What are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant, interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system. They influence various physiological processes, such as mood, appetite, & pain sensation. Some cannabinoids include THC, responsible for psychoactive effects, and CBD, known for therapeutic benefits.
Why Does Cannabis Get You High?
Cannabinoids are a diverse group of over 100 chemical compounds found in the Cannabis sativa plant. The two primary cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), each interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system in distinct ways. THC is known for its psychoactive effects, producing the "high" commonly associated with marijuana use, while CBD is non-psychoactive and has gained attention for its potential therapeutic applications.
The endocannabinoid system, present in humans and other animals, plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including mood, appetite, sleep, and immune function. Cannabinoids bind to receptors within this system, influencing its activity and impacting a wide range of bodily functions.
Beyond THC and CBD, other cannabinoids like CBG (cannabigerol), CBC (cannabichromene), and CBN (cannabinol) have also been studied for their potential health benefits. Research indicates that cannabinoids may have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties. Additionally, they have shown promise in treating conditions such as chronic pain, epilepsy, anxiety, and certain neurodegenerative disorders.
As the understanding of cannabinoids grows, ongoing research aims to uncover their full therapeutic potential and explore the development of cannabinoid-based medications. However, it's important to note that legal and regulatory considerations regarding cannabis and cannabinoids vary across different regions.
Natural Psychoactive Cannabinoids (Get You High)
What is Delta 9 THC? (The Real Stuff)
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-9 THC) is the primary psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. It is responsible for the euphoric "high" commonly associated with marijuana use. When consumed, Delta-9 THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and central nervous system, influencing neurotransmitter release and altering perception, mood, and cognition.
While Delta-9 THC is known for its psychoactive effects, it also exhibits potential therapeutic properties. Research suggests it may help alleviate symptoms such as pain, nausea, and muscle spasms. However, the psychoactive nature of Delta-9 THC raises legal and regulatory considerations, and its use is subject to varying regulations globally.
It's important to distinguish Delta-9 THC from other cannabinoids, like CBD (cannabidiol), which lacks psychoactive effects and is often explored for its potential therapeutic benefits without causing a "high." As the cannabis landscape evolves, ongoing research aims to further understand Delta-9 THC's effects and potential medical applications.
What is THCV?
THCV, or tetrahydrocannabivarin, is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is structurally similar to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the more well-known psychoactive compound in cannabis, but THCV has distinct effects and properties. THCV is present in smaller amounts compared to THC or CBD.
Unlike THC, THCV is generally considered non-psychoactive in low doses. However, in higher doses, it may produce psychoactive effects. THCV's effects can vary based on factors like dosage, individual response, and the presence of other cannabinoids.
Research on THCV is still in its early stages, but some studies suggest that it may have potential therapeutic applications. It has been investigated for its potential to influence appetite, metabolism, and insulin sensitivity, making it an area of interest in the study of obesity and related metabolic disorders.
It's important to note that as our understanding of cannabinoids continues to grow, ongoing research is needed to fully comprehend THCV's effects and potential medical benefits.
What is THCP?
Tetrahydrocannabiphorol, or THCP, is a lesser-known cannabinoid that shares similarities with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). THCP has a longer carbon tail than THC, potentially making it more potent in terms of its binding affinity to cannabinoid receptors. This structural difference may result in a stronger interaction with the endocannabinoid system compared to THC.
Research on THCP is still in its early stages, and its effects and potential therapeutic applications are not well understood. Some studies suggest that THCP might have a higher binding affinity to CB1 receptors in the brain, which could impact its psychoactive effects, but more research is needed to confirm these findings.
THCP's discovery adds to the complexity of the cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant, and ongoing research will contribute to a better understanding of its properties and potential benefits.
Synthetic Psychoactive Cannabinoids (Get You High)
What is Delta 8 THC?
Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as Delta-8 THC, is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is structurally similar to the more well-known Delta-9 THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. However, Delta-8 THC has a different molecular arrangement, resulting in distinct effects.
Delta-8 THC has psychoactive properties but is generally considered to be less potent than Delta-9 THC. Users may experience a milder and more clear-headed high with Delta-8 THC. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system by binding to CB1 receptors, which are mainly found in the central nervous system.
Delta-8 THC can be extracted from cannabis plants, but it is also produced through a process of converting CBD (cannabidiol) into Delta-8 THC. This has led to the availability of Delta-8 THC products in some regions where cannabis laws permit its use.
It's important to note that the legality of Delta-8 THC varies by jurisdiction, and users should be aware of local regulations. As with any cannabinoid, individual responses can vary, and caution should be exercised when using products containing Delta-8 THC.
What is Delta 10 THC?
Delta-10-tetrahydrocannabinol, or Delta-10 THC, is a relatively lesser-known cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Like Delta-9 THC (the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis) and Delta-8 THC, Delta-10 THC has psychoactive properties, but its effects and characteristics are not as well-studied or understood.
Delta-10 THC is believed to have a molecular structure similar to both Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC. It's important to note that the specific effects of Delta-10 THC can vary between individuals, and more research is needed to fully understand its pharmacological profile.
In recent years, Delta-10 THC has gained some attention in the cannabis industry, and products containing Delta-10 THC have become available. However, its legality and availability depend on local regulations, and users should be aware of the legal status of Delta-10 THC in their area.
As research on cannabinoids continues, including Delta-10 THC, more information may become available about its potential effects and therapeutic applications.
What is HHC?
Hydroxyhexahydrocannabinol, or HHC, is a synthetic cannabinoid. It is a chemical compound designed to mimic the effects of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. HHC is created in a laboratory setting and is not naturally occurring in cannabis.
As a synthetic cannabinoid, HHC is produced to interact with the endocannabinoid system in a way similar to THC, potentially leading to psychoactive effects. These effects may include changes in mood, perception, and cognition.
It's important to note that synthetic cannabinoids can vary widely in their properties and effects, and they may pose health risks. The use of synthetic cannabinoids has raised concerns due to their unpredictable nature and the potential for adverse reactions. The legality and safety of synthetic cannabinoids can vary by jurisdiction.
As with any substance, it's crucial to approach synthetic cannabinoids with caution, and individuals should be aware of the potential risks associated with their use. Always consult with healthcare professionals and adhere to relevant regulations in your area.
Non-psychoactive Cannabinoids (Don’t Get You High)
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is a prominent cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Unlike its counterpart THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not induce a "high" sensation. CBD has gained widespread attention for its potential therapeutic properties and diverse range of applications.
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, a complex cell-signaling system present in humans and many animals, helping to regulate various physiological processes such as mood, appetite, sleep, and immune function. It does so by influencing cannabinoid receptors, particularly CB1 and CB2 receptors.
Research suggests that CBD may have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. It has shown promise in alleviating symptoms associated with conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety disorders, epilepsy, and inflammation-related disorders. Epidiolex, a CBD-based medication, has been approved by regulatory agencies for the treatment of certain types of seizures.
CBD is available in various forms, including oils, capsules, edibles, and topicals, making it accessible for different preferences and needs. It's important to note that the regulatory status of CBD varies across regions, and consumers should be aware of local laws and regulations.
As research into CBD continues, scientists aim to uncover its full range of potential benefits and understand its interaction with other cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system more comprehensively.
What is CBC?
Cannabichromene, or CBC, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. While it is structurally similar to other cannabinoids like THC and CBD, CBC has distinct properties and potential therapeutic benefits.
CBC interacts with the endocannabinoid system, specifically binding to CB2 receptors, which are mainly found in the peripheral nervous system and immune cells. Research on CBC is still in its early stages, but some studies suggest that it may possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. It is also being investigated for its potential impact on neural stem cells, which could have implications for brain health.
Unlike THC, CBC does not produce a euphoric "high." Instead, it is considered non-intoxicating, making it an appealing option for those seeking the potential benefits of cannabinoids without the psychoactive effects associated with THC.
As with many cannabinoids, ongoing research is necessary to fully understand CBC's effects and potential applications. The evolving understanding of these compounds contributes to a growing body of knowledge about the therapeutic potential of cannabis and its constituents.
What is CBG?
Cannabigerol, or CBG, is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. CBG is often referred to as the "mother" or "stem cell" cannabinoid because it is a precursor to other cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD (cannabidiol), and CBC (cannabichromene). While present in smaller amounts compared to THC and CBD, CBG has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic properties.
CBG interacts with the endocannabinoid system, specifically binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors. Research on CBG is still in its early stages, but some studies suggest that it may have anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antioxidant properties. It has also shown promise in preclinical studies for conditions such as glaucoma, inflammatory bowel disease, and certain types of cancer.
CBG is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not induce a "high" similar to THC. As the understanding of cannabinoids expands, ongoing research aims to explore CBG's full range of potential benefits and applications in various health conditions. The evolving knowledge of cannabinoids contributes to the growing exploration of cannabis-based compounds for therapeutic purposes.
What is CBN?
Cannabinol, or CBN, is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant that is derived from the degradation of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Unlike THC, CBN is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the characteristic "high" associated with cannabis use. CBN is typically present in trace amounts in fresh cannabis, but its levels can increase over time as THC oxidizes.
CBN has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic properties, although research is still in its early stages. It is often explored for its reported sedative effects, suggesting a possible role in promoting relaxation and aiding sleep. Some studies also suggest that CBN may have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
As with other cannabinoids, the understanding of CBN's effects and applications is evolving, and ongoing research is necessary to uncover its full range of potential benefits and explore its interaction with the endocannabinoid system.
What is THCA?
Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, or THCA, is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in raw, unheated cannabis plants. THCA is the precursor to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the well-known psychoactive compound in cannabis. When cannabis undergoes decarboxylation, typically through heat exposure, THCA converts into THC, gaining its psychoactive properties.
In its raw form, THCA does not produce the euphoric "high" commonly associated with THC consumption. Instead, THCA is being investigated for potential therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. Some individuals consume raw cannabis or cannabis juice to access the potential health benefits of THCA without experiencing the psychoactive effects associated with THC.
It's important to note that if you want the psychoactive effects of THC, such as when smoking or vaporizing cannabis, you need to decarboxylate THCA through processes like heating or combustion. THCA-rich products are also available in some markets for those seeking the potential benefits of THCA without the psychoactive effects of THC.
What is CBDA?
Cannabidiolic acid, or CBDA, is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that is found in raw, unheated cannabis plants. CBDA is the precursor to CBD (cannabidiol), a well-known and widely studied cannabinoid with various potential therapeutic properties.
During the growth of the cannabis plant, CBDA is produced by the plant's trichomes. When cannabis undergoes decarboxylation, typically through heat or light exposure, CBDA converts into CBD, losing its acidic group. This transformation is commonly observed when cannabis is smoked, vaporized, or processed into CBD-rich products.
While CBDA itself is not known for its direct therapeutic effects, it has garnered interest in research for its potential to influence various physiological processes. Some studies suggest that CBDA may have anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, and potential anti-cancer properties. As research on cannabinoids progresses, more insights into the specific benefits and mechanisms of CBDA may emerge.
What is CBDV?
Cannabidivarin, or CBDV, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is structurally similar to CBD (cannabidiol) but has a slightly different molecular arrangement. While CBDV is present in smaller amounts compared to cannabinoids like THC and CBD, it has attracted attention for its potential therapeutic properties.
Research on CBDV is still in its early stages, but some studies suggest that it may have anti-epileptic and anti-convulsant effects, making it an area of interest for conditions like epilepsy. Additionally, CBDV may have potential applications in the treatment of various neurological disorders.
As with many cannabinoids, ongoing research is needed to fully understand CBDV's effects and potential medical benefits. The evolving knowledge of cannabinoids contributes to the growing exploration of cannabis-based compounds for therapeutic purposes.
What is CBGA?
Cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) is a precursor to several major cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, serving as a foundational compound in the biosynthetic pathway. As the plant matures, CBGA undergoes enzymatic transformations, leading to the production of cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and CBC. Despite not being as well-known as its derivatives, CBGA plays a crucial role in the diverse array of therapeutic and psychoactive effects associated with cannabis consumption.