What are Cannabinoids?

What are Cannabinoids?

Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol, or "THC" for short, has been a popular subject of discussion and debate since well before any of us came around. 

Stimulating, relieving, and still illegal in some of the greatest nations across the globe. Good or bad, these are just a few of the things that describe the effects of cannabis or just Mary Jane herself.

A plant abundant in therapeutic and mind-altering capabilities, the cannabis plant is home to over 500 different chemical compounds working in harmony to create the experience we know and love. Of these, research has shown that cannabinoids (or "phytocannabinoids" if you want to get real technical) create more than 100 of these, and play a far greater role than just getting you stoned.

Cannabinoids (kuh-na-buh-noydz) are the chemical compounds produced by the cannabis plant that interact with the cannabinoid receptors, CB1 & CB2, within the body as part of the endocannabinoid system.

Some of the most popular cannabinoids include THCa, Delta-9, CBD, CBG, THCV, & CBN. Cannabinoids offer a variety of different effects for the user, from pain and inflammation relief, to soothing digestion, promoting restful sleep and more. For today, we'll start with the basics, but click here to dive deeper into about what makes cannabis, cannabis!

 

THCa

For short, this is known as "THC-acid". The precursor to it's activated predecessor Delta-9, THCa is found in the trichomes (those icy crystals you love so much) of cannabis buds.

Whether they know it or not, it's the concentration of THCa that most people are referring to when talking about a strain's THC percentage.

 

D9-THC

Delta-9 is the primary psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis sativa plant that is known for producing mind-altering effects unlike any other found in the plant. 

Increased temps from the curing process and lighting up burns away the acid in THCa, activating the compound and converting it into D9.

Although it is the "marijuana" plant that is classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substance Act, of the hundreds of chemicals in cannabis, organic D9-THC is the only one strictly prohibited for production, distribution and resale under U.S. Federal law.

 

CBD (cannabidiol)

Almost as popular as it's counterpart THC, CBD is a non-intoxicating (or "no-high") cannabinoid known for it's stress-relieving and anti-inflammation properties.

Used widely by medical marijuana patients, many recreational users have turned to CBD use as well for everyday pain and stress relief.

Prostoner tip - better in conjunction with a mild or moderate amount of THC for activation. CBD has also been known to reduce the negative psychoactive effects of THC, such as anxiety and paranoia.

 

CBG (cannabigerol)

The parent of the cannabinoid family tree. During growth, CBG is naturally converted into other cannabinoids such as THC, CBD & CBN.

Also non-intoxicating in its effects, CBG is often paired with CBD for increased pain relief, but specializes in bettering digestion and improving emotional well-being for many users.

 

THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin)

When you hear THCV, just think sativa. Stimulating and energizing, THCV has increased in popularity with users looking for an extra boost of clarity and motivation as this cannabinoid has shown promise reducing anxieties as well.

The only thing it doesn't stimulate is your appetite!

 

CBN (cannabinol)

A very unique cannabinoid, CBN is actually a bi-product of broken down THC that is often found in aged cannabis. It's effects include varying levels of relaxation, from restful sleep to reducing soreness.

Like many indica strains, CBN has also been known to stimulate the users appetite, inducing the munchies.

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