Foundations of Medical Cannabis

Designed for healthcare professionals seeking a foundational awareness, this section introduces the key concepts of medical cannabis.

It introduces the historical context of cannabis use, provides insight into the crucial role of the endocannabinoid system, and explores the basic science of the cannabis plant and its primary therapeutic components, the phytocannabinoids.

What will you learn?

By the end of this course you will be able to:

Identify the key species of the cannabis plant and the primary therapeutic compounds, including Δ9-THC and CBD.
Trace the history of cannabis from ancient medical use, through prohibition, to its modern scientific resurgence.
Explain the four core components of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) and its role in maintaining homeostasis.
Describe the distinct pharmacological properties and effects of major cannabinoids.

Who is this for?

Prescribers
Support staff
Sales professionals
Wider healthcare professionals seeking foundational knowledge

What’s included?

Structured learning content with summaries at key points
Video explainer and visual aids (infographics, diagrams)
Short knowledge-check assessments
CPD tracking and certificate of completion

Lessons in this course

The Cannabis Plant and Phytocannabinoids: The Science

Explore the science of the cannabis plant. Differentiate between key species, compare the pharmacological effects of THC and CBD, and examine the 'Entourage Effect'.

Cannabis Species & Phytocannabinoid Sources

Chemical Compounds in Cannabis

Terpenes & Flavinoids, and the Entourage Effect

Defining & comparing Δ9-THC and CPD

Cannabis: A Human History

Trace the history of cannabis from its ancient medicinal origins, through the complex era of 20th-century prohibition, to its modern resurgence as a legitimate field of medicine.

Ancient Origins

Revival, Prohibition & Scientific Milestones

Modern Resurgence: Legalisation Across Europe

Understanding the Endocannabinoid System

Take a deep dive into the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). Explore its four core components, its unique communication methods, and its role as the body's master regulator.

Endocannabinoids

Endocannabinoid Receptors

Enzymes

ECS Effects

ECS Signaling: Tonic & Phasic Modes

Other available modules

Alongside this course, the Foundations of Medical Cannabis pathway includes additional courses that expand on history, biology, and clinical practice. Each is short, CPD Certified, and designed to build confidence step by step.

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Price

Free

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Specialist Modules: Targeted Prescriber Information Neurological Conditions module

Learn the basics of medical cannabis and its applications in clinical practice.

Course Content

Lesson Content

0% Complete 0/8 Steps

The Unmet Need & The ECS

Licensed Therapies: The Strongest Evidence

Epilepsy: Beyond the License

Foundations of Medical Cannabis

What will you learn?

Who is this for?

What’s included?

Lessons in this course

The Cannabis Plant and Phytocannabinoids: The Science

Cannabis: A Human History

Understanding the Endocannabinoid System

Other available modules

Current Status

Price

Get Started

Specialist Modules: Targeted Prescriber Information Neurological Conditions module

Course Content

Current Status

Price

Get Started

Specialist Courses Psychiatric conditions e-learning module

Course Content

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Price

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Specialist Courses: Pain module

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Core Knowledge for Clinical Practice module

Course Content

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Foundations of Medical Cannabis module