Our Courses
Expert-created courses designed to deepen your understanding of plant medicine and foster expertise in medicinal cannabis.
Our Courses
Expert-created courses designed to deepen your understanding of plant medicine and foster expertise in medicinal cannabis.
For medical professionals
Our paid courses will equip you with the knowledge to work in the medicinal cannabis field.
MSL (Medical Science Liaison) Cannabis Introduction
MSL intro: Navigating cannabis science—bridging gaps, fostering relationships, and advancing medical understanding responsibly.
This course covers all the basic principles of cannabis medicine, devised for the perspective and requirements of MSLs (medical service liaison officers - or “medical reps”). This course will further your knowledge and awareness of cannabis medicine, on its journey towards mainstream acceptance. All medical professionals and allied health practitioners should be educated around cannabis use as medicine, even if they are not actively prescribing. Part of your role as a MSL is to help initiate and facilitate the education of doctors, pharmacists, nurse practitioners. This course will give you the knowledge to empower your role as an MSL.
It is a short format course that provides the important facts surrounding cannabis medicine, to allow you to safely and effectively educate prescribers about cannabis medicines. It is designed to make the information you provide the doctors both relevant and concise and improve your working relationship with prescribers. The modules have been created with internationally recognized and respected cannabis clinicians, that are not simply academics, but respected cannabis medicine specialists with active clinical practices. This course is designed as a good introductory level course. For those that would prefer a more comprehensive course, please enroll in “Medical Cannabis- Comprehensive - Principles for Clinicians”.
The aim of this MSL course is to provide the theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills to facilitate healing through integration of cannabis medicines. Knowledge of our body’s endocannabinoid system is dealt with. Areas of study include everything from the history of cannabis, pathophysiology, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic theory, social context, routes of administration, side effects, safety precautions, interactions, and treatment of the most commonly encountered clinical conditions. Special sections have been added that deal directly with your role as MSLs, to interact with health professionals, and to provide clear understanding of the legal implications of cannabis medicines - from driving to prescribing
At the end of each module you will have a set of questions designed to test the real world application of your skills.
Medical Cannabis: Comprehensive Principles for Clinicians
Clinical guide: Principles for clinicians navigating medical cannabis use, benefits, and patient care.
This course covers all the principles required to be an excellent cannabis clinician. Everything required to start effectively treating patients with cannabis medicines, safely and professionally is included. The modules have been created with internationally recognised and respected cannabis clinicians, that are not simply academics, but respected cannabis medicine specialists with active clinical practices. Each section provides a theoretical basis for disease and treatment, supported by clear clinical case examples and quantitative dose advice.
The aim of this course is to provide the theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills to facilitate healing through integration of cannabis medicines. Knowledge of the body's endocannabinoid system is discussed in detail. Areas of study include everything from the history of cannabis, pathophysiology, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic theory, social context, routes of administration, side effects, safety precautions, interactions and treatment of the most commonly encountered clinical conditions are clearly and comprehensively covered. By completing this course, you will have the skills, knowledge, competence and importantly, confidence to treat your patients safely and effectively with cannabis medicines.
Basic Cannabis Course
This course covers all the basic principles required to be a safe and competent cannabis clinician or simply to further your knowledge and awareness of cannabis medicine towards its journey to mainstream acceptance. All medical professionals and allied health practitioners should be educated around cannabis use as medicine, even if they are not actively prescribing. It has a primary focus on safety.
It is a short format course that provides the important facts surrounding cannabis medicine, to get you effectively treating patients with cannabis medicines, safely. The modules have been created with internationally recognised and respected cannabis clinicians, that are not simply academics, but respected cannabis medicine specialists with active clinical practices. This course is designed as a good introductory level course. For those that would prefer a more comprehensive course, please enrol in “Medical Cannabis - Comprehensive Principles For Clinicians”.
The aim of this course is to provide the theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills to facilitate healing through integration of cannabis medicines. Knowledge of our body’s endocannabinoid system is dealt with. Areas of study include everything from the history of cannabis, pathophysiology, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic theory, social context, routes of administration, side effects, safety precautions, interactions and treatment of the most commonly encountered clinical conditions.
Medicinal Cannabis for Pharmacy Professionals
This course equips pharmacists with the knowledge and skills to confidently advise patients on medicinal cannabis. It explores the science behind cannabis, its therapeutic applications in Australia, and safe dispensing practices. Pharmacists will gain expertise in the endocannabinoid system, dosing, and potential risks to ensure optimal patient care.
From the Australian Cannabis Summit
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Cannabis and Mental Health
Understand the complex relationships between cannabis use and mental health, including its therapeutic potentials and challenges.
Cannabis and Women's Health
Examine the potential impacts and benefits of cannabis in addressing various women's health issues, including hormonal balance and menopausal symptoms.
Cannabis in Epilepsy
A comprehensive guide discussing the potential benefits and considerations of using cannabis in the management of epilepsy.
Clinical Experience and Case Studies
Delve into a series of case studies and clinical experiences illustrating the impact and uses of cannabis in a medical context.
Fundamentals of Medical Cannabis
An introductory course offering an overview of the medicinal properties of cannabis. Perfect for beginners seeking to understand the basics.
Patient Stories and Experiences
Dive into the real-life narratives and experiences of patients who have journeyed through medicinal cannabis treatments.
Pediatric Medical Cannabis
This course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of paediatric medical cannabis, focusing particularly on the implications of TGA category changes and their direct impact on clinical practices and outcomes for children. Led by a team of esteemed experts, this course navigates through various crucial aspects of paediatric medical cannabis use, offering both theoretical knowledge and practical insights derived from real-world experiences.
What is Cannabis Medicine?
What is Cannabis Medicine? This module delves into the differences between medicinal and illicit use of cannabis, emphasising that medicinal cannabis is controlled for purity and labelled for cannabinoid content, offering safer and consistent treatments. Dr. Teh advocates the transition from unregulated cannabis to the medical market for quality, safety, and professional medical guidance. The module aims to educate on cannabis's therapeutic applications and promote a deeper understanding of its healing role.
Managing Patient Expectations
This module offers a comprehensive outline of the processes, expectations, and societal considerations pertaining to patient access and treatment with medicinal cannabis through the lens of a patient care coordinator.
Cancer, CINV and Palliative Care
This module explores medical cannabis for cancer symptoms, noting mixed evidence and the need for more research. It emphasises customising treatment for each patient's needs and finding the best dose and method for symptom relief.
Cannabis and Depression
Join Dr. John Teh as he unravels the complexities of using medical cannabis to treat depression. He'll explore the fascinating interplay between cannabinoids and the brain's pathways involved in this condition.
Cannabis and Sleep
This module provides an overview of medicinal cannabis and its potential applications for managing sleep disorders, primarily focusing on insomnia and related treatment strategies.
Cannabis and Anxiety
In this module, we'll delve into the complex link between cannabis and anxiety. We'll explore how cannabinoids like CBD and THC might offer therapeutic benefits, and why personalised treatment plans are crucial.
Cannabis and Inflammatory Conditions
This module dives into how cannabinoid medicine can be used to manage inflammatory conditions. It will explain how cannabinoids work and how they might be applied in clinical settings to treat diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Cannabinoids and Pain Management: Clinical Considerations
Explore how cannabinoids can be used to manage chronic pain. This module dives into clinical considerations, along with personalised dosing strategies tailored to individual patients through case studies.
Pain Pathways
This module dives into how cannabinoids interact with the body's pain signaling system to reduce chronic pain. It explores how these molecules work in both the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system (throughout the body) to achieve pain relief.
Cannabis Vaporisation Techniques
This module explores how vaporised inhaled cannabis can effectively manage symptom flare-ups. It emphasises balancing immediate relief with long-term treatment plans. Additionally, it educates patients and caregivers on both safe use practices and relevant legal considerations.
Side effects, Interactions & Toxicity
This module examines the safety of medicinal cannabis, including potential side effects and interactions with other medications. While it emphasises the generally well-tolerated nature of medicinal cannabis, it also stresses the importance of careful monitoring by a healthcare professional.
Routes of Administration
Dr. Teh's module explores how cannabis medicine works. Inhalation offers fast but short effects, while oral/sublingual routes have slower onset but last longer. Rectal suppositories have unclear benefits. Topical applications target skin issues without psychoactive effects. Other routes like patches and sprays may be useful for specific needs.
Knowledge & Art of Combining Cannabinoids for Treatment Success
Dr. Dustin Sulak's "Combining Cannabinoids for Treatment Success" module explores the complexities of cannabinoid therapy. It highlights the importance of recognising cannabis chemotypes and their acidic and neutral forms, such as THCA and THC. The course focuses on the synergistic and antagonistic effects of cannabinoid combinations, supported by clinical data. Dr. Sulak advocates for customised treatment plans based on individual patient responses and discusses how cannabinoids interact in the body. He offers case studies, research, and practical strategies for healthcare providers to develop adaptable cannabis treatment regimens, emphasising full-spectrum chemotypes and the integration of cannabinoids like CBG and THCV.
Clinical Cannabis Medicine: Core Concepts
Dr. Teh's module explores personalised cannabis medicine. Dosing is adjusted based on patient response and experience, due to limited clinical data. He emphasises a whole-plant approach and patient-centred care. Safety is stressed, with a "start low, go slow" motto. Cannabis is seen as a safe treatment with patient empowerment encouraged.
Understanding the Self-medicating Patient & Colloquial Cannabis Terms
This module equips medical professionals to guide self-medicating cannabis users into the regulated medical system. It emphasises understanding a patient's cannabis history and the science of the endocannabinoid system to craft personalised plans, minimising harm and optimising patient outcomes.
Whole Plant vs Isolate: Does it matter?
Dr. Teh's module explores whole plant cannabis vs. isolates for childhood epilepsy. It examines a UK study suggesting whole plant options may be more effective, highlighting the entourage effect. The module finds cannabis well-tolerated with mild side effects compared to traditional medications.
The Importance of CBD
This module explores CBD's benefits in medicinal cannabis, focusing on its role in reducing THC side effects and its potential for treating anxiety and inflammation. Dr. Teh discusses proper dosing, the entourage effect, and the importance of transitioning patients from unregulated cannabis to safe, CBD-containing medical regimens.
The Endocannabinoid System: Explained
This module explores the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a regulatory system found in vertebrates. The ECS uses endocannabinoids and receptors to maintain balance in various functions, from stress to digestion. Unlike typical systems, the ECS creates chemicals on-demand to target specific areas. The module explores the ECS's role in the nervous system and the potential of cannabis compounds to influence it for therapeutic purposes.
Whole plant medicine: Minor Cannabinoids, Terpenes and the Entourage Effect
This module explores the full potential of cannabis, diving into minor cannabinoids, terpenes, and the entourage effect. Led by Dr. John Teh, it goes beyond THC and CBD to unlock the synergy of the entire plant for better health.
THC and CBD: Pharmacokinetics and Molecular Basis of Action
This module explores THC and CBD, cannabis plant compounds with distinct effects. Dr. Teh explains their structures, how they enter and leave the body, and their medicinal benefits (pain relief, mental health). THC is psychoactive but offers therapeutic effects, while CBD is non-psychoactive and may reduce anxiety and psychosis. The course also dives into how they interact with the body's endocannabinoid system and the potential of other cannabis compounds.
A Refresher on Cannabis Medicine
This course by Dr. Teh explores medicinal cannabis basics: THC (psychoactive & therapeutic) and CBD (non-psychoactive & balancing). It explains how they interact with the body's endocannabinoid system and the potential benefits of full-spectrum extracts.
Interacting with healthcare professionals
Lisa Varley's module explains the MSL role in medicinal cannabis. It covers traditional MSL duties, but emphasises market knowledge, education, regulations, and a customer-centric approach. It highlights the importance of sharing anecdotal evidence due to limited clinical trials.
The Powers of Hemp
This module explores the benefits and uses of hemp, a plant with a long history. Once a common crop, hemp is now differentiated from marijuana due to low THC content. Hemp is environmentally friendly, absorbing carbon dioxide and offering sustainable materials like bioplastics and hempcrete. The module concludes by recommending hemp for a variety of uses to benefit people and the planet.
Clinical Application of Medical Cannabis
This module explores using medicinal cannabis (esp. CBD) to treat anxiety, insomnia, and depression. Dr. Teh covers the potential for CBD to replace opiates, its role in the endocannabinoid system, and how to prescribe cannabis for these conditions.
Medical access pathways and legal implications
Dr. Herzberg's module explains legalities of prescribing medicinal cannabis in Australia. It covers TGA regulations, access schemes, and prescriber responsibilities, focusing on unapproved products and patient safety.
Routes of Administration and Safety
This module explores pros and cons of inhaled vs. oral cannabis medicine, safety considerations, and potential benefits for chronic pain. It emphasises non-combustion methods and avoiding drug interactions.
Mitigating Side Effects During Titration
Cannabis and Driving
This module criticises roadside drug testing in Australia for unfairly targeting medicinal cannabis users. It argues the tests don't improve safety and disproportionately impact vulnerable groups. Legal experts, medical professionals, and affected individuals advocate for reform based on science and social justice.
Cannabis Chemovars: Indica, Sativa, hybrids ands the importance of terpenes
This module dives into cannabis chemovars, emphasising their importance in medical treatment. It debunks indica/sativa myths, highlighting terpenes and unique chemical profiles for effective care. Focusing on genetics and patient needs, the module explores breeding, terpenes' effects, and personalised chemovar selection for optimal outcomes.
The Endocannabinoid System: Basic
The module examines the endocannabinoid system (ECS), highlighting its essential role in human homeostasis and detailing the functions of primary endocannabinoids and the CB1 and CB2 receptors that operate system-wide. It emphasizes the relative safety of cannabis medicines, particularly their low risk of overdose and respiratory depression. Additionally, the material delves into the immune modulating functions of CB2 receptors and the entourage effect, where the interplay between cannabinoids and terpenes finely tunes bodily functions. A special focus is given to Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency and its suspected ties to various diseases. Treatment strategies to boost ECS activity, including lifestyle changes and phytocannabinoid use, are discussed, showcasing the broad therapeutic potential of cannabis in healthcare.
THC, CBD and Entourage Molecules
This module covers the essentials of THC and CBD—the two primary cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. Emphasising their therapeutic potential and interactions with the body's endocannabinoid system, the course also notes the importance of the entourage effect, where cannabinoids and terpenes in whole plant extracts may offer enhanced benefits compared to isolated compounds.
The module addresses the differences between indica and sativa strains, emphasising the need for personalised treatment based on specific cannabinoid and terpene profiles. This module underscores the scientific basis for the therapeutic use of cannabis, advocating for a nuanced understanding of its components for improved patient care.
The Ethnopharmacology of Cannabis
This module explores the historical and medicinal use of cannabis across various cultures, tracing its journey from ancient times to its role as a medicinal and trade good. We'll analyse the decline in cannabis use during the 20th century due to medical, economic, and legal factors. The impact of the Marijuana Tax Act and anti-cannabis propaganda on modern perception will also be examined. Finally, the module advocates for a reassessment of cannabis's medicinal value based on historical context.
What is Cannabis Medicine?
What is Cannabis Medicine? This module delves into the differences between medicinal and illicit use of cannabis, emphasising that medicinal cannabis is controlled for purity and labelled for cannabinoid content, offering safer and consistent treatments. Dr. Teh advocates the transition from unregulated cannabis to the medical market for quality, safety, and professional medical guidance. The module aims to educate on cannabis's therapeutic applications and promote a deeper understanding of its healing role.
Meet Our Esteemed Instructors
Embark on a journey of learning and discovery with our team of experts who are not only knowledgeable but also passionate about sharing the medicinal potential of cannabis. These industry luminaries will guide you through an enriching educational experience.
Dr John Teh
With a robust history in the surgical industry and being at the helm of PlantMed Medical Cannabis Clinic since the legalisation of medicinal cannabis in Australia in 2016, Dr. Teh brings a rich repository of knowledge and experience. His expertise in permaculture melds seamlessly with his advocacy for natural plant products as a complementary treatment method.
Course Chairman/Director of Planted & PlantMed, Australia
Dr Dustin Sulak
Dr. Dustin Sulak is an integrative medicine pioneer with a focus in osteopathy, mind-body medicine, and medical cannabis. Dr. Sulak received undergraduate degrees in nutrition science and biology from Indiana University, a doctorate of osteopathy from the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, and completed an osteopathic rotating internship at Maine-Dartmouth Family Medicine Residency.
Cannabis Medicine Specialist, Board Member of the Society of Cannabis Clinician, USA
Dr Orit Holtzmann
Dr Holtzman is one of Australia’s most experienced medicinal cannabis prescribers and educators. She holds a Bachelor of Science in biology and psychology from the University of Tel Aviv (Summa Cum Laude), a PhD in neuroscience from the University of NSW and an MBBS from the Sydney Medical School at the University of Sydney. She has been passionate about integrative medicine since her parents used it successfully to treat her childhood asthma and she has always known she would like to practice medicine in this way. To that extent, she has undertaken the ADAPT training in functional and ancestral medicine at the Kresser Institute as well as additional training from ACNEM and AIMN.
President ANZCCP, Cannabinoid Medicine Practitioner, Founder and CEO Leura Wellness, Australia
Chloe Teh
Chloe has a strong background in medical, surgical, and veterinary service development and operations management and recently won the Women of Weed title for 2020. Chloe enjoys creating an environment and systems that ensures a positive experience for patients, careers, referring doctors and PlantMed team. Her background in media, television and event management have prepared her well for helping organise PlantMed’s educational events and promotion of PlantMed’s endeavours in the community. Chloe is interested in integrated health practices using plant medicine, health nutrition, and animal and climate well-being.
Director and CEO PlantMed Cannabis Clinics Australia
Justin Sinclair
Justin is a Research Fellow at NICM Health Research Institute, an international leader in integrative medicine research based at Western Sydney University where he is also the co-ordinator of the Australian Medicinal Cannabis Research & Education Collaboration (AMCREC). For the last 3 years he has also served on United in Compassion’s Scientific Advisory Board, Australia’s leading medicinal cannabis patient advocacy group, in a pro bono capacity. His scientific background is in pharmacognosy (i.e. drugs that come from plants), but his research interests extend into botany, ethnopharmacology, analytical phytochemistry and psychopharmacology.
Chief Scientific Officer ANTG, Cannabis Medicine Educator, Western Sydney University
Dr Gull Herzberg
Dr Herzberg practices Integrative Medicine, which means that, in addition to a conventional medical approach, he also considers and uses other approaches that may not have been considered previously. As far as possible he uses an Evidence-Based Medicine approach. Amongst other clinical modalities, Gull has been prescribing Medical Cannabis since 2017. He is a keen collaborator and in addition to his clinical work, including involvement with Local Health District and Primary Health Network health system improvement processes in order to help “the right people get the right treatment in the right place at the right time”.
Vice President ANZCCP, Australia
Emily Rigby
Since 2016, Emily has played an integral role in developing the Australian medicinal cannabis industry. This includes establishing one of Australia’s first licenced medicinal cannabis cultivation and research facilities and releasing Australian-grown cannabis medicines into local and export markets.
Emily is on the Board of the Australian Medicinal Cannabis Association (AMCA) and Director of Protected Cropping Australia (PCA) – Australia’s peak industry body for hydroponic and greenhouse growers. Emily was recognised as Australia’s 2021 ‘Woman of Weed’ in the Australian Cannabis Awards for her contribution to female leadership in the cannabis industry.
Cannabis Horticulture Expert, Australia
Lisa Varley
A strategic thinker with a long term vision. Specialist in change management and aggressive cost-cutting. Significant experience and success in the Asia region and a vast network of contacts second to none. Marketing content and communication expert through many mediums and all different channels.
Managing Director at “The Entourage Effect” and Managing Director at “Mi Dispensary”- Australia
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