Cannabis contains cannabinoids, which are active compounds that stimulate the body’s natural endocannabinoid system (ECS) by binding to its receptors. The ECS is a complex network of receptors and signalling molecules that plays a role in regulating a range of functions and processes in the brain, nervous system and elsewhere in the body and help to regulate  pain, mood, inflammation and sleep. 

The most researched cannabinoids are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Both interact with the ECS and both have medicinal benefits but THC is the psychoactive compound that produces the euphoric sensation commonly associated with cannabis. 

Terpenes are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in plants and some animals, also have a crucial role to play. Not only are they responsible for the different smells and tastes of various cannabis strains, but they are also believed to positively contribute to the medicinal benefits of cannabinoids through an “entourage effect”. 

In November 2018, the UK Government amended regulations to allow doctors on the specialist register of the General Medical Council to prescribe medical cannabis. These prescribed products are known as Cannabis Based Products for Medicinal Use in humans (CBPMs) and have more stringent regulatory requirements than over the counter CBD wellness products.  

A small number of cannabis medicines are licensed by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for specific conditions and funded through the NHS, but the majority are unlicenced and can be prescribed by specialist doctors at their own discretion.  

Since medical cannabis was legalised in 2018 patient access has been improving, as evidence gathers to support the use of medical cannabis to treat a range of illnesses and conditions. 

Ananda sells its cannabinoid oil formulations as CBPMs, and plans later to have its cannabinoid oil formulations licensed for specific conditions, pending favourable outcomes from clinical trials and regulatory approvals.