Cannabinoids refer to the chemical compound in cannabis that can provide relief for a variety of health issues. These chemical compounds interact directly with the endocannabinoid system found in all mammals. There are over 120 different cannabinoids found in cannabis. We will focus on the most studied cannabinoids and their potential for medicinal use.
The most popular cannabinoid is THC. THC is short for tetrahydrocannabinol. THC is well-known for the "high" that users feel when smoking cannabis. THC is the psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis and is credited with helping to alter mood, perception and increasing appetite. While THC can aid with various aliments, it isn't the only cannabinoid that can have positive health benefits.
THCv works in tandem with THC. THCv full chemical name is tetrahydrocannabivarin. The name isn't the only similarity to THC, their chemical structures are also closely related. The effects of THCv, however, is very different. Studies on THCv have shown that it can help to curb your appetite, protect your neurological pathways and even work as an anti-convulsive.
CBN (short for cannabinol) is a lesser known cannabinoid. In nature, CBN is found in aging cannabis plants and can increase the effect of THC when smoked. CBN is created when the THC-A begins to degrade. By itself, CBN is often responsible for producing a relaxing, sleepy effect. A study by Steep Hill Labs has claimed that CBN, even in low doses, has a similar effect upon the body as a mild pharmaceutical sedative.
CBC is another non-psychoactive cannabinoid generally found in cannabis that has been grown in a tropical location. CBC, cannabichromene, is credited as an anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-depressant. One study published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics concluded that CBC aided in reducing the size of tumors and cancer, particularly in cases of breast cancer.
CBG, or cannabigerol, has been studied as mainly an anti-fungal. Those suffering from skin disorders and discomfort may find the pain relief they are looking for in CBG. Although, one promising study found that CBG may help to reduce intra-ocular pressure in those suffering from glaucoma.
One of the most widely used cannabinoids for its ever growing list of positive health benefits is CBD. CBD stands for cannabidiol. CBD is non-psychoactive and can provide similar medicinal benefits as THC without the mind altering euphoria or lethargy. CBD has shown promising results with:
- Pain Relief
- Inflammation
- Relieving Stress
- Reducing Nausea
- Helps to regulate blood pressure
- Suppressing Muscle Spasms
- Reduces Blood Sugar levels
- Kills or slows bacteria growth
- Helpful for skin issues
- Preventing nervous system damage
- Balancing serotonin
- Promoting bone growth
These are just a few of the ways that CBD has been studied for its health benefits. Everyday, new health benefits are being contributed to CBD.
The entourage effect refers to the combination of these cannabinoids working together to maximize their effectiveness. This effect is created by utilizing products that use whole plant extraction, like Active CBD oil Full Spectrum Tinctures. The entourage effect can aid in effecting multiple parts of your body at once, improving the absorption of all cannabinoids, and minimizing any unwanted side effects.
