The legalization of cannabis in Germany opens new perspectives for research and development in the field of medical cannabis applications.

The focus is particularly on personalized pain therapy, as current knowledge in this area is still sparse. To close these gaps and contribute to public understanding, Germany's largest cannabis group, Grünhorn, has made it its mission to conduct fundamental research in cannabis medicine.

The in-house laboratory at the Grünhorn pharmacy plays a crucial role in this endeavor. Extensive samples of cannabis flowers are analyzed here. The findings are processed by the Grünhorn Academy and regularly made available to doctors, pharmacists, and patients. An example of innovative research is a recently submitted Grünhorn study proposing a new classification of cannabis based on the plant's individual terpene profiles instead of the outdated “Indica“ and "Sativa" classifications.

To further enhance research activities, Grünhorn aims to collaborate with universities and research institutions. As a first step in this initiative, two representatives from the Saxon Ministry of Science and Culture (SMWK) visited Grünhorn in Leipzig: State Secretary Dr. Andreas Handschuh and Dr. Michael Schmischke, head of the minister's office at SMWK (both CDU), learned about possible interfaces between politics, science funding, industry, and research.

Biochemistry and Pharmacy as Growth Drivers in Germany

State Secretary Dr. Andreas Handschuh emphasized the importance of scientific alliances between industry and universities, seeing significant potential in the field of biochemistry to strengthen Saxony's economic position. Personalized medicine, as represented by the various effects of different cannabis strains, offers growth opportunities for the region. Dr. Handschuh expressed positive views on the development: "Technology, pharmacy, and startups are enormously important for Germany. With the removal of cannabis from the Narcotics Act, the path is now clear to more closely link corporate research with academic science."

The Grünhorn Group is pleased with the recognition from SMWK and looks forward to the planned collaboration with universities and research institutions with great anticipation.