Cannabinoid 101

written by Neobud

Did you know that there are over seventy cannabinoids that interact with your body's endocannabinoid system? At NEOBUD, we're dedicated to providing you with the best products and services possible, which is why we're excited to share our knowledge with you in this comprehensive cannabinoid guide. While you might already be familiar with popular cannabinoids such as THC and CBD, there are many others that you may not be aware of. With our cannabinoid guide, you can discover the diverse properties of the various cannabis compounds and expand your knowledge of these fascinating substances.

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Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THC-A) - Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, or THC-A, is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. It is the precursor to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive compound responsible for the "high" associated with marijuana use. THC-A is present in freshly harvested cannabis plants and only converts to THC through a process called decarboxylation, which occurs when the plant material is heated, vaporized, or smoked. Unlike THC, THC-A is non-intoxicating, meaning it does not produce the same psychoactive effects. However, research has shown that THC-A may have potential therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antiemetic properties. In recent years, THC-A has gained popularity as a wellness supplement and can be found in various forms, such as capsules, tinctures, and topicals.

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Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) - Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC for short, is the primary psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. It is responsible for the "high" associated with marijuana use. THC is a cannabinoid that interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system by binding to CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system. This interaction can lead to various effects, including altered perception, mood, and appetite.

THC is found in varying concentrations in different cannabis strains and products, and its effects can vary based on factors such as dosage, consumption method, and the individual's tolerance and sensitivity to the compound. THC is typically consumed through smoking, vaping, or ingesting cannabis products such as edibles, tinctures, and capsules.

Beyond its recreational use, THC has also shown potential therapeutic benefits. It has been studied for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antiemetic properties, among others.

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Cannabidiolic acid (CBD-A) - Cannabidiolic Acid, or CBD-A for short, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in the raw, unprocessed cannabis plant. It is the precursor to CBD, one of the most well-known and studied cannabinoids. CBD-A is produced by the plant's trichomes and is the most abundant cannabinoid in some strains.

CBD-A is non-psychoactive, which means it does not produce the "high" associated with THC. Instead, it is believed to have a variety of potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties. CBD-A has also been shown to have potential in inhibiting the growth of certain cancer cells.

When raw cannabis is exposed to heat or light, the naturally occurring CBD-A is converted into CBD through a process known as decarboxylation. This is why many CBD products are made from decarboxylated cannabis or hemp, rather than raw plant material.

Overall, CBD-A is an important and promising cannabinoid that is still being studied for its potential therapeutic benefits.

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Cannabidiol (CBD) - Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike its psychoactive cousin, THC, CBD does not produce a "high" or intoxication. Instead, it is believed to have numerous potential health benefits, which is why it has gained so much attention in recent years.

CBD has been studied for its potential to help alleviate a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, pain, inflammation, seizures, and sleep disorders. It has also been found to have antioxidant and neuroprotective properties, which may be helpful in the treatment of neurological conditions like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

One of the reasons CBD has gained so much attention is that it appears to be well-tolerated and relatively safe for most people. According to the World Health Organization, CBD has no potential for abuse or dependence and has a good safety profile. This makes it an appealing alternative to pharmaceuticals that may come with unwanted side effects or risks.

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Cannabigerol (CBG) - is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that is found in the cannabis plant. It is one of the lesser-known cannabinoids, but its potential benefits have been gaining attention in recent years. CBG is produced in the early stages of the plant's growth and is considered a precursor to many of the other cannabinoids.

CBG interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which regulates many physiological processes, including mood, appetite, and sleep. CBG is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential treatment for conditions such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. It is also thought to have neuroprotective properties and may be useful in treating conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease.

CBG has been shown to have antibacterial properties, which means it may be effective in treating infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria. Additionally, it has been suggested that CBG may be helpful in reducing intraocular pressure, which is a major risk factor for glaucoma.

Overall, while more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of CBG, it has the potential to be a powerful tool in treating a wide range of conditions. As with any cannabinoid, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before using CBG to treat any medical conditions.

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Cannabichromene (CBC) - is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Like other cannabinoids, CBC interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system to produce various effects. CBC is present in lower concentrations than other well-known cannabinoids such as THC and CBD.

CBC is known to have potential health benefits, such as reducing inflammation, promoting neurogenesis (the growth and development of new brain cells), and relieving pain. It may also have potential in the treatment of acne, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, CBC may work synergistically with other cannabinoids and terpenes in what is known as the "entourage effect", which can enhance the overall benefits of the cannabis plant.

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Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) - is a cannabinoid found in cannabis. It is structurally similar to THC, but it produces different effects. THCV is known to have appetite suppressant properties, and it may also have potential benefits for diabetes, as some studies have shown that it can help regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, THCV may have potential as an anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective agent, although more research is needed to fully understand its effects. THCV is found in small amounts in most cannabis strains, but it is more abundant in certain African landrace strains.

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Cannabidivarin (CBDV) - is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. It is similar to CBD in structure but has a shorter side-chain. CBDV has shown potential as a treatment for epilepsy and other neurological disorders, with some studies suggesting it may have anticonvulsant effects. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and may have therapeutic potential for conditions such as Crohn's disease and multiple sclerosis. Additionally, CBDV has been investigated for its potential to treat autism spectrum disorder, as some studies have shown it can reduce seizures and improve behavioral symptoms in individuals with autism. However, further research is needed to fully understand the benefits and potential uses of CBDV.