Cannflavin B — the cannabis flavonoid in depth
Cannflavin B is a cannflavin (prenylated flavone) with molecular formula C₂₁H₂₀O₆ and molar mass 368.4 g/mol. Cannflavin B is among the few molecules practically exclusive to Cannabis sativa — a chemotaxonomic marker of the plant. Within the cannabis flower, flavonoids form the "third pillar" of phytochemistry alongside cannabinoids and terpenes. They are responsible for colour nuances of the leaves and flowers and are increasingly a focus of entourage-effect research.
cannflavin (prenylated flavone) · C₂₁H₂₀O₆ · intensifies the golden-yellow of mature flowers
Chemistry
Chemically, Cannflavin B is a cannflavin (prenylated flavone). Its characteristic prenyl side chain boosts bioavailability and anti-inflammatory activity. Combustion (>240 °C) largely destroys the flavonoid fraction; vaporisation at 170–200 °C preserves a much larger share.
Occurrence
Flavonoids typically make up 0.3–2.5 % of a cannabis flower's dry weight. Cannflavin B is produced together with other phenols in the leaves and outer flower. intensifies the golden-yellow of mature flowers — this partly explains colour differences between chemovars. Cannflavin B is quantified by HPLC-DAD or LC-MS. Swiss COAs rarely list flavonoids today, but the analytics are established and should become standard as regulation progresses.
Effect
Like cannflavin A, a selective COX-2 and mPGES-1 inhibitor — anti-inflammatory without the classical NSAID side-effect profile (preclinical). Evidence: Werz et al. 2014; Rea et al. 2019. Legal note: in Switzerland, cannabis with ≥ 1 % THC is a narcotic. Flavonoids themselves are unregulated. Effect descriptions are not therapeutic claims.
FAQ
What is Cannflavin B?
A cannflavin (prenylated flavone) with formula C₂₁H₂₀O₆, practically exclusive to cannabis.
Does the concentration vary between strains?
Yes — depending on chemovar, cultivation and harvest. Total flavonoid fraction is 0.3–2.5 % of dry weight.
What is the effect of Cannflavin B?
Like cannflavin A, a selective COX-2 and mPGES-1 inhibitor — anti-inflammatory without the classical NSAID side-effect profile (preclinical).
Is Cannflavin B legal?
Yes. As a flavonoid it is unregulated and is used in food and nutraceuticals.
Does combustion destroy Cannflavin B?
Largely yes. Above 240 °C the flavonoid fraction is destroyed. Vaporising at 170–200 °C preserves much more.