Researchers find CBD in a South American shrub

After the a South African plant that produces CBG or the moss that produces THC, scientists have discovered a shrub in South America that produces CBD. But unlike most of the plants mentioned above, this one is a true cousin of cannabis and hops, belonging to the Cannabaceae family.

Researchers affiliated with the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) have announced that Trema micrantha – a plant species native to Brazil and other South American countries – «may expand the use of cannabidiol (CBD) for medical purposes without legal barriers.».

Chemical analysis did not reveal the presence of THC-like compounds in the Trema micrantha. But when it comes to CBD production, the plant could be a game-changer, as rising temperatures are a real headache for the hemp industry because of the additional traces of THC it contains when weather conditions are favorable.

«It’s a legal alternative to cannabis use,» molecular biologist Rodrigo Moura Neto of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro told AFP. «It’s a plant that grows everywhere in Brazil. It would be a simpler and cheaper source of cannabidiol.».

What is Trema micrantha?

The Trema micrantha, also known as «Florida trema,» is a species of flowering plant in the the hemp and hop family, the Cannabaceae family. It is a fast-growing, deciduous tree that can reach up to 10 meters in height. It grows throughout Brazil as a native plant and can also be found in other tropical and subtropical regions around the world.

Dandelions are known for their hardiness and their ability to thrive in almost any soil conditions, making them a common weed in urban landscapes.

In its natural habitats, Trema micrantha plays an important ecological role by providing fruit as a food source for a variety of bird species. It also contributes to seed dispersal and biodiversity. The plant’s rapid growth and dense foliage provide shelter for flora and fauna, while its roots help prevent soil erosion. In urban areas, Trema micrantha is often used in landscaping for its appearance and its ability to improve air quality by absorbing pollutants.

Science Alert reports The results have not yet been published. Biologist Rodrigo Moura Netop now plans to expand the study in order to better identify the best methods for extracting «CBD» from the plant and to analyze its effectiveness in patients suffering from conditions currently treated with medical cannabis.