Cannabis chemical composition
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Overview of Cannabis Chemical Composition
Cannabis sativa is a chemically complex plant, containing a vast array of bioactive and non-bioactive compounds. Over 6000 chemical constituents have been identified in commercial cannabis, including cannabinoids, terpenes, phenolics, alkaloids, amino acids, fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins 23810.
Cannabinoids: Key Psychoactive and Medicinal Compounds
Cannabinoids are the most studied group of compounds in cannabis, with at least 125 distinct cannabinoids identified 38. These C21 terpeno-phenolic compounds are unique to cannabis and are primarily responsible for its psychoactive and therapeutic effects. The most well-known cannabinoids are Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), but many minor cannabinoids also contribute to the plant’s effects 356. The ratio of acid to decarboxylated cannabinoids can vary significantly depending on extraction methods, which in turn influences the pharmacological activity of cannabis extracts .
Terpenes and Terpenoids: Aroma, Flavor, and Synergy
Terpenes are the largest group of phytochemicals in cannabis, with more than 60 different terpenes and terpenoids identified in some genotypes 589. These compounds are responsible for the plant’s distinctive aroma and flavor, and they may also modulate the effects of cannabinoids through the so-called “entourage effect” 159. Common terpenes in cannabis include limonene, linalool, α-terpineol, β-caryophyllene, myrcene, and α-pinene, among others 159. The specific terpene profile can vary widely between strains and is influenced by genetics and environmental factors 15.
Non-Cannabinoid Phenolics, Alkaloids, and Other Secondary Metabolites
In addition to cannabinoids and terpenes, cannabis contains a variety of non-cannabinoid phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and alkaloids 3810. These secondary metabolites may contribute to the plant’s antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties 810. The presence and concentration of these compounds can differ between plant parts and among different cannabis varieties 34.
Chemical Composition of Different Plant Parts
- Flowers and Inflorescences: The highest concentrations of cannabinoids and terpenes are found in the flowers, along with proteins, fats, sugars, starch, minerals, and vitamins such as B2, B3, B5, B6, and ascorbic acid 78.
- Roots: Unlike the aerial parts, cannabis roots contain little to no cannabinoids but are rich in triterpenes and phytosterols, such as friedelin and epifriedelinol .
- Seeds and Stalks: Seeds are valued for their oil, which contains essential polyunsaturated fatty acids, and the stalks provide strong natural fibers .
Influence of Extraction Methods and Processing
The chemical composition of cannabis extracts is highly dependent on the extraction method used. For example, the ratio of acid to decarboxylated cannabinoids can change dramatically with different solvents and extraction times, affecting the pharmacological properties of the final product . Drying and storage conditions also impact the stability and profile of volatile compounds, especially terpenes .
Chemotaxonomy and Strain Variation
Chemical analysis shows that cannabis strains exist on a continuum of chemical composition rather than as distinct chemotypes. Labels such as "indica" and "sativa" do not reliably predict chemical profiles. However, certain strain groups, like "OG" and "Kush," can be distinguished by their relative abundance of specific terpenes . Some strains are more chemically consistent than others, but overall, there is significant variability 15.
Conclusion
Cannabis is a chemically diverse plant, with thousands of identified compounds spanning cannabinoids, terpenes, phenolics, alkaloids, fatty acids, amino acids, minerals, and vitamins. The chemical profile varies by plant part, strain, and processing method. While cannabinoids and terpenes are the most prominent and studied groups, many other compounds contribute to the plant’s biological and industrial potential. Ongoing research and comprehensive databases are helping to clarify the full spectrum of cannabis chemistry and its implications for medicine, industry, and nutrition 23810.
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