‘Historic moment’ as first South African medical cannabis flower arrives in UK

The first ever import of South African-grown medical cannabis flower has arrived in the UK, in a “historic” moment for the sector.

South African cannabis producer, MedCan is behind the first import of high-THC medical cannabis flower, grown in Johannesburg, to UK soil.

Its first product, Isando – a high THC flower containing 16.1 percent THC, 0.05 percent CBD and 0.96 percent CBG – will now be available to UK patients, through Rokshaw Laboratories. 

The flowers are said to have a rich terpene profile, with a very high concentration of Limonene giving them an intense aroma of citrus and tropical fruit. 

Due to the growing techniques used, the flowers have not been irradiated and therefore its terpenes remain intact.

MedCan, which began cultivating  in 2020, is one of the only GMP certified and fully licensed indoor cannabis cultivation facilities in South Africa.

Its commitment to the environment means the company recycles all of its water and plastic on site and no synthetic or inorganic pesticides or chemicals are used in the growing process. 

After every harvest the company also donates its grow medium to local initiative, Eco Therapist – which teaches members of the community to grow their own produce – to use as compost.

Micaël Zollmann, founder and CEO of MedCan, commented: ‘We are so excited that our product is now available in the UK. 

“At MedCan, we are passionate about cultivating a high-quality medical cannabis flower that can be accessed by those who will benefit most. 

“Our flower meets the strictest testing requirements, has a rich flavour profile, and will hopefully be well received by the patients and clinicians alike.”

MedCan is working with Maple Tree cannabis consultancy firm and Rokshaw Laboratories to bring its products to the UK.

Professor Mike Barnes, director of Maple Tree Consultants, described it as a “historic moment” for the UK sector.

“The UK sees a first of its kind import into the UK from South Africa which is a historic moment for the medical cannabis sector in the UK,” he said.

“The UK has an ever-expanding medical cannabis sector which requires good quality products with a secure supply chain. We are delighted to support MedCan with this import and are excited to see patients and clinicians have more choices to help with their symptoms.”

To place an order for Isando flower contact: orders@cbpmaccess.co.uk. Clinics and dispensaries can send orders on behalf of the patient, or the patient can send a request directly to Rokshaw.