Identification of a Non-Cannabinoid Lipid–Sterol Chemotype in Cannabis sativa Roots using SCFE–GC–MS Analysis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70066/jahm.v14i5.2774Keywords:
Cannabis sativa Roots; Supercritical Fluid Extraction; Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry; Phytosterols; Fatty Acids; Phytochemical ProfilingAbstract
Background: Cannabis sativa roots remain comparatively underexplored despite historical medicinal use and emerging reports of bioactive sterols and lipid-derived constituents. Previous phytochemical investigations have focused predominantly on aerial plant parts and cannabinoids. Aim: To characterize the phytochemical profile of Cannabis sativa root extract obtained through supercritical CO2 extraction using GC–MS analysis and to identify the dominant chemical classes present in the extract. Methods: Authenticated Cannabis sativa roots collected from Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India, were shade dried, processed, and extracted using supercritical CO2 extraction at 250 bar and 45°C with methanol as co-solvent (10%). GC–MS analysis was performed using a Shimadzu Nexis GC-2030 coupled with GCMS-QP mass spectrometer fitted with an Rxi-5Sil MS capillary column. Compound identification was based on retention characteristics and spectral matching with standard libraries. Triplicate injections were used for repeatability assessment. Results: The extract demonstrated a lipid- and sterol-rich composition dominated by n-hexadecanoic acid (16.69%), γ-sitosterol (13.26%), palmitic acid glyceride (11.73%), octadecadienoic acid derivatives, linolenic acid derivatives, campesterol, and stigmasterol. Only trace cannabinoid-related signals were observed. The detected profile was characterized primarily by fatty acids, glycerol esters, phytosterols, and related metabolites. Conclusion: Cannabis sativa roots possess a distinct non-cannabinoid phytochemical profile enriched in fatty acids, glycerol esters, and phytosterols. The findings support further phytochemical and pharmacological investigation of Cannabis roots using validated analytical and biological methods.
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