There is a flurry of natural compounds in cannabis that contribute to the overall effects consumers experience. Because of this, ongoing research aims to explore the seemingly endless number of compounds that make up cannabis and hemp flower.
However, there is one specific type of canna-compound that plays an extremely important part in the process of consumption.
As a conscious cannabis consumer, it’s important to fully understand the beneficial role cannabinoids play in the products you use. Continue reading to learn about cannabinoids and how they directly influence our Endocannabinoid System!
Defining & Exploring Cannabinoids
First things first. Cannabinoids are defined as natural chemical compounds derived from the cannabis plant. There are various types of different cannabinoids in the plant that help induce the psychoactive and physical effects we often feel from consuming cannabis.
Today, it’s difficult for scientists to pin down the exact number of cannabinoids that are in cannabis (because there are simply too many to count!)
Even though there are over 100 different cannabinoids discovered thus far, most of these compounds are present at low levels (depending on the cultivar) making it challenging to accurately identify and detect them all.
When it comes to the cannabis products we all know and love, phytocannabinoids are the cannabinoids derived from the plant. Also known as exogenous cannabinoids, these are the compounds found in cannabis and hemp flower that contribute various beneficial effects.
Common Cannabinoids
Furthermore, of all the phytocannabinoids present in hemp and cannabis found today, some cannabinoids have become more common due to their therapeutic benefits and interactions within our body. These include:
- Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
- Cannabidiol (CBD)
- Cannabigerol (CBG)
- Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)
- Cannabidivarin (CBDV)
Additionally, we as humans produce endocannabinoids. These compounds help with homeostasis and balance throughout your nervous and peripheral systems, in with the cannabinoids you consume to send signals and messages throughout your body.
Understanding the Endocannabinoid System
When cannabinoids are consumed, these compounds can exert their effects through the interaction with specific endogenous cannabinoids and receptors in our bodies. This intricate process is possible due to the Endocannabinoid System (ECS).
One of the major jobs this system is responsible for includes maintaining homeostasis (balance) throughout our body.
More specifically, these cannabinoids directly influence the CB1 and CB2 receptors in our ECS – which can ignite multiple therapeutic effects and signals throughout the body. This includes many of the following functions:
- Heart rate
- Sleep
- Mood & memory
- Pain & Sensory awareness
- Body temperature
- Hunger & digestion
This means cannabinoids regulate how cells communicate. Whether it be sending, receiving, or processing signals, receptors in the ECS interact with cannabinoids to send responses and messages throughout our central nervous system.
The Beneficial Effects of Cannabinoids
Of all the discovered (and yet to be discovered) cannabinoids out there, it’s important to remember that not all of these types of compounds will give you that psychoactive, intoxicating ‘high’.
Perhaps the most popular cannabinoid, THC, is known to create psychotropic, euphoric, or sedating effects. In addition to these psychoactive elements, THC is a major cannabinoid also known for its powerfully beneficial effects.
However, that doesn’t mean the remaining cannabinoids in cannabis products don’t hold a significant role, too!
Overall, there are many cannabinoids found in hemp and cannabis that may potentially establish significant, beneficial roles in our endocannabinoid system and daily bodily functions.
Among these various cannabinoids consumed when smoking cannabis, it’s helpful to understand what cannabinoids to look for in your marijuana products!
An Abundance of Cannabinoids in Root & Bloom Products
At Root & Bloom, we offer a wide assortment of the highest-quality, craft cannabis products packed with terpenes and cannabinoids.
From our house-extracted dabs, edibles, or small batch cannabis flower — you’ll enjoy various beneficial effects and vibes from the abundance of cannabinoids in each product.
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*Always consult a physician before making any changes to your health or fitness regimen.