Cannabinoids, the basics
What are they, why are they important, and how can obtaining a better understanding of them enhance your overall experience with cannabis?
What are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are chemical compounds secreted by the cannabis plant that interact with different parts of your body providing you with relief from a variety of symptoms. Although the cannabis plant has over 400 different compounds, about a hundred of them are cannabinoids. The most known cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD).
How do Cannabinoids work?
The study of cannabinoids is fairly new. Although the cannabis plant contains more than 85 different cannabinoids it wasn't until 1980 when researchers found out that cannabinoids bind to receptors in our body and brain.
To date they have identified two different types of receptors:
CB-1 : Found in brain cells and the central nervous system
CB-2 : Found in the body and immune system
When cannabinoids interact with cannabinoid receptors it acts like a lock and key to regulate our cellular processes and body functions such as blood pressure, stress, appetite, and pain perception. Cannabinoids bind with receptors like a key to break down cannabinoids and thus unlock effects. Effects that vary depending on the type and location of receptor they interact with.
Types of Cannabinoids:
AbsoluteXtracts—ABX—is a homegrown Northern California company committed to providing patients with pure, safe, and potent cannabis. Available in tinctures, vapes, and capsules.
THC is the most well-known and studied. This cannabinoid binds with CB-1 receptors in the brain and is known for its strong psychoactive effects. Some of the effects include relaxed, happy, euphoric, focused, creative, hungry, and sleepy. Thus this cannabinoid is used to combat pain, muscle spasticity, insomnia, fatigue, glaucoma, nausea, depression, anxiety and low appetite.
Care By Design provides patients with variety of tinctures and capsules in various CBD to THC ratios. Their newly formulated ratio line goes beyond CBD and THC, harnessing the full therapeutic potential of the cannabis plant.
CBD is the most studied non-psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis meaning that it will not produce the stereotypical "high" often associated with cannabis but rather will provide therapeutic benefits. CBD binds more with CB-2 receptors found throughout the body. CBD is used to relieve various conditions like seizures, inflammation, pain, psychosis or mental disorders, migraines, inflammatory bowel disease, depression, nausea, and anxiety.
LEVEL was launched with one goal: to create unique, targeted effects-based cannabis products by formulating cannabinoids in ratios not accessible from the plant alone. Available in sublingual tablets and gum.
THC-V: This cannabinoid has a similar molecular structure to THC and although is also psychoactive provides patients with quite different effects. THCV unlike THC, is known as an appetite suppressant thus patients treating appetite loss should steer clear of it. Research also has shown how this cannabinoid can help with diabetes due to its “ability to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance”. It also has been shown to stimulate bone growth and reduce panic attacks.
Mary’s award-winning transdermal patches are commitment to accurate dosing through an advanced delivery method. The discreet 2×2″ squares simply adhere to any veinous part of the skin for 8-12 hours of unsurpassed systemic relief. Available in CBD, 1:1 CBD:THC, CBN, THCa, Indica and Sativa.
THC-A : This cannabinoid is non-psychoactive and is usually found in raw or live cannabis. As the plant dries the THCA will turn into THC. High temperatures will accelerate this process. Although there is not enough research to conclusively know this cannabinoids benefits, preliminary research has left us with promising results. Studies have shown it to have anti-inflammatory effects aiding patients dealing with arthritis and lupus. It also has been shown to have neuroprotective properties that some patients use to treat neurodegenerative diseases.
LEVEL was launched to formulate cannabinoids in ratios not accessible from the plant alone. These extra-strength swallowable tablets that takes effect in 30–90 minutes and lasts 3–6 hours
CBG: This cannabinoid has been shown to interact with a very specific physiological system, and recent studies have shed light on its benefits. In one study, CBG was shown to block receptors that cause cancer cell growth. In this study, scientists were able to show how CBG inhibit tumors and "chemically-induced colon carcinogenesis." In a European study, CBG was shown to work as an antibacterial agent and thus shown to be very effective for various skin conditions.
Kikoko’s Tranquili-Tea is a discreet and healthy alternative to cannabis edibles. This tea won’t get you particularly high, but the CBN acts as a sedative. Relax, sleep, and conquer insomnia.
CBN: This cannabinoid is what the popular THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) turns into after long durations of time. This process is known as the degradation process and can be accelerated if you expose your flower to high temperatures or oxygen. It is mildly psycho-active with current research showing it to be only about a forth as intoxicating as THC. It is also known as the “sleepy cannabinoids'' due to its sedative effects. Most notably a 1975 study showed that CBN enhanced sedating effects in mice.
Looking for a good place to start? When your ready to give cannabis a try, here are a few tips:
Select a product with lower percentages or milligram of desired cannabinoid.
Start with a product that has balanced levels of THC and CBD.
CBD is known to calm anxiety and may help offset the influence of THC.
Start low and go slow especially with edibles.
Clear your schedule
Make yourself comfortable.
Stay hydrated.
Note: Our consultants do not claim to be physicians nor claim to provide official medical advice.
Remember everyones journey is unique and finding the right product for you may take some experimenting.
Since each persons endocannabinoid system is different finding what ratios of specific cannabinoids work best for you or your loved one may be a challenge but will create a more consistent and fulfilling experience. It can also make shopping for the perfect product at 7Stars a lot easier and stress-free.
We know the world of cannabinoids is vast and diverse that is why we are here to help. Learn more about cannabinoids from your friends at 7 Stars. Need help finding what desired effects and strains are right for your needs? Visit us in person or email us on the contact us page.
Additional Sources:
https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/cannabinoids-101-what-makes-cannabis-medicine
https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/cannabinoid/
https://www.crescolabs.com/cannabinoids/
https://www.verilife.com/blog/guide-cannabinoids-and-their-effects#