Phytocannabinoids
Phytocannabinoids are a group of compounds produced by the Cannabis sativa L. genus of plants, which includes cannabis and hemp. They are naturally occurring and have been found to interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating various physiological processes. These interactions can offer a wide scope of therapeutic effects.
What are the most common phytocannabinoids?
THC and CBD are the two cannabinoids that are most commonly produced in cannabis (and hemp) plants. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the psychoactive compound responsible for the "high" feeling associated with recreational cannabis. CBD, or cannabidiol, does not cause any psychoactive effects.
Other phyotcannabinoids include:
- CBG (cannabigerol)
- CBC (cannabichromene)
- CBN (cannabinol)
- THCV (tetrhydrocannabivarin)
- CBDA (cannabidiolic acid)
- THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid)
What is the difference between endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids?
Phytocannabinoids are produced by plants, while endocannabinoids are produced by the human body. Endocannabinoids are part of the endocannabinoid system and help regulate functions such as mood, pain, and appetite. Certain phytocannabinoids have the ability to also bind with the endocannabinoid system receptors and can also interact with other receptor groups, leading to a range of effects
How do phytocannabinoids work?
That depends on the specific phytocannabinoid and its interactions with the endocannabinoid system. Some phytocannabinoids, like THC, bind directly to receptors in the system, while others, like CBD, interact indirectly with it. Both have also been shown to interact with other receptors in the body, such as serotonin and vanilloid receptors, which may contribute to the therapeutic effects.
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