Cannabinoids – Cannabis 101

Produce Cannabinoids

Trichomes

Trichomes are tiny glistening hair-like structures that are found on the surface of cannabis flowers and leaves. These structures serve as specialized factories that produce and store chemical compounds, including cannabinoids and terpenes, which contribute to the plant’s aroma and flavor. Specialized cells synthesize cannabinoids through complex biochemical pathways. The sticky resin secreted by trichomes contains a mixture of compounds, including the acidic forms of cannabinoids like THCA and CBDA. As the plant matures, trichomes continue to develop and accumulate cannabinoids. The concentration and composition of cannabinoids within trichomes can vary based on factors such as genetics, growing conditions, and environmental factors.

What Are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant. The cannabis plant produces over 100 different cannabinoids, each with its own effects and potential benefits. When cannabis is in its raw state, such as when it’s freshly harvested, the cannabinoids exist in their acidic forms, such as tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA). These acidic forms are non-intoxicating and don’t produce the typical effects associated with cannabinoids. However, when heat is applied through smoking, vaping, or baking, these acidic cannabinoids undergo a chemical reaction known as decarboxylation. This process removes a carboxyl group from the molecule and transforms THCA into THC, and CBDA into CBD, making them bioavailable and capable of interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system.

The Human

Endocannabinoid System

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a complex signaling system found within the human body. It plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis, the body’s internal balance and stability. Endocannabinoids are naturally produced molecules that act as messengers, similar to neurotransmitters. Cannabinoid receptors are found on the surface of cells throughout the body and are known as CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are primarily located in the brain and central nervous system, influencing functions such as pain perception, mood regulation, and memory. CB2 receptors are predominantly found in immune cells, contributing to processes like inflammation and immune response. When endocannabinoids are released due to changes in the body’s conditions, they bind to these receptors, triggering a series of biochemical signals that can modulate various physiological processes. Enzymes then break down endocannabinoids once their signaling functions are completed.

How Cannabis

Affects The Body

Cannabinoids from the cannabis plant, interact with the ECS by mimicking the actions of endocannabinoids. When consumed, cannabinoids like THC and CBD bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors, altering the normal signaling pathways. THC, for example, can produce psychoactive effects by binding to CB1 receptors in the brain. On the other hand, CBD doesn’t directly bind to these receptors but influences them indirectly, contributing to various therapeutic effects without inducing intoxication. The interaction between cannabinoids and the ECS is a key factor in understanding their potential effects on pain, inflammation, mood, appetite, and other physiological processes.

How The Body Processes

THC

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) produces a euphoric “high” and is known for its potential to manage pain and stimulate appetite, making it useful in certain medical contexts. THC primarily binds to CB1 receptors in the brain and central nervous system, which leads to altered neurotransmitter release and contributes to its psychoactive effects. This interaction can affect various functions, including mood, memory, perception, and pain perception. Also, THC’s activation of the reward system in the brain can lead to feelings of euphoria and relaxation. Its effect on appetite stimulation, commonly referred to as the “munchies,” is also well-known. However, prolonged or excessive THC consumption can lead to adverse effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and impaired cognitive function.

How The Body Processes

CBD

Cannabidiol (CBD) does not induce intoxicating effects. CBD is more widely recognized for its potential to address anxiety, inflammation, epilepsy, and other conditions without causing a high. CBD has a more complex interaction with the ECS. Unlike THC, CBD does not directly bind to CB1 or CB2 receptors. Instead, it influences these receptors and other signaling pathways indirectly. CBD is known to modulate receptor activity, potentially reducing the intensity of CB1 receptor activation by THC and thus counteracting some of its psychoactive effects. CBD’s interaction with serotonin receptors may contribute to its potential role in managing anxiety and mood disorders. Furthermore, CBD has gained attention for its potential anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and neuroprotective effects.

Additional Cannabinoids

Here are some additional cannabinoids produced by the cannabis plant.

Cannabinol (CBN):

CBN is a result of THC degradation over time and exposure to air and light. It has a mild affinity for both CB1 and CB2 receptors, potentially contributing to its reported sedative effects. CBN’s potential as a sleep aid and relaxation-inducing compound could be beneficial for individuals struggling with sleep disorders or seeking natural relaxation remedies. Its mild sedative properties may offer an alternative to traditional sleep medications.

Cannabigerol (CBG):

CBG, often referred to as the “mother cannabinoid,” has the potential to interact with both CB1 and CB2 receptors, albeit with low affinity. It is thought to influence various physiological processes and may play a role in regulating pain perception, inflammation, and even mood disorders. Additionally, CBG’s potential to inhibit the reuptake of the neurotransmitter GABA could contribute to its anxiolytic effects. CBG’s wide-ranging effects on various receptor systems could make it promising for managing pain, inflammation, and potentially mood-related conditions. Its potential as an anxiolytic might be particularly valuable for those dealing with anxiety disorders.

Cannabichromene (CBC):

CBC is known to interact with both CB1 and CB2 receptors, albeit indirectly. It doesn’t produce intoxication and is not psychoactive. Research suggests that CBC may have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It may also interact with other receptors in the body, such as TRPV1 and TRPA1 receptors, which are involved in pain perception. This interaction could make CBC a potential candidate for pain management and inflammation reduction.

Delta-9-THC:

Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the most well-known cannabinoid and is responsible for the psychoactive effects commonly associated with cannabis. When Delta-9 THC interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), it primarily binds to CB1 receptors in the brain and central nervous system. This interaction leads to altered neurotransmitter release, resulting in various effects such as euphoria, relaxation, altered perception of time, and increased appetite. Delta-9 THC is also known for its potential analgesic properties, making it useful for managing pain. It’s been investigated for its potential to alleviate nausea and stimulate appetite, which is particularly relevant for individuals undergoing chemotherapy or dealing with certain medical conditions.

Delta-8 THC:

Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a less common cannabinoid with a similar structure to Delta-9 THC, but it differs in the placement of a double bond in its chemical structure. This difference leads to distinct effects. Delta-8 THC binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors, though it has a lower affinity for CB1 receptors compared to Delta-9 THC. This generally results in milder psychoactive effects, often described as a more clear-headed and less anxious high. Delta-8 THC is believed to share some of the benefits associated with Delta-9 THC, such as potential pain relief, reduction of nausea, and appetite stimulation. It’s also being explored for its potential to relieve anxiety and induce relaxation without the intense intoxication often linked to Delta-9 THC.

Delta-10 THC:

Delta-10 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a lesser-known cannabinoid that is structurally similar to both Delta-9 and Delta-8 THC. Delta-10 THC’s effects on the human body through the endocannabinoid system are still being studied, and its interactions with cannabinoid receptors are not yet well understood. Limited research suggests that it might exhibit psychoactive properties, but the extent of its effects and potential benefits remain to be fully determined. Due to its novelty and the ongoing research, Delta-10 THC is less understood compared to Delta-9 and Delta-8 THC.

The Entourage Effect

The Entourage Effect is a phenomenon that occurs when the various compounds present in the cannabis plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and other phytochemicals, work synergistically to enhance and modify the overall effects of the plant. This interaction is believed to result in a more comprehensive and nuanced response within the body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS). When multiple compounds are present in combination, they can amplify or modulate each other’s effects, potentially leading to improved therapeutic outcomes.

Isolates

Isolates, on the other hand, are individual compounds extracted from the cannabis plant, such as pure THC, CBD, or other cannabinoids, devoid of the accompanying compounds found in the whole plant extract. While isolates offer precise dosing and the ability to target specific effects, they lack the synergistic interactions that contribute to the Entourage Effect. This means that isolates may not provide the same level of complexity and potential benefits as whole plant extracts, as they don’t harness the collaborative effects of the plant’s diverse compounds. There are situations where acquiring and using isolates may be desirable. One key reason is precision in dosing. Isolates allow users to accurately measure and consume a specific cannabinoid or compound, which can be important for consistent therapeutic outcomes or when working with specific medical conditions.

Next: Terpenes