Flavonoids Coordinate Cannabinoids and Terpenes

Most cannabis conversations center around the effects and benefits of cannabinoids, terpenes, or a combination of the two. The entourage effect is often discussed, but there is an organic compound often overlooked. Flavonoids make up about 10% of the entire cannabis plant. While that might not be a lot, they are essential for boosting the bioactivity of cannabinoids, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). While research is limited, some studies have documented this part of the plant to have pain-relieving, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.

What are Flavonoids?

These are polyphenolic compounds that serve as secondary metabolites that exist throughout the plant kingdom. With over 6,000 different kinds identified, they are one of the most prevalent nutrients in the plant world. They are in every type of fruit, vegetable, spice, and herb that can be found. Scientists have determined that flavonoids play an important role in cell cycle progression which helps with seed development and growth processes. These mighty organic compounds also support defense mechanisms by boosting resistance to bacteria, fungi, insects, and UV rays. In addition to assisting with all these functions, flavonoids play an important role in the color and appearance of fruits, vegetables, and spices. In fact, the root word for flavonoids is flavus which means “yellow” referring to the most abundant hue. Besides giving the reds, blues, purples, and greens that appear on cannabis flowers, flavonoids also contribute to the aroma and taste. This is why two strains can have identical terpene profiles, but very different aromas and effects.

Flavonoids in Cannabis

Over 20 flavonoids have been identified to naturally occur in the cannabis plant. They are the final piece of the puzzle that brings the aroma, taste, and effects of a THCa flower strain into full focus. Each one contributes to the entourage effect enhancing it with specific and unique health benefits. Below are some of the more prominent cannabis flavonoids:

• Cannflavin A,B, and C: These are flavonoids that only occur in the cannabis plant, and are part of a class called flavones. Because they don’t exist in any other known plant, these have garnered special attention from the scientific community. They are known primarily for their potent anti-inflammatory properties.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has been shown to help relieve pain and naturally occurs in parsley, broccoli, carrots, and peppers.
• Apigenin: Celery, parsley, tarragon, and basil are some of the other places to find this flavonoid. Research shows it to have a calming effect and might help reduce anxiety.
• Quercetin: Found in apples, kale, and cocoa, quercetin contributes to many of the darker reds and purples found in nature. This flavonoid is known for neutralizing free radicals while supporting the immune system.
• Kaempferol: Beans, Endive, onions, and cucumber are just a few of the plants that have this flavonoid. Studies show it to have multiple health benefits including antioxidant and anti-inflammation.

Benefits of Flavonoids

Research has shown that flavonoids are very pharmacologically active, which means they can have significant health benefits. Studies have been sparse, but preliminary results indicate that some flavonoids can have anti-fungal, antioxidant, and pain-relieving effects. One 2021 study highlighted the specific benefits of cannaflavin A, which has potential anti-oxidant, anti-parasitic, and neuroprotective abilities. It also binds to viral proteins, suggesting antiviral activity. This has many in the research community excited about the opportunity to study it more in-depth.

Experience Beautiful THCa Flower Strains at CannaBuddy

Discovering flavonoids is just one more layer of enjoyment that cannabis has to offer. The combination can be so subtle that even the flowers from the same strain can have different flavonoids because of how the flowers were cultivated and dried. Discovering the right combination for each person will take a little time and experimentation. Fortunately, CannaBuddy has 20+ THCa strains to choose from, including Granddaddy Purple, Amnesia Haze, and the Mac 1 strain. After deciding on a couple, be sure to check out the entire cannabis product line.

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