Know Your Cannabinoids
Elevate Yourself. Mind. Body. Soul.
Understanding Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are a group of closely related compounds found in cannabis or industrial hemp. They are also found in the human body and are part of the Endocannabinoid System, which regulates a variety of functions such as sleep, pain, appetite, and mood. The purpose of this biological system is to create a complete balance in your body.
When cannabis or hemp-derived products are consumed, its cannabinoids interact with the receptors in our brain and influence those physiological functions regulated by the Endocannabinoid System.
To date, there are over 100 different cannabinoids found in the cannabis and hemp plants. Each one interacts with our bodies differently. Because this is a newly discovered system in the human body, research is still being conducted on its interactions and effects.
THC-P (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol)
STRONGEST cannabinoid known to date and FEDERALLY LEGAL
The effects appear to be the most potent of any of the cannabinoids out there, which make it an attractive option for those who require higher doses in pain management, soothing insomnia, and more.
Known benefits include anti-nausea, appetite stimulation, stress relief
HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol)
This newly discovered cannabinoid derived from cannabis and hemp plants, typically found in the seeds and pollen. It’s psychoactive effects are meant to rival those of THC.
The effects appear to last longer than THC which makes it an attractive option for pain management, combating anxiety, and producing an appetite without negative side effects.
Known benefits include increased focus and energy levels, appetite stimulation, anti-inflammatory benefits, stress relief, and more.
CBN (Cannabinol)
A mild psychoactive cannabinoid known for its sedative or sleep aid benefits. It is most comparable to melatonin.
Studies have found it has helped regulate the immune system and worked to manage pain levels and inflammation.
Research has shown that it helps alleviate symptoms related to Crohn’s disease, arthritis, chronic post op pain, and seizures.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
Popular cannabinoid known for its non-pyschoactive properties and calming effects.
Known benefits include treatment for epilepsy, anxiety, and insomnia
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
The most well-known cannabinoid out there and federally ILLEGAL
Known benefits include treatment for conditions and symptoms related to cancer, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain
CBG (Cannabigerol)
Known as “The Mother of All Cannabinoids” because other cannabinoids are derived from it when it is in its acidic form.
- Found in higher concentrations in younger cannabis plants. It is not believed to have psychotropic effects
- Research suggests potential benefits for anxiety and depression, chronic pain, glaucoma, etc.
The Effect
The Entourage Effect is a synergy theory that the effects of the cannabinoids being consumed are influenced by other cannabinoids that are also present.
For example, THCP is believed to have similar psychoactive properties as THC because of their molecular structure and when coupled with the presence of HHC, a cannabinoid known for its longer lasting effects, you could have a more potent and longer lasting high as a result. Another example would be THCP + CBD. Research has suggested that consuming THCP and CBD simultaneously, may reduce the severity of the common psychoactive effects produced by the THCP, while still receiving the potential benefits they have to offer.
When you see the term, “full spectrum”, it means that you are getting the cannabinoid extract from the whole plant and it will contain extremely small amounts of THC and a range of other minor cannabinoids, plant terpenes, and essential oils. Many believe that “full spectrum” is necessary to achieve The Entourage Effect. “Broad spectrum” means steps have been taken to remove all detectable levels of THC.
2018 Farm Bill Act
The 2018 Farm Bill Act legalized the production of hemp as an agricultural commodity and removed it from the list of controlled substances. According to the bill, Hemp cannot contain more than 0.3% THC.
To understand the significance of the bill, you need to have a little background information on the hemp plant. It has been used by people for thousands of years for various purposes such as paper, pottery, rope, clothing, medicine, and more. Its seeds are considered a superfood and used to create teas, oils, crackers, and more. Did you know that the first American flags and currency were made from hemp?
It ended up on the wrong side of the law back in the early 1900’s when a timber tycoon ,William Randolph Hearst, started printing stories of propaganda around cannabis detailing the evils of the plant and its potential to cause a societal collapse. Eventually, through a series of legislative acts, the hemp plant ended up on the DEA’s list of controlled substances, as a Schedule 1 drug, the strictest regulated drug classification.
It took until the early 2000’s for there to be enough attention and call to action, for it to be heard in a federal court and subsequently ruled that there was a legal distinction between marijuana and hemp plants.
Decades later, the 2018 Farm Bill Act, federally legalized hemp. The impact this legislation made is huge and will continue to benefit Americans for years to come. The hemp industry has endless possibilities with its versatile use of the plant and offers eco-friendly products for consumers.
