Cannabis sativa L.: UMA REVISÃO CRÍTICA SOBRE CANABINOIDES, LEGISLAÇÃO E MÉTODOS ANALÍTICOS

Cannabis sativa L.: A CRITICAL REVIEW OF CANNABINOIDS, LEGISLATION, AND ANALYTICAL METHODS. Forensic chemistry plays a crucial role in criminal investigations, utilizing techniques to analyze evidence such as gunshot residues, explosives, and illicit drugs. Among these, Cannabis is widely studied due to its medical and recreational use, especially considering that it is the most trafficked drug worldwide. The plant contains over 700 compounds, including around 120 cannabinoids. Overall, cannabinoids have been used to treat several health problems such as chronic pain, nausea, and vomiting, among others. Despite its therapeutic potential, recreational use is associated with health risks, including cardiovascular issues, cognitive impairment, mental disorders, and addiction. The cannabinoids market has increased significantly along with interest in Cannabis products as a drug, leading to a need for novelty in instrumental analysis and methods to support quality control laboratories and scientific police forces. In this sense, the analysis of cannabinoids in various matrices primarily relies on chromatographic techniques. Gas chromatography (GC), often coupled with mass spectrometry (MS) or a flame ionization detector (FID), is widely used. However, liquid chromatography (LC) offers advantages in preserving acidic cannabinoids and preventing their degradation. Therefore, all the processes concerning Cannabis were addressed in this study, from its composition to legislation and chemical evaluation.