Medicinal cannabis products have boomed in popularity over the last few years, and now scientists have confirmed a native species of liverwort shares some of its elements.
Scientists and iwi have been studying the plant, known as wairuakohu, across the North Island for seven years.
They've found compounds similar to THC and CBD, which could be used to develop natural health products for pain management.
Richard Espley, a scientist at Plant and Food research, joins Anna to explain.
Photo: Plant and Food Research
