The cannabis plant is renowned for its effects on the body and the brain. However, it contains numerous cannabinoids which vary according to the source plant. Each has its own specific effects. Depending on their composition, their use is also different. However, some cannabinoid compounds are much more prevalent than others.
In this article, you'll find all the cannabinoids known to the cannabis plant.
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THC or Tetrahydrocannabinol
THC is the largest cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. In fact, sites such as The Cannabist present the latest news on this popular molecule.
What do you need to know about THC?
Being the main cannabinoid cannabisTHC was first discovered in 1964 by an Israeli scientist. It is also the most studied cannabinoid, due to the diverse effects it produces depending on the method of use. What's more, its chemical structure makes it easy to bind to endocannabinoid receptors in the brain.
What effects does this molecule have?
Studies, such as Canada.ca's "About Cannabis", have already been carried out to determine the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol[1]. Its main effect remains euphoria which is highly coveted by many consumers.
However, the effects brought about by this molecule can be classified into two groups:
- psychoactive effect: it is triggered by links with CB1 receptors in the nervous system. As a result, THC is able to provide influences on brain function. As a result, it has the ability to alter certain brain activities such as perception and cognition. But it also affects other functions such as motor coordination and appetite.
- therapeutic effect : this molecule also has therapeutic effects that can help in the treatment of relief from certain symptoms illnesses. For example, it can be used as an analgesic to relieve chronic pain. It also stimulates appetite in the treatment of certain illnesses such as chemotherapy.
CBD or Cannabidiol
Also derived from cannabis cbd is present in all plant cultivation methods.
What is CBD?
CBD or cannabidiol is one of the most important cannabinoids in cannabis. It is mainly present in the plant's leaves and flowers, which makes extraction more convenient. What's more, once isolated, cannabidiol can be found in various forms, such as oils and flowers. As a result, these different aspects of CBD enable more practical use for more targeted effects.
The effects of cannabidiol
CBD is best known for its many therapeutic properties. Unlike THC, CBD is not addictive.
Its effects are explained by the molecule's interaction with endocannabinoid receptors in the brain. As a result, it acts directly on sensations caused by certain illnesses, such as pain.
Studies conducted by "Pharmacodel" explain the benefits that the CBD molecule provides to the body[2]. It has been said to act as a painkiller and anti-inflammatory for back pain. But also, analyses have proven that it can help alleviate sleep problems such as insomnia.
CBG or Cannabigerol
The CBG molecule has a lower concentration in the cannabis plant. However, more in-depth studies are being carried out on this component to further discern its effects.
What is CBG?
Also known as the "parent cannabinoid", cannabigerol is the source of most cannabinoids including CBD and THC. This transformation takes place as a result of various factors, such as heat or light. And, like most cannabinoids, it is legal under certain conditions, such as THC levels below 0.3%.
The effects of cannabigerol
This molecule does not interact directly with the brain's endocannabinoid system. In fact, CBG influences the receptors, which in turn influence the brain. What's more, it interacts with several receptors in the body, such as the neurotransmitter serotonin.
According to an article in "Endocannabinoids in the regulation of appetite and body weight" published by Behavioural Pharmacology, these effects are similar to CBD[3]. In other words, CBG has anti-inflammatory properties as well as being antibacterial and antifungal.
However, CBG products can be applied locally, i.e. to a specific point. In this case, it can help relieve certain types of pain, such as backache.
CBN or Cannabinol
Cannabinol is another cannabinoid less commonly found in the cannabis plant.
General information about CBN
Cannabinol is a component not naturally generated by the cannabis plant. In fact, it comes from the degradation of THC when heated or in contact with oxygen in the air. As a result, it is a difficult component to isolate due to its origin and location. In fact, it is found only in ancient plants and in degraded plant matter.
The effects of cannabinol on the body
Unlike THC, from which it is derived, CBN is non-psychoactive. However, not all its effects have yet been catalogued, as it is difficult to synthesize.
In addition, certain benefits have already been recorded. For example, according to the "National Library of Medicine", this component has effects on a person's appetite[4]. It is also used to relieve certain skin problems and can act as an anti-bacterial agent, according to the National Library of Medicine[5].
The hemp plant is the source of a whole panoply of cannabinoids. But some are more dominant: THC, CBD, CBG and CBN. However, each cannabinoid variety has its own specific effects, depending on its origin and composition. For example, THC is known for its psychoactive effects, while CBD is renowned for its therapeutic effects. There's also CBG, which stands out for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
CBN, on the other hand, is known for its sedative effects and its role in sleep and relaxation. As a result, uses and consumption patterns differ according to the type of cannabinoid. However, only health professionals are in a position to determine the conditions of use for each, so it's crucial to consult them.
- 1.https://www.canada.ca/fr/sante-canada/services/drogues-medicaments/cannabis/sujet.html
- 2.https://www.pharmacodel.com/fr/content/110-cbd
- 3.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18681481/
- 4.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22543671/
- 5.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18681481/
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