Orientin — the cannabis flavonoid in depth
Orientin is a flavone C-glycoside with molecular formula C₂₁H₂₀O₁₁ and molar mass 448.4 g/mol. Outside cannabis, Orientin is also found in passionflower, buckwheat, bamboo leaves, millet. 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 C-glycoside · C₂₁H₂₀O₁₁ · pale-yellow pigment, highly water-soluble thanks to the glycoside bond
Chemistry
Chemically, Orientin is a flavone C-glycoside. The C-glycoside bond makes it hydrolysis-stable and shields it from digestive enzymes. 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. Orientin is produced together with other phenols in the leaves and outer flower. pale-yellow pigment, highly water-soluble thanks to the glycoside bond — this partly explains colour differences between chemovars. Orientin 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, with cardio- and neuroprotective activity in animal models (Lam et al. 2016). Evidence: Lam et al. 2016 (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 Orientin?
A flavone C-glycoside with formula C₂₁H₂₀O₁₁, found in passionflower, buckwheat, bamboo leaves, millet.
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 Orientin?
Preclinically antioxidant, with cardio- and neuroprotective activity in animal models (Lam et al. 2016).
Is Orientin legal?
Yes. As a flavonoid it is unregulated and is used in food and nutraceuticals.
Does combustion destroy Orientin?
Largely yes. Above 240 °C the flavonoid fraction is destroyed. Vaporising at 170–200 °C preserves much more.