Get to Know One of the Most Important Aspects of the Cannabis Industry Before Investing in Elite Robotics
You don’t have to be a botanist, but if you’re considering becoming a cannabis investor, then it’s important that you learn everything about growing cannabis and all the major elements of the plant. Most cannabis investors are familiar with cannabinoids, which are the chemicals that have an effect on the human body when imbibed.
The two main cannabinoids found in a cannabis plant are delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC Is what’s responsible for the high and euphoric feeling when imbibing cannabis. CBD, on the other hand, is utilized for its health and wellness benefits.
At the federal level, THC is still considered a Schedule I substance. However, the laws against THC at the state level are much more lenient. Furthermore, because CBD does not cause any impairment, it is widely available in the majority of states.
Now that we’ve broken down the two active chemicals in cannabis, we can now delve deeper into terpenes and testing for them.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are a common compound found in plants, which is responsible for their fragrance. Plants such as lavender, rosemary, and basil all have a very distinct smell due to terpenes. In fact, manufacturers of products that require a fragrance utilize extracted terpenes. These extracts are used in cooking products, candles, and perfumes.
However, terpenes serve a purpose beyond smell. For instance, the terpenes in some plants are intended to repel predators. Other terpenes are meant to attract pollinators. Additionally, there are some terpenes that serve as part of the plant’s immune system by keeping away infectious germs and preventing animals from eating them.
Similar to cannabinoids, some terpenes can trigger an effect in the human body’s endocannabinoid system which will vary depending on the concentration. For example, some terpenes are used in essential oils and aromatherapies due to their mood-altering scents. Some scents are calming, while others can increase a person’s energy levels.
Regarding cannabis and cannabis products, there are some theories that the terpenes play a role in the overall effect that the product has on the mind and body. In fact, many shoppers of recreational cannabis use scent as a way of guiding their purchasing decisions because it’s a strong indicator of how it will taste.
Of course, the effect of terpenes is minimal compared to the two main cannabinoids, THC and CBD. Additionally, far more research needs to be done before anything can be deemed conclusive on the subject of terpenes and their effects.
Using Cannabis Testing Equipment to Evaluate Your Product
Legally speaking, state and federal government agencies don’t factor in the role of terpenes in cannabis products because there currently isn’t any conclusive evidence showing they have an effect. They are focused on THC, CBD, and other active cannabinoids found in cannabis plants.
For those running a cannabis growing operation, your first option to learn more about the terpenes and cannabinoids in your product is to send off samples of your crop for third-party lab testing. However, third-party labs aren’t known for their quick turnaround time, and it may take several weeks to get results back. Additionally, third-party labs use chemicals in their testing that are harmful to the environment.
Your second option is to invest in your own cannabis testing equipment. At Elite Robotics, our reliable cannabis testing equipment puts the power of a fully-staffed chemistry lab right where your growing operation is located. We also have in-house and field cannabis testing devices currently in development – both from our Cannabots™ line.
The SCD (specimen containment device) is a patent-pending sealed chamber where samples are hermetically stored to preserve the chain of custody of the product. The SCD allows for samples to be taken from the field and secured until they can be properly analyzed.
The Analyzer breaks down and tests samples from the SCD, ensuring purity and potency in both CBD and THC products so that you remain compliant with state and local regulations. It will also identify strain and any potential contaminants that may be present.
Keep in mind, these testing products don’t replace third-party lab certification. Having in-house cannabis testing equipment allows growers and cultivators to keep a close eye on THC levels so they may better plan out when they will send a sample off to a third-party lab.
Contact Elite Robotics Today to Become a Cannabis Industry Investor
The goal at Elite Robotics is to perfect and standardize cannabis testing equipment. We want to give growers and farmers a reliable way to test their crops that provides accurate and quick results using methods that are environmentally-friendly.
To find out more about our cannabis testing equipment, or to become an investor, contact Elite Robotics at (805) 987-6217. Or, you can send us a message directly using our contact form.