Cannabis
Cannabis is an extremely fascinating plant. It produces cannabinoids that can interact with the endocannabinoid receptors inside the human body, leading to a range of both therapeutic and psychoactive results.
The Cannabis sativa L. genus of plants is among the most intriguing species of flora on planet Earth. Cannabis produces cannabinoids (more specifically, phytocannabinoids), which are remarkably similar in structure to the endocannabinoids found in our bodies.
These compounds interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors and enzymes that play a crucial role in regulating homeostasis in humans, and in doing so, offers patients relief from a variety of medical conditions.
Where did cannabis originate?
While most researchers believe that the first cannabis plants emerged from Central Asia, there are land race (indigenous) strains found in regions all over the world, from Asia to Africa to South America. The application of cannabis for medicinal purposes dates back thousands of years, with evidence of its use in ancient Chinese and Indian texts, throughout ancient Greece, Rome, and in many tribal societies.
How does cannabis work?
Cannabis plants have been shown to produce over 110 different cannabinoids, each with their own unique effects on the body. The most well-known cannabinoid is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for producing the psychoactive effects commonly associated with cannabis use, along with a range of potential medical applications.
Another important cannabinoid is cannabidiol (CBD), which offers many potential therapeutic properties without causing psychoactive effects.
Is cannabis legal in the UK?
That depends. Medical cannabis was legalised in the UK in 2018, allowing doctors to prescribe it for certain conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, and epilepsy. However, recreational cannabis is still illegal and possessing it can result in criminal charges.
Specialists working with private medical cannabis clinics have the legal right to prescribe medical cannabis for a massive range of health issues, provided the patient has tried at least two conventional treatment methods that have been unsuccessful.
To find out if you are eligible for medical cannabis treatment in the UK, check out our fast and free medical cannabis eligibility checker.
If you would like to learn more about medical cannabis in the UK, Releaf is here to help. In addition to this medical cannabis glossary, we have an extensive blog and education hub to explore, both filled with resources that UK medical cannabis patients, prescribers, and educators have been asking for.