The exploration of non-psychotropic cannabinoids is crucial for advancing the scientific understanding of their therapeutic potential and applications in drug discovery. As cannabinoid research continues to evolve, we are uncovering the multiple ways in which these compounds, including CBD (cannabidiol), interact either with cannabinoid receptors or with other targets to impact human health. The importance of this research is underscored by the growing interest in medical cannabis, particularly as it relates to cannabinoid therapy for various conditions.

Significant advances have already been made in this field. For instance, recent studies have demonstrated the efficacy of non-psychotropic cannabinoids in managing chronic pain, CNS diseases, inflammatory disorders and iperproliferative diseases, showcasing their potential as alternative therapies to conventional pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, the ongoing investigation into cannabinoid pharmacology has shed light on the mechanisms of action of these compounds, paving the way for more targeted and effective treatments. These breakthroughs not only contribute to the scientific community but also provide hope for patients seeking relief from debilitating conditions.

We invite researchers to contribute to this Special Collection. Topics of interest include but are not limited to:

• Extraction and analysis of non-psychotropic cannabinoids

• Biological activity and mechanisms of action of non-psychotropic cannabinoids

• Therapeutic applications of CBD

• Cannabinoid pharmacology and receptor interaction

• Drug discovery strategies involving cannabinoids

• Clinical trials of cannabinoid therapies

• Social implications of cannabinoid use

• Innovations in cannabinoid applications.

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 3, Good Health and Well-Being and SDG 9, Industry & Innovation.

All submissions in this collection undergo the journal’s standard peer review process. Similarly, all manuscripts authored by a Guest Editor(s) will be handled by the Editor-in-Chief. As an open access publication, this journal levies an article processing fee (details here). We recognize that many key stakeholders may not have access to such resources and are committed to supporting participation in this issue wherever resources are a barrier. For more information about what support may be available, please visit OA funding and support, or email OAfundingpolicy@springernature.com or the Editor-in-Chief.

Journal of Cannabis Research is calling for submissions to our Collection on the latest advancements in “Healthcare professionals and cannabis: knowledge, attitudes, and training.” As the use of cannabis expands and societal attitudes continue to evolve, the role of healthcare professionals in understanding, recommending, and managing cannabis-related therapies and behaviors becomes increasingly vital. This Collection aims to explore the multifaceted interactions between healthcare providers and cannabis.

We invite original research, reviews, and perspectives on the following themes:

• Knowledge: Assessments of perceived and objective knowledge levels of healthcare professionals about cannabis pharmacology, therapeutic benefits, and potential risks.

• Awareness: Evaluations of awareness regarding current evidence-based guidelines and best practices for cannabis use in both clinical and non-clinical settings.

• Attitudes and perceptions: healthcare providers’ beliefs and biases toward cannabis use, both medical and non-medical – and the potential influence of attitudes and personal experience on decision-making, patient interactions, and public health advisories.

• Education: development and assessment of educational programs and curricula focused on cannabis in medical and public health education.

• Training: identifying and overcoming gaps in cannabis-related training.

• Clinical practices: the integration of cannabis into various medical specialties and clinical practices.

• Patient care and communication: insights into how healthcare providers discuss cannabis use with patients, including strategies for effective communication and patient education on both medical and non-medical use.

• Policy and regulation: the role of healthcare professionals in shaping and responding to cannabis policy changes affecting both medical and non-medical contexts.

• Interdisciplinary approaches: collaborative efforts between different healthcare disciplines in managing cannabis-related patient care and public health initiatives.

This Special Collection serves as a platform for healthcare professionals, researchers, educators, policymakers, and public health experts to share their insights and advancements. By bringing together diverse perspectives and findings, we aim to enhance the collective understanding of how cannabis intersects with healthcare practice and public health, ultimately improving patient outcomes, informing public health strategies, and shaping future educational and policy initiatives.

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 3, Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 4, Quality Education, and SDG 10, Reduced Inequalities.

All submissions in this collection undergo the journal’s standard peer review process. Similarly, all manuscripts authored by a Guest Editor(s) will be handled by the Editor-in-Chief. As an open access publication, this journal levies an article processing fee (details here). We recognize that many key stakeholders may not have access to such resources and are committed to supporting participation in this issue wherever resources are a barrier. For more information about what support may be available, please visit OA funding and support, or email OAfundingpolicy@springernature.com or the Editor-in-Chief.