Recognition of the importance of medicinal cannabis has been given in State Parliament at the urging of Independent Mount Gambier MP Troy Bell.

Parliamentarians on both sides of the House of Assembly spent 30 minutes on Wednesday afternoon speaking in support of the use of medicinal cannabis and cannabidiol as an alternative treatment option.

The successful motion also backed research and trials into the effects of cannabidiol (CBD) on patients with juvenile epilepsy, endometriosis and chronic pain.

As Mr Bell could not be present, his motion was moved on his behalf by Shadow Health Minister Ashton Hurn.

Among the speakers was Liberal Member for MacKillop Nick McBride who gave an account of how medicinal cannabis had assisted a constituent who has cancer.

“I do hope that this parliament and the state embrace medicinal cannabis for medical treatment,” Mr McBride said.

“As our population ages and we find more means to survive the elements that health throws at our population, I think a wider variety of health options will only reinforce and add to the quality of life that we all strive for and want to live as long as we possibly can.”