The application of gas chromatography to the examination of the constituents of Cannabis sativa L.

Abstract

Gas-chromatographic methods for the identification of Cannabis sativa L. (Indian hemp) have been examined. A column of 1 per cent. Carbowax 20M on silanised Chromosorb G has been found to give better separation of the cannabinols than columns previously used. The method may be used to distinguish cannabis in the presence of other vegetable materials that are known to give positive reactions to the usual colorimetric tests. Where doubt exists this may be resolved by gas chromatography of the trimethylsilyl derivatives. The method is also applicable to the determination of the resinous extract of cannabis in mixtures of cannabis and tobacco.