Luteolin — the cannabis flavonoid in depth
Luteolin is a flavone with molecular formula C₁₅H₁₀O₆ and molar mass 286.24 g/mol. Outside cannabis, Luteolin is also found in parsley, thyme, celery, carrots, green bell peppers. 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.
flavone · C₁₅H₁₀O₆ · yellow pigment (base of the dyer's weed colourant)
Chemistry
Chemically, Luteolin is a flavone. As a classical flavone it lacks the 3-hydroxy group; substitution on the A- and B-rings determines bioactivity. 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. Luteolin is produced together with other phenols in the leaves and outer flower. yellow pigment (base of the dyer's weed colourant) — this partly explains colour differences between chemovars. Luteolin 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
Preclinically antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, with a neuroprotective effect in murine models (López-Lázaro 2009). Evidence: López-Lázaro 2009 (review). Legal note: in Switzerland, cannabis with ≥ 1 % THC is a narcotic. Flavonoids themselves are unregulated. Effect descriptions are not therapeutic claims.
FAQ
What is Luteolin?
A flavone with formula C₁₅H₁₀O₆, found in parsley, thyme, celery, carrots, green bell peppers.
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 Luteolin?
Preclinically antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, with a neuroprotective effect in murine models (López-Lázaro 2009).
Is Luteolin legal?
Yes. As a flavonoid it is unregulated and is used in food and nutraceuticals.
Does combustion destroy Luteolin?
Largely yes. Above 240 °C the flavonoid fraction is destroyed. Vaporising at 170–200 °C preserves much more.