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Can Cannabinoids Go Bad? Understanding Cannabinoid Oxidation

Posted on by TJ

What does the “best by” date on your jar of hemp flower mean? Can the cannabinoids—the active ingredients inside—expire? The short answer is, yes, sort of. While the flower itself isn’t going to go bad for quite some time, the cannabinoids that you’re buying the flower for (whether CBD or THC) can oxidize and lose potency. Understanding cannabinoid oxidation and its factors is crucial to keeping your flower fresh and stable.

In this post, we’re going to cover:

  • What cannabinoid oxidation is
  • How oxidation changes THC and CBD
  • How to prevent your flower from oxidizing

What is Cannabinoid Oxidation?

Oxidation is a chemical process that occurs when cannabinoids are exposed to environmental factors, mainly air, UV light, and heat. Oxidation has more than a few definitions, but when we talk about organic compounds like cannabinoids, we mean that the cannabinoid is either losing hydrogen (H) atoms or gaining oxygen (O) atoms.

Understanding the oxidation process is essential for anyone using hemp or cannabis products. The stability of these products directly affects their efficacy, and knowing how to store them properly can make a significant difference in their longevity.

The Science Behind Oxidation

Oxidation is a common process that affects many organic compounds. In the case of cannabinoids, oxidation can lead to the degradation of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), two of the most well-known and studied cannabinoids. This degradation can result in the formation of new compounds, which may have different effects and benefits compared to the original cannabinoids.

Cannabinoid Oxidation is Not Decarboxylation

While heat can play a major role in both oxidation and decarboxylation, the two processes are not the same. Decarboxylation occurs when we use heat to make an acidic cannabinoid like CBDa drop its extra carboxyl ring group (COOH) and activate it so that our endocannabinoid system can use it.

Oxidation is a slower process and can happen to both acidic cannabinoids and activated cannabinoids (with much different results!). Understanding the distinction between these two processes is crucial for anyone looking to maximize the benefits of their hemp or cannabis products.

The Role of Heat in Cannabinoid Processing

Heat is an essential factor in both oxidation and decarboxylation. However, the effects of heat on cannabinoids vary depending on the temperature and duration of exposure. While decarboxylation typically requires higher temperatures over a shorter period, oxidation can occur at lower temperatures over a more extended period. This distinction highlights the importance of proper storage conditions to maintain the quality of your cannabinoids.

What Causes Cannabinoids to Oxidize?

Several environmental factors can cause the cannabinoids in your hemp to oxidize. Most of them relate to how you store your hemp.

UV Light Exposure

UV light can accelerate the oxidation process. When you expose hemp flower and cannabis to light, high-energy photons bombard the cannabinoids within and can break off hydrogen atoms. This exposure can significantly reduce the potency of your cannabinoids over time.

Air Exposure

Oxygen, like in the air we breathe (O₂), can also react with cannabinoids in your hemp flower. Cannabinoids, being organic compounds, can experience oxidative stress just like our bodies. This oxidative stress can lead to the breakdown of cannabinoids, resulting in a loss of potency and efficacy.

Learn more about how functional mushrooms can help reduce oxidative stress.

Excessive Heat

Higher temperatures can accelerate chemical reactions like oxidation. If your hemp or cannabis flower is exposed to heat (like in the trunk of your hot car), it may lose some potency! Heat increases the kinetic energy of molecules, which can lead to more frequent and intense reactions, including oxidation.

Related: Can CBD Oil Expire?

Humidity and Moisture

In addition to UV light, air, and heat, humidity and moisture can also impact the stability of cannabinoids. Excess moisture can create an environment conducive to mold growth, which can further degrade the quality of your hemp or cannabis flower. Keeping your product dry and in a controlled environment is essential for maintaining its integrity.

Oxidized Cannabinoids: THC and CBD

The two best-known cannabinoids, THC and CBD, are both sensitive to oxidation and can turn into different cannabinoids altogether.

THC Oxidation: Drop the “TH”

When we expose THC to the elements, it can oxidize and turn into cannabinol (CBN). This transformation not only affects THC’s psychoactive properties, but CBN can also counteract some of the unwanted side effects of THC consumption.

THC (C₂₁H₃₀O₂) > oxidation > CBN (C₂₁H₂₆O₂)

CBN isn’t necessarily a bad byproduct, though. Some research suggests that this unique cannabinoid may have a host of benefits all on its own. We here at Sunset Lake have combined CBN together with CBD to make our best-selling CBN-infused Sleep Gummies, as it’s believed that the two together with melatonin can help get you to bed.

Sunset Lake CBD Sleep Gummies with CBN (oxidized THC) and CBD on a blue background

CBD Oxidation: Add a “Q”

Unlike THC and CBN, when we expose CBD to the elements, it can oxidize into hydroxyquinone (HU-331) and potentially other cannabinoids we have yet to isolate and discover.

CBD (C₂₁H₃₀O₂) > oxidation > HU-331 (C₂₁H₂₈O₃)

HU-331 is a fascinating molecule that’s been shown to have an effect against oncogenic human cells. Without getting too much into the medical nitty-gritty, let’s just say cancer researchers should pay some extra attention to CBD oxidation and all of the derivatives it produces.

The Impact of Oxidation on Cannabinoid Efficacy

The transformation of cannabinoids through oxidation can significantly impact their efficacy. While some oxidized cannabinoids may retain beneficial properties, others may not be as effective. Understanding these changes can help users make informed decisions about their hemp and cannabis products.

How to Slow Cannabinoid Oxidation

Because oxidation is also a function of time, it’s important to note that we can’t stop the process completely. That said, there’s plenty you can do to slow down the process and protect your cannabinoids.

Airtight Containers

When choosing storage containers for your hemp or cannabis flower, choose a container with an airtight seal like a mason jar with a matching top or rubberized Tupperware. These containers can help minimize exposure to oxygen and other environmental factors that can accelerate oxidation.

In the Dark

If your chosen container is see-through, you’ll also want to store your flower in a dark place away from natural light. Better yet, you can store your flower in an opaque container in the dark. Reducing exposure to UV light can significantly slow the oxidation process and preserve the potency of your cannabinoids.

Cool Places

Keep your cannabis and hemp flower in places with cool, stable temperatures. That means don’t store it in your car trunk or your bathroom’s medicine cabinet. Instead, store your airtight, opaque containers in a basement or air-conditioned closet. Temperature stability is key to maintaining the quality of your cannabinoids over time.

Humidity Control

Using humidity control packs can help maintain the ideal moisture level in your storage containers. These packs can absorb excess moisture or release moisture as needed to keep your hemp or cannabis flower in optimal condition. Proper humidity control can prevent mold growth and further degradation of your product.

Regular Monitoring

Regularly check your stored hemp or cannabis flower for signs of degradation. Look for changes in color, smell, and texture, which can indicate oxidation or other issues. Early detection can help you take corrective actions to preserve your product’s quality.

The Benefits of Proper Storage

Proper storage of hemp and cannabis products can extend their shelf life and preserve their potency. By understanding the factors that contribute to oxidation and taking steps to mitigate them, you can ensure that your cannabinoids remain effective for as long as possible.

Comparing Storage Techniques

Different storage techniques can have varying impacts on the stability of cannabinoids. For example, vacuum sealing and refrigeration can offer additional protection against oxidation. Comparing these methods can help you determine the best approach for your specific needs.

Long-Term Storage Solutions

For those looking to store hemp or cannabis products for extended periods, consider using vacuum-sealed bags or investing in a dedicated storage solution. These methods can provide an extra layer of protection against environmental factors that contribute to oxidation.

FAQs

What is cannabinoid oxidation?

  • Cannabinoid oxidation is a chemical process where cannabinoids lose hydrogen atoms or gain oxygen atoms when exposed to environmental factors like air, UV light, and heat.

How does oxidation affect THC and CBD?

  • Oxidation can transform THC into cannabinol (CBN), altering its psychoactive properties. CBD can oxidize into hydroxyquinone (HU-331), which may have unique biological effects.

What can cause cannabinoids to oxidize?

  • Cannabinoids can oxidize due to exposure to UV light, air, excessive heat, and humidity. Proper storage can mitigate these factors.

How can I prevent my hemp flower from oxidizing?

  • Store your hemp flower in airtight containers, keep it in the dark, maintain it in cool, stable temperatures, and control humidity levels to slow down oxidation.

Is oxidized THC or CBD harmful?

  • Oxidized cannabinoids like CBN and HU-331 are not necessarily harmful and may have unique benefits. However, they do differ in properties from their non-oxidized forms.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom: The Smart Choice

Posted on by TJ

Lion’s Mane mushroom has been a staple in the naturopathic and holistic health communities for a long time. Not only is the Lion’s Mane a delicious addition to most dishes, but it’s been used in traditional medicines for centuries to help promote gut health, cognition, and neurological health. 

In this post, we’re going to attempt to cover the aptly named Lion’s Mane mushroom and its, 

  • Nutritional benefits
  • Functional uses
  • Ingestion methods
  • And, some of the internet’s common questions about the mushroom

Continue reading “Lion’s Mane Mushroom: The Smart Choice”

Terpene Spotlight: Guaiol

Posted on by TJ

Terpenes are garnering more attention recently, and for good reason. With the federal legalization of industrial hemp and the state-by-state legalization of THC cannabis, we’re learning that it’s not just the cannabinoids, THC and CBD, that we need to pay attention to. Terpenes, responsible for hemp’s pleasant aroma, are also responsible for modulating user experiences. The rest of this post will be dedicated to one such terpene called guaiol (pronounced g-why-ee-ol) and, 

  • Where you can find it in nature
  • What we currently use it for
  • And, guaiol’s potential benefits

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are a diverse group of organic compounds that contribute both to a plant’s aroma and its self-defense.¹ In flowering hemp plants terpenes deter deer and other herbivores by giving the flowers an overwhelmingly bitter taste. 

The cosmetic and food industries love terpenes for their aroma, and by extension, their taste. If you open your medicine cabinet or fridge right now, you’ll likely find something containing terpenes. You’ve likely encountered terpenes in, 

  • Beer contains humulene— a terpene found in hops
  • Household cleaners many of which contain pinene
  • Many household herbs like basil contain ocimene

What Is Guaiol

Guaiol is a sesquiterpene alcohol (meaning it’s made of three isoprene units) found in various plants and some animals. Guaiol’s distinctive aroma lends itself to a handful of hemp strains as well as the guaiacum plant where it was first isolated from and subsequently named after. 

Guaiacum has a long history of medicinal use, including helping with menstruation, soothing sore throats, and as a stimulant. 

Fun fact: Scientists at CERN believe that sesquiterpenes, like guaiol, may play a major role in cloud formation! 

Guaiacum Officinale tree flower. Purple petals with yellow anthers.
Flowers of the Guaiacum Officinale tree. Image courtesy of Inna from Pixabay

What Is Guaiol Used For?

Aside from its years of medical use via the guaiacum plant, the terpene guaiol can also be found in nutmeg, cumin, lilacs, and tea trees. 

Its unique scent, a mix of woodiness, pine, and rose, makes guaiol a highly sought-after terpene. 

Guaiol’s Potential Benefits 

As mentioned, guaiol has historically been used for its medicinal qualities. But as we’ve been able to isolate and study each terpene, academics are publishing studies about guaiol’s applications. 

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

In a 2010 study, both guaiol and beta-caryophyllene exhibited statistically significant anti-inflammatory effects. As this study was performed in vitro, the results warrant further study.²

Antimicrobial & Anti-parasitic Properties

A few studies published in the last two decades found that guaiol is effective in combating parasites and harmful bacteria.³⁴ We should note that guaiol was just a part of the essential oils used in both studies and not isolated. Still, these results are interesting and could lead to new antimicrobial products using guaiol. 

Anti-tumor Properties 

Perhaps one of the most interesting studies about guaiol was published in 2016 in the Journal Oncotarget.⁵ Researchers isolated guaiol and found that the terpene inhibits tumor cell growth and proliferation. We will note that these results are from studies carried out in vitro, but even so, they are an exciting jumping-off point for further guaiol research. 

Sunset Lake CBD Cultivars Featuring Guaiol

At Sunset Lake CBD, we pride ourselves on our approach to sungrown hemp. Not only do we think that producing hemp flowers outdoors is better for the environment, but some studies show that natural light increases terpene production in the flowers. This year we’ve got a handful of CBD hemp flower cultivars that prominently feature guaiol including, 

Sources:

  1. Divekar, Pratap Adinath et al. “Plant Secondary Metabolites as Defense Tools against Herbivores for Sustainable Crop Protection.” International journal of molecular sciences vol. 23,5 2690. 28 Feb. 2022, doi:10.3390/ijms23052690
  2. Apel, Miriam A et al. “Anti-inflammatory activity of essential oil from leaves of Myrciaria tenella and Calycorectes sellowianus.” Pharmaceutical biology vol. 48,4 (2010): 433-8. doi:10.3109/13880200903164386
  3. Andrade, Milene Aparecida et al. “Essential oils: in vitro activity against Leishmania amazonensis, cytotoxicity and chemical composition.” BMC complementary and alternative medicine vol. 16,1 444. 8 Nov. 2016, doi:10.1186/s12906-016-1401-9
  4. Choudhary, Muhammad Iqbal et al. “Microbial transformation of (-)-guaiol and antibacterial activity of its transformed products.” Journal of natural products vol. 70,5 (2007): 849-52. doi:10.1021/np068052a
  5. Yang, Qingyuan et al. “(-)-Guaiol regulates RAD51 stability via autophagy to induce cell apoptosis in non-small cell lung cancer.” Oncotarget vol. 7,38 (2016): 62585-62597. doi:10.18632/oncotarget.11540

Full-Spectrum CBD gummies: Powerful Relief In A Tasty Treat

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Full-spectrum CBD gummies are quickly becoming the most popular cannabinoid product on the market. They take the benefits of full-spectrum CBD and pack them all into a delicious bite-sized chew. And because they’re an edible product, users will feel the effects longer than they would with other consumption methods. 

In this post, we’re taking a deeper dive into full-spectrum CBD gummies, and we’ll try to answer some common questions, including,

  • What are the pros and cons of full-spectrum CBD gummies
  • When should I take them?
  • Are there any side effects?

Continue reading “Full-Spectrum CBD gummies: Powerful Relief In A Tasty Treat”

CBD And Adenosine: Understanding Their Interactions

Posted on by TJ

You may not have ever heard of adenosine before, but it is the reason that most coffee drinkers need their first cup in the morning. Adenosine is a neurotransmitter that can make you tired in the morning and later in the evening, but it can do so much more. It’s also at the mercy of our favorite cannabinoid. CBD and adenosine research is still lacking, but we’ll talk about why we may want to direct more attention towards their interaction. 

In this post, we’re going to cover

  • What adenosine is 
  • How adenosine interacts with our brains
  • How CBD can affect adenosine interactions
  • And what that means about CBD’s potential benefits 

What Is CBD?

The abbreviated form of cannabidiol, CBD is one of the 100+ cannabinoids produced by flowering hemp plants. CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning that its consumption will not make you feel high or intoxicated like THC would. 

While experts are still unsure about how CBD interacts with your body, we do know that it works closely with your endocannabinoid system— an intricate network of neurotransmitters, receptors, and enzymes. Your endocannabinoid system helps manage your bodily functions like, 

  • Sleep 
  • Mood 
  • Appetite
  • Memory 
  • Central Nervous System Development
  • And more…

What Is Adenosine?

Adenosine is an endogenous neurotransmitter made up of a nitrogen base (adenine) combined with a sugar molecule (ribose). Adenosine can combine with one, two, or three phosphate groups forming adenosine monophosphate (AMP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), respectively.

By itself, adenosine is a neuromodulator, meaning that it can influence the activities of the neurotransmitters around it like dopamine and glutamate. One of its primary functions is to calm the central nervous system by promoting relaxation and drowsiness. Adenosine builds up in your brain over the course of the day, making you feel more tired as the day wears on. 

Note that caffeine (the psychoactive substance found in coffee) works against adenosine, blocking it from binding with the appropriate receptors resulting in feelings of alertness. Beware though that this effect will only last for so long before your brain’s neurotransmitters eventually win out. 

Read more: CBD Coffee: Everything You Should Know

How Does Adenosine Work?

Much like melatonin, adenosine is a chemical that works on a 24-hour schedule as part of our circadian rhythm. More and more adenosine builds up in the body as the day goes on. 

Adenosine controls certain functions in your body by binding to specific receptors in your brain and central nervous system. Said receptors are important to many of our day-to-day functioning and worth a closer look. 

A1 Receptors:

When activated, the A1 receptor curbs neurotransmitter release which can have a calming effect on the brain. Fewer chemicals flying through your brain means that you’re more calm. A1 receptors are involved in sleep regulation, pain management, and heart rate regulation. 

A2A Receptors:

Found primarily in the part of the brain that links motivation to motor skills and decision-making, the A2A receptors can both stop or facilitate neurotransmission— the ability of neurons to share information with each other. 

A2B Receptors:

Found in various tissues like blood vessels and white blood cells, A2B receptors help with immune response, inflammation, and reducing blood pressure. 

A3 Receptors:

Similar to A2B receptors, A3 receptors are located throughout your body and help regulate your immune system, its response to external threats, and inflammation. 

How Does CBD Affect Adenosine?

The interaction between CBD and adenosine is understudied, but there have been some cursory findings. 

CBD has been found to increase adenosine signaling by inhibiting the reuptake of adenosine.1 When CBD prevents the reuptake of adenosine, it effectively increases adenosine availability in your body. This surplus of adenosine must go somewhere, so it activates the four A receptors listed earlier, promoting a sense of calm, relaxation, and sleepiness. 

It may be these adenosine interactions that give CBD its benefits. 

Anti-Anxiety effects: 

Adenosine and the A2A receptors may help alleviate stress and anxiety symptoms by promoting relaxation2

Anti-Inflammatory effects:

Adenosine has anti-inflammatory effects. CBD’s influence and uptake inhibition may further enhance adenosine’s anti-inflammatory potential.3

Sleep Benefits:

While not thoroughly studied, we can extrapolate and hypothesize that CBD and its interaction with adenosine may help regulate sleep. Adenosine increases an individual’s sleep pressure, and when inhibited from reentering your brain, excess adenosine is likely to make you more tired. 

Read more: CBN For Sleep: Can This New Cannabinoid Help You Feel More Rested?

Further Study Is Needed

Research into CBD and adenosine interactions is still new, but the emerging findings are promising. As more rodent studies show promise for CBD therapeutic uses, we may even start to see human trials. For now, most findings into adenosine and its interactions with cannabidiol and cannabinoids at large are one-off and should be taken with a grain of salt.

Sources:

  1. Carrier, Erica J et al. “Inhibition of an equilibrative nucleoside transporter by cannabidiol: a mechanism of cannabinoid immunosuppression.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America vol. 103,20 (2006): 7895-900. doi:10.1073/pnas.0511232103
  2. Stollenwerk, Todd M et al. “Contribution of the Adenosine 2A Receptor to Behavioral Effects of Tetrahydrocannabinol, Cannabidiol and PECS-101.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 26,17 5354. 2 Sep. 2021, doi:10.3390/molecules26175354
  3. Mecha, M et al. “Cannabidiol provides long-lasting protection against the deleterious effects of inflammation in a viral model of multiple sclerosis: a role for A2A receptors.” Neurobiology of disease vol. 59 (2013): 141-50. doi:10.1016/j.nbd.2013.06.016

What Is Decarboxylation & Why You Need To Start Doing It

Posted on by TJ

If you’ve ever tried your hand at making cannabis-infused edibles, no doubt you’ve run into a few road bumps along the way. Decarboxylation is one of the biggest for aspiring CBD edible chefs. It can make or break your infused treats. Because it’s such an important process we’ll be covering it in detail in this post including,

  • What decarboxylation is
  • Why it’s necessary for cannabinoid infusions
  • And, break it down step-by-step so you can elevate your edible-making game

Continue reading “What Is Decarboxylation & Why You Need To Start Doing It”

How Long Do The Effects Of Edibles Last?

Posted on by TJ

So you’ve taken an edible and want to know how long it will last? Or, maybe you’re thinking about splurging on a little treat for yourself— CBD chocolate fudge sounds good, no? In the last few years, cannabis science, specifically CBD-infused edibles has really started coming into its own. 

In this post, we’ll be talking about,

  • What CBD edibles are
  • How long they take to kick in
  • How long the effects of edibles last
  • And, what factors play into their effectiveness

Continue reading “How Long Do The Effects Of Edibles Last?”

What Does CBD Do? To Our Bodies, ECS, And Other Cannabinoids

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Key Takeaways

  1. CBD helps our body and our endocannabinoid system run more efficiently. 
  2. CBD also interacts with several other receptors around the body and brain with varying results. 
  3. CBD, when combined with THC, can curb unwanted psychoactive effects and be more impactful in the body. 

Table of Contents

Continue reading “What Does CBD Do? To Our Bodies, ECS, And Other Cannabinoids”

CBD Coffee: Everything You Should Know

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What’s better than waking up with a full-bodied cup of dark-roast coffee? How about a full-bodied cup of dark-roast CBD Coffee? You heard me right. CBD isn’t just for soft gels and oils anymore. You can now get your daily dose of CBD with your morning (and mid-afternoon) cup of coffee. The result is crisp alertness without the jitters normally associated with caffeine. 

Intrigued? In this post, we’re going to be answering a few questions, like,

  • What is CBD?
  • What is CBD coffee?
  • How does it work?
  • Where to find the best CBD-infused coffee

Continue reading “CBD Coffee: Everything You Should Know”

CBG vs. CBD: What’s the Difference?

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Key takeaways

  1. CBD and CBG are both cannabinoids produced by mature hemp plants, although CBD is considered a major cannabinoid while CBG is considered a minor. 
  2. CBG is known as the “mother of all cannabinoids” because of its ability to turn into CBD, THC, and CBC. 
  3. CBG’s effects profile isn’t well known yet, but some studies suggest that it may be an effective treatment option for several neurological disorders.

Table of contents

Continue reading “CBG vs. CBD: What’s the Difference?”

Hemp Edibles: Your Quick and Fun Guide To Baking With CBD

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If you find yourself spending more time at home these days, baking hemp edibles infused with CBD could be a great way to reap the benefits of both stress-baking and CBD. Though CBD is not widely FDA-approved, there is anecdotal evidence that suggests CBD can help with a host of issues including, 

These, along with the psychological benefits of creating in the kitchen, are the perfect combination for calm during quarantine. Continue reading “Hemp Edibles: Your Quick and Fun Guide To Baking With CBD”

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