The Sanskara Platform and Seed Our Future Co-Author Report with Cannabis Industry Council Urging Employers to Support Prescription Cannabis Patients
07/11/2023 – The Sanskara Platform, in collaboration with Seed Our Future, is pleased to announce the release of an important report addressing the rights of prescription cannabis patients in the workplace. This ground-breaking report, titled ‘The Use of Prescription Cannabis at Work,’ has been authored by Mohammad Wasway, Founder of The Sanskara Platform, and Guy Coxall, Founder of Seed Our Future. It forms a crucial part of the Standards Working Group within the Cannabis Industry Council (CIC).
The report, highlighted by the CIC, reveals a pressing issue affecting prescription cannabis patients and their rights in the workplace. It suggests that current employer practices may put them at risk of breaching the Equality Act. The Act mandates that employers must make reasonable adjustments to accommodate individuals with disabilities, which includes many prescription cannabis patients who often suffer from chronic pain and disabilities.
The CIC’s report underscores the necessity for employers to treat prescription cannabis patients just like any other medical patients, aligning with their legal obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
Report co-authors, Mohammad Wasway and Guy Coxall, expressed their concerns, stating, “We have heard from many concerned and vulnerable patients who have been harassed and mistreated by their employers simply for taking their prescription medication. We urge businesses to support their employees and implement sensible and proportionate solutions that will improve employee wellbeing and productivity.”
Elisabetta Faenza, Chair of the CIC Standards Working Group, emphasised the Council’s commitment to upholding workplace rights for prescription cannabis patients, asserting, “The Cannabis Industry Council will be working with employers and unions to uphold workplace rights for prescription cannabis patients, based on law, medicine, and basic compassion. Many businesses say they are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity, yet often underdeliver. Now is the time for employers to step up and support ill and disabled employees.”
The report not only sheds light on the medical context surrounding prescription cannabis but also suggests ways to manage its usage by employees. It includes user-friendly flowcharts and illustrative case studies to help employers navigate this complex issue.
Since 2018, specialist doctors have had the authority to prescribe cannabis medicines to their patients, who are then legally permitted to possess and consume this medication. Employers who fail to uphold the workplace rights of patients, including both employees and job applicants, face the risk of being taken to an employment tribunal.
This report is a significant step towards ensuring that prescription cannabis patients receive fair treatment and protection under the law. It calls upon employers to support their employees’ medical needs and uphold the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusivity in the workplace.
The cannabis plant, scientifically known as Cannabis sativa, has been a part of human history for millennia, revered for its versatility and medicinal properties. In this comprehensive blog, we will explore the fascinating anatomy, life cycle, pollination methods, defence mechanisms, habitats, and diverse types, shapes, and colours of the cannabis plant. Let’s embark on this journey of discovery and unravel the enigmatic world of cannabis.
Anatomy of the Cannabis Plant
The cannabis plant is a hardy, dioecious flowering plant, meaning it has separate male and female reproductive structures. Below is a simple table illustrating the basic anatomy of the cannabis plant:
Plant Part
Function
Leaves
Photosynthesis and transpiration
Stems
Support, nutrient transport, and storage
Flowers (Buds)
Reproductive structures containing cannabinoids
Seeds
Reproduction and dispersal of the species
Roots
Anchoring, nutrient and water absorption
1. Cola:
The Cola refers to the cluster of buds at the top of the female cannabis plant. It contains high concentrations of cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, making it a crucial component for medical cannabis production. Colas are carefully cultivated and harvested for their therapeutic properties, contributing to the medicinal benefits of the plant.
2. Sugar Leaf:
Sugar Leaves are the small, sugar-coated leaves that surround the Cola and other buds. These leaves contain trichomes, which are resin-producing glands responsible for synthesising cannabinoids and terpenes. Sugar Leaves are also utilised in medical cannabis preparations due to their cannabinoid-rich content.
3. Pistil and Stigma:
Pistils and Stigmas are the reproductive structures of the female cannabis plant. The Pistil consists of the Stigma, which is a hair-like structure designed to capture pollen during pollination. While cannabis growers typically remove male plants to prevent seed development, these female reproductive components play a significant role in medical cannabis production as they are rich in cannabinoids and other beneficial compounds.
4. Trichomes:
Trichomes are tiny, crystal-like structures that cover the surface of cannabis plants, including the Cola and Sugar Leaves. These structures are the powerhouse of medicinal compounds, housing a majority of the cannabinoids and terpenes responsible for the therapeutic effects of medical cannabis. Trichomes are carefully preserved during harvesting to ensure maximum medicinal potency.
5. Fan Leaf:
Fan Leaves are the large, fan-shaped leaves that emerge from the cannabis plant’s branches. While they contain minimal cannabinoid content, they play a crucial role in the photosynthesis process, providing the plant with the energy it needs to produce therapeutic compounds. Fan Leaves also contribute to the overall health and vigour of the medical cannabis plant.
6. Bract and Calyx:
Bracts are modified leaves found at the base of each Cola, while Calyxes are small, cup-like structures that encase the cannabis seeds when pollinated. While Bracts and Calyxes have limited cannabinoid content, they are essential components for medical cannabis growers as they protect and support seed development, which is crucial for strain preservation and breeding purposes.
Life Cycle of the Cannabis Plant
The life cycle of the cannabis plant consists of several stages, each crucial for its survival and propagation. Let’s take a look at the key phases:
Germination: The life cycle begins with a seed, which germinates when exposed to water, light, and suitable temperature conditions.
Vegetative Stage: During this phase, the plant focuses on vegetative growth, producing leaves and stems. It requires ample light, nutrients, and water.
Flowering Stage: As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage. Female plants develop buds containing cannabinoids, while male plants produce pollen for pollination.
Pollination: Cannabis plants employ various pollination methods, primarily wind pollination or insect-facilitated pollination.
Seed Production: If pollination is successful, female plants produce seeds within their buds.
Death and Decay: After seed production, the plant completes its life cycle and eventually dies or goes dormant.
Pollination Methods of the Cannabis Plant
The cannabis plant has developed different strategies for pollination. The two main methods are:
Wind Pollination: In this method, male cannabis plants release pollen grains into the air, which are carried by the wind and may land on female flowers, leading to fertilisation and seed production.
Insect-Facilitated Pollination: Some cannabis strains have co-evolved with insects like bees and butterflies to facilitate pollination. These insects visit male flowers, collect pollen, and transfer it to female flowers, aiding in fertilisation.
Defence Mechanisms of the Cannabis Plant
To protect itself from predators and environmental stressors, the cannabis plant deploys various defence mechanisms. These include:
Cannabinoids: Cannabis plants produce a range of cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, which can deter herbivores and insects.
Trichomes: Tiny hair-like structures on the surface of cannabis leaves and buds secrete resin, which contains cannabinoids and terpenes that can repel pests.
Smell: The strong aroma produced by cannabis plants can attract pollinators and beneficial insects while repelling potential threats.
Adaptability: Cannabis plants can adjust their growth patterns and chemistry in response to environmental conditions, enabling them to survive in various habitats.
Habitats of the Cannabis Plant
The cannabis plant is remarkably adaptable and can thrive in diverse habitats, including:
Outdoor Environments: Cannabis grows well in temperate climates with long growing seasons, such as parts of North America, Europe, and Asia.
Indoor Cultivation: Controlled indoor environments with appropriate lighting, temperature, and humidity can also support cannabis growth.
Greenhouses: Greenhouses offer a balance between outdoor and indoor cultivation, providing a controlled environment with natural light.
Various Types, Shapes, and Colours of Cannabis
Cannabis exhibits a wide array of types, shapes, and colours, influenced by factors such as genetics, cultivation techniques, and environmental conditions. Below are some common cannabis types:
Type
Shape
Colour
Sativa
Tall, slender
Light green, orange, yellow
Indica
Short, bushy
Dark green, purple
Ruderalis
Small and rugged
Pale green
Hybrids
Varies depending on mix
Combination of colours
Conclusion
The cannabis plant is a remarkable botanical wonder, with a rich history and countless applications in various fields. Understanding its anatomy, life cycle, pollination methods, defence mechanisms, habitats, and diverse characteristics can foster appreciation for this extraordinary plant. Whether it’s for medical purposes, recreational use, or industrial applications, the cannabis plant continues to intrigue and amaze humanity, reminding us of the wonders of nature.
Disclaimer: This post aims to provide general information about the cannabis plant. Cultivation, possession, and use of cannabis is illegal without the correct authorisation Always abide by the laws and regulations put in place. Consult a qualified professional for personalised advice related to medical cannabis.
Dry herb vaporising offers a precise and efficient way to consume cannabis, allowing users to experience the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids and terpenes without the potential harms associated with smoking. To ensure a safe and enjoyable vaporising experience, it’s essential to understand the boiling points of various terpenes and cannabinoids and how they impact the effects of cannabis.
Importance of Temperature Control Temperature control is a critical aspect of dry herb vaporising, as different compounds in cannabis vaporise at specific temperatures. By adjusting the temperature, users can target specific cannabinoids and terpenes to customise their experience.
Anti-inflammatory, Potential Gastro-protective Effects, No Psychoactive effects
Humulene
198°C
Anti-inflammatory, Potential Appetite Suppressant
Terpinolene
185°C
Uplifting, Potential Antioxidant and Anticancer Effects
Bisabolol
329°C
Calming, Potential Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects
Eucalyptol
176°C
Potential Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Effects
Guaiol
167°C
Potential Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects
Nerolidol
161°C
Calming, Potential Sedative and Anti-fungal Effects
Phytol
160°C
Potential Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects
Dosage Recommendations Dosage for dry herb vaporising depends on several factors, including individual tolerance, desired effects, the potency of the cannabis strain and prescriber’s guidance. Start with a low dose and gradually increase until the desired effects are achieved.
Safety Considerations Always use a reputable vaporiser with accurate temperature controls to ensure precise dosing and avoid combustion. High temperatures (above 230°C) may produce harmful by-products and should be avoided.
Conclusion Dry herb vaporising provides a customisable and controlled method of cannabis consumption. Understanding the boiling points of cannabinoids and a wide range of terpenes allows users to fine-tune their experience and target specific effects. Start with low temperatures and dosage, gradually increasing as needed, to enjoy the full potential of cannabinoids and terpenes while minimising potential adverse effects.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this context is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice under any circumstances. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner before making any decisions or taking any actions related to medical treatment or dosing. The content here does not replace professional medical guidance, and any reliance on the information presented is at your own risk. We strive to maintain accuracy and up-to-date information; however, we do not warrant the completeness, reliability, or validity of the information provided. Therefore, we disclaim any liability for any adverse outcomes or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information mentioned here. Always seek personalised medical advice from a licensed healthcare provider for your specific medical condition or situation.
In the rapidly advancing field of medical cannabis, researchers and manufacturers continuously explore new cannabinoids with the potential for therapeutic benefits. Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), a lesser-known compound found in cannabis plants, has attracted attention due to its unique properties and potential medical applications. This comprehensive blog post aims to provide medical cannabis patients and academics with an in-depth understanding of HHC, including its definition, pros and cons, sources, manufacturing processes, and potential medical uses.
What is Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC)?
Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. Structurally similar to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, HHC features a slightly altered molecular structure. Like other cannabinoids, HHC is derived from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), the precursor molecule for various cannabinoids in the cannabis plant.
Pros of Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC)
Therapeutic Potential: Preliminary research suggests that HHC may possess therapeutic properties, including analgesic (pain-relieving), anti-inflammatory, and anti-anxiety effects. Further studies are necessary to investigate its potential in treating specific medical conditions.
Alternative to THC: HHC provides an alternative for patients who may experience adverse effects or discomfort associated with high levels of THC consumption. It may offer a more balanced and subtle psychoactive experience while potentially reducing THC-related side effects.
Novel Cannabinoid: HHC expands the range of cannabinoids available for researchers to explore, contributing to our understanding of the complex chemistry of cannabis and its medicinal applications. It presents an exciting opportunity to uncover new therapeutic possibilities.
Cons of Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC)
Limited Research: As a relatively new cannabinoid, scientific research on HHC remains limited. This lack of comprehensive studies makes it challenging to fully assess its safety profile, potential side effects, and long-term impacts. Further research is needed to evaluate its efficacy and safety in various medical contexts.
Regulatory Status: The legal and regulatory status of HHC may vary across different jurisdictions. It is crucial for patients and consumers to adhere to local laws and regulations regarding the use and possession of HHC-containing products. Engaging in transparent and open communication with healthcare professionals is essential.
Sources of Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC)
HHC can be found in cannabis plants, albeit in relatively low concentrations compared to other cannabinoids like THC and CBD. It is primarily obtained through specialized cultivation techniques and genetic selection to enhance HHC production in specific cannabis strains. Cultivators employ careful breeding strategies to optimize the production of this unique cannabinoid.
Manufacturing Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC)
The manufacturing process for HHC involves several crucial steps, including extraction, isolation, and purification. Here is a detailed overview of the process:
Extraction: The initial step involves extracting the desired cannabinoids, including HHC, from cannabis plant material. Common extraction methods include solvent-based techniques such as hydrocarbon or ethanol extraction. These methods help separate the cannabinoids from the plant material, resulting in a crude extract.
Isolation: Following extraction, the crude cannabinoid extract undergoes further purification to isolate HHC. Techniques like chromatography, crystallization, or distillation are employed to separate HHC from other cannabinoids and impurities present in the crude extract. The specific isolation method may vary based on the desired purity and intended application of the HHC.
Purification: To obtain a high-purity form of HHC, additional purification steps are necessary. Filtration techniques, solvent removal, and further chromatographic separations can be employed to remove residual impurities and enhance the purity of the HHC isolate.
Formulation: Once the purified HHC is obtained, it can be incorporated into various delivery systems such as oils, tinctures, capsules, or topical products, depending on the desired application and patient needs. These formulations enable convenient and precise dosing for medical cannabis patients.
Potential Medical Applications of Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC)
While research on HHC is still in its early stages, several potential medical applications have been proposed based on the known effects of cannabinoids. These potential applications include:
Pain Management: HHC’s analgesic properties may make it a potential candidate for managing chronic pain conditions. Further research is needed to evaluate its effectiveness in different pain syndromes and compare it to existing treatments.
Inflammation: Studies suggest that HHC might possess anti-inflammatory properties, which could be explored in the treatment of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Anxiety and Mood Disorders: HHC’s potential anxiolytic effects may offer benefits in managing anxiety and mood disorders. Further research is necessary to explore its efficacy, safety, and optimal dosing regimens.
Neurological Disorders: Given the complex interaction between cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system in the brain, HHC could be investigated for its potential in neuroprotective and neurodegenerative disorders like epilepsy, multiple sclerosis (MS), and Parkinson’s disease.
Conclusion
Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) represents a novel cannabinoid that holds promise for therapeutic applications within the field of medical cannabis. While research on HHC is still limited, its potential benefits and unique properties warrant further investigation. Medical cannabis patients considering the use of HHC-containing products should consult healthcare professionals and adhere to local laws and regulations. As scientific knowledge expands, a better understanding of HHC’s advantages, drawbacks, and optimal medical applications will emerge, contributing to the advancement of cannabis-based therapies.
Welcome to The Sanskara Platform’s Patreon page! We are dedicated to empowering UK patients by providing free education and resources on medical cannabis. Our mission is to ensure that every patient has access to the information they need to make informed decisions about their health.
Through our Patreon page, you can directly support our cause and help us continue providing high-quality content and valuable resources to patients in need. Your patronage will contribute to the maintenance of our website, the creation of educational materials, and the expansion of our outreach efforts.
Join us as we work towards advancing the medical cannabis industry in the UK. By becoming a patron, you not only gain exclusive benefits but also become an integral part of our community of supporters who are passionate about improving patient care and well-being.
Membership:
1. Seedling Supporter – £5 per month:
– Early access to new educational content
– Exclusive behind-the-scenes updates
2. Blossom Advocate – £10 per month:
– All benefits of the Seedling Supporter tier
– Early access to Q&A sessions with medical cannabis experts
– Personalised recommendations for further resources
3. Evergreen Champion – £20 per month:
– All benefits of the Blossom Advocate tier
– Exclusive access to in-depth research articles and case studies
– Invitation to a private online community for discussions and networking
4. Sanskara VIP – £50 per month:
– All benefits of the Evergreen Champion tier
– Personalised 30 min one-on-one support with an experienced patient
– Special recognition as a Sanskara VIP on our website and social media platforms
Your membership support will directly contribute to our ability to provide free resources, maintain our website, and expand our reach to help even more patients. Every tier offers unique benefits, allowing you to engage with our platform and be a part of the positive change we strive for.
Thank you for considering becoming a patron of The Sanskara Platform. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of UK patients seeking medical cannabis education and resources!
Are you planning to travel abroad with medical cannabis from the UK? It can be a daunting task to navigate the various regulations and import laws of each destination country. Fortunately, The Sanskara Platform has compiled a comprehensive guide to help you with the process.
The Sanskara Platform is an online resource that provides guidance on medical cannabis for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. They have recently released a new table of information that outlines the regulations for importing medical cannabis into several popular British holiday destinations.
The table provides a detailed breakdown of the import laws and regulations for each country, along with contact information for the relevant embassy departments. This makes it easier for patients to plan their travel and ensure they have the necessary documentation and permissions to bring their medication with them.
It is important to note that each country has its own regulations, and it is essential to consult with the relevant embassy or consulate before travelling. The Sanskara Platform’s guide can serve as a starting point, but it is not a substitute for professional legal advice.
If you are planning to travel abroad from the UK with a medical cannabis prescription, make sure to check out The Sanskara Platform’s table of information. It can be accessed via their website at https://thesanskaraplatform.co.uk/travelling-abroad/.
Medical cannabis is a rapidly growing industry and has proven to be effective in treating various health conditions. However, different countries have varying regulations regarding the importation of medical cannabis. The Sanskara Platform has created a table of information that outlines the necessary details and contact details/links for the importation of medical cannabis into popular British holiday destinations.
Australia, Bahamas, Belgium, Bermuda, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Jamaica, Netherlands, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Trinidad & Tobago, and Turkey are included in the table. Among these countries, Germany, Poland, and Portugal allow for the importation of medical cannabis for personal use with certain conditions.
Germany permits the importation of cannabis for personal use if prescribed by a doctor on the German list of narcotics. The patient is required to complete a form similar to the provided template and obtain confirmation from the supervising health authority of the patient’s county/area of residence. The patient can carry the cannabis for up to 30 days.
In Poland, a patient may bring medicines to the country for personal use not exceeding five smallest packages. However, the patient needs to complete a document for import/export of narcotic drugs/psychotropic substances for medical needs and obtain consent from the Chief Pharmaceutical Inspectorate.
In Portugal, patients can bring a higher amount of medication than required for the stay to anticipate unforeseen events. For medicines containing controlled substances, including cannabis, patients can bring only the amount required for 30 days of treatment with a medical justification/doctor’s statement. Patients are advised to contact the authority responsible for Customs and/or Civil Aviation in their country to find out the necessary documents required to transport medical cannabis.
Greece allows visitors to bring products for personal health use, such as medicines, food supplements, antiseptics, cosmetics, medical devices, etc., for personal use during their stay. However, visitors are required to bring just enough of each product to cover their needs during their stay and hold a letter from their doctor stating the medication(s) they are carrying.
Overall, it is essential to research and understand the regulations of the destination country regarding the importation of medical cannabis before travelling. The Sanskara Platform’s table of information provides a valuable resource for individuals travelling to popular British holiday destinations with medical cannabis needs.
In this post we discuss the products currently prescribed to patients and strains that patients would like to see on the medical cannabis market. We put together a short questionnaire to ask patients what products they are prescribed and for what condition, how they feel about the products prescribed to them and if it is beneficial for their condition, what strains they are familiar with and what condition do they benefit. We also asked patients to provide some feedback on their experiences as a Medical Cannabis Patient. We received 21 responses from patients, here are the results:
Conditions Identified
Condition
Total
Anxiety
10
Neuropathic Pain
8
Epilepsy
0
Parkinson’s
0
Scleroderma
0
Other
12
Ankylosing Spondylitis Anxiety
Insomnia
Neuropathic Pain Colitis
CPTSD
PTSD
Depression
ADHD
Chronic Pain
Migraines
Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Fibromyalgia
Nerve Pain
Medical Cannabis Products
Graph Showing What Products Patients Are Prescribed.
From this graph we can identify 2 products commonly used among patients. Khiron 18-22/1 THC Hindu Kush & Adven EMT 1 19% THC (Cairo – Unknown Strain). ‘Khiron Hindu Kush 18-22/1 THC CBD Flos’ was commonly found among patients with Neurological Pain and Anxiety whereas ‘Adven Flos EMT 1 19% THC’ was used for most of the conditions mentioned. Within the Khiron product patients can identify the strain as Hindu Kush, whereas with ALL Adven products the patients are left unaware of the strain name and pretty much any other information.
What Patients Want
List of Strains Preferred By Patients Not On The Medical Market;
Blue Cheese (Sleep, Depression, Anxiety)
Cheese
Granddaddy Purple (Anxiety, Pain)
Northern Lights (Pain, Sleep)
Biscotti (Anxiety)
Zkittles
Gorilla Zkittles
Strawberry Cough (Anxiety)
Strawberry Haze
Strawberry Diesel
Do-si-do (Rumor there was an Adven (EMT 6) of this same strain)
Girl Scout Cookies (Anxiety)
Sour Diesel (Anxiety, Pain)
Green Crack (Anxiety)
Purple Punch
OG Kush (Sleep, Depression, Anxiety, Pain)
S5 Haze (Sleep, Depression, Anxiety)
Chocolate (Sleep, Depression, Anxiety)
Pink Panties
Stardawg (Pain, Anxiety)
Super Silver Haze
Train Wreck
Afghan (Pain, Sleep)
Afghan Kush (Pain, Sleep)
Rhino Ryder (Pain, Sleep)
Bubba Kush (Pain, Sleep)
Patients have emphasised that there are so many strains that they could list although the list is still quite long. No patient was able to identify products from any medical market so there are no CoA with these products they have tested. The 2 most common strains mentioned were Granddaddy Purple (5x) and Stardawg (4x). Grandaddy Purple is best known for treating pain, stress, insomnia, appetite loss, and muscle spasms. Although Stardawg can help treat stress, fatigue and anxiety disorder, patients with pain issues also noted that it helped them too.
Types Of Products
We asked patients what type of products they would benefit from as we received a diverse result. Most patients identified that they benefit mostly from High THC/Low CBD Flower and also identified that Hashish is also beneficial. Currently patients are unable to get Hashish prescribed to them, in the Australian market there is “Bubble Hash” which can be made without additional chemicals or gasses. The Bubble Hash found in the Australian Market is called CannaTrek T55 (Bubble Hash Topaz), from the name it indicates a strong medication. The other products patients would like to see were Pollen Hash.
Conclusion
Examining the feedback from patients it is quite obvious that the consistency of medication we all receive is poor and is proving to affect patient’s treatments. Although medical cannabis has been available since 2018, 3.5 years on and we are still experiencing slow development and improvements to the products we are prescribed. The variety that’s available at the moment is not diverse enough and patients have to be okay with whatever they get prescribed, this causes patients to experience ‘strain lock’, in turn affecting their treatment.
Cost of medication is also something highlighted by patients. The cost is always compared with the illicit market and in doing so we can see that Medical Cannabis is still very expensive, especially for patients who are unable to work due to their health and rely on benefits. Key compounds in cannabis that patients feel are not being taken seriously are ‘Terpenes’. Patients have said that due to the way the product goes through drying, curing, storage and steralisation patients say they can notice a significant decrease in quality and standards.
In conclusion, standards need to improve and prices need to match that of the quality and that of patient needs before entering the market. More products are needed that patients are familiar with and of those products that patients are aware benefit their conditions. We also need more variety of products, including Bubble Hash and Vape Cartridges to help patients who are unable to benefit from Flower, Oils or Capsules. ‘High THC/Low CBD’ flower is most common but there is still a need for ‘Balanced’ flower too.
Patient Feedback
The irradiation process destroys any smell/terpenes from the flower and really does let the whole market down.
Irradiated seems to remove the taste as well as the smell and most of the time the products seem to come as they have been left in storage for too long. Recent batch of EMT 1 has improved because of new method of storage, this has reflected on the effects too!
The frustration for me is the process, there seems like a lot of red tape to make this efficient. Typical “make it hard” strategy from the government who make things a lot harder than it needs to be. Risk assessment gurus who have to make sure there is a safe way to achieve an easy win! Sadly until this is more second nature this will be the case with the UK. It seems also that lots more would benefit from the medicine however this isn’t possible for those who don’t work! Making a system that’s only available for those who are in a position to pay! This in itself discriminates those who can’t afford it and is again a government incentive that only works, as there is money to be made through it. Other countries seem to have this sorted and even have recreational use in hand! Sadly again with the UK we are behind in thinking we know best! When I’m actual fact they are just over cautious as usual and are blind sighted with the fact that legalisation would not only reduce police time! But would create a revenue to assist in these hard times of recession! And would also satisfy the public in regards to allowing it to be legal.
I am currently allowed 30g of flower per month (1g per day) but I actually use double that on average, the prices are actually higher than black market flowers and they don’t have the quality of it yet.
The flower dose not need to be irradiated to meet standards a d its proven by many this needs to stop also the flower needs to be hand trimmed not machines as its destroying the end product and we should be able to pick and choice a flower to what we want not be subject to one type
The Hindu Kush I get prescribed is good for pain relief but I need large doses. Not sure if it’s the lack of terps due to sterilisation or perhaps lack of potency in terms of THC. I can imagine a tolerance will quickly build up. But for now after just 1 prescription it works well enough.
I appreciate the prescription so much and recognise were early in the process but disappointed at the general standard of products and lack of choice.
The products are improving but it’s crazy to think that there is a high standard market across the globe and we are only importing products that are only just improving… where was the R&D? Irradiation, incorrect curing and storage certainly affect the terpenes but it’s never a concern to the clinicians. We don’t even get Product Information Leaflets with our medicines.
Products are way too expensive for patients without jobs due to disability
With a licence from the Home Office of the UK Government to grow and stabilise 65 strains of medical cannabis, Ananda Developments’ ambition is to be a leading UK grower and supplier of high quality, consistent, carbon zero medical cannabis. Our strain development research is clinician and patient led to provide confidence for prescribing specialists and consistent patient experience.
We sit and chat with Ananda Development’s Melissa Sturgess and Zinmar Adkin and we ask serious questions about their work for medical cannabis from our patient members of the committee.
How can we get the best results for patients through cultivating medical cannabis in the UK?
How is Ananda addressing issues in the market for patients such as quality and consistancy?
We have put together an informative leaflet for the general public, highlighting the availability and benefits of medical cannabis in the UK. This leaflet not only provides individuals with information on how to become a medical cannabis patient, but also includes a QR code linking to our website where patients can access a wide range of resources and a list of conditions eligible for a medical cannabis prescription.
Additionally, the UKMCPC conducted a survey, on March 2022, among patients in the community and found that they are spending on average £200 to £300 per month on their prescriptions. With the cheapest medical cannabis products on the market valued at £5/g and patients registered to Project 21 receiving a capped price of £5/g, we understand the importance of providing affordable and accessible options for medical cannabis patients.
To further our outreach and raise awareness of medical cannabis in the UK, we are proud to announce the Sanskara Roadshow. This traveling event will bring education and resources to communities across the country, and provide an opportunity for individuals to connect with medical cannabis clinics and pharmacies. With an estimated 1.2 million potential medical cannabis users in the UK, it is more important than ever to make sure everyone is aware of the benefits and availability of this alternative treatment option. We hope that our Roadshow will not only educate, but also inspire industry leaders to get involved and sponsor our mission to improve the lives of medical cannabis patients in the UK.
Check out the patient led directory and stock checker for medical cannabis products @ thecannabispages.co.uk and find out information about UK medical cannabis clinics and pharmacies too.
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