Abstract
An advanced Mendelian Cannabis breeding program has been developed utilizing chemical
markers to maximize the yield of phytocannabinoids and terpenoids with the aim to
improve therapeutic efficacy and safety. Cannabis is often divided into several categories
based on cannabinoid content. Type I, Δ
9-tetrahydrocannabinol-predominant, is the prevalent offering in both medical and recreational
marketplaces. In recent years, the therapeutic benefits of cannabidiol have been better
recognized, leading to the promotion of additional chemovars: Type II, Cannabis that
contains both Δ
9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, and cannabidiol-predominant Type III Cannabis.
While high-Δ
9-tetrahydrocannabinol and high-myrcene chemovars dominate markets, these may not be
optimal for patients who require distinct chemical profiles to achieve symptomatic
relief. Type II Cannabis chemovars that display cannabidiol- and terpenoid-rich profiles
have the potential to improve both efficacy and minimize adverse events associated
with Δ
9-tetrahydrocannabinol exposure. Cannabis samples were analyzed for cannabinoid and
terpenoid content, and analytical results are presented via PhytoFacts, a patent-pending
method of graphically displaying phytocannabinoid and terpenoid content, as well as
scent, taste, and subjective therapeutic effect data. Examples from the breeding program
are highlighted and include Type I, II, and III Cannabis chemovars, those highly potent
in terpenoids in general, or single components, for example, limonene, pinene, terpinolene,
and linalool. Additionally, it is demonstrated how Type I – III chemovars have been
developed with conserved terpenoid proportions. Specific chemovars may produce enhanced
analgesia, anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, and anti-anxiety effects,
while simultaneously reducing sequelae of Δ
9-tetrahydrocannabinol such as panic, toxic psychosis, and short-term memory impairment.
Key words
Cannabis sativa
- Cannabaceae - marijuana - cannabinoid - tetrahydrocannabinol - cannabidiol - terpenoids
