Under the guidance of Dr. rer. nat.Nadine Herwig, an interdisciplinary team from Germany's largest cannabis group, Grünhorn, has initiated a study aimed at the re-categorization of cannabis strains.

Grünhorn researchers have initiated a study aimed at modernizing the Cannabis world by proposing to replace the widely adopted categorization into "Sativa" and "Indica". "Sativa is still generally associated with an energizing effect and Indica with a calming effect, following the old mnemonic: 'In the couch'," says biochemist and head of the Grünhorn Academy, Dr. Nadine Herwig. "This may have been accurate in the past when the growth and origin of a plant provided insights into its effects. However, with the abundance of Cannabis cultivars and many hybrids nowadays, growth and origin no longer signify much about the plant's effects," Dr. Herwig explains. "To appropriately differentiate the multitude of Cannabis varieties, we need a new approach, which we have now developed."

Study Suggests Reclassification of Cannabis

Under the guidance of Dr. Nadine Herwig, an interdisciplinary team from Germany's largest Cannabis group, Grünhorn, has conducted a study proposing the reclassification of Cannabis. Titled "Classification of Cannabis Strains Based on Their Chemical Fingerprint - A Comprehensive Analysis of Chemovars in the German Market", the study was authored by Dr. Nadine Herwig, Dr. Stephan Utgenannt (Chemist, Laboratory Manager at Grünhorn Pharmacy), Falk Nickl (Senior Data Analyst, Grünhorn Group), Dr. Patrick Möbius (Head of BI, Grünhorn Group), Linus Nowak (Laboratory Assistant, Grünhorn Pharmacy), Oliver Schulz (CCO, Grünhorn Group), and Matthias Fischer (CEO, Canymed GmbH).  Chemovars denote the characteristics of a plant species based on its chemical composition. The study suggests that the concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes is crucial for the pharmacological effects and should therefore be considered in classification. The researchers analyzed terpene profiles of 140 medical Cannabis flowers available in the German market. Their findings indicate that terpene profiles allow for a better and more reliable classification of Cannabis strains. Based on the main terpenes, they propose a new classification system comprising six different chemovars with distinct terpene profiles that can be assigned to different application areas. 

More Targeted Selection of Cannabis Strains Possible 

Grünhorn's foundational research could contribute to a more personalized cannabinoid therapy. The results enable the more targeted selection of Cannabis strains, for example, in Cannabis therapy to treat specific symptoms. The study thus marks an important step towards a more precise and effect-oriented use of medical Cannabis. The full study  has been initiated and is currently undergoing the review process. The terpene foundational research has been incorporated into Grünhorn's digital flower advisor , already assisting patients and physicians in the selection of Cannabis strains. Further information is available in expert interviews. Please contact corporate communications for inquiries.