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The History of Cannabis and Medical Acceptance course provides a thorough exploration of cannabis from ancient times to its present-day role in medicine. It is designed to offer healthcare professionals a foundational understanding of cannabis' historical, scientific, and legal journey.

Unit 1: History of Cannabis
The unit begins by outlining the ancient origins of cannabis, its early use as a medicinal plant, and its cultivation across different cultures, including ancient China, India, and Egypt. Archaeological evidence, such as the Chester Beatty papyrus and the Yanghai Tombs, highlights early medicinal applications, while historical texts from figures like Herodotus and Dioscorides showcase cannabis’ integration into medicine. Moving forward, the course covers cannabis’ criminalisation, spurred by events like the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937 and subsequent global prohibition.

Participants will also learn about the modern revival of cannabis for medical use, led by scientific breakthroughs in cannabinoid research. The role of pioneers like Raphael Mechoulam, who discovered THC and CBD, is discussed, along with the development of synthetic cannabinoids and the discovery of the endocannabinoid system. The unit concludes by examining recent shifts in cannabis legislation, such as its rescheduling by the World Health Organisation and legal acceptance in countries like Australia, Canada, and the US.

This course combines historical insight with modern science, providing a comprehensive view of cannabis’ evolving place in medicine, along with key safety considerations and current regulations around its medical use.

Learning Outcomes

1. Distinguish key developments in the history of medicinal cannabis and the year in which they took place
2. Determine safety considerations for the use of medicinal cannabis including risk to patients and regulatory control, with examples from Australia.

Details

Cost: $195

Suitable for: All degree qualified medical practitioners.

Study mode: 100% online

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Upon completion, your CPD activity record may take up to 4 weeks to be reflected on your CPD Home Dashboard.