Detection of Cannabis sativa by various Analytical Techniques

Abstract

Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances (NDPS) are in high demand in today's culture, particularly among youngsters. The application of science and technology in the illicit drug trade makes them more accessible to drug addicts. Tablets, sticky/non-sticky gels, resins, liquids, and other forms of NDPS are all available. Some medications are produced naturally, while others are manufactured in secret facilities. It is critical to conduct a systematic analysis of such medications in order to recognise them. Chromatography, spectroscopy, voltammetry, and other techniques are utilised in this type of analysis. Cannabis sativa is a flowering plant that includes a variety of compounds known as cannabinoids. Cannabinoids found in this plant include cannabidiol, cannabinol, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabigerol, and others. Cannabis has psychotropic characteristics that cause hallucinatory effects when consumed. The goal of this study is to identify Cannabis sativa using presumptive analysis, such as colour testing and thin layer chromatography, followed by confirmatory analysis using gas chromatography mass spectrometry. The same method can also be used to detect various cannabis samples collected in forensic laboratories.