What is a Cannabinoid?

A Cannabinoid is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant and in our bodies. We also have a series of receptors in our bodies which react to the cannabinoids which is called the endocannabinoid system. These receptors can react in many different ways when encountering cannabinoids. The most prominent reaction to the cannabinoids is the balance of your stress levels.

The most important receptor you have is the CB1 receptor which is located in the brain and the nervous system, these are the receptors that activate the THC to produce the “high” that we feel. Unlike how the receptor reacts to THC it reacts to CBD in a different way. CBD can even block the THC from the receptors which can decrease the “high” you would have felt. This is why THC dominant strains will give you a more powerful “high” then a hybrid of THC and CBD.

When cooking with cannabis you can use different types of Cannabinoids. CBD is used as well as THC and it is commonly used for medicinal purposes including chronic pain management. THC Cannabinoids react to the receptors in the way which gets you “high”, and is associated with euphoria.

Cannabinoids have many positives to them. They can reduce anxiety, relieve pain, reduce inflammation and increase appetite. CBD and THC can help relieve pain almost immediately because of the location of the receptors on the immune cells which are called CB2 receptors. They react to the Cannabinoids in a potent anti-inflammatory way. Cannabinoids are a medical breakthrough with so many uses on the horizon.

Connor Jenkings / March 2020