Cannabinoids & the Endocannabinoid System

 A complex cell-signaling system within the body that may regulate certain functions such as sleep, mood, appetite, and memory along with a number of other processes.  Yes your body naturally makes Cannabinoids.  These are called Endocannabinoids. 

Naturally occurring cannabinoids found in the Cannabis plant such as CBD, THC, CBG, etc.   Phyto-cannabinoids are thought to work similarly as the body's Endocannabinoids to help regulate certain body functions. Fun Fact- Cannabis and Hops(humulus) are in the  Cannabaceae family.  It has been reported that certain strains of hops produce phyto-cannabinoids such as CBD. 

More than 100 cannabinoids have been identified to date.  Different strains of cannabis produce different amounts of cannabinoids.  Some of the most popular and most studied are as follows: 

• THC (Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol)
• CBD (Cannabidiol)
• CBN (Cannabinol) 
• CBC (Cannabichromene)
• CBG (Cannabigerol)
• THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid)
• THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)
• CBDV (Cannabidivarin)

Not all Cannabinoids have psychoactive properties.  THC is the most well known cannabinoid that produces the "High".CBD, CBG and many others may provide benefits without the psychoactive feeling. 

Products can come in a number of formulations.  Some may only have a single compound while others include a number of compounds to provide an Entourage Effect.  Let's dive into these a littleIsolate- 1 single compound in it's purest form. For Example CBD ONLY!Full Spectrum- Includes all of the cannabinoids and possibly other compounds within the plant.Broad Spectrum- Similar to the Full Spectrum, however it has the THC removed for patients that either choose not to consume, or have other extenuating circumstances that don't allow for THC. 

It's basically the notion that a single compound will change it's behavior and affects when in the presence of other compounds. HUH?....  It's Synergy- the combined efforts of two or more substances created a greater effect than the sum of each substance on its own. More bang for your buck when you have them all together in proper dosing. 

This is quite possibly the most important question, because if you have tried any of these products that means you have ailments that need addressed and are not getting the relief that you need.  Short answer is Proper Consultation.  Not all products are created equal, and not all products should be used to address a certain ailment.  Quality, Dosage, & Application all play very important roles in finding a reliable product.  Find a provider that can consult with you to help you find the right product.