What are Cannabinoids?

• Posted on 30 December 2022
• Posted in Cannabinoid, CBD, Endocannabinoid system, Photocannabinoids, Receptors
• 0

Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found in the Cannabis/Hemp plant that interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the human body. There are two main types of cannabinoids: endocannabinoids, which are produced by the body, and phytocannabinoids, which are found in plants

What are Cannabinoids? 

Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors and signaling molecules found throughout the human body. There are two main types of cannabinoids: endocannabinoids, which are produced by the body, and phytocannabinoids, which are found in plants, including the Cannabis/Hemp plants.

Endocannabinoids are signaling molecules that bind to cannabinoid receptors in the ECS and play a key role in modulating various physiological processes. There are two main endocannabinoids: anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). These endocannabinoids are similar in structure to THC and CBD, two of the main phytocannabinoids found in Cannabis.

Phytocannabinoids are plant-based cannabinoids that interact with the ECS in a similar way to endocannabinoids. The Cannabis/Hemp plant is the main source of phytocannabinoids, and it contains over 100 different cannabinoids. The two most well-known phytocannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). The "high" effect of marijuana is due to the psychoactive compound THC. While CBD is non-psychoactive and has a number of potential therapeutic effects.

Cannabinoids have a number of potential therapeutic effects and are being studied for their potential use in the treatment of a wide range of conditions, including pain, inflammation, anxiety, depression, and seizures. More research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action of cannabinoids and their potential therapeutic effects.