6 Main Compounds Available in a Cannabis Plant

The cannabis is plant is full of many special chemicals and compounds, which have a significant positive effect when they interact with various receptors in human bodies through the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The role of ECS is to control pain, sleep, memory, mood, appetite, and so forth. It consists of two receptors, CB1 and CB2, which primarily exist in the brain and peripheral nervous system (PNS) in that order. The positive impacts triggered by cannabis compounds include helping people rest after a tiresome day and alleviating the pain associated with health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy. With cannabis rapidly growing as an important source of medical products, researchers have been busy researching the potential of the plant as well as its compounds. Currently, they have discovered 6 major compounds that demonstrate huge potential in treating diseases and improving the quality of life.

1. Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA)

THCA is a non-psychotropic cannabinoid available in a raw marijuana plant. When allowed to dry, THCA present in the plant gradually changes to Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – a process that heat speeds up. While there is limited research on the impacts of THCA, some preclinical studies have discovered that this unique compound is beneficial to the endocannabinoid system. Some of its beneficial effects range from anti-spasmodic effects, anti-insomnia effects, to anticonvulsant effects.

Some patients and caregivers are juicing raw, fresh marijuana and reporting impressive results. THCA seems to be effective in treating chronic immune system diseases.  This compound is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that are helpful in people with endometriosis, arthritis, and even menstrual cramps.

2. 

   Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

THC is one of the major and most popular compounds present in the cannabis plant. It is known for its strong psychoactive effects. It functions like the natural cannabinoid chemicals found in the human body and binds with CB1 receptors as well as CB2 receptors. It excites cells in the brain to produce dopamine, causing euphoria. It supplements natural cannabinoids made by our bodies. Other than euphoric effects, THC is believed to increase appetite by activating receptors in our bodies to produce hunger hormones. The strong anti-inflammatory effects associated with THC make it effective in treating symptoms of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, depression, and Parkinson’s disease.

Numerous studies have shown that THC can help in killing cancerous tumors. Patients across the globe have reported that THC is instrumental in reducing nausea and vomiting triggered by chemotherapy.  This cannabis component has been found to be effective in managing glaucoma.

3. Cannabidiol (CBD)

CBD is another major cannabis component that has received global attention for its various medical benefits. CBD is an ideal choice for the conscious consumer since it lacks psychotropic effects associated with THC. Instead of activating CB1 and CB2 receptors, it stimulates other receptors that trigger anti-inflammatory effects and reduce cancer cell progression and bone re-absorption. CBD has been found to be effective in alleviating psychotropic effects of THC, which makes combining the two cannabinoids during treatment a wise decision. Researchers have discovered that CBD contains anti-convulsive, anti-psychotic, anti-rheumatoid arthritis, anti-nausea, and sedative properties. Sometimes CBD comes with a unique, cherry taste that is akin to cough syrup’s flavor.  Considering that CBD is not psychoactive, people without illnesses may experience little to no effect from it.

4. Cannabinol (CBN)

CBN is arguably one of the least researched cannabis components. It is formed when oxygen reacts with THC in the presence of light. It is thought to have some slight psychoactive effects, and it seems to improve the effects of THC. Many studies have reported CBN to have anti-spasmodic effects, anti-epileptic effects, and the ability to reduce intraocular pressure. A recent research reports that CBN has antidepressant properties that can help keep convulsions at bay and create sedative effects in patients experiencing chronic pain.

CBN may cause dizziness and sleepiness in users, and it is rarely used for medical purposes. It is imperative to always keep your weed in an airtight container and place it in a dark spot. This way, you will prevent THC from converting to CBN, which may give you an intense body high. A few studies have shown that CBN has the potential to help individuals with glaucoma, insomnia, and inflammation.

5. Cannabichromene (CBC)

CBC is one of the major components of cannabis that is catching the attention of scientific communities at a fast-paced rate. Researchers are conducting a multitude of studies with an aim of determining the anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects of this compound. CBC is a non-psychotropic cannabinoid popular for its numerous therapeutic abilities. Similar to CBD, this compound has a weak interaction with CB1 and CB2 receptors, preventing it from producing a high when consumed. Recent research has discovered that CBC may be effective in the treatment of acne and inhibiting cancerous tumor.

A study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology back in 2011 established that CBD and CBC activated descending conduits of antinociception and triggered analgesia by reacting with a couple of target proteins responsible for nociceptive control. CBC has anti-fungal properties that help it fight bacteria, virus, and fungus. It also has anti-inflammatory and antibiotic effects. It can help in pain relief, treating depression, and promoting brain growth.

6. Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDA)

Present in the trichomes of raw, fresh weed plants, CBDA is the predecessor of the more common cannabinoid called CBD. When exposed to heat, CBDA converts from its acid state into CBD. With sufficient heat and time, CBDA breaks down and leaves behind an “activated” CBD. Decarboxylation or decarbing is the process of turning CBDA into CBD. Although there is limited research on CBDA alone, a few studies have established that CBDA has anti-cancer and anti-nausea properties.

Given that there are about 500 compounds in the marijuana plant, the above six are just a drop in the ocean. With the cannabis plant becoming more accessible and more investment in its research, researchers will continue to discover more compounds and health benefits of the existing ones. The services of a certified cannabinoid expert will come in handy when you are incorporating these compounds into your lifestyle and treatment plan.