Abstract
Cannabis sativa is a dioecious plant that is widely distributed in areas with a temperate climate. The plant has three main varieties, each with its own chemical and morphological characteristics: hemp (Cannabis sativa), Indian hemp (Cannabis indica), and Russian or American hemp (Cannabis ruderalis). The chemical compounds produced by cannabis, known as secondary metabolites, serve various functions for the plant, including defense against herbivores and protection against physical stresses. While there are numerous other cannabinoids with potential pharmacological activity, delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are by far the most studied phytocannabinoids.
This article emphasizes the uniqueness of each cannabis variety and highlights the importance of considering each variety as a distinct medicine. It also provides information on the varieties of cannabis available in Italy, classified based on their origin and THC/CBD content. Furthermore, it underscores the complexity and diversity of cannabis chemotypes, emphasizing the need for further research to fully understand the pharmacological potential of the plant's chemical constituents.