Provided herein are methods for protecting cannabinoids, typically in medicinal compositions, from heat-, sunlight- or artificial-light-induced degradation, and oxidative degradation due to contact with ambient air/oxygen. Also provided are methods for extending the shelf life, stability, and long term viability and efficacy of cannabis- and cannabinoid-containing medicinal compositions. Said cannabinoids are protected by providing the one or more cannabinoids in a composition comprising at least one non-ionic surfactant and at least one polyol.