Cannabis has been used as a medicinal plant for thousands of years. Ancient civilisations in Asia, the Middle East and the Americas already employed its properties to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and support general wellbeing. Today, amid the growing movement of social cannabis clubs, it is an ideal moment to revisit what science and tradition know about this plant through the lens of phytotherapy.
Phytotherapy is the discipline that studies and applies the therapeutic use of medicinal plants. Unlike phytochemistry, which focuses on isolating active compounds, phytotherapy works with the whole plant — extracts, tinctures, infusions, essential oils — harnessing the synergistic effect of all its components.
It is one of the oldest and most widespread forms of medicine in the world. The WHO recognises that approximately 80% of the global population depends on medicinal plants as their primary source of healthcare. Within this field, cannabis is increasingly relevant thanks to its unique phytochemical profile.
The plant Cannabis sativa L. contains over 500 identified compounds, including more than 100 cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids and fatty acids. The most studied cannabinoids are:
The human body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) — comprising CB1 and CB2 receptors, endogenous ligands and synthesis and degradation enzymes — is the reason cannabis interacts so broadly with human physiology. This system regulates mood, sleep, appetite, inflammation and pain perception.
Social cannabis clubs are private, non-profit associations that offer members a regulated, safe and informed environment for accessing cannabis. Unlike black markets or unregulated shops, responsible clubs care about variety quality, effect information and promoting conscious consumption.
Increasingly, members visit clubs seeking not just recreation but also relief from conditions such as insomnia, chronic stress, muscle pain or anxiety. This growing demand makes phytotherapy a natural ally of the cannabis movement: it provides the scientific and ethical framework for understanding cannabis as what it is — a medicinal plant with real therapeutic potential — rather than merely a recreational substance.
One of the most important concepts in phytotherapy applied to cannabis is the entourage effect: the synergistic interaction between cannabinoids and terpenes enhances the plant's therapeutic effects in ways that no isolated compound could achieve alone.
The most common terpenes in cannabis have well-documented properties:
| Terpene | Aroma | Associated effects |
|---|---|---|
| Myrcene | Earthy, mango | Sedative, anti-inflammatory |
| Limonene | Citrus | Anxiolytic, antidepressant |
| Linalool | Lavender | Calming, anti-stress |
| Beta-caryophyllene | Pepper | Anti-inflammatory, analgesic |
| Pinene | Pine | Bronchodilator, memory support |
Knowing the terpene profile of a variety is as important as knowing its THC and CBD content. Club members who consume cannabis for therapeutic purposes should ask club managers about these characteristics.
Cannabis interacts with numerous medications and may not be appropriate in certain health conditions. Before incorporating it as a therapeutic tool — especially for chronic conditions, paediatric use, pregnancy or breastfeeding — it is essential to seek guidance from a qualified health professional.
Certified naturopaths and phytotherapists can:
For those seeking specialised guidance in phytotherapy and the therapeutic use of medicinal plants, certified practitioners such as those at Naturheilpraxis Cajka offer in-person consultations in Zurich and online consultations in five languages — with a particular focus on families, children and adults with chronic conditions such as ADHD or immune disorders. This kind of professional support makes the difference between an informed use and one that may not be best suited to each individual.
Cannabis is not a trend. It is a medicinal plant with thousands of years of history and growing scientific support. Phytotherapy gives us the language and tools to understand it as such: as part of a living, synergistic and personalised system.
At Cannabis After Club we are committed to quality information, responsible access and respect for those who choose cannabis as part of their wellbeing. If you are a club member or considering becoming one, we invite you to learn more about cannabis as a plant, its active compounds and how a phytotherapeutic approach can help you make the most of it safely.
Note: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional for any questions or health conditions.