Thailand scientists to study medicinal properties of Cannabis

The scientists in Thailand will now study its medicinal properties of Cannabis plant.

Rangsit University has opened a first of its kind medicinal cannabis research institute to help grow cannabis, improve strains and develop new drugs. The institute was the first in Thailand to seek permission from the Ministry of Public Health to conduct research into the plant in 2016. The Rector of Rangsit University, Arthit Ourairat said the university has long been aware of the cannabis medical potential.

Arthit said the university was allowed by the ministry to begin studying cannabis in 2017 and has worked in collaboration with other colleges and faculties before being given the green light to establish its own bespoke institute. Besides medical research, the university has been allowed by the ministry to grow its own cannabis plants to develop strains that specifically yield strong amounts of the THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD (Cannabidiol) and CBN (Cannabinol) compounds. With a rising demand for natural medicines, cannabis compounds like THC, CBD and CBN are in increasingly high demand due to their wide range of health benefits. Arthit said the institute will grow 50 cannabis plants in 32-square-meter areas with indoor temperature control devices and CCTV on the fifth floor of the College of Agricultural Innovation Biotechnology and Food at the university.