Cannacaps

Cannacaps are standardized, quality controlled, activated natural product cannabis capsules.

Standardization means that each cap contains the same dosage of a major active in the prep. In the case of cannacaps they are standardized to the dosage of THC, which is by far the most abundant active in the capsules. So, each capsule contains the same amount of THC. Also known, but not displayed on the label is the amount of cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabinol (CBN) in each cap.

By quality control we mean that the raw material that goes into the caps is tested for heavy metals (lead, arsenic, mercury, chromium 6 and ), pesticides (those commonly used in cannabis growing, such as avid) and pathogenic bacteria (Salmonella, E. coli, Coliforms, etc). Two of these tests, heavy metals and bacteria are made in qualified laboratories outside of the Green Cross, whereas pesticide and standardization are performed in-house. The latter two tests are done using an instrument called High Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) that allows the analyst to identify and quantify principle compounds in a mixture. In this way we can locate, identify and quantify pesticides that may be in the prep plus using a different HPLC method we can identify and quantify the major cannabinoids present in a bud sample or raw material that is going into capsules.

By activated natural product cannabis capsules we are referring to decarboxylation of the various cannabinoids. Decarboxylation simply means removal of carbon dioxide from the cannabinoid molecule. We will use THC as the example. In nature, THC exists as an acid, with what is called a carboxyl group stuck on the molecule. With the carboxyl group on, THC is not psychoactive, remove it THC binds the receptor and we have the psychoactive effects, including pain relief, Anti-tremor activity and appetite stimulation. Without decarboxylation, these effects do not occur. The same, holds true for the other cannabinoids such as CBD and CBN, decarboxylation must occur to activate the molecule. Decarboxylation can be achieved through light energy, chemical bases, or through heat.

Benefit of Cannacaps:

Cannacaps offer a healthy alternative to smoking cannabis. Many persons using cannacaps find that their smoking decreases significantly. A few caps a day provides a feeling of general well being, whereas persons in chronic pain find best relief administering every four to six hours. Cannacaps can be designed to suit individual needs, taking advantage of the strain specificity of cannabis and are often provided in am/pm formulation for day and nighttime use. On cannacaps a person tends to eat good, sleep good and poop good. We maintain that oral cannabis is the medicine of the future and that as an herbal medicine; standardized, natural product cannabis, will be a leader.

A. Paul Hornby, Ph.D. September 16, 2008