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Introduction to Cannabinoids: the Basics

Introduction to Cannabinoids: the Basics

Cannabinoids refer to any chemical substance that binds to the cannabinoid receptors of the body. We all know the two main cannabinoids ‘CBD’ and ‘THC’. But did you know that researchers have identified at least 104 different cannabinoids on the Cannabis sativa plant? And not only can cannabinoids be found in nature (phytocannabinoids), but they also exist in the human body (endocannabinoids).

The endocannabinoid system is a chemical messaging system in our body. It helps to regulate and control things like learning and memory, emotional processing, sleep, pain control and more. We want our phytocannabinoids to bind to our endocannabinoid system receptors to get the desired therapeutic or ‘medicinal’ effects we need. And amongst the cannabinoids, the Cannabis sativa plant also possesses a number of other bioactive compounds with potential medical benefits, including terpenes and flavonoids. 

Phytocannabinoids are found in abundance on female cannabis flowers - and this is where we extract our main two medicinal cannabinoids from: 

CBD - Cannabidiol and, 

THC - Tetrahydrocannabinol. 

But, there are more cannabinoids that you might have spied on your plant-medicine: 

  • Cannabigerol (CBG)
  • Cannabinol (CBN)
  • Cannabichromene (CBC) and even more. 

THC 

When we think ‘cannabis’, most of us would be thinking of THC. THC’s reputation is based on the psychoactive effects associated with recreational cannabis consumption. But based on the endocannabinoid receptors it binds to, THC possesses anti-inflammatory, relaxant, anti-nausetic, and anxiolytic effects - its medicinal properties in a nutshell. 

CBD 

CBD is THC’s counterpart, and also a wonder of its own. CBD itself holds power in its anti-psychotic, anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory and anti-convulsant effects. CBD also potentially mitigates some of THC’s psychotropic effects - we like to call it THC’s ‘seatbelt’.

CBG 

CBG lacks psychomimetic effects and much research, but initial findings suggests CBG possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-tumoral, neuroprotective, metabolic, anti-bacterial properties and more. In a 2024 clinical trial, CBG demonstrated significant alleviation in anxiety, stress and enhanced verbal memory. CBG’s metabolic effects might also help control diabetes and have positive cardiovascular effects.

CBN 

Nicknamed the ‘sleepy’ cannabinoid, a study conducted at the University of Sydney found CBN increased total sleep time, with an increase in both non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM). CBN may also have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, but more research is needed to understand its full range of potential benefits.

CBC 

Some studies suggest that CBC may promote neurogenesis (the growth of new brain cells) and could have anti-depressant effects. Additionally, it has shown promise as an anti-convulsant, anti-bacterial, anti-tumoral and anti-nociceptive (pain) agent. Research on CBC is still in its early stages, but it is considered to have great potential in the medicinal space. 

There are so many more cannabinoids present on the cannabis plant, with many showing great prospects in the medical space. The landscape of medicinal cannabinoids is still being painted - and the expansion of knowledge surrounding them is ongoing - especially in the Australian medicinal market. 

To learn more about Cannabinoids, please give us a call at 1300 420 965 or send us an email at hello@dispensedirect.com.au. Our team would love to help. 

 

 

 

 




References

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