New Cannabis Strain Issara 01 Developed in Thailand
Researchers in Thailand have developed a new cannabis strain called Issara 01, which translates from Thai as “freedom.” Cannabis strains are often given colorful and playful names, sometimes overlooking the fact that this plant is not just about mood enhancement. For some, including the Thai government, cannabis is still considered medicine. And medicine can often bring freedom to people suffering from chronic illnesses.
Last week, scientists at Maejo University in Chiang Mai announced that they had bred a new cannabis strain specifically for the government’s medical cannabis program. To create it, a local variety was crossed with a northern foreign strain and named Issara 01, meaning “freedom” or “independence.”
Balanced THC and CBD Content
Issara 01 contains equal amounts of THC and CBD. In the United States, cannabidiol (CBD) has become popular as a non-intoxicating “cure-all,” and it does have anti-inflammatory and anticonvulsant properties. THC, which affects patients’ cognitive abilities, offers the same medical benefits as CBD. According to research, CBD is most effective when combined with THC, which is why the Thai government called for the development of a state strain with equal levels of both components.
Medical Cannabis Program in Thailand
Currently, Thai medical cannabis is not distributed as joints or dabs. Instead, it is processed into a thick, raw oil that is provided only to chronically or seriously ill patients in state hospitals. Thailand’s medical cannabis program is far ahead of similar programs in other countries, such as the United States and the United Kingdom, where hospital staff cannot prescribe most cannabis-based medications. However, the country lags in other areas, as seen in the temporary ban on home cultivation of cannabis. The government may allow this in the future if the medical cannabis program proves successful and no unforeseen issues arise.
“These are historic events: the first steps toward allowing every person to grow up to six cannabis plants,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Health Anutin Charnvirakul. “The university will become a center where ordinary people can learn how to plant and grow quality cannabis. Cannabis is not a political issue, but a product that can have a positive impact on people’s health. In the near future, families will be able to grow it in their backyards, just like any other herb.”
Maejo University’s Cultivation Complex
The cannabis cultivation complex at Maejo University is the largest in Thailand, covering just over 12 square kilometers and home to 12,000 medical cannabis plants. The expected yield is about 2.6 tons. The university is also working on developing a new strain, Maejo 01, based exclusively on local varieties.
“If the plantation license is approved, we plan to expand the area for cannabis cultivation. Most likely, the soil will be suitable for all local strains found throughout the country,” said Arnat Tancho, director of the agricultural research center at Maejo University. “We will also continue to analyze and select the most suitable strains for specific medical purposes.”