Cannabinoids
THC, CBD, CBG and the endocannabinoid system – understand the active compounds of the cannabis plant.
Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds that give cannabis its effects. The most well-known are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), but the cannabis plant produces over 100 different cannabinoids — each with its own properties and potential effects.
The interplay of these compounds is mediated through the body's own endocannabinoid system — a complex network of receptors (CB1 and CB2) involved in regulating pain perception, appetite, mood, sleep and immune function. Every person has this system, regardless of whether they consume cannabis.
Our articles explain the mechanisms of action of the most important cannabinoids, the endocannabinoid system and the differences between THC, CBD, CBG, CBN and other compounds. For strain selection, the cannabinoid profile is at least as important as the terpene profile — in our strain database you'll find both values for each strain.
All Articles — Cannabinoids
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): The Most Important Psychoactive Cannabinoid
THC is the primary psychoactive compound of the cannabis plant. This article explains its discovery, mechanism of action, medical applications, metabolism, detection times, and current research.
Cannabidiol (CBD): Effects, Applications, and Scientific Evidence
CBD is the second most abundant cannabinoid in cannabis and acts without psychoactive effects. This article covers its mechanism of action, medical applications, products, legal status, and separates myths from evidence.
Cannabigerol (CBG): The Mother of All Cannabinoids
CBG is the precursor to all other cannabinoids and is called the "mother of all cannabinoids." This article explains CBGA biosynthesis, its pharmacological profile, current research findings, and CBG-rich strains.
The Endocannabinoid System: The Body's Unknown Regulatory System
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is one of the most important regulatory systems in the human body. This article explains its discovery, components (anandamide, 2-AG, CB1, CB2), functions, and clinical endocannabinoid deficiency.
CBN (Cannabinol): The Sleep Cannabinoid?
CBN is formed through the degradation of THC and is marketed as a sedating cannabinoid. This article examines its formation, effect profile, actual study evidence, and use in combination with other cannabinoids.
THCV and CBDV: The Next Generation of Cannabinoids
THCV acts as an appetite suppressant and energizer, CBDV shows antiemetic effects and is being researched for autism and epilepsy. An overview of two emerging cannabinoids.
CBC — The Underestimated Cannabinoid
Cannabichromene (CBC) is one of the most abundant cannabinoids yet rarely in the spotlight. Current research points to anti-inflammatory and antidepressant properties.
Full Spectrum vs. Isolate — What Is the Difference?
Full spectrum, broad spectrum, isolate: what do these terms mean, why do terpene profiles matter, and what role does the entourage effect play in dried flower and extracts?
