A Closer Look at Cannabinoids and Their Effects

Cannabis is renowned for its medicinal versatility as it’s capable of producing a diverse array of over 500 identified chemicals. Among these, cannabinoids emerge as a prominent group, each with unique effects on the human body. 

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two well-known cannabinoids, with THC offering both medicinal benefits and a psychoactive high while CBD is celebrated for its therapeutic advantages without inducing intoxication.

Understanding the potential impact of medical marijuana involves recognizing the intricate interactions between these cannabinoids and other compounds present in the plant. 

That’s exactly what we’re going to take a look at here.

Cannabinoids and Their Interactions with Our Body

In the 1990s, scientific exploration into cannabinoids led to the discovery of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), comprising endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes involved in producing and recycling endocannabinoids. 

The key components of the ECS are the CB1 and CB2 receptors which are widely distributed throughout the human body. While THC interacts with both CB1 and CB2 receptors, humans do not naturally produce THC. 

The presence of these receptors in all vertebrates indicates their interaction with naturally produced chemicals known as endocannabinoids.

Endocannabinoids, such as 2-AG and anandamide, are generated by cells in response to external factors like pain or temperature. Through these endocannabinoids, the ECS plays a crucial role in maintaining balance within the body. 

Some researchers propose that deficiencies in the endocannabinoid system might contribute to various health conditions such as depression, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and Crohn’s disease.

This suggests a potential explanation for the effectiveness of cannabis in treating certain disorders.

Phytocannabinoids, which are the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, closely resemble endocannabinoids. When consumed, they mimic endocannabinoids and interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors and other components of the ECS. 

This interaction forms the basis for the therapeutic effects of cannabis in addressing conditions associated with ECS imbalances.

The Entourage Effect

The effects of cannabinoids are intricate, influenced not only by the specific cannabinoids present but also by terpenes and flavonoids which gives rise to the so-called “entourage effect”. 

This phenomenon recognizes that the active chemicals in cannabis work synergistically, producing effects that surpass the sum of their individual contributions. The cannabis industry emphasizes terms like “full spectrum” to capture this therapeutic synergy.

The most well-supported example of the entourage effect involves THC and CBD. While growers have long observed CBD’s impact on the cannabis high, recent scientific studies have confirmed specific effects. 

Consuming THC and CBD together appears to mitigate common THC side effects like memory impairment and anxiety. 

However, as the cannabis plant produces numerous cannabinoids and terpenes, understanding the entourage effect becomes complex, given the vast array of potential combinations.

Each cannabis strain boasts a unique composition of these active chemicals which can lead to diverse effects. Despite the challenge of studying the entourage effect, gaining a broad understanding of primary cannabinoids can aid individuals in selecting products that align with their preferences and needs.