What we test
Cannabinoids are a class of compounds that are produced in the resin glands of the cannabis plant. They are made from little factories called trichomes that exist on female cannabis plants. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two of the most well-known cannabinoids, but cannabis produces many others such as CBG, CBN, and THCV. Each has distinct characteristics and potential effects.
Potency tests determine the presence and concentration of the various cannabinoids in cannabis flower, concentrate, liquid, edible or topical samples.
Why we test
Potency testing of cannabis products is important to demonstrate compliance, accurate labeling, and that products are safe for consumption. Knowing the cannabinoid content and strength of a cannabis product is important for consumers to select a product suitable for their needs, to determine precise dosages, especially medical cannabis patients who need specific therapeutic effects, and/or for recreational users to plan for the experience they want to have. Regularly testing can also help growers optimize potency in their flower. The state of Nevada requires samples to be tested for these 6 cannabinoids in order to be sold in a Nevada dispensary: CBDa, CBD, CBN, D9-THC, D8-THC, and THCA.
How we test
Cannabis samples undergo sample preparation which include homogenization (to ensure a good representative sample), solvent extraction, filtration, and dilution before being processed on an instrument. There are multiple analytical techniques used to determine the cannabinoid content from cannabis or hemp derived products. We utilize Reverse-Phase High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) coupled with a diode array detector for identification and quantification of 12 cannabinoids. This technique relies on solvents to pass the liquid sample through a separation column to a detector where their abundance is measured. The data produced provides accurate quantification of cannabinoids that can be reported as percentage, mg/g, and/or mg/unit.
