Hemp research could offer new treatments for animal diseases

HEMP research could open up new animal disease treatments

Research on using hemp as a cure for animal diseases has begun at Aberystwyth University.

A newly-filed patent application by Aberystwyth University and TTS Pharma outlines how the properties of a hemp extract could help lead to a new treatment for inflammation, including endometritis.

The development is part of a longterm partnership between industry and Aberystwyth University researching a wide range of potential uses for hemp.

Following preliminary trials of novel compounds as anti-inflammatory treatments in cattle, this project is looking at whether this innovative treatment could be used in several livestock animals.

This new approach could have major medical benefits. The treatments could reduce the need for antibiotics, and so could reduce the risk of bacteria developing resistance.

Dr Debbie Nash, from the Institute of Biological, Environmental & Rural Sciences (IBERS) at Aberystwyth University, commented: “The research is a testament to the great potential of hemp as a medical treatment for livestock animals. We are grateful for the support of our commercial partners and government as we continue our research. We hope in the future that these compounds will be a major benefit for the farming industry.

“Our in vitro models are being used to screen TTS products by assessing their anti-inflammatory properties. Ultimately after further testing we hope these may help treat bovine endometritis, which is a significant issue in the dairy industry.”