paris, Berlin, or Amsterdam, and a medical cannabis prescription shouldn’t get in the way of this.

We know that dream holidays can create memories that last a lifetime, and we want to do everything we can to help you make those memories, whilst staying medicated. Here we’ve collated advice from the UK Home Office, Government, International Narcotics Control Board, and The Sanskara Platform so that you can scope out the horizons for your next destination. 

For some patients, medical cannabis really is a lifeline and is therefore a necessary component in the holiday of a lifetime. So that you don’t have to choose between your health and a holiday, we’ve put together this guide that explains which countries currently have medical cannabis policies in place.

Here at Releaf we understand that holidays should be about relaxation, but travelling with medical cannabis sounds like a stressful voyage. We’re doing what we can to absorb that stress so that you can soak up the sun, and so, we’ve designed a series of articles to cover the subject: medical cannabis on holiday. 

Daydreaming of exploring Asia’s incredible landscapes, culture, and vibrant cities is a common occurrence for many, and nations like the Philippines and Singapore feature on bucket lists around the world as a ‘must-see destination’. But, Asia is also extremely well known for enacting strict punishments to suspected drug smugglers and traffickers.

Dreaming of idyllic white sand beaches and secluded spots in Polynesia, or experiencing extreme outback adventures in Australasia is a desire shared by many, and places like Hawaii, New Zealand, and Australia feature on many people’s bucket lists. Yet, for medical cannabis patients, planning their dream holiday may be filled with dread - due to the confusing and often conflicting cannabis regulations in different countries.

To expand on our continental cannabis guide, we’ve also released a series of articles that delve deeper into the legal frameworks that regulate medical cannabis in each continent. In this article, we discuss travelling with cannabis-based medicines to some of the most scenic South American countries.

Each year, TripAdvisor and Lastminute.com release a list with their top spots to visit, providing plenty of information for prospective travellers.  But one piece of information that isn’t included in these features, is the legal status of medical cannabis in these countries. That’s where we come in.  In this feature, we will explore how cannabis-friendly the countries featured on Lastminute.com’s ‘Top 10 Best Holiday Destinations for the 2023 summer’ list, so that you can de-stress in the perfect destination. 

It’s a common dream to jet set away to a faraway land, explore new landscapes and learn about different and diverse cultures. Relaxing in a tropical environment or adventuring through unfamiliar territories are popular bucket list items for millions across the world, and we don’t think medication should stop these dreams from becoming a reality.

Because we are passionate about making medical cannabis knowledge accessible, we break down some of the latest and greatest medical cannabis research reports and scientific investigations into bite-sized chunks. 

This paper explores the ongoing expanded-access program (EAP) for patients with treatment-resistant epilepsies (TREs), evaluating the long-term safety and treatment effects of cannabidiol (CBD). It provides important insights into the efficacy of CBD in reducing seizure frequency and highlights its generally well-tolerated nature. Join us as we delve into the abstract, results, contributions, and practical implications of this significant study in the realm of medical cannabis research and clinical trials.

In today’s modern world, when people want to know something, often the first thing they do is turn to Google, and so, the internet can act as a mirror and reflect what society is interested in.