The Preservation and Augmentation of Terpenes in Cannabis Inflorescence - Justin Bueno, PhD

Tags: science, terpenes, cannabis packaging, cannabis storage, potency

Justin Bueno, PhD presents "The Preservation and Augmentation of Terpenes in Cannabis Inflorescence" at CannMed 2022.

Terpenes are critical phytochemicals that contribute to the efficacy and experience of cannabis inflorescence. However, their inherent volatility results in loss of inflorescence terpene content over time, directly impacting product quality and efficacy. There are no widely available methods to preserve, replenish, or control the terpene content of cannabis inflorescence. A novel packaging system was investigated to address these issues. Results from the proof of concept and validation studies confirm the effectiveness of the novel system towards persevering and augment terpene content of cannabis inflorescence. Furthermore, various exogenous terpene blends were investigated towards preventing oxidative degradation of inflorescence cannabinoid content during storage. Preliminary results indicate improved cannabinoid preservation versus control, with implications towards an improved storage method for bulk biomass. Immediate applications of the novel system include maintaining the native terpene content of inflorescence at the time of packaging, replenishing terpene content to inflorescence depleted of terpenes, and reducing inflorescence terpene content lot-to-lot variability. Future applications of this system include the ability to selectively tune the terpene profile and aroma of cannabis inflorescence.