- A class of biological compound that bind to cannabis receptors
- 3 main classifications of Cannabinoids:
- Phytocannabinoids – found in cannabis stalks, leaves, flowers, seeds, and resin
- These are cannabinoids produced by the cannabis plant.
- Popular cannabinoids like THC and CBD
- Endocannabinoids – cannabinoids made by the body
- These cannabinoids are naturally produced by the body and play a role in regulating various physiological processes, including mood, memory, appetite, and pain sensation. Examples include anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).
- Synthetic Cannabinoids – lab-created cannabinoids
- These are cannabinoids synthesized in a laboratory. Some synthetic cannabinoids are designed for research purposes, while others have been developed for medical use, such as dronabinol and nabilone.
- Phytocannabinoids – found in cannabis stalks, leaves, flowers, seeds, and resin
EDUCATION
Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are a diverse group of chemical compounds that are naturally produced by cannabis plants (Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica). They interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in mammals, including humans, which plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological and cognitive processes.
More About Cannabinoids
- More than 150 cannabinoids have been identified in cannabis; however, the vast majority of these are minor cannabinoids, which make up less than 1% of cannabis flower.
- Cannabinoids are a diverse group of chemical compounds that are naturally produced by cannabis plants (Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica). They interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in mammals, including humans, which plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological and cognitive processes.
- It should be noted that everyone’s endocannabinoid system is unique. Different bodies vary in their responses to phytocannabinoids. While some of us feel “chill” when consuming, others can be plunged into a state of anxiety.
- Cannabinoids have a highly functional role in safeguarding the well-being of the cannabis plant.
- Cannabinoids interact with cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) in the ECS. CB1 receptors are mainly found in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are mainly in peripheral tissues, particularly immune cells. When cannabinoids bind to these receptors, they can modulate neurotransmitter release and affect various physiological processes.
Types of Cannabinoids
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
- THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. It is responsible for the euphoric “high” that users experience when consuming marijuana. THC interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the brain and nervous system, particularly CB1 receptors, altering neurotransmitter release and affecting various cognitive and physiological processes.
- THC works by binding itself to cannabinoid receptors concentrated in the brain and central nervous system to produce intoxicating effects.
- THC induces feelings of euphoria, relaxation, altered sensory perception, and increased appetite. The intensity of these effects can vary depending on the individual’s tolerance, dosage, and method of consumption.
- Potential short-term effects: elation, relaxation, sedation, pain relief, memory impairment, energy, hunger, drowsiness, increased heart rate, dry mouth, red eyes, slowed perception of time, laughter, dizziness, anxiety, paranoia
- Possess medicinal value that offers benefits to conditions such as: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Neuropathic and Chronic pain, Insomnia, Nausea, Inflammation, Arthritis, Migraines, Cancer, Crohn’s Disease, Fibromyalgia, Alzheimer’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Glaucoma, ADHD, Sleep Apnea, Appetite Loss, etc.
- THC is stored in fat cells
- THC (Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive cannabinoid extracted from the cannabis plant.
- THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use. It also has therapeutic effects, including pain relief, muscle relaxation, and appetite stimulation.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
- Non-intoxicating compound found in cannabis and hemp
- Research suggest that it may be beneficial for anxiety symptoms, possibly by influencing activity in the serotonin system
- CBD appears to also aid with two types of pain: neuropathic and inflammatory
- CBD shows promise as an effective treatment for seizures. In 2018 the FDA approved a CBD based medication (Epidiolex) for treating to forms of epilepsy: Dravet Syndrome & Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome
- CBD is non-psychoactive and has gained significant attention for its potential therapeutic benefits. It may help with anxiety, pain management, inflammation, and epilepsy, among other conditions.
- CBD represents a promising avenue for therapeutic use, offering a non-intoxicating alternative for those seeking relief from various health conditions. As research progresses, understanding of CBD’s full potential and optimal usage continues to evolve.
CBN (Cannabinol)
- CBN, or cannabinol, is a minor cannabinoid found in cannabis that is primarily known for its sedative properties. It is formed when THC oxidizes over time, typically due to exposure to light and air.
- CBN is known for its potential sedative effects. It may have mild psychoactive properties, but they are typically much weaker compared to THC. Some users report that CBN can promote relaxation and aid in sleep.
- CBN is a cannabinoid with emerging interest for its potential therapeutic effects, particularly in sleep disorders and relaxation. While it is not as well-studied as THC and CBD, ongoing research may uncover additional benefits and applications for this compound.
CBG (Cannabigerol)
- CBG, or cannabigerol, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. It is considered a precursor to other cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and CBC (cannabichromene).
- CBG is produced early in the cannabis plant’s growth cycle and is converted into other cannabinoids as the plant matures. This means that CBG is typically found in lower concentrations in mature cannabis plants.
- CBG has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antibacterial properties. It may also have potential in treating conditions such as glaucoma, inflammatory bowel disease, and neurodegenerative disorders ▪ Research into CBG is ongoing, and scientists are exploring its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and its potential synergy with other cannabinoids and terpenes in what’s known as the entourage effect.
- Overall, CBG shows promise as a cannabinoid with various potential health benefits. As research continues, more insights may emerge into its mechanisms of action and optimal applications in medical treatments.
CBC (Cannabichromene)
- CBC, or cannabichromene, is a lesser-known cannabinoid found in cannabis plants, primarily in younger plants before THC and CBD have fully developed. Here are key points about CBC
- CBC has shown potential anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), and neuroprotective properties in early studies. It may also promote neurogenesis (the growth of new brain cells) and have potential anti-depressant effects.
- CBC holds promise as a cannabinoid with potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in inflammation and pain management. Continued research is necessary to fully understand its mechanisms of action and to explore its broader applications in medical treatments.
THCv (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)
- THCv, or tetrahydrocannabivarin, is a cannabinoid found in cannabis that has garnered attention for its unique properties and potential health benefits.
- THCv is structurally similar to THC but differs in its effects and affinity for cannabinoid receptors.
- THCv is known to have a different pharmacological profile compared to THC. In lower doses, it may act as a partial agonist at cannabinoid receptors, potentially producing effects like euphoria and appetite suppression. In higher doses, it can act as an antagonist, potentially counteracting some effects of THC.
- THCv is being studied for its potential therapeutic benefits, including its ability to regulate blood sugar levels and potentially aid in weight loss. It has also shown promise in managing symptoms of neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy.
- In summary, THCv is a cannabinoid with distinct pharmacological effects and potential therapeutic applications. Continued research may reveal further insights into its medical benefits and optimize its use in healthcare settings.
CBGA (Cannabigerolic Acid)
- CBGA, or cannabigerolic acid, is a precursor cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. It serves as the foundational compound from which other cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and CBC are synthesized.
- CBGA is considered the “mother” cannabinoid because it is the first cannabinoid formed in the cannabis plant’s biosynthetic pathway.
- Enzymes in the cannabis plant break down CBGA into other cannabinoids as the plant matures. For instance, CBGA can convert into THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), CBDA (cannabidiolic acid), or CBCA (cannabichromenic acid) depending on the plant’s genetics and environmental factors.
- Research into CBGA is still in its early stages, but it has shown promise in preclinical studies for potential therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties
- CBGA itself does not produce psychoactive effects. It is the acidic precursor to cannabinoids that may become psychoactive after decarboxylation (heating).
- CBGA levels in cannabis strains can influence the production of other cannabinoids, which has implications for breeding strains with desired cannabinoid profiles.
- In summary, CBGA is a foundational cannabinoid in cannabis plants that plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of other cannabinoids. Further research is needed to understand its full range of potential health benefits and applications in medical treatments.
THCa (Tetrahydrocannabinolic)
- THCa, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is a cannabinoid found in raw, unheated cannabis plants. It is the precursor to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the well-known psychoactive compound in cannabis.
- THCa is synthesized in cannabis plants from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), which serves as the precursor for several cannabinoids. THCa is produced in the trichomes of the cannabis plant and accumulates as the plant matures.
- THCa itself does not produce psychoactive effects. It only becomes psychoactive THC after heat is applied through a process known as decarboxylation. This typically occurs when cannabis is smoked, vaporized, or cooked at high temperatures.
- In summary, THCa is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in raw cannabis plants that has shown potential therapeutic benefits. Research continues to explore its medical applications and efficacy, particularly in comparison to its decarboxylated form, THC.
