Phytochemical Analysis

Phytochemical analysis refers to the laboratory examination of plant compounds—cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other organic molecules—present in cannabis flower and trim. Modern testing employs chromatography (GC, LC, HPLC) and mass spectrometry to identify and quantify these constituents. Understanding phytochemical profiles is central to cannabis genetics work, as breeders track which compounds breed true across generations and how environmental factors influence secondary metabolite expression. Analysis data informs lineage classification, parent selection, and breeding goals. Phytochemical profiles vary significantly between strain families, seed lines, and even individual plants within a cultivar, making systematic testing essential for meaningful genetic documentation.

Breeders use phytochemical analysis to verify genetic stability, confirm parent contributions in F1 or F2 crosses, and select for stable terpene or cannabinoid expression. Reproducible phytochemical fingerprints help breeders build reliable seed lines and communicate heritable traits accurately to other cultivators and researchers.