Scientists have discovered a new tiny endemic plant only found in the remote parts of Aotearoa with cannabinoid-like properties.
In a recently published study, scientists report that the plant has significant concentrations of compounds similar to ones found in cannabis, THC and CBD.
Those behind the discovery warn Wairuakohu, an endemic type of liverwort that has been grown in our wilderness for millions of years will not get people high and to not go hunting and harvest it.
“Very few plants that we know of make these types of compounds and this one makes both a THC-like compound and CBD-like one,” Plant and Food Research scientist Dr Richard Espley said.
The new findings come from a seven-year iwi led project involving Te Kawerau a Maki, Ngāti Hauā and Ngāti Hinerangi, and involving Rua Bioscience Ltd, IO Ltd and Plant and Food Research.
Manu Caddie, who co-founded the pharmaceutical company Rua Bioscience says that the research shows the plant can be grown indoors without losing its special compounds.
Caddie pointed out that the plant did not have the same psychoactive side effects as THC as the quantities were too low.
“There is no benefit to harvesting the plant in the wild, and it will easily become endangered if not appropriately managed,” he said.
More research on the plant has been planned to help conserve the plant and investigate new ways to cultivate and use it.
Photo Credit: Plant and Food research
