Brazilian Weed Found to Contain Valuable CBD Compound

Photo byPhoto by Esteban López on Unsplash

Scientists have identified cannabidiol (CBD) in a common Brazilian plant called Trema micrantha blume. This shrub, which grows widely across Brazil and is often considered a weed, contains CBD in its fruits and flowers but does not have tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound found in cannabis.

CBD is increasingly used for various medical conditions such as epilepsy, chronic pain, and anxiety, though its efficacy is still being studied. The presence of CBD in Trema micrantha blume presents a potential legal and more accessible source of the compound, avoiding the legal issues associated with cannabis. Researchers have highlighted that this plant could provide a more straightforward and cost-effective source of CBD.

Previously, CBD had been discovered in a related plant in Thailand. The findings, which have not yet been published, have prompted plans for a more detailed study to optimize CBD extraction methods from Trema micrantha blume and to evaluate its effectiveness in medical treatments.

The global CBD market, valued at nearly US$5 billion in 2022, is anticipated to expand to over US$47 billion by 2028, primarily driven by health and wellness applications. This discovery could significantly contribute to the growing market for CBD by providing a new and potentially more accessible source.