Understanding the Role of Flavonoids in Cannabis

When people discuss cannabis, THC and CBD usually receive most of the attention. However, flavonoids in cannabis also contribute to the plant’s color and may influence how different products affect the body.

Before visiting a dispensary, learn more about what cannabis flavonoids are and why they’re worth considering alongside cannabinoids and terpenes.

What Are Flavonoids in Cannabis?

After reviewing a quick take on cannabis to learn more about weed, you might be surprised by how many compounds receive little attention in discussions about the plant’s biological makeup. Flavonoids are one such group of compounds. 

Flavonoids, also known as secondary metabolites, contribute to pigmentation and help protect the plant against environmental stressors such as ultraviolet light and microorganisms. Within the plant, they also support processes related to growth and development.

Different strains can contain different flavonoid profiles. These variations may contribute to differences in color and taste, while terpenes and other compounds are primarily responsible for aroma. Genetics and growing conditions can further influence the plant’s overall chemical profile.

How Flavonoids From Cannabis Interact With the Body

When consumed, the body breaks down and metabolizes the flavonoids. Researchers continue to study their antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory effects, but much of the available evidence comes from laboratory or animal research rather than human cannabis studies. How the body absorbs each flavonoid may also vary by compound and product.

Flavonoids may also contribute to the “entourage effect” by interacting with cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds that shape the overall cannabis experience. However, no one knows exactly how much flavonoids influence a person’s response to a specific cannabis product, so claims about specific health outcomes should be regarded with caution.

Common Cannabis Flavonoids

Cannabis contains several flavonoids that also appear in fruits, vegetables, herbs, and other plants. Some of the most frequently discussed examples include:

• Cannflavins A, B, and C: These compounds are associated with cannabis and have been studied for possible anti-inflammatory activity.
• Quercetin: This plant pigment occurs in cannabis, as well as berries, kale, and other fruits and vegetables, and is known for its antioxidant activity.
• Kaempferol: Researchers have examined this flavonoid for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Apigenin: Also found in chamomile and parsley, apigenin has been studied for antioxidant activity and possible calming effects.

Scientists continue to investigate the potential therapeutic benefits of these compounds. Their presence doesn’t guarantee that a strain will produce a particular medical or recreational effect.

Using Flavonoids To Choose Your Ideal Cannabis Strain

Flavonoid information doesn’t always appear on cannabis labels, so you may not be able to select a strain based on one compound. Instead, consider the complete cannabinoid and terpene profile, the product’s potency, and your previous experiences. If a product includes laboratory information about flavonoids, use it as one part of the comparison rather than the deciding factor.

Relaxing Strains

Some sources associate flavonoids such as apigenin with calming activity. Still, flavonoids alone can’t guarantee a strain will feel relaxing, as THC, CBD, terpenes, dosage, and individual responses also influence the experience.

Low THC Strains

THC content and flavonoid content are separate characteristics. A low THC strain can have a diverse flavonoid profile, so check the available product information and ask dispensary staff about other compounds that may influence its effects. Choosing lower THC doesn’t automatically tell you which flavonoids the product contains.

Can You Maximize the Effects of Cannabis Flavonoids? 

Processing methods and storage conditions, as well as heat, can affect how many flavonoids remain in a cannabis product. Combustion may destroy some of them, while tinctures and edible products can retain different amounts depending on how manufacturers prepare them. Exposure to light, air, and high temperatures during storage may also affect product quality.

Choosing properly stored or minimally processed products may help preserve more of the plant’s natural compounds. Follow the product’s storage directions and avoid assuming that a higher flavonoid level will produce a stronger experience. 

Find Your Next Weed Strain at Our Dispensary

Now that you understand the role of flavonoids in cannabis, you can use that information as one part of comparing strains. Our team at The Social Leaf Dispensary can help you review product labels and consider cannabinoid, terpene, and potency information before making a selection. Our staff can also explain unfamiliar terminology without promising that every person will respond the same way to a product.

Visit our South Toms River, NJ, location or call (732) 358-6800 to speak with our team about your needs. You can also learn more by understanding the entourage effect in cannabis.