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Updated: Jul 24, 2026
05:46
Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction of Cannabidiolic Acid from Cannabis Biomass
Published on: May 27, 2022
The cannabinoid acids: nonpsychoactive derivatives with therapeutic potential
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester 01655-0103, USA.
Pharmacology & Therapeutics
|May 26, 1999
Summary
Carboxylic acid metabolites of cannabinoids, once overlooked, are now recognized for their significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, potentially contributing to the parent drug's therapeutic actions.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Metabolomics
- Cannabinoid Research
Background:
- Carboxylic acid metabolites of cannabinoids (CBs) were discovered over 30 years ago.
- Early research overlooked their potential due to a lack of psychotropic activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the metabolism of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol to its acidic metabolites.
- To emphasize recent findings on the biological actions of these cannabinoid acids.
- To explore potential mechanisms of action, including effects on eicosanoids.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on cannabinoid metabolism and biological actions.
- Survey of studies on delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) metabolism.
- Analysis of recent research on cannabinoid acid properties.
Main Results:
- Cannabinoid acids possess notable analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- These metabolites may contribute to the therapeutic effects of parent cannabinoids.
- A synthetic analog demonstrated similar actions at lower doses.
Conclusions:
- Cannabinoid acids warrant further investigation for their therapeutic potential.
- Their biological actions may involve modulation of eicosanoid pathways.
- An analogy with endogenous cannabinoid metabolites like anandamide is discussed.
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