Zeochem and Shibano Pharma Collaborate on Process Scale Purification of Cannabinoids

Zeochem and Shibano Pharma Collaborate on Process Scale Purification of Cannabinoids

Process Scale Purification of Cannabinoids


From inauspicious beginnings as an intoxicant and raw material for rope manufacture, Cannabis has in more recent years become a recognized source of natural remedies for many therapeutic conditions.

Of the 200 cannabinoids identified so far, CBD is among the most well-known cannabinoids and is widely used in the health and wellness market. There is still much to discover about the less well-known cannabinoids such as CBD, CBDV, CBN, CBG, THC-∆9, THC-∆8 and CBC and cannabinoids in their acidic form (e.g. CBDA).

With over 50 clinical trials running, the impact of these cannabinoids on the pharmaceutical industry is believed to be substantial. The resin extracted from cannabis/hemp plants is a complex mixture and its purification to levels accepted by the health and pharmaceutical sector is no small task.

Zeochem’s R&D team is focused on developing and innovating new and exisiting technologies and better understanding how our products are used in applications. One of the latest developments includes successfully using Zeochem Chromatographic Gel to purify CBDA, which was recently discovered to be highly effective in treating nausea and epilepsy.

To support our ongoing innovation program, we at Zeochem have collaborated with Shibano Pharma, a Swiss-based company at the cutting edge of Cannabis research. Their GMP facility in the Swiss Canton of St. Gallen focus’s on the production, breeding, cultivation, harvesting, and processing of cannabis plants for the food and medical sectors.

Zeochem and Shibano Pharma are working on production-scale high purity and yield separation of the more difficult to purify cannabinoids such as CBD, CBDV, CBN, CBG, THC-∆9, THC-∆8 and CBC. This purification process uses a selection of ZEOprep and ZEOsphere Chromatographic Gels on a process scale 80 x 500mm stainless steel column. These high-purity cannabinoids, which have been recognized for their therapeutic properties, can be used to further develop technologies and fill the growing demand for these natural plant-based remedies.

Zeochem is a premier global manufacturer of high-purity chromatography gels with industry leading service and support. Due to its consistently reproducible results, Zeochem silica gel has been used for decades in a variety of industries, including nutraceuticals, natural products, pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals, fine chemicals, and food and beverages.

When it comes to meeting productivity and performance requirements, you can depend on our high-quality products and personalized service. All products are analyzed using international testing standards and, when required, proprietary test procedures. For additional information on improving your processes using Zeochem silica gels, please reach out to us at info@zeochem.com

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