Differentiating Cannabis Products: Drugs, Food, and Supplements

Abstract

“Hemp” refers to non-intoxicating, low delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) cultivars of Cannabis sativa L. “Marijuana” refers to cultivars with high levels of Δ9-THC, the primary psychoactive cannabinoid found in the plant and a federally controlled substance used for both recreational and therapeutic purposes. Although marijuana and hemp belong to the same genus and species, they differ in terms of chemical and genetic composition, production practices, product uses, and regulatory status. Hemp seed and hemp seed oil have been shown to have valuable nutritional capacity. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid with a wide therapeutic index and acceptable side effect profile, has demonstrated high medicinal potential in some conditions. Several countries and states have facilitated the use of THC-dominant medical cannabis for certain conditions, while other countries continue to ban all forms of cannabis regardless of cannabinoid profile or low psychoactive potential. Today, differentiating between hemp and marijuana in the laboratory is no longer a difficult process. Certain thin layer chromatography (TLC) methods can rapidly screen for cannabinoids, and several gas and liquid chromatography techniques have been developed for precise quantification of phytocannabinoids in plant extracts and biological samples. Geographic regulations and testing guidelines for cannabis continue to evolve. As they are improved and clarified, we can better employ the appropriate applications of this uniquely versatile plant from an informed scientific perspective.

Hemp Shives as a Raw Material for the Production of Particleboards

“…Cannabis sativa is a universal plant that is quite easy and environmentally friendly to grow. Currently, industrial hemp is grown primarily to obtain seeds for the production of oils and other nutritional supplements, which are very popular [ 24 , 25 ]. Additionally, hemp fiber is extremely strong and durable, which is why it is used in the production of ropes, fabrics, paper, fiberboards and insulation boards.…”

Biosynthesis of Phytocannabinoids and Structural Insights: A Review

“…The fate and durability of non-cannabinoids and cannabinoids will be determined by the therapeutic development of numerous rare and novel cannabinoids [ 106 , 107 ]. Synthetic and semi-synthetic cannabinoids are very important for the economy owing to demands from the wholesale market and various cannabis industries to enhance agri-business and prevent plant pathogens [ 108 ]. The hypothesis is that phytocannabinoids have versatile use and are beneficial for humans and plants if appropriately used [ 109 , 110 ].…”

Hemp-Derived CBD Used in Food and Food Supplements

“…Even though many parts of the cannabis plant are edible, the hemp seed is the most commonly consumed raw material. Due to the rediscovery of hemp's nutritional benefits in recent years, cannabis products regained popularity in many countries around the world [66].…”