Cannabinoids are a diverse class of chemical compounds that interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the human body. They are naturally occurring in the cannabis plant (phytocannabinoids) but can also be synthesized in a lab (synthetic cannabinoids). The ECS, which cannabinoids interact with, is a complex cell-signaling system that plays a role in regulating a range of functions and processes including sleep, mood, appetite, memory, and reproduction.
Cannabinoids work by imitating compounds our bodies naturally produce, called endocannabinoids, which maintain internal stability and health. They do this by interacting with receptors found in different parts of the central nervous system. The two main types of cannabinoid receptors within the ECS are CB1, which are predominantly found in the brain and nervous system, and CB2, which are more often found in other types of cells, including those in the immune system.
There are over 100 known cannabinoids, with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) being the most well-known and extensively studied. THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis that gives the high sensation. It can be consumed by smoking cannabis. It’s also available in oils, edibles, tinctures, capsules, and more. On the other hand, CBD isn’t psychoactive. It’s also extracted from the cannabis plant but doesn’t lead to any form of intoxication.
Understanding the properties of different cannabinoids and how they interact with the ECS is crucial for labs and product producers to create effective and targeted products. The potential of cannabinoids in a range of therapeutic applications is vast, and research is ongoing into their effects and benefits.
