Cannabinoid Types and Their Functions

Whether or not you’re an avid marijuana user, chances are you’ve heard of the substance. Marijuana is derived from the cannabis plant, which is known to contain chemical compounds that produce therapeutic and psychological effects. These compounds are called cannabinoids, but what do they do, and how do they work? In this article, we’ll take a look at what cannabinoids are, the different types, and their functions in the body.

What Is a Cannabinoid?

A cannabinoid is a chemical compound that interacts with the body’s cannabinoid receptors, which are part of the endocannabinoid system. This bodily system is responsible for regulating several physical and mental processes in the body, including appetite, metabolism, immune response, pain sensation, emotion, memory and even sleep.

THC is high in endocannabinoids, which is why it produces the “high” associated with marijuana use. However, there are other cannabinoids present in cannabis that don’t have psychoactive effects but still provide therapeutic benefits. These include CBD (cannabidiol), CBC (cannabichromene), CBG (cannabigerol), and more.

Types of Cannabinoids and Their Functions

Each cannabinoid interacts with the body in different ways, producing various effects. Here’s a look at how each type of cannabinoid functions.

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)

THC is the most common and abundant cannabinoid in marijuana, and it’s also the one responsible for its psychoactive effects. THC is thought to stimulate appetite, reduce nausea and vomiting, and decrease pain perception. It can also produce feelings of euphoria, relaxation, increased creativity, and improved sleep.

Plenty of medical research has been conducted on the effects of THC, and it was first legalized medicinally for patients suffering from glaucoma, cancer drug treatment, chronic pain, and other various conditions.

Since THC is responsible for marijuana’s psychoactive effects, it remains federally illegal. Delta-8 THC has become popular in recent years as a legal psychoactive alternative, but limited research exists on the product’s efficacy and it is much harder to extract and produce.

THC is also the most popular of the cannabinoids, since it produces the “high” commonly associated with marijuana use, it’s the primary ingredient sought out in many products. This is why there are seemingly more THC products available than just about any other cannabinoid.

CBD (Cannabidiol)

CBD is the most prominent non-psychoactive cannabinoid, and it’s widely researched for its potential medical benefits. Unlike THC, CBD offers no psychoactive effects but has been found to reduce inflammation, anxiety, stress, seizures, and other ailments. It can also help improve sleep and reduce pain.

CBD has become increasingly popular in the past few years as medical researchers learn more about the compound. As a result, its products are now widely available across the U.S., and it is a growing fad among people who look to alternative medicine for their chronic pain, anxiety, and other issues.

CBD is a supplement, meaning the FDA, like other medications, does not regulate it—this means that people need to be careful when selecting CBD products, as there may be discrepancies between what’s advertised and what’s actually in the product. When using CBD products, it’s also important to always pay attention to the dosage instructions, as CBD can affect people differently depending on the body size and other variables.

CBC (Cannabichromene)

CBC is another non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis, and it has been linked to aiding pain relief, reducing nausea, inflammation, and vomiting, inhibiting tumor growth, stimulating appetite, and therapeutic benefits like anxiolytic effects.

Unlike THC and CBD, CBC does not interact directly with the endocannabinoid system. Instead, it binds to other receptors in the body, such as serotonin and vanilloid receptors, which are responsible for regulating stress response, pain perception, inflammation, and more. Currently, there is limited research available on CBC, but it is thought to have therapeutic potential.

CBG (cannabigerol)

CBD and CBG are similar in that they are both non-psychoactive cannabinoids found in cannabis. CBG also offers many of the same potential benefits as CBD does, but it is considered a minor cannabinoid (i.e., it is found in much lower concentrations than THC, CBD, or CBC), and research is limited.

CBG has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain relief), and antibacterial properties, as well as its ability to reduce anxiety and improve sleep. Since it is available in much lower concentrations and is much harder to extract and produce, CBG products are much less common than those containing CBD or THC.

CBN (cannabinol)

CBN is another non-psychoactive cannabinoid, and it differs from the others in that it is not found in fresh cannabis plants. It is a byproduct of THC degradation, and as such, it has mild psychoactive effects similar to those of THC, but much weaker. Like CBC and CBG, research on CBN is limited, but it has been studied for its potential to reduce pain and inflammation and improve sleep.

What Products Contain Cannabinoids?

As research continues on the various cannabinoids found in cannabis, more products are becoming available that allow people to take advantage of the therapeutic benefits these compounds can offer. While THC remains federally illegal, several other cannabinoids can be legally obtained in many states and are available in various Vancouver dispensary products, ranging from tinctures, edibles, topicals, and vape pens.

Many people use CBD oils as well, since they make great additions to smoothies, bowls, and other recipes. CBD can also be taken in an edible, pill, or capsule form for more targeted relief from ailments like anxiety and pain. Other cannabinoid products that are coming out include:

• THC beer and other alcoholic beverages
• Cannabis-infused pain relief creams and balms
• Hemp lotions for skin and hair care
• CBD patches for pain relief

As research on cannabinoids continues, more products and ways of using them are sure to be developed. It is important to remember that not all products are created equal, so it’s essential to look into the source of any product before consuming it or applying it to your body.

Endnote

While the various cannabinoids found in cannabis have demonstrated great potential for therapeutic use, more research is needed to fully understand their effects and applications. Since the FDA doesn’t regulate them, it’s important to do your own research and be aware of the source of any product you use. With that in mind, cannabinoids may be a great addition to your daily health and wellness routine.