Latest news with #FoodChemistryAdvances
Morocco World
3 days ago
- Science
- Morocco World
Study: Morocco's Local ‘Beldiya' Cannabis Variety Shows Superior Stability
Marrakech – A recent groundbreaking study conducted by researchers from several Moroccan universities has revealed that the local 'Beldiya' cannabis cultivar demonstrates remarkable chemical stability compared to exotic varieties grown in northern Morocco. Published in Food Chemistry Advances, the research analyzed five Cannabis sativa L. cultivars over three consecutive growing seasons (2014-2016) in the Bab Taza region near Chefchaouen province. Scientists used liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry coupled with a triple-stage quadrupole mass spectrometer (LC-MS/TSQ Endura) to evaluate the chemical variability in phytocannabinoid compounds. Lead researcher Ismail El Bakali and colleagues from multiple Moroccan institutions identified 13 cannabinoid compounds across the analyzed samples. Five major cannabinoids were detected in important concentrations exceeding 5%: THCA-A, CBDA, CBD, Δ⁹-THC, and CBN. 'The chemical profile of Cannabis sativa cultivars grown in northern Morocco is characterized by these five major compounds, with CBN being the most prevalent across all studied cultivars at a mean concentration of 52.24%,' the researchers noted. Δ⁹-THC and CBD were the second and third most abundant compounds, with mean concentrations of 11.55% and 9.83% respectively. The study revealed significant chemical polymorphism among the cultivars. Statistical analysis using principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) grouped the samples into three distinct chemical clusters based on their cannabinoid concentrations. Most notably, the indigenous 'Beldiya' cultivar exhibited consistent chemical composition across all three harvest years, while exotic cultivars, including 'Avocat,' 'Mexicana,' 'Critical Plus,' and 'Khardala,' showed considerable variability, displaying heterogeneity from one year to another. This stability is attributed to the homogeneity of seeds produced and selected by local farmers, as well as the earlier flowering stage of 'Beldiya' compared to other varieties, which prevents hybridization with exotic cultivars. Read also: Morocco's Legal Cannabis Sector Produced 4,082 Tons in 2024 The research revealed that cannabinoid percentages varied markedly between growing seasons. Higher levels of Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁹-THC) were recorded in 2014, while 2015 showed elevated cannabidiol (CBD) levels. The lowest values for THCA-A, CBDA, CBN, CBD, and Δ⁹-THC were observed in 2016. Environmental and genetic factors played crucial roles in the chemical variations observed. The researchers noted that genetic modifications in exotic hemp cultivars during the 2016 growing season had negative effects, leading to decreased cannabinoid production. Meanwhile, CBN levels increased in the final agricultural season across all cultivars except 'Avocat,' likely linked to the oxidation of THCA-A during drying and storage. The study's findings have important implications for medicinal applications. Several cannabinoids have demonstrated therapeutic properties: CBD possesses antipsychotic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antiseizure properties, while Δ⁹-THC has shown antiemetic, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory qualities. The research provides valuable insights into cannabis chemistry under northern Moroccan conditions, particularly following Morocco's 2021 legalization of cannabis for therapeutic purposes through Law No 13-21, which allows its application in industrial, medical, and cosmetic sectors. 'This research contributes a set of genetic markers for chemical polymorphism that can be utilized in future studies of Cannabis sativa in northern Morocco,' the authors concluded. 'These findings enhance our understanding of Cannabis chemistry and move us closer to harnessing its potential for therapeutic, industrial, medical, and cosmetic applications.' The research team included scientists from Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Chouaib Doukkali University, Hassan II Agronomic and Veterinary Institute, Ibn Tofail University, and Sultan Moulay Slimane University. Tags: cannabis in Moroccoscientific study
Time of India
21-04-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Can ginger be the heart's secret ally? Science-backed benefits of the ancient spice you need to know
The benefits of ginger, the humble Indian spice, go beyond digestion relief and stimulating appetite. For many centuries, the powerful root has been renowned for easing inflammation and healing respiratory infections. Modern science not only verifies these innumerable benefits, but uncovers even more impressive benefits of ginger, especially when it comes to heart health. A new study published in the medical journal Cureus, says that including this flowering spice in the diet is a natural way to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The study discusses how the addition of this humble spice can impact diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. The presence of phenolic compounds gingerol and shogaol lends ginger its wonderful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties, which can play a major role in boosting heart health. A study published in Food Chemistry Advances finds that gingerol can inhibit inflammation and protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Benefits of ginger for heart While ginger could elevate various aspects of your health, here are the spice's specific benefits for your cardiovascular wellness as per the latest study: Manages inflammation: Chronic inflammation can play a major role in the progression of cardiovascular disease. Long-term, low-grade inflammation can silently damage blood vessels and the heart over time. The new study finds that ginger inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines, COX enzymes, and nitric oxide production, which helps reduce arterial inflammation. Protects against oxidative stress: Oxidative stress occurs when free radicals damage the cells. This can damage blood vessels, and trigger plaque buildup, a risk factor for heart diseases like atherosclerosis, hypertension, and heart failure. Ginger increases antioxidant enzyme activity (e.g., SOD, catalase) and scavenges free radicals, protecting against oxidative stress. Weight loss: Excess weight is a major risk factor for heart disease as it can lead to high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and diabetes, all of which could affect cardiovascular health. Ginger reduces body fat, boosts fat oxidation, and suppresses lipid accumulation, which is key for reducing cardiovascular disease risk. Anti-diabetic: Adding ginger regularly to the diet can enhance glucose uptake via GLUT-4, lowers fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and insulin resistance, which can further mitigate heart disease risk. How much ginger should you eat every day? Ginger can help ward off chronic disease risk, but consuming it in excess can lead to unpleasant side effects like heart burn, or stomach upset. According to The National Library of Medicine, no more than four grams of ginger a day should be consumed. How to add ginger to the diet Ginger can be made more gut-friendly by consuming it in a pickled form. Many people also like to have ginger candy which can be amazing for metabolism. Starting your day with a glass of ginger water or a cup of ginger tea can also help. Ginger can also be added to soups and smoothies for your daily dose of antioxidants. Chandra Namaskar: Yogic Secret for Sleep & Fertility- A Step-by-Step Guide
