Explore cannabinoids, the naturally occurring chemical compounds that make cannabis unique. Learn how cannabinoids are formed in the plant as well as how they work with your body to produce its benefits.
Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that naturally occur in cannabis. They help produce its medicinal benefits as well as its intoxicating effects. Cannabinoids develop in the tiny, sticky crystals that form on the plant known as trichomes. These compounds can interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system to help regulate other systems and functions.
In their natural state, cannabinoid acids are not active. They must be heated to trigger decarboxylation, or the process that converts them to their active state. For example, THCa becomes THC after decarboxylation occurs. Once activated, cannabinoids can bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors of your endocannabinoid system. They are also capable of binding to the receptors of other systems throughout the brain and body.
Did you know? Cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant are phytocannabinoids, while those found in humans are endocannabinoids.
Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC is best known for producing the intoxicating effects of cannabis in addition to having medicinal properties.
220–240°F (104–116°C)
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is non-intoxicating and works with many receptors and enzymes throughout the brain and body but does not directly bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors. It does help regulate how other cannabinoids bind to them, which is why it’s been found to inhibit the influence of THC.
230–260°F (110–127°C)
CBG also known as the mother cannabinoid because it is the precursor to the development of other phytocannabinoids.
220–250°F (104–121°C)
As THC ages, it oxidizes and converts to the cannabinoid CBN.
250°F+ (121°C+)
Cannabichromene or CBC has been found to support and enhance other cannabinoids through the entourage effect. CBC also slows the breakdown of anandamide, an endocannabinoid that regulates functions such as mood, pain, appetite, pleasure, and motivation.
220–250°F (104–121°C)
CBDV is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that supports the nervous system and brain function by interacting with TRP receptors.
230–260°F (110–127°C)
THCV’s effects are dose dependent. At low doses, this cannabinoid is not intoxicating. Higher doses may create a clear-headed, energizing sensation without the intensity that can be experienced with THC.
220–250°F (104–121°C
