EFFECT OF DRYING METHODS OF CANNABIS AND PROPORTIONS OF HERBAL TEAS CONTAINING CANNABIS ON BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS, AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY

Abstract

This research aims to study the effects of drying heat on the concentrations of significant compounds and antioxidant activity in cannabis, as well as the impact of herbal components on these properties in herbal tea containing cannabis. Cannabis sativa L. “Hang Kra Rog” strain leaves were dried using a hot air oven at 45^°C and 60^°C, and freeze-dried. Both the dried cannabis leaves and herbal tea products were finely ground and analyzed for THC and CBD content, while antioxidant activity was measured using the DPPH method. The dried cannabis leaves, dried using a hot air oven at 45^°C, were also mixed with other herbs to create three herbal tea formulas. The results revealed that drying cannabis leaves at 45°C in a hot air oven produced the highest THC content (6,003.22±3.10 mg/kg), while no CBD was detected in cannabis leaves dried by any method. Significant differences (P≤0.05) in antioxidant levels were observed across the different drying methods. Formula 3, consisting of 10% dried cannabis leaves, 60% miracle grass, and 30% chamomile, exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, with THC and CBD levels compliant with Ministry of Public Health standards. This study provides critical insights into determining the optimal amount of cannabis leaves for herbal tea formulations. The findings ensure that THC and CBD levels remain within the permissible limits per consumption unit, offering valuable guidance for future product development in the industry.