From Source to Shelf
Cannabis in a nutshell
CAANU stems from 20 years industrial experience, scientific research and succesfull history processing a broad range of African botanicals
Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are the major active chemical ingredients of the cannabis plant. There are at least 113 cannabinoids and they make up the cannabinoid profile of the plant and varies from strain to strain
Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic molecules responsible for the unique aroma and flavour of different cannabis strains. Terpenes are synthesised in cannabis in secretory cells inside glandular trichomes
Cannabis Extracts
Several components can be extracted from the cannabis plant. These extracts are categorized into Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, Isolates and SEDDS based on the type of extraction
Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are the major active chemical ingredients of the cannabis plant. There are at least 113 cannabinoids and they make up the cannabinoid profile of the plant. The cannabinoid profile of each plant is determined by the type of cannabinoids present as well as the relative amounts in which they are present, varying from plant to plant, depending on the plant strain, environmental conditions while growing and more.
Of the cannabinoids, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the two most prominent. These two are structurally similar, but act very differently in the human endocannabinoid system. THC is known to cause psychoactive effects, or the “high” commonly associated with cannabis use, while CBD lacks nearly any of the psychoactive effect, making it preferred for use in medicinal formulations. Other known cannabinoids include cannabigerol (CBG), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabinol (CBN) and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV).
Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic molecules responsible for the unique aroma and flavour of different cannabis strains. Terpenes are synthesised in cannabis in secretory cells inside glandular trichomes. Secreted in the same glands that produce cannabinoids like THC and CBD, terpenes are aromatic oils that give cannabis varieties their distinctive flavours like citrus, berry, mint, and pine. Terpenes also play an incredibly important role in providing the plant with natural protection from bacteria and fungi, insects and other environmental stresses. Over 150 distinct terpenes have been detected in the resin of various cannabis strains. The five most abundant terpenes that occur in cannabis strains are alpha-pinene, beta-caryophyllene, limonene, linalool and myrcene. Talk about the benefit for humans. The purported benefits range from improved immune function to reduced inflammation.
Cannabis Extracts
Afriplex and Caanu are your trusted partners for best-in-class extraction. We are the only company in Africa that provides diverse extraction methods to develop premium products based on your needs. Our specialised team has the expertise to create a full range of bespoke cannabis extractions ranging from true full spectrum oils to targeted cannabinoid distillates and isolates.
Full Spectrum
The purpose of a full spectrum extract is to preserve the true nature of the cannabis plant by capturing available compounds without altering them, whilst leaving behind undesirable fats, waxes and lipids that hold the desirable compounds together. Well-known cannabinoids such as CBD, THC, CBG and CBN, and their acidic forms CBDA, THCA and CBGA, occur naturally in the cannabis plant along with a wide range of additional therapeutic compounds. Aromatic terpenes, flavonoids, phenols, esters and proteins compliment the power of cannabinoids in the most naturally therapeutic way.
Broad Spectrum
THC is a psychoactive cannabinoid that occurs naturally in many cannabis cultivars. Consumers who want to use cannabis but not experience psychoactive effects may choose broad spectrum extracts. All available compounds are captured, undesirable fats, waxes and lipids are removed, and THC is selectively separated from the extract. Broad spectrum extracts harness the combined therapeutic value of the cannabis plant with minimal to no psychoactive effect.
Isolates
Compounds extracted from the cannabis plant can be refined into its purest form and isolated from the remaining solution. Isolates contain 99%+ of an individual compound, produced as crystals. Cannabinoid isolates are usually oil soluble but can be solubilised for water-based products. It is possible to reconstitute cannabis extracts through combining terpenes with different cannabinoid isolates at various concentrations to allow for a uniquely tailored therapeutic experience.
SEDDS
Either the CBD isolate or the broad-spectrum cannabis distillate can be prepared in a self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS). In this formulation, the active components are encapsulated in small liposome-like particles which imparts a number of advantages. Their small size enables the active components, such as CBD, to be better assimilated into the body. This superior absorption also increases bioavailability. Additionally, the liposome-like entities protect the active components inside, enhancing stability and increasing shelf life.