03/26/2023
“Cannabinoid research in Israel has been ongoing for several decades, led by several prominent researchers and institutions. One of the pioneers of this field of study is Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, a chemist and professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
Dr. Mechoulam's research into the cannabis plant began in the 1960s, when he isolated and identified the compound delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) as the main psychoactive component of cannabis. This discovery was groundbreaking, as it opened the door for further research into the effects of cannabinoids on the human body and brain.
Over the years, Dr. Mechoulam and his colleagues have continued to advance our understanding of cannabis and its derivatives. They have identified other important cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD), and have investigated their potential medical applications.
One of the most notable contributions of Israeli cannabinoid research has been the development of cannabis-based medications. In 1992, Dr. Mechoulam and his team synthesized a compound called dexanabinol, which showed promise for treating brain injuries and other neurological disorders. In 2011, another Israeli company, Tikun Olam, developed a strain of cannabis that is high in CBD and low in THC, which has been used to treat conditions such as epilepsy and cancer.
Israeli researchers have also investigated the effects of cannabis on mental health. In a 2017 study, scientists at the Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem found that cannabis may have a positive impact on symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Other studies have suggested that cannabis could be an effective treatment for anxiety and depression.
Israel's relaxed attitudes toward cannabis also make it an attractive location for researchers from around the world. In 2016, for example, a team of American researchers came to Israel to conduct a clinical trial of a cannabis-based treatment for autism.
In conclusion, cannabinoid research in Israel has been a hugely influential field of study, driven by the pioneering work of Dr. Raphael Mechoulam and other researchers. The country's relaxed attitudes toward cannabis, combined with its advanced healthcare system and innovative scientific community, have made it one of the world's leading centers for cannabis research. Through their efforts, Israeli researchers are helping to unlock the potential of this controversial plant and improve the lives of patients across the world.”
Another one by the Green Fairy
