Efforts to modernize policies and regulations surrounding medical cannabis have spread across much of the European continent in recent years. France, however, stands out as a notable exception, as progress there has been significantly slower than in countries such as Germany. According to recent reports, nationwide reform of medical cannabis regulations in France is now…
Cannabis-infused drinks could be more than just a trend — they might actually help people cut back on alcohol and reduce alcohol-related harm. That’s the conclusion of a new study examining why and how people are choosing THC beverages over traditional alcoholic drinks. Alcohol has long been linked to a wide range of health problems,…
Researchers have made an important step toward creating a shared way to describe the smells of cannabis and hemp. “Aroma is one of the main ways people judge the quality of cannabis, but until now there has been no standard way to talk about it,” said Tom Shellhammer, a food science professor at Oregon State…
Cannabis legislation in the United States is complex and constantly evolving. While many U.S. states have legalized cannabis for medical and/or recreational use, federal law still largely prohibits it. This legal contradiction has shaped the cannabis industry for years—but major changes may be on the horizon. Federal Law: Cannabis Remains Largely Illegal At the federal…
Thailand is moving to restrict cannabis to medical use only and is preparing to re-classify the plant as a narcotic again. A doctor’s prescription is set to be required for legal purchases once the health ministry’s order is fully in force. Penalties for selling without meeting the new rules are being introduced, and a full…
In recent years, Italy’s stance on cannabidiol (CBD) has undergone significant changes, culminating in a stringent regulatory framework by 2025. These developments have profound implications for the nation’s hemp industry and its stakeholders. CBD Reclassified as a Narcotic In August 2023, the Italian Ministry of Health issued a decree classifying orally administered CBD products as…
Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in raw and live cannabis plants. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is well-known for its intoxicating effects, THCA does not produce a high. However, research indicates that THCA offers a range of potential medical benefits, making it a promising compound for therapeutic applications. This article explores the medical…
Cannabis is a complex plant with over 100 different compounds called cannabinoids, as well as aromatic compounds called terpenes. While many people have heard of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), these are only two of the many active components found in cannabis. Scientists have discovered that these compounds work together in what is known as…
The American cannabis industry finds itself at a new crossroads following the results of the 2024 presidential election. With state-legal cannabis sales continuing to set record numbers and more states joining the legalization movement, the election of Donald Trump as president introduces a familiar, yet uncertain, dynamic for the future of cannabis reform. A Tale…
The cannabis plant has been the subject of much discussion, regulation, and misunderstanding. At the heart of this confusion are two commonly conflated terms: hemp and marijuana. While both come from the same plant species, Cannabis sativa, they are distinct in their chemical composition, uses, and legal status. Clearing up these misconceptions is essential for…
