Members of the Australian medicinal cannabis industry have paid tribute to “father of cannabis research” Hebrew University Professor Raphael Mechoulam who has died aged 92.
Mechoulam began experimenting with cannabinoids in Israel in the 1960s, becoming the first scientist to isolate delta-9 THC. He also designed and synthesised many novel cannabinoids with therapeutic potential as pharmaceutical drugs.
Writing on LinkedIn, Cannatrek co-founder and CEO Tommy Huppert said: “Dr Raphael was a true visionary and his work paved the way for a new era of cannabis research.
“He was always generous with his time and his knowledge, and his insights and guidance have been invaluable to me and others in the field.
“His legacy will continue to shape the field of cannabis research for years to come.
“I honour his memory by committing to continue to push the boundaries of what we know about cannabis and its potential to heal.”
Also on LinkedIn, ANTG director of communications and community Helen Kapalos said of Mechoulam: “His scientific discoveries and his noble intention to make the world aware of the benefits of plant medicine and unpack the stigma are too extraordinary to list.
“We have lost a great man to whom many of us will forever be indebted.”
Meanwhile, opening the ACannabis conference in Melbourne on Tuesday, Medicinal Cannabis Industry Australia (MCIA) chair Peter Crock paid his own tribute to “undeniably one of the greatest contributors to cannabinoid science”.
He added: “What a great opportunity for us to collectively honour his brilliance and generosity by continuing the discussion on how to expand on the important work he pioneered.”
