GA: Four-step process for cannabidiol (CBD) detection in Cannabis sativa extracts. (1) The plant extract is obtained. (2) An electrochemical sensor detects CBD using a screen-printed electrode. (3) Electrochemical signatures of real samples are recorded, showing current vs. potential curves. (4) Principal component analysis distinguishes CBD-rich from tetrahydrocannabinol-dominant samples

In recent years, the medical use of Cannabis sativa (C. sativa), particularly cannabidiol (CBD), has gained significant attention. The expanding CBD market reflects growing consumer demand for natural remedies and wellness products. This study aimed to develop an electrochemical sensor for quantifying CBD in C. sativa extracts using a homemade polyester screen-printed electrode. The sensor's performance was evaluated against liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, achieving an accuracy of approximately 80%. A key challenge was the electrochemical overlap between CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). To address this, a novel quality control approach was introduced using principal component analysis. This statistical method effectively distinguished samples based on cannabinoid content, revealing structural insights. The electrochemical platform exhibited a limit of detection of 0.3 μg mL⁻¹ and a limit of quantification of 1.15 μg mL⁻¹, with strong reproducibility (relative standard deviation < 7%). This method successfully classified real samples of Hashish, Marijuana, and C. sativa extracts, distinguishing CBD-rich from THC-dominant samples. The study underscores the value of integrating sensors with statistical techniques to improve cannabis product quality assessment. Future research may extend this method to other cannabinoids and terpenes, expanding its potential in the cannabis industry.