Determination of tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol contents in Cannabis sativa L. samples in Togo using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry

Cannabis sativa L. is a widely used recreational drug in Togo, especially among young people. However, little is known about its chemical composition in Sub-Saharan Africa, and specifically in Togo. This study aimed to determine the levels of phytocannabinoids, specifically Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), in cannabis samples collected from various towns in Togo using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Thirteen cannabis samples were extracted with hexane using maceration and ultrasound to isolate phytocannabinoids, and a quick 24-min gas chromatographic separation method was used to analyse the extracts. THC, CBD, and cannabinol (CBN) were the major components identified in the samples. THC content ranged from 37.73±0.31 to 87.9±1.30% for maceration and from 39.09±2.17 to 84.54±0.80% for sonication, while CBD content varied from 1.36±0.27 to 4.07±0.23% for maceration and from 1.79±0.12 to 5.03±0.90% for sonication. These results indicate that cannabis consumed in Togo has high concentrations of THC and that maceration and sonication is more likely to extract THC and CBD, respectively. The findings could provide important information for the authorities in Togo to assess the extent of THC exposure among cannabis consumers in the country. Key words: Cannabis sativa L., cannabidiol, phytocannabinoids, tetrahydrocannabinol, solvent extraction.