

In the plant of cannabis there is a part of its
anatomy which seems to be forgotten, perhaps because it is not seen so much:
the roots.
The
roots of cannabis have not yet had a proper impact on western medicines because
the set of investigations on its effects remains very limited. However, the
studies that have been carried out are very promising: it is possible that
these roots have a place in the world of well-being and modern medicine.
Nowadays,
it is not very common to hear about the use of cannabis roots for any purpose.
Usually, they are discarded as residues after the harvest, but it has not
always been the case: since the XVII century, several herbalists recommended
the root of cannabis to treat the inflammation, the pain of the joints, gout
and other conditions.
The
use of roots in medicine is common: the use of root of Valeriana (Valeriana officinalis) in infusion to
help to the relaxation is enough known, the root of Ipecacuana (Cephaelis ipecacuana) is a very
effective emetic, the root of Echinacea (Echinacea
purpurea) is used like immune stimulant and antibacterial, and so we could name several botanical
species whose use of the root is beneficial, such as Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Harpagophytum
procumbens, Gentian (Gentiana lutea),
Ginseng (Panax ginseng), Turmeric (Curcuma longa) etc.
Currently
available data on the pharmacology of cannabis root components provide
important support for historical and ethnobotanical claims of clinical
efficacy. This certainly indicates the need to re-examine whole root
preparations for inflammatory or malignant disorders using modern scientific
techniques.
Among
the active compounds identified in cannabis roots are triterpenoids: friedelin
and epifriedelanol; alkaloids: cannabisativin and anhydrocannabisativin,
carvone and dihydrocarbon,
N-(p-hydroxy-b-phenylethyl)-p-hydroxy-trans-cinamide; various sterols such as
sitosterol, campesterol and stigmasterol and other minor compounds, including
choline. It is possible to indicate that the roots of cannabis are not an
important source of D-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol or other known
fitocannabinoides.
Marijuana
roots are much less popular than inflorescences (buds), but they are also
making inroads into the modern market. Cannabis root extract is an ingredient
in topical products such as ointments, lotions, balms or massage oils, and is
also consumed as an infusion after 12 hours of cooking.
Wouldn't it be a good idea to create a course?