Thermal conversion of cbda and other carboxylic cannabinoids

Abstract

This invention is for improving the manufacturing pharmaceutical grade CBD and other cannabinoids following current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) of the US FDA for use in clinical trials for CNS and other indications by the NIH and other researchers. The major cannabinoids in marijuana () and hemp originate from Cannabigerolic Acid (CBGA) present in the biomass of the plant. Plant enzymes that are specific to different strains of biomass converts CBGA to different carboxylic acids of cannabinoids including Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDA) and Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (Δ9-THCA). These are relatively stable in the growing and fresh-cut plants. These are converted by thermal decarboxylation to Cannabidiol (CBD) and Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), carbon dioxide and water. Cannabinoids can be manufactured by first heating thebiomass to convert carboxylic acids prior to extraction and purification. Alternatively, and preferably because of manufacturing cost and product stability, the carboxylic acids can be first extracted and purified. They can be utilized in the carboxylic acid form or stored in a stable manner until converted to cannabinoids for use in medicine. This invention provides an efficient method for their conversion utilizing a high-pressure reactor under inert conditions.