How a woman-led biotech firm is advancing cannabis medicine

OG article by Sallie Blackmon, MJBizDaily Contributor

November 11, 2025

London-based Ananda Pharma, led by CEO Melissa Sturgess, is developing MRX-1, a pharmaceutical-grade CBD treatment for endometriosis pain. With only 0.038% of NIH funding dedicated to endometriosis research, women have turned to inconsistent over-the-counter CBD products. Ananda is following full drug-approval pathways in the UK, aiming for NHS reimbursement. A 2025 healthy-volunteer study was completed; larger patient trials are planned for 2026. Sturgess stresses evidence over hype and will speak at MJBizCon Dec. 2–5, 2025, alongside other women-led health-focused cannabis companies.