There are numerous compounds found in the cannabis plant, all of which have different properties and roles to play. Chlorophyll, for example, gives the plant a rich green hue while terpenes are responsible for the scent of the plant. But the most important compounds are its array of cannabinoids. These active compounds give the plant its medicinal and recreational properties.
There are two main categories of cannabinoids – endogenous cannabinoids, which our bodies produce naturally, and exogenous cannabinoids. These originate from plants and are also referred to as phytocannabinoids.
The latter is found in both cannabis and hemp, and in recent years, there has been a hive of research activity into the medicinal properties that these compounds can provide. Some of the most popular phytocannabinoids include THC and CBD.
CBD
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the better-known phytocannabinoids and it is believed to offer therapeutic benefits for a range of conditions. CBD is non-psychoactive, and this means that you can’t get high from using it, unlike other compounds in the cannabis plant.
It is legal in the UK to buy and take CBD and there are various forms of this supplement, from CBD isolate drops such as Vitabiotics CBD which are taken sublingually, to topical products and gummies.
THC
THC is known scientifically as tetrahydrocannabinol and it’s arguably the best known phytocannabinoid as it’s the psychoactive element of marijuana, meaning it’s the compound that elicits a high feeling. When THC binds with CB1 receptors in the brain, it releases endocannabinoids which affect our mood and our appetite. THC is also used as an anti-inflammatory remedy.
CBG
Cannabigerol, or CBG, is believed to be the precursor to many other phytocannabinoids, providing a range of therapeutic benefits, particularly for neuropathic pain. The enzymes located in the trichomes of the plant convert CBG into one of over 100 other cannabinoids, so once this process is complete, there’s actually very little CBG remaining.
CBDV
CBDV stands for cannabidivarin and this is another non-psychoactive compound in the plant which is the analogue of CBD.
CBDV is produced from 3-carbon molecules, also known as propyl (rather than pentyl which are 5-carbon molecules). CBDV and CBD share many properties and characteristics and researchers are studying this phytocannabinoid to see how it can be used as an anticonvulsant for people suffering with conditions such as epilepsy.
CBC
CBC is yet another phytocannabinoid with therapeutic properties, and it’s considered to be one of the most powerful compounds. CBC interacts with CB2 receptors in the body which can be found in tumour cells, which produce antigens. CBC is also the only phytocannabinoid which is believed to be able to stimulate the growth of brain cells, meaning it has the potential to be useful in anti-Alzheimer treatments.
While studies into cannabinoids and the benefits they have on your body are still very much taking place, existing research looks promising!