Extraction of Cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa L. (Hemp)—Review

Abstract

Cannabis plant has long been execrated by law in different nations due to the psychoactive properties of only a few cannabinoids. Recent scientific advances coupled with growing public awareness of cannabinoids as a medical commodity drove legislation change and brought about a historic transition where the demand rose over ten-fold in less than five years. On the other hand, the technology required for cannabis processing and the extraction of the most valuable chemical compounds from the cannabis flower remains the bottleneck of processing technology. This paper sheds light on the downstream processing steps and principles involved in producing cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa L. (Hemp) biomass. By categorizing the extraction technology into seed and trichome, we examined and critiqued different pretreatment methods and technological options available for large-scale extraction in both categories. Solvent extraction methods being the main focus, the critical decision-making parameters in each stage, and the applicable current technologies in the field, were discussed. We further examined the factors affecting the cannabinoid transformation that changes the medical functionality of the final cannabinoid products. Based on the current trends, the extraction technologies are continuously being revised and enhanced, yet they still fail to keep up with market demands.

Characterization and Biological Activity of Fiber-Type Cannabis sativa L. Aerial Parts at Different Growth Stages

“…In fact, currently it is possible to find different C. sativa -based products on the market in form of food supplements, cosmetics, resin, oil, and e-liquid for electronic cigarettes [ 11 ]. While most studies have been directed toward the analysis of hemp inflorescences and their biomarker compounds, the phytocannabinoids [ 6 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 ], little information is available on leaves and stalks [ 9 , 17 , 18 ] and on other specialized metabolites, such as polyphenols and derivatives that are characterized by several biomedical and pharmacological properties [ 4 ]. In fact, apart from hemp seeds and derivatives, leaves and sprouts of this plant are also authorized to be ingredients for cosmetic preparations, according to the CosIng European database (data updated to 9 November 2021).…”

Extraction of Phenolic Compounds and Terpenes from Cannabis sativa L. By-Products: From Conventional to Intensified Processes

“…The drug type is well known for its recreational use. However, the therapeutic interest of cannabinoids resulted in a flexibility of the legislation and the legalisation of cannabinoids-based products in some countries [1,4]. Industrial hemp (non-drug type) is exploited for its fiber and oil [1].…”

A Comprehensive Review on the Techniques for Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Medicinal Cannabis

“…Therefore, understanding the nature of the plant matrix and the chemistry of bioactive compounds is necessary [ 23 ]. Conventional and advanced techniques have also been studied to maximise the extraction of phytochemicals from Cannabis [ 24 , 25 ]. However, due to the high demand for medicinal Cannabis in recent years, a deeper understanding of the Cannabis chemical space and how to effectively reduce the costs of extraction and phytochemical isolation is crucial for further applications.…”