About this episode

Dr. Riley Kirk and Dr. Anna Schwabe discuss cannabis genetics, plant chemistry, and the complexities of cannabis classification in the evolving industry.

Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes Dr. Anna Schwabe to the Bioactive Podcast for a deep dive into cannabis genetics, cultivar identity, plant chemistry, and the challenges of making sense of cannabis in a rapidly evolving industry. As two cannabis scientists get thoroughly nerdy, they explore the relationship between genetics and chemical expression, why cultivar names matter, and what science can and cannot tell us about predicting cannabis effects. Drawing from years of research in cannabis genomics, chemotypes, and consumer behavior, Anna explains the disconnect between strain names, marketing claims, and actual genetic identity. The conversation examines how genetics, environment, cultivation practices, and post-harvest handling influence the final chemistry of a cannabis product, often making consumer expectations difficult to predict. They also explore the limitations of the indica, sativa, and hybrid framework, discussing why these categories may still serve a purpose for new consumers while highlighting the need for more nuanced approaches to cannabis classification. The discussion dives into terpene science, aroma-based selection, cultivar verification, consumer perception…

People in this episode

Host: Riley D. Kirk, Ph.D.

Guest: Dr. Anna Schwabe

Topics covered

• cannabis genetics
• plant chemistry
• cultivar identity
• consumer behavior
• cannabis classification
• terpene science

Keywords

• cannabis
• genetics
• cultivar
• chemistry
• terpenes
• consumer expectations
• indica
• sativa
• hybrid

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Bioactive Podcast

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