Aromatic and cannabinoid profiles of Cannabis inflorescences and seed oils: A comprehensive approach for variety characterization

In this study, an exhaustive analysis of the species Cannabis sativa L. was carried out, focusing on the terpenoid and cannabinoid profiles of inflorescences from five different varieties and four intra-specific hybrids. In addition, terpenoid and cannabinoid compositions of seed oils from these same Cannabis varieties were examined. Aromatic compounds were analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GS-MS) while cannabinoids were by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to diode array detector (HPLC-DAD). Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical analysis were performed to determine the relationship between aromatic compounds within varieties for classification. A total of 71 naturally occurring aromatic compounds were identified, including 27 terpenoids and 10 isomers. Terpenoid clustering from the different inflorescence groups confirmed the commercial aromatic description of each Cannabis variety; however, they were not associated with the clusters observed in the cannabinoid profiles. Seed oils contained trace amounts of both aromatic compounds and cannabinoids, suggesting a migration of components during the industrial extraction process. This study contributes to understanding cannabis chemistry and emphasizes the importance of ongoing research of cannabis-derived products throughout comprehensive analysis of cannabinoid content, and especially aromatic profile in varieties. It can guide the development of targeted breeding programs, complex classification of varieties and formulation of cannabis-based products tailored to specific applications.