It’s likely that if you are a cannabis enthusiast that you have heard of the term cannabinoid. The truth of the matter is that you’re probably already well-familiar with two of the most well known cannabinoids, which are CBD and THC. While these are the two most common cannabinoids, there is an estimated amount of over 100 different cannabinoids.
However, most of them are present at very low levels, if even at all. That means that effectively, there are only about nine significant cannabinoids. To help better understand the wonderful world of cannabinoids and all of their complexity, our team at Elevated Minds in Stoney Creek has compiled a resource to share what exactly cannabinoids are, how they work, and how they impact the body.
What are Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring chemical compounds that are found in a cannabis plant. Since cannabinoids are naturally occurring, that means that we already have cannabinoids in our internal systems, more on that later, but essentially, cannabinoids react with the nervous system and receptors and act as messengers, which produces the high feeling or sensation that’s felt.
For example, THC is a cannabinoid known for its psychoactive effects – you can feel high almost immediately after ingesting THC. On the other hand, CBD doesn’t necessarily make us feel intoxicated, but it has an effect on the immune system and it still interacts with our endocannabinoid system.
How Do Cannabinoids Work and What is the Endocannabinoid System
The next question is—how do cannabinoids have an effect on the human body? That’s thanks to the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
The endocannabinoid system is complex, and scientists aren’t entirely sure about how it works, but what they do know is that the ECS is vital for the body’s overall health.
That’s because the ECS is involved with mood, immune function, appetite, sleep, and much more. On top of that, the ECS is responsible for keeping the body in homeostasis.
The short definition of homeostasis is that it keeps our internal functions at a steady and stable condition. That means if we get injured or sick, the ECS fires up and tries to bring us back to a healthy state. Usually, natural compounds in the body ‘turn on’ and run the ECS.
However, cannabinoids can also interact with the ECS. They do that by connecting with ECS receptors.
You can imagine these receptors as being a lock. The cannabinoids, on the other hand, are the keys.
Once you consume cannabis, the cannabinoids enter the body and find the receptors. Once they meet, the key (or cannabinoid) can unlock the lock (or receptor).
Once that happens, it tells the cell to do something. That something depends on the type of cannabinoid and type of cell.
For example, THC usually interacts with a receptor called CB1 in the brain. Once THC enters the brain, it connects to the CB1 receptor—causing a cascade of effects that ultimately makes us feel high.
What Are the 9 Major Cannabinoids and Where to Find Them in Stoney Creek
THC and CBD are usually the stars of the show. That’s because these two cannabinoids are the most abundant.
However, it’s thought that there are at least 9 major cannabinoids. No matter where you get your cannabis, you’ll find these cannabinoids in dispensary products all around Canada – especially at our weed shop in Stoney Creek.
In no particular order, these are the 9 major cannabinoids and their most well-known effects:
- CBG (Cannabigerol) — Aids inflammation
- THC (Δ9–tetrahydrocannabinol) — Causes intoxication, enhances appetite, aids pain relief, and more.
- CBD (Cannabidiol) — Soothes anxiety and depression, aids in pain and inflammation reduction, and reduces nausea and migraines.
- CBC (Cannabichromene) — May act as an anti-inflammatory.
- CBGV (Cannabigerivarin) — Boost metabolism and act as an anti-inflammatory.
- THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) — Aid in appetite suppression and might reduce glucose levels in the blood.
- CBDV (Cannabidivarin) — Aids in seizure reduction.
- CBCV (Cannabichromevarin) — May act as a pain reducer.
- CBN (Cannabinol) — May have sedative and pain-reducing properties.
It’s important to know that most of these cannabinoids do not cause intoxication. THC is the most intoxicating cannabinoid, while THCV and CBN may have slightly intoxicating effects.
Another thing to note is that CBN is not produced by the cannabis plant itself. CBN is actually a by-product of THC due to light, age, and damage. You can find any of these products at Elevated Minds in Stoney Creek.
Do Cannabinoids Interact With Each Other
Yes, cannabinoids do interact with each other—but only indirectly. This is a process known as The Entourage Effect.
The entourage effect states that cannabinoids will have more benefits and different effects together than alone.
Imagine one strain that was relaxing in the body but not too heavy on the mind. Next, think of a time when you felt way too high and overwhelmed with paranoia.
Likely, the strain that was too overwhelming had way more THC than CBD. The strain that felt balanced and relaxing likely had a more balanced THC to CBD profile.
This matters because CBD can block the CB1 receptors we mentioned earlier. That means that CBD can keep a high from becoming too overwhelming and stop its adverse effects.
On top of that, CBD can work with other cannabinoids like CBDV and CBG to create a more potent anti-inflammatory or anti-seizure effect.
These are just a few examples, and many of these cannabinoids can support each other in many different ways. Researchers are only just discovering these interactions, and there’s likely more exciting news to come.
All we know for now is that with cannabinoids, it really is the more, the merrier.
The Bottom Line
Cannabis contains cannabinoids, which are chemicals that are produced by the human body, and found in cannabis. The endocannabinoid system, also known as internally produced cannabinoids, are responsible for creating steady internal balance.
It’s important to remember that cannabinoids work as a team, creating a harmony between the endocannabinoid system and the cannabinoids, the more cannabinoids that there are in a strain, the more enhanced the experience will be.
For more information about cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system, pop into our dispensary in Stoney Creek. Our staff will be able to answer any questions regarding cannabinoids, and how to find a strain that complements your lifestyle.
About Elevated Minds, Stoney Creeks Cannabis Dispensary
Located in Stoney Creek, Ontario – Elevated Minds is an imaginative, energetic dispensary that offers a variety of premium cannabis products.
Elevated Minds considers themselves as partners with their community, employees, customers and the environment. They uphold a commitment to provide educational content through their platform by exceeding consumer expectations and maintaining quality assurance on all their products.
