Chemical Characterization and Contaminant Analysis of Nonpsychoactive Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) Inflorescences from Ecuador

Solís H.; Vargas L.; De la Rosa A.; Suntaxi S.; Londoño P.; González D.; Montúfar C. · Revista Politecnica (2025) · DOI: 10.33333/rp.vol56n2.07

Resumen

This study investigates the extraction and characterization of phytochemical compounds from nonpsychoactive Cannabis sativa L. inflorescences (<1% w/w Δ⁹-THC) cultivated in Ecuador (>2450 MASL) for potential applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Six varieties (Cherry Oregon, Titan, Cherry Bubblegum, Lemonge, EM-16, and EM-19) were evaluated using maceration, ultrasound-assisted extraction, and supercritical CO₂ extraction. Ultrasound-assisted extraction yielded the highest extract recovery in Titan (17.44 ± 0.19 % w/w), whereas supercritical CO₂ extraction achieved the highest CBD concentration in Cherry Oregon (44.65 ± 4.06 % w/w). Terpenes (caryophyllene, humulene, myrcene) were identified, with the highest levels detected in Cherry Bubblegum through supercritical CO₂. The highest concentrations of flavonoids, polyphenols, and tannins were recorded in Cherry Bubblegum, Lemonge, and EM-16, respectively. Pesticide analysis confirmed product safety due to the use of organic fertilizers; however, certain varieties showed elevated levels of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr), underscoring the need for stricter agricultural controls. Overall, this study offers valuable insights into the variability of extraction yields and metabolite composition, supporting their potential industrial applications.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina