Everything You Need to Know About Flavonoids in Cannabis 

What is a compound in cannabis that may have some potential to fight some types of cancer, the coronavirus, and some neurodegenerative diseases? The compound also gives some cannabis strains their unique color pigmentation, like brown, red, or purple, and in some strains, it works with terpenes to produce unique flavors and aromas.

The compound is known as flavonoid, a secondary metabolite present in cannabis along with many other vegetable and fruit species that you consume on a daily basis. This is the reason why chamomile tea is so soothing or why some citrus fruits are used in traditional medicines. 

Not a lot is known about flavonoids today since the research of this compound is still in its infancy, which is unfortunately the case for many things involving cannabis, but we know enough about it to see the potential it has. This compound can significantly impact the medical world. But what exactly is it and how can it help?

Here’s everything you need to know about flavonoids found in the cannabis plant — their definition, role in the plant, role in the human body, and some common flavonoids found in cannabis. Read on to learn everything there is about flavonoids. 

What are Flavonoids in Cannabis?

Flavonoids are secondary metabolites made up of polyphenolic compound groups, and these compounds are present in a variety of plants and fungal species. So far, scientists have discovered over 8,000 flavonoid varieties throughout the plant kingdom, and their functions vary a lot, too. 

In the cannabis plant, they have discovered around 20 flavonoids. 

The term flavonoid has its root in Latin, originating from the term flavus, which refers to the yellow color that occurs in nature. This etymologically does make sense since the flavonoids’ primary function is to bring color pigmentation to the plants, especially in the flowers so they can attract pollinators. 

Flavonoids are present in many species of edible vegetables and fruits that contain non-green pigmentation; they owe their color primarily to the flavonoids. But that’s not the only function flavonoids perform in plants. 

These compounds are also responsible for protecting plants from harmful environmental elements like pests, diseases, and UV rays. Flavonoids are also crucial for the plant’s health in other ways; they aid seed development and plant growth by taking care of various essential functions, including cell cycle progression.

When it comes to cannabis, terpenes usually get all the credit for bringing out the flavors and aromas of cannabis, but flavonoids also play a role here. They provide various distinguishing qualities that help us distinguish between various cannabis strains. 

Additionally, flavonoids also help bring out the color or pigmentation of cannabis buds. For example, the deep purple flowers of some cannabis strains get their color from flavonoids like anthocyanins and anthoxanthins. In other plants like berries, the same flavonoids cause other colors like red or blue pigmentation, depending on pH levels. 

Flavonoids are also relevant for us as these compounds are one of the most prominent families of nutrients in the plant world. This is because flavonoids offer nutritional value along with various health benefits to humans, as you will learn shortly. 

Cannabis Flavonoids vs Terpenes 

Given their properties, it’s easy to confuse flavonoids and terpenes, but they are not the same. Yes, the two compounds have various synergistic qualities but have many more differentiating qualities, too. 

For starters, flavonoids are responsible for the color or pigmentation of the buds, whereas terpenes primarily contribute to the flavor and aroma of the buds. It should be noted that flavonoids still influence flavors and aromas to a certain extent but their function is purely secondary. 

One of the most distinguishing factors between flavonoids and terpenes is where they are found within the plant. Flavonoids, while they most visually affect the buds, are present throughout the plant. On the other hand, terpenes are only found in trichomes present on the plant (buds, mostly) and some leaves like the sugar leaves. 

Another difference between the two is how many of them are there in cannabis. As of today, experts have discovered over 200 varieties of terpenes but only 20 flavonoid varieties. 

But at the end of the day, the differences only go so far. What matters is how they work, and it is believed that terpenes and flavonoids, along with other compounds, work together to create the entourage effect. More on this later. 

Do Cannabis Flavonoids Have Health Benefits?

Flavonoids found in the cannabis plant contribute to the flower’s color pigmentation, but the compounds have various other functions, including therapeutic benefits for the human body. 

Flavonoids work in synergy with cannabinoids and terpenes in cannabis to interact with the chemical receptors present in your endocannabinoid system, and like other cannabis compounds, flavonoids also have various benefits for your body and health. 

Depending on the type of flavonoid present in a strain and in what ratio with other compounds, flavonoids can have tremendous health benefits for your body. Some flavonoids can be anti-inflammatory whereas others can be antibacterial.

The discovery of their health benefits is nothing new, though. Flavonoids were first discovered by Szent-Gyorgyi Nagyrapolt, a Nobel Prize winner, in 1936, who discovered that extracts from red peppers and lemons help strengthen blood vessel capillary walls. He named them vitamin P, which later turned to flavonoids. 

Some of the effects of flavonoids on the human body include:

• Antioxidative
• Anti-inflammatory
• Anti-carcinogenic 
• Antithrombotic or anticoagulant 
• Neuroprotective 
• Antidiabetic 
• Antiviral
• Antiparasitic
• Anxiolytic or anxiety-relieving 
• Wound-healing 
• Antioedematous 

As a result, flavonoids have the potential to help users with various diseases and conditions, like cancer, inflammation, wounds, eye disease, or neurodegenerative diseases. Experts also suggest flavonoids can be effective against autoimmune diseases, inflammatory diseases, viral hepatitis, and malaria. 

Let’s take a look at some of the notable ways flavonoids can help benefit the health of cannabis users. 

1. Cardiovascular Health 

According to a review conducted in 2020, experts found that flavonoids can have various cardioprotective benefits. Flavonoids are antioxidative, and some varieties like quercetin, apigenin, and kaempferol can lower the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins or bad cholesterol. 

Thus, flavonoids can improve your lipid profile. At the same time, they can increase vasodilation, which helps widen your blood vessels, reducing blood pressure and improving blood flow. 

2. Anti-Carcinogenic 

There’s plenty of scientific evidence that suggests that flavonoids can be anticarcinogenic, i.e., they can reduce the likelihood of cancer in users. 

Essentially, flavonoids act on the reactive oxygen species (ROS), scavenging various enzyme activities. This stops the cell cycle and induces the destruction of damaged cells and cell death. As a result, the growth of cancer cells is curbed. 

3. Anti-Inflammatory 

During a 1981 study, researchers found that cannabinoid-free cannabis extracts from some strains can also have anti-inflammatory effects. The study was conducted on mice, and the extracts influence prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) metabolism. 

Further studies found that PGE2 formation that was triggered by the proinflammatory substance TPA was inhibited. According to the studies conducted in vitro, cannflavin A and B flavonoids reduced pro-inflammatory leukotrienes and prostaglandins. These compounds inhibited PGE2 synthase and 5-lipoxygenase. 

One type of flavonoid, cannflavin A, was shown to have excellent anti-inflammatory effects in human rheumatoid cell culture. In fact, this flavonoid was 30x more effective than acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), which is a popular non-steroidal drug for inflammation. 

Unlike ASA, the flavonoid cannflavin A is weak to inhibit the cyclooxygenase enzyme (COX), and as a result, the latter does not cause any side effects like gastric mucosal damage, which is common with drugs like ASA. 

4. Antiviral 

Experts suggest that flavonoids can also have various antiviral effects. In an in silico study published in 2020, computer simulation showed that flavone (a type of flavonoid) was effective against COVID-19. 

The study found that isocannflavin B inhibits viral entry and SARS-CoV-2 replication. It does so by attaching itself to the ACE2 receptor, which is also the gateway for the coronavirus, preventing it from making an entry into the host call. Additionally, the flavonoid also stopped two viral proteases, which are needed by the virus to replicate within the human lung cells. 

A 2021 study also found that flavonoids like hesperidin, ECGC, quercetin, and naringin may come in handy for developing effective drugs against the coronavirus as they inhibit virus entry into the cell host. The study found that these flavonoids have great pharmacokinetics in terms of absorption, permeability, metabolism, minimal toxicity, and bioavailability. 

Other computer studies show that flavonoids can be effective against HIV-1 protease and dengue virus. Of course, it’s too early to make any conclusive statements and more detailed studies need to be conducted, but these findings show that flavonoids have potential in medicine just as much, if not more, than terpenes and cannabinoids. 

Cannabis Flavonoids and the Entourage Effect

You may already know about the entourage effect, but in case you’ve forgotten, here’s what it means in short. 

The entourage effect is a term coined by experts that refers to how the various compounds present in cannabis function on the human body. Compounds like cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, etc. work in synergy to produce more pronounced effects on the users. This is the entourage effect. 

For example, a full-spectrum extract will have a much better effect, whether psychoactive or therapeutic, compared to a THC/CBD isolate extract. This is because terpenes and other compounds also act on the endocannabinoid systems, influencing the effects of cannabis. 

So, do flavonoids work in synergy with other cannabis compounds for the entourage effect? Experts believe it does. Of course, the research on the entourage effect is still in its infancy and little is known about flavonoids, but experts believe that this compound can enhance the effect of cannabinoids. Further studies are still required for any conclusive results. 

What are the Common Flavonoids Found in Cannabis?

There are about 8,000 flavonoids in the plant world, but cannabis only has around 20 of them. Or at least that’s how many experts have discovered so far; cannabis may contain more flavonoids, too. Out of the 20, some flavonoids show the most promise. Here are common cannabis flavonoids with the most potential. 

1. Cannflavins A, B, and C

The group of cannflavins flavonoids is chemically prenyl in nature and this group is a quintessential cannabis flavonoid, but it can also be found in some other plant species. Cannflavins A, B, and C are very similar in nature but they do have some differences that set them apart. 

Thanks to prenylation and methoxylation, the flavonoid skeleton of cannflavins is modified, which makes them more soluble in fat than other flavonoids. And since cell membranes are lipid barriers, these flavonoids are easily absorbed by the cells. There, they start interacting with membrane-bound enzymes and receptors. 

As a result, cannflavins A, B, and C can have various medicinal and therapeutic benefits. So far, studies have explored the anti-inflammatory properties of cannflavins and experts are fairly confident in the effect of these flavonoids in this case. 

However, so far, experts are confident that cannflavins A, B, and C can have the following benefits:

• Antioxidative
• Neuroprotective 
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antiparasitic
• Anti-carcinogenic
• Antiviral  

However, more studies need to be conducted to know more about the relationship between cannflavins and their properties like anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, neuroprotective, antiparasitic, and antiviral. These studies should reveal the much-needed insight into the structure-activity relationship (SAR). 

Plus, experts can optimize the chemical structure of flavonoids to make them even more effective as a therapeutic solution in the future. 

2. Quercetin

Cannflavins may be the most studied flavonoid found in cannabis, but quercetin is the one that’s present in the most quantity in your diet as well as the cannabis plant. Just how common is this flavonoid? It’s found in plants such as apples, cocoa, kale, red onions, red wine, ginkgo biloba, and various citrus fruits. 

This flavonoid is known for adding deep colors to plants and is usually present in the skin and leaves of cannabis. When consumed by you, this flavonoid provides many health benefits; it is antioxidant, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral. 

3. Apigenin

Apigenin is another common flavonoid that’s usually found in celery, parsley, basil, oranges, tarragon, mint, and onion. Since it is present as a yellow-colored solid crystalline, the flavonoid has been used as a wood dye for centuries. 

But apart from turning wood yellow, this flavonoid is also known for being a muscle relaxant and sedative as it acts on GABA receptors. 

It is also one of the active ingredients in chamomile tea; in fact, it is present in a concentration of 68% in the chamomile flower, contributing largely to its color and flavor. Studies have also shown that apigenin can also help fight depression and anxiety. No wonder it’s so soothing and relaxing to drink chamomile tea! 

4. Kaempferol 

Kaempferol is present in less quantity but is still important for the cannabis plant. However, this flavonoid is also present in kale, beans, cucumbers, green beans, onions, spinach, dill, and broccoli. This is the flavonoid that is responsible for giving rose its deep red color. 

While more studies are required, experts are confident that this flavonoid can be an excellent anti-carcinogenic. This is because this flavonoid modulates cell death and aids in the formation of new blood cells. It is also anti-inflammatory in nature. 

5. Beta-Sitosterol

This is a flavonoid that’s white and waxy in color and its chemical structure is similar to that of cholesterol but with lower cholesterol levels. As a result, experts believe you can use this flavonoid with THCV to deal with coronary heart disease and treat obesity. 

This flavonoid is often present in nuts and avocados, and some experts suggest it is responsible for the yogurt-like flavor in avocados. 

6. Galangin 

Galgangin, as the name suggests, is the most abundant flavonoid in galangal, a root spice related to turmeric and ginger. This flavonoid is the reason galangal has such a sharp and citrusy flavor. 

This flavonoid is popular in Indian and Thai cuisines and medicine as it adds a spicy flavor to food while also being antibacterial and antiviral in nature. 

7. Naringin

Naringin is usually found in citrus fruits, and it is most abundantly present in grapefruits, giving it its bitter taste. But unlike its flavor, the flavonoid is quite versatile for its therapeutic benefits. 

This flavonoid is anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and bone-regenerative. It can also help with metabolic syndrome, DNA damage, and CNS-related conditions like epilepsy and Parkinson’s.

8. Hesperetin 

This is yet another citrusy flavonoid but fortunately, this one is more sweet. This is usually found in lemons and oranges and preliminary studies suggest this flavonoid may help treat lethal cardiac arrhythmias. 

9. Aromadendrene

This is a woody and minty flavonoid that’s present in eucalyptus, spearmint, sweet marjoram, and safflower. When this flavonoid works in synergy with cineole, a terpene, it provides antibacterial benefits. This flavonoid may also act with THC and produce a bronchodilatory effect in the users.

10. Catechin 

Catechin is known for its slightly acidic yet not bitter taste, and this flavonoid is a flavan-3-ol. It is abundantly found in green teas, barley grain, peaches, and vinegar. This flavonoid can be useful against various conditions like arthritis, CVD, obesity, diabetes, and cancer. 

How to Increase Flavonoids in Cannabis?

Here’s your next goal — increase flavonoids in your cannabis. If you want to do that, which you should, you have to start by getting seeds with high-quality genetics. Then, take care of the plant by offering it enough ventilation, avoiding overwatering, and giving your plant a lot of love and care. 

But that’s not all. You need to keep a few other things in mind, too. Throughout your plant’s growth cycle, it will need carbohydrates in varying levels for healthy growth, dense bud development, and trichome production. 

So, ensure the growing medium you use is correct, and if it’s soil, ensure it is rich in nutrients. You must also ensure that the growing medium has the correct pH so the roots can actually absorb all the goodies present within the medium.

And if you are planning to change something for the plant, like switching the environment or training it, make sure the plant is healthy. And always use the right training method for your cannabis plant. 

The stress will help push the plant to produce more flavonoids as a natural response, but you need to do it properly. Otherwise, wrong training methods or stress can stunt your plant’s growth significantly. It’s totally not recommended.

Depending on your cultivation goals and the flavonoid preexisting in the strain you are growing, you can use appropriate training methods to increase its concentration in your cannabis plant. For the best results, follow the breeder’s recommendations. 

Summary: Everything You Need to Know About Flavonoids in Cannabis 

The term entourage effect was coined in 1998 by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam and S. Ben-Shabat, which has now become quite popular in cannabis research. This is also actively used in researching flavonoids. In fact, Dr. Mechoulam is one of the leading experts, along with Ethan Russo and James MacPartland, who study flavonoids in cannabis. 

However, the study of this potentially game-changing compound found in cannabis is still in its infancy. It doesn’t get the fanfare that cannabinoids and terpenes do, but it is time we start giving it the credit it deserves. 

Flavonoids may sound like it’s all about flavors, but they are actually mostly about colors largely, but apart from giving the purple shade to your favorite purple strain, this flavonoid can help advance medicine to the next level by being anti-carcinogenic, neuroprotective, and antiviral in nature. 

So, if you want to get the potential benefits of this compound, or at the very least, bring more pigmentation to your cannabis plant, make sure you give your plant all the love it needs and some training methods to boost flavonoid production. 

To know more about such lesser-known features of cannabis, stay tuned. We regularly post guides on various aspects of cannabis, including grow guides that not only help you understand the plant better but also make you a better cannabis grower.