Brazilian Shrub Trema Micrantha Offers New Legal Source of CBD
Brazilian researchers have identified Trema micrantha as a new legal source of CBD, offering potential for cost-effective and accessible cannabidiol production
Key Points
- 1Trema micrantha identified as a legal CBD source in Brazil
- 2The plant is a member of the Cannabaceae family, like cannabis
- 3It does not produce THC, making it legally viable for CBD
- 4Researchers aim to improve CBD extraction and evaluate medical use
- 5The shrub also plays a crucial ecological role in its native habitats
Researchers at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro have discovered that the South American shrub Trema micrantha produces cannabidiol (CBD), presenting a legal alternative to cannabis-derived CBD. This plant, a member of the Cannabaceae family like cannabis and hops, could revolutionize the CBD industry by offering a more accessible and cost-effective source of this compound
The Trema micrantha, also known as Florida trema, is native to Brazil and thrives in various tropical and subtropical environments. Unlike cannabis, this shrub does not produce THC, the psychoactive compound associated with cannabis, making it a promising candidate for legal CBD production. Its ability to grow in diverse soil conditions and its rapid growth rate make it an ideal candidate for widespread cultivation
Biologist Rodrigo Moura Neto, involved in the research, emphasized the potential of Trema micrantha as a more straightforward and economical source of CBD. "It's a plant that grows everywhere in Brazil," he noted, highlighting its accessibility and potential to bypass the legal complexities associated with cannabis cultivation. The discovery could address the challenges faced by the hemp industry, which is affected by climate-induced increases in THC levels
In addition to its potential for CBD production, Trema micrantha plays a significant ecological role in its native habitats. It supports biodiversity by providing food for birds and helping in seed dispersal. Its dense foliage offers shelter to various wildlife, and its roots help prevent soil erosion, making it valuable for both ecological and urban landscapes
Future research aims to refine CBD extraction methods from Trema micrantha and evaluate its efficacy in treating medical conditions currently managed with cannabis. As scientists continue to explore this plant's potential, it could pave the way for more sustainable and legally compliant CBD production, potentially transforming the landscape of medical cannabis use