Chapters authored
The United Chemicals of Cannabis: Beneficial Effects of Cannabis Phytochemicals on the Brain and Cognition
‘Medicinal cannabis’ can be defined as pharmaceutical grade cannabis-based products used for the treatment of illness. Beneficial treatment effects of cannabidiol (CBD), a major non-intoxicating compound isolated from the cannabis plant, have been shown in multiple states of cognitive impairment, including neurodegenerative (Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s and Parkinson’s disease), neuroinflammatory (sepsis-induced encephalopathy) and neurological disorders (ischemic brain injury). CBD can also treat some of the symptoms of schizophrenia, including cognitive deficits (impairments in learning and memory), which is a major symptom domain of the illness that is largely resistant to existing antipsychotic medications. However, empirical evidence suggests the presence of an ‘entourage effect’ in cannabis; that is, observations that medicinal cannabis seems to work better in some instances when administered as a whole-plant extract. While scientific evidence highlights isolated CBD as a strong candidate for treating cognitive impairment, the entourage effect suggests that the co-operation of other plant molecules could provide further benefits. This chapter explores the scientific evidence surrounding the benefits of CBD and other specific key phytochemicals in cannabis: linalool, α-pinene, β-caryophyllene, flavonoids and anthocyanin, on brain health and cognition.
Part of the book: Recent Advances in Cannabinoid Research
Cannabis Medicines: Guidance for the Selection, Purchase and Supply for Clinical Trials
Cannabis medicines are in demand from the public for treating a range of diseases and symptoms; however, clinicians are reluctant to prescribe these products because of limited evidence and prescribing information. To generate this evidence, quality clinical trials of cannabis medicines must be undertaken, yet their design is a complex, often uncharted territory, and involves the cooperation and sharing of knowledge of multiple stakeholders. Before designing a clinical trial, researchers require a clear understanding of the potential therapeutic benefit cannabis medicines may have, the form and formulation of the product, and the dose to be investigated. Researchers must also be aware of the applicable pharmaceutical regulations in the country or jurisdiction where the research is to be undertaken, as well as manufacturing or licensing regulations that may be imposed at the source of the cannabis product. Importantly, collaborations with industry are a key to the successful outcome of cannabis medicines clinical trials. Without funding and sponsorship of clinical trials, the ability to generate quality data will be limited and the evidence for cannabis medicines to be registered as therapeutics lacking. Collaborations between researchers, industry, and regulators, working together in sharing knowledge, are therefore critical to generate high quality cannabis medicines research.
Part of the book: Cannabinoids