What are cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are any group of closely related compounds which include cannabinol and the active constituents of cannabis. Let’s break it down. Most adults have heard of CBD and THC, the most popular psychoactive chemical compounds in cannabis. But there are actually over 85 types of cannabinoids in cannabis, and they are capable of producing a wide range of effects on the body.
How do cannabinoids work?
Cannabinoids are the chemicals that affect the human body found within cannabis. The human body is equipped with an endocannabinoid system, a natural bodily regulation system that involves brain receptors that these cannabinoids can attach to affect your body’s sleep, mood, appetite, and even fertility. This is just the nature of the human body and has nothing to do with whether or not you have ever used cannabis products before. However, science is still discovering how best to use the endocannabinoid system and its many benefits to the human body and brain.
What are the benefits of cannabinoids?
With the number of cannabis products on the market today, it can seem like cannabis is a cure-all for any ailment. Although cannabinoids are often used to help patients deal with chronic pain, insomnia, cancer, HIV and AIDS, Muscle Spasms, PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and now, it’s even being prescribed for mental health issues like anxiety and insomnia. As cannabis products become legal in more states, there is a more significant opportunity for further scientific research. Some researchers even think that using specific cannabinoids in isolation may help with diseases and other conditions.
What are the most common cannabinoids?
THC is the principal psychoactive cannabinoid. The majority of cannabis strains are bred to have a high THC content. Medicinally studies have shown that THC can help reduce the risk of nerve damage, slow inflammation, stimulate appetite, reduce pain, minimize nausea, relieve eye pressure, suppress muscle spasms, and even treat depression.
CBD
CBD is another major phytocannabinoid. CBD also has a variety of medicinal uses and has been shown to help control epileptic seizures, decrease pressure in the blood vessel walls, stimulate bone growth, prevent the growth of bacteria, alleviate headaches, reduce pain, and slow inflammation.
CBG
CBG is also a phytocannabinoid; this is typically found in higher concentrations of hemp than within medical cannabis. Medically CBG isn’t as well known but has been shown to stop bacterial growth and can even stimulate bone growth!
CBC
CBC is getting a little more attention these days as studies have shown it to be exponentially more effective in treating anxiety and stress than CBD. Medically it has also been shown to stop fungal growth and provide anti-viral effects. But unfortunately, it typically only occurs in trace amounts in cannabis.
CBN
CBN is another well-known cannabinoid, but it only occurs in trace amounts of the cannabis plant. It has been shown to act as a sleep aid; it can help to control pain and slow inflammation.
Closing Thoughts
Every individual is different; our bodies are unique, and so are our predispositions. This means that not everyone reacts to cannabis products the same way. Additionally, there can be a lot of dangerous by-products processed along with cannabis products. The safest and best practice when using cannabis products is first to have your products tested by a quality 3rd party lab. Lux Leaf DX is a reputable lab with state-of-the-art equipment. We can ensure that your product is safe and effective with no dangerous chemicals included. It’s not uncommon for cannabis products to contain heavy metals, mycotoxins, and pesticides, which can be extremely dangerous for humans. A lab report can warn you of hazardous byproducts. It can also inform you about exactly which cannabinoids are in a specific cannabis product; working with a lab can help you better understand what you’re putting in your body. Reach out today; we’re here to help!