Feb
Cannabinoids are active compounds within cannabis that when smoked, ingested or applied topically, interact with one’s body to create all sorts of responses, ranging from a lack of inflammation to reductions in nausea and pain. The role that cannabinoids play, alongside terpenes, is the crux of both medicinal and recreational use.
Although some cannabinoid compounds are well known (CBD, THC, etc), there are more than 100 known cannabinoids, and we’re still discovering new compounds. All these different compounds have their own unique roles to play, and this is where the magic of marijuana really comes to light.
How Cannabinoids Work
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) works like a biochemical lock-and-key system. There are three main components. There’s the endocannabinoids, the CB1 and CB2 receptors, and then the enzymes that break down cannabinoids after they’ve done their job.
- CB1 receptors are mostly found in the brain and nervous system. When THC binds to CB1 receptors, it produces effects like euphoria, pain relief, and appetite stimulation.
- CB2 receptors are found more in the immune system and peripheral tissues. Cannabinoids like CBD don’t bind strongly to CB2 but instead influence how the ECS regulates inflammation, immune responses, and pain.
Not all cannabinoids work in the same way though. For example, CBD doesn’t bind strongly to either receptor, but instead changes the way your own endocannabinoids are processed. It’s almost like a boost to your existing body chemistry.
Key Cannabinoids and What They Do
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
THC is a term even non-smokers are aware of, because it’s the one that gets you high. But it also carries important medical value:
- Pain relief – Commonly used for conditions like arthritis, nerve pain, and migraines.
- Appetite booster – Helps people struggling with appetite loss, whether from illness or treatment.
- Anti-nausea – Often used by chemotherapy patients to manage nausea.
- Sleep aid – Can help with insomnia and restless nights.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
CBD is THC’s non-psychoactive relative. It won’t get you high, but it’s packed with potential benefits:
- Calms stress and anxiety – Helps promote relaxation and balance.
- Fights inflammation – Great for muscle recovery, joint pain, and chronic conditions.
- Supports brain function – Being studied for its potential role in focus and memory.
- Improves sleep – Can help regulate sleep cycles without sedating effects.
Other Notable Cannabinoids
While THC and CBD get most of the attention, other cannabinoids have some impressive effects too:
- CBG (Cannabigerol): May help with gut health and brain function.
- CBN (Cannabinol): Has mild sedative effects, making it a popular sleep aid.
- CBC (Cannabichromene): Being explored for its potential mood-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
- THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin): May play a role in appetite control and energy metabolism.
These are just a few examples of the otherwise 100s of cannabinoids, many of which offer known benefits.
In fact, in April 2024, a new phytocannabinoid peptide called vodo-C1 was discovered in sweet violet plants. This peptide selectively binds to the CB2 receptor, which is associated with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, without affecting the CB1 receptor responsible for psychoactive effects. So we’re still discovering the wonders of all these undiscovered secrets of nature.
Cannabinoids In Cannabis Seeds
If you’re wondering how all this affects cannabis seeds – in many ways.
When cannabis seeds are bred, the breeder’s choice of parent plants will determine the likely outcomes of the seeds. Breeders using high THC strains are more likely to produce seeds with high THC, the same is true for CBD. Specialist CBD breeders will focus on reducing THC percentages while increasing CBD.
Others will opt for a balanced approach that aims to provide relatively high levels of both CBD and THC, usually for medical purposes.
However, each seed is unique and the exact combination of cannabinoids will vary between each one. Those within a related population are more likely to share specific cannabinoid profiles than two random plants.
THCV is an interesting one when it comes to seeds, as seeds produced from African heirloom Sativas are often found to have some of the highest THCV – which has created more recent interest in these types of strains.
How People Use Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids aren’t just for medical use. More and more people are incorporating them into their daily lives to manage stress, improve sleep, or recover after workouts. With options like oils, edibles, capsules, and topicals, you don’t have to smoke or vape to get the benefits.
The Future of Cannabinoids
Science is just scratching the surface when it comes to cannabinoids. Some are already used in medicine, and others are being studied for potential breakthroughs. As research continues, cannabinoids could change the way we approach health and wellness in a big way.
