In December 2023, Ukraine reached a milestone in drug policy by legalizing medical cannabis. This historic decision opens new perspectives for the many patients who suffer from chronic pain, epilepsy, cancer and other pathologies likely to be treated by this plant with many therapeutic virtues. In this article we will explain to you what is medical cannabis, what are the recognized therapeutic indications and how this new legislation could influence the European CBD market.
Medical cannabis: what is it?
Medical cannabis refers to the use of the cannabis plant and its chemical components, called cannabinoids, for medical purposes to relieve various symptoms and improve the quality of life of patients with certain diseases. The two main cannabinoids that are used medicinally are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
- THC is the main psychoactive component responsible for the high effects of cannabis. It is also known for its analgesic, antiemetic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- CBD is not psychoactive, meaning it does not alter consciousness or cause euphoria. It has many medicinal properties, including anticonvulsant, neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory.
What are the therapeutic indications for medical cannabis?
Medical cannabis is used to treat a number of medical conditions, including:
- Chronic pain
- Epilepsy (particularly forms resistant to treatment)
- Nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy
- Muscle spasms linked to multiple sclerosis
- Anxiety, depression and other psychiatric disorders
A historic turning point for Ukraine
This bold decision taken by the Ukrainian parliament to legalize medical cannabis is unprecedented in the country’s history and reflects a profound change in mentalities on the issue of drugs. Indeed, this legislation will not only improve the quality of life of patients suffering from pathologies for which conventional treatments are insufficient, but also help to eliminate the stigmatizing prejudices that still weigh on cannabis.
Among the potential beneficiaries of this new legislation, Ukrainian soldiers traumatized by the war occupy a special place: to combat their post-traumatic stress, medical cannabis could constitute a valuable alternative to traditional treatments, which are often insufficient.
A strong signal for the European CBD market
The legalization of medical cannabis in Ukraine also impacts the European CBD market. As demand for these products continues to grow, Ukraine could position itself as a major player in the production and distribution of medical cannabis on a European scale. This new approach to cannabis will undoubtedly help to boost the country’s economy and will help establish new partnerships with specialized companies such as Cocorikush.
In conclusion: a step forward towards a rational and compassionate approach to drugs
Ukraine’s courageous decision to allow the use of medical cannabis represents a significant step forward in the way the country approaches the drug issue. By taking advantage of the beneficial properties of cannabis, this choice will have positive impacts both on the quality of life of the patients concerned and on the country’s economy. It remains to be hoped that this new legislation will pave the way for a more rational and compassionate approach towards all psychoactive substances and their potential uses.
