Biological activity of Cannabis compounds: a modern approach to the therapy of multiple diseases

Cannabis spp. are some of the most controversial medicinal plants in the world. They contain great amounts of biologically active secondary metabolites, including the typical phenolic compounds called cannabinoids. Because of their low toxicity and complex biological activities, cannabinoids can be...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Phytochemistry reviews 2022-04, Vol.21 (2), p.429-470
Main Authors: Helcman, Martin, Šmejkal, Karel
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Biochemistry
Biological activity
Biomedical and Life Sciences
Cannabinoids
Cannabis
Chemical compounds
Chemistry/Food Science
Herbal medicine
Life Sciences
Marijuana
Medicinal plants
Metabolites
Organic Chemistry
Pharmacology
Phenolic compounds
Phenols
Plant Genetics and Genomics
Plant Sciences
Psychological effects
Secondary metabolites
Tetrahydrocannabinol
Therapeutic applications
Therapy
Toxicity
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Summary:Cannabis spp. are some of the most controversial medicinal plants in the world. They contain great amounts of biologically active secondary metabolites, including the typical phenolic compounds called cannabinoids. Because of their low toxicity and complex biological activities, cannabinoids can be useful in the therapy of various diseases, but adverse psychological effects (of Δ 9 -THC in particular) raise concerns. This review summarizes the current knowledge of selected active C. indica compounds and their therapeutic potential. We summarize the main compounds contained in cannabis, the mechanisms of their effects, and their potential therapeutic applications. Further, we mention some of the clinical tests used to evaluate the efficacy of cannabinoids in therapy.
ISSN:1568-7767
1572-980X
DOI:10.1007/s11101-021-09777-x