Flavonoids are a group of natural plant compounds found in cannabis, as well as in fruits, vegetables, and flowers. In cannabis, they contribute to the plant’s color, aroma, and potential effects. Alongside cannabinoids and terpenes, flavonoids are thought to play a role in the entourage effect — the theory that cannabis compounds work together synergistically to enhance benefits.
Scientists have identified more than 20 different flavonoids in cannabis, sometimes referred to as cannflavins. These include:
- Cannflavin A, B, and C – unique to cannabis and studied for their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Other common flavonoids, such as quercetin and apigenin, which are also found in foods like apples, tea, and parsley.
Beyond cannabis, flavonoids are widely known as antioxidants that help protect plants from UV rays, pests, and disease. In the human diet, flavonoids are linked to various health benefits due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, though more research is needed specifically on cannabis-derived flavonoids.
In cannabis, flavonoids are less concentrated than cannabinoids or terpenes, but they still contribute to each strain’s distinctive profile. For example, the purple hues seen in some cannabis flowers are caused by anthocyanins, a class of flavonoids.
While flavonoids don’t produce psychoactive effects, they are an important part of cannabis’s chemical makeup, adding both diversity and complexity to the plant’s overall impact.
Related Terms
FAQ
They contribute to color, aroma, and may influence effects through the entourage effect.
No. They are found in many plants, including fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
Cannflavins are flavonoids unique to cannabis, studied for their potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Jin, D., Dai, K., Xie, Z., & Chen, J. (2020). Secondary metabolites profiled in cannabis inflorescences, leaves, stem barks, and roots for medicinal purposes. Scientific Reports, 10(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-60172-6