Flavonoid

Flavonoids are a large class of plant polyphenolic compounds built on a C6-C3-C6 (two aromatic rings linked by a three-carbon bridge) skeleton. Cannabis contains roughly 20 identified flavonoids, including common plant flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin, quercetin, kaempferol, orientin, vitexin) and three cannabis-specific prenylated flavonoids — cannflavins A, B, and C (Barrett et al., 1986, Phytochemistry 25:1119). Cannflavin A and B inhibit prostaglandin E₂ production roughly 30 times more potently than aspirin in vitro (Werz et al., 2014, PharmaNutrition 2:53), suggesting anti-inflammatory potential; cannflavin biosynthetic enzymes have since been identified (Rea et al., 2019, Phytochemistry 164:162). Evidence level: in vitro only. Cannabis flavonoids also contribute to color, UV protection in the plant, and minor taste notes. → See also: Anthocyanin, Terpene.