How High-Street CBD Has Changed Public Perceptions of UK Medical Cannabis
The rise of high-street CBD has significantly impacted public perceptions of cannabis in the UK, creating a complex landscape for prescribed medical cannabis. While the widespread availability of CBD products has introduced many to the potential benefits of cannabis, it has also led to confusion and challenges in the medical cannabis sector.
The Rise of High-Street CBD
In recent years, CBD products have become ubiquitous in health food shops like Holland and Barrett, often occupying prime positions on pharmacists’ countertops. These products are marketed for a wide range of ailments and have gained popularity among consumers seeking natural remedies. However, it is crucial to note that these products are not medicines and are regulated as food supplements. There has also been historical reports of mislabelling, especially before the FSA’s novel foods authorisations, with some even containing illegal substances.
The Impact of CBD on Medical Cannabis Perceptions
The popularity of high-street CBD has created a significant misunderstanding among the public, conflating CBD with medical cannabis. Many people equate CBD products with the therapeutic potential of the cannabis plant, unaware that true medical cannabis often involves THC, the psychoactive component. This confusion has been a barrier for patients seeking effective treatments for serious conditions like chronic pain, neurological symptoms like spasticity, and Crohn’s Disease.
Challenges and Benefits…
Alex feels that the high-street CBD boom has hindered wider adoption of medical cannabis. As Patient Access Lead for Grow Pharma, Alex Fraser interacts with many patients who initially tried CBD but only found relief through THC-rich medical cannabis. Some, having tried CBD to no avail, often give up on the idea of medical cannabis altogether. He argues that serious medical conditions should be treated with properly regulated medicines with the oversight of a healthcare professional, not over-the-counter supplements that often fail to deliver consistent results.
Joséphine suggests that that the normalisation of CBD also has had potential benefits. Joséphine McFarlane, a cannabis marketing specialist and medical cannabis patient, believes that the visibility of CBD products has helped demystify cannabis for many people, especially those previously wary due to stigma. This increased exposure and perceived legitimacy from associations with retailers can serve as a stepping stone, making individuals more open to exploring medical cannabis as a legitimate treatment option. She came to find medical cannabis after years of using high-street CBD oil for sleep and anxiety.
The Path Forward
Both agree on the need for more robust clinical trials and access to private prescriptions to advance medical cannabis access in the UK. While high-street CBD has played a role in increasing public awareness, it is essential to distinguish between unregulated food supplements and regulated medical treatments.
“To truly benefit patients, the focus should shift towards supporting medical cannabis clinics, doctors, pharmacists, and patients who adhere to strict regulations and provide high-level clinical care.
This approach will help develop the necessary data to support NHS access and ensure that those with severe medical conditions receive appropriate and effective treatments.”
Conclusion
High-street CBD has undeniably changed public perceptions of cannabis in the UK, bringing both opportunities and challenges. While it has helped normalize the plant and spark curiosity about its medicinal uses, it has also led to misconceptions that hinder the progress of medical cannabis. Moving forward, the emphasis should be on educating the public, particularly on the availability of cannabis medicines on prescription, as well as promoting regulated medical treatments and supporting clinical research to pave the way for broader acceptance and access to medical cannabis.
