Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are the biological active ingredients found in a marijuana plant, the two most widely known ones being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Concentrations of each type of cannabinoid will vary from plant to plant and strain to strain. Cannabinoids affect the user by interacting with specific receptors located in different parts of the central nervous system. The effects that each cannabinoid has directly relates to the part of the brain that they interact with. Since humans have receptor systems that cannabinoids bind to, we can reap the benefits of cannabinoids for both health and pleasure. Listed below are some of the different cannabinoids and their effects and benefits.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
THC is the main active and most common cannabinoid in marijuana responsible for the psychoactive properties. THC taken from cannabis plants is found in oils, edibles, topicals, and other marijuana infused products. The THC is what gives the user the high associated with cannabis. It can provide the patient with euphoric, relaxing effects. THC has the potential to treat medical conditions such as insomnia, chronic pain, and more.
Cannabidiol (CBD)
CBD is non-intoxicating and will not cause a “high” in the way that THC does. There are a wide range of benefits and uses such as managing pain, inflammation, anxiety, epilepsy and seizures, PTSD, Crohn’s disease, MS, and more. High CBD strains usually deliver clear-headed, functional effects without the euphoric effect felt from the use of high THC strains.
Cannabinol (CBN)
CBN is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that is produced from the degradation of THC. There is little to none of this cannabinoid found in a plant. CBN contains anti-bacterial properties when applied as a topical. This cannabinoid also can be used for convulsions, appetite, pain relief, inflammation, and insomnia.
Cannabigerol (CBG)
CBG is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid. CBG is an anti-fungal compound that is known to decrease anxiety and muscle tension. It is also thought to kill or slow bacterial growth, reduce inflammation, inhibit cell growth in tumors and cancer cells, and promote bone growth.
Cannabichromene (CBC)
CBC is non-intoxicating and early stages of research are pointing to its potential for treating a wide array of conditions such as chronic pain and depression. It is said to stimulate new bone growth, block the growth of tumors and help limit inflammation and pain, and more.
Terpenes
Marijuana has a notably strong unique aroma, and each strain has a different smell as well. The part of the marijuana plant that causes these different smells are the terpenes, aromatic molecules secreted inside the resin glands of the cannabis flowers. Terpenes not only provide a wide range of smells, they also provide a wide range of medical effects – there are over 100 terpenes unique to cannabis. Terpenes are not unique to marijuana and can be found in other plants, herbs, fruits, and more.
They interact with the endocannabinoid system and assist the cannabinoids entering the bloodstream. The combination of the terpenes and cannabinoids is referred to as the “Entourage Effect” as they work together to improve the absorption of cannabinoids into the body. Terpenes bind to brain receptors and cause various effects. Some terpenes are effective in relieving stress, some are great for relaxation, and some are good for increasing focus. It is important to note that the makeup of each strain can vary, due to growing and curing techniques and the strains involved. In addition, it is important to consider your method of consumption when choosing strains based on terpenes because the beneficial qualities can be seriously damaged if heated past their boiling point. Below is an info-graphic created by Leafly, it highlights the most common terpenes and their characteristics.
