Medical Cannabis' Evolution Continues in Countries Around the World - Seite 2

Medical cannabis is already prevalent in many regions across the world such as parts of the U.S., Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Thailand, and South Korea. However, due to the lack of research and the plant's potential for abuse, government regulators have explicitly outlined the requirements patients must meet in order to be eligible for medical use. Germany's parliament allows patients to use medical cannabis for multiple sclerosis and chronic pain, but it heavily depends on the severity of their condition. On the other hand, South Korea only allows the use of medical cannabis for epilepsy, symptoms of HIV/AIDS, and cancer-related treatments. While Germany and South Korea recently adopted medical cannabis, the U.S. and Canada have had medical cannabis use for quite some time. The U.S. began adopting medical cannabis back in the 1990s when California became the first state to legalize medical use. Canada legalized medical cannabis use back in 2001, but only allowed it for two uses. Since then, both markets have drastically changed and additionally, both have implemented a recreational market. Largely, the U.S. and Canada dominate cannabis market because of their early adoption. However, the major challenge for companies is keeping up with trends. For instance, when legalization first began, dried cannabis flower was widely popular. Now ,however, oils are in high demand. Moreover, consumer preferences have changed and consumers are beginning to demand more premium and higher quality products. Specifically, in the U.S. and Canada, "craft cannabis" has become an emerging product that is quickly gaining popularity. Cultivators engaging in craft cannabis carefully nurture each individual plant to ensure its high quality and potency. Notably, craft cultivators also grow their cannabis organically, meaning they avoid the use of artificial products that may damage the strain and cannabinoid content. Overall, the meticulous care and distinct growing techniques create an eccentric strain that stands out from traditional products. "More and more consumers desire a tangible connection with the cannabis flower and care about small farm values such as sustainability, craftsmanship, organic principles and hands-on cultivation techniques," said Rose Mattio, Founder of Rosie Mattio Public Relations.