Thoughtful Living

This article was originally published on Leafwell. Aromadendrene (aka alloaromadendrene) is a sesquiterpenoid and a natural product found in mushrooms of the Melanoleuca genus, Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), and sour fruits. Aromadendrene is also found in cannabis and plays a part in the plant’s anti-inflammatory properties via the entourage effect. This makes aromadendrene potentially very useful for managing chronic pain. Aromadendrene also has anti-cancer and antibacterial properties. Some suggest that aromadendrene helps tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) pass through the blood-brain barrier (BBB) more readily. Aromadendrene is said to have an earthy, wood-like smell. What Is Aromadendrene? Aromadendrene is said to have a moderately earthy and wood-like smell and is often found in eucalyptus trees, guava leaves, pineapple, and cannabis oil. Aromadendrene is a sesquiterpenoid with the molecular formula C15H24. Other sesquiterpenoids, like sativene and sesquiracene, also have the same molecular formula. Sesquiterpenoids are the most diverse class of terpenoids. Terpenoids are terpenes that contain other functional groups, sometimes containing oxygen. This means that, although related to terpenes, terpenoids are a class of compounds of their own with distinct effects and pharmacology. Terpenes are considered a subclass of terpenoids. Diterpenes and sesquiterpenes are also terpenoids. Hydrolysis (splitting with water) of intermediates from farnesyl pyrophosphate gives sesquiterpenoids, and hydrolysis of intermediates from geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate gives diterpenoids. How Aromadendrene Works Aromadendrene’s efficacy could be due to its structure, which contains: An exocyclic methylene group that confers antibacterial properties. A cyclopropane ring that has anesthetic properties that could help reduce pain sensation. Various terpenoids in cannabis trigger sensations like smell and taste. Triggering these sensations can elicit specific reactions based on targeted receptor systems. Most terpenes (except the terpene and atypical cannabinoid, beta-caryophyllene) do not, as far as we know so far, interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). However, this does not mean terpenes do not affect other receptor systems and contribute to the overall therapeutic effects of cannabis. In the case of aromadendrene, it acts on both serotonin and dopamine receptors and can promote the release of serotonin. Health Benefits and Uses Aromadendrene has potential therapeutic uses as an: Antibacterial, with aromadendrene synergizing with the terpene cineole and enhancing their antibacterial effects. Anti-inflammatory. Antioxidant. Antidepressant. Anti-cancer terpenoid, especially when combined with β-caryophyllene. Extracts from the leaves (and sometimes fresh leaves) of the plant, Vernonia scorpioides (common names include bitterleaf, ewuro, ndole, and onugbu), have been used topically in traditional medicine for the treatment of various skin problems (e.g., pruritus, or itchy skin), allergies and chronic ulcers. Vernonia scorpioides contains many terpenes and terpenoids, including germacrene D, transcariophilene, limonene, Δ-cardinene, bicyclogermacrene, β-pinene, β-myrcene, α-copaene, α-humulene, polyacetylene, glaucolide, scorpioidin and sesquiterpene lactones alongside aromadendrene. Frequently Asked Questions What is aromadendrene used for? In traditional medicine, extracts from plants containing aromadendrene were used topically to treat various skin conditions, including pruritus, irritation, and acne. It is also an industrial compound used in perfumery and skincare products. What is aromadendrene found in? Aromadendrene is commonly found in many plants throughout the world, including cannabis. Some plants with high concentrations of aromadendrene include: Various plants of the Eucalyptus genus, including Eucalyptus globulus (Southern blue gum or blue gum), Eucalyptus radiata (narrow-leaved peppermint or Forth River peppermint), Eucalyptus dives (broad-leaf peppermint or blue peppermint) and Eucalyptus citriodora (lemon-scented gum). Cleome amblyocarpa (spider flower). Plants of the genus Kickxia, such as Kickxia spuria (roundleaf cancerwort or round-leaved fluellen) and Kickxia elatine (sharpleaf cancerwort). Is aromadendrene good for health? There is no known evidence that aromadendrene is harmful to health when consumed in fruit, vegetables, or cannabis. However, it is possible to face some adverse effects due to consumption of or overexposure to essential oils containing aromadendrene, such as: Drowsiness. Persistent cough, gagging/choking, shortness of breath, wheezing. Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Skin irritation (skin exposure) and contact dermatitis. Chemical burns. Eye redness, irritation, or pain (eye exposures). In rare instances or after consuming large amounts, slow/shallow breathing, seizures, or coma. Essential oils can be toxic when consumed or misapplied as they contain high, concentrated doses of terpenes and terpenoids.

This article was originally published on Leafwell. Both cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabidiol (CBD) are phytocannabinoids (plant cannabinoids), and CBG is a minor cannabinoid not found in large concentrations in the cannabis plant. In contrast, CBD is one of two major cannabinoids found in much higher concentrations in cannabis, alongside tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). What Is CBG? CBG is the decarboxylated version of cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). In the cannabis plant, CBGA is considered the “parent cannabinoid,” as it is the precursor to both tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA). Enzymes in cannabis convert CBGA to CBDA. However, there is often a small amount of CBGA/CBG left in the cannabis plant even after it is fully matured and harvested. Some varieties of cannabis may contain more CBG than others, and it is often the third most common phytocannabinoid found in cannabis. How It Works Little is known about how CBG works and interacts with the body, but it is thought to be a CB1 and CB2 receptor antagonist in the presence of THC, meaning it blocks or reduces the responsiveness of CB1 and CB2 receptors when used at the same time as THC. This means that CBG could actually dampen THC’s psychoactivity to some extent. Other research suggests that CBG is a partial agonist of CB1 and CB2 receptors but does not have the same psychoactive effects THC has. CBG may also inhibit the reuptake of the human body’s version of THC, anandamide, as it inhibits the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase. This can increase the amount of anandamide in the body. Some research suggests that high doses of CBG can also reduce THC and CBD’s anti-emetic (anti-nausea) properties due to its potential as a serotonin receptor 5HT1A antagonist. Still, this research was performed on rats and does not necessarily mean it’ll have the same therapeutic potential in humans. Overall, it seems that CBG’s effects are complicated. Many strains (cultivars) do not tend to contain high levels of CBG, but some types contain 1%-2%, which seems to affect the overall experience of the cannabis consumed. Uses Cannabis varieties high in CBG have been reported as having more stimulating, energizing effects, especially when combined with terpenes like limonene and terpinolene (alpha-terpinene). This makes this cannabinoid potentially very useful for: Anxiety Depression Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) CBG may also have some anti-cancer properties. Potential Benefits Contributes to the entourage effect of cannabis. Has anti-cancer properties, especially when combined with other cannabinoids. It has more uplifting effects, making it useful for daytime use and those seeking to alleviate a low mood. Can help relieve pain and inflammation and may help manage weight, too. Could help relieve nerve pain (neuropathy). Risks and Drawbacks CBG could reverse the anti-nausea effects of THC and CBD when used in high doses. Reports of both an increase and a decrease in appetite can be a risk or drawback, depending on your condition. What Is CBD? CBD is the decarboxylated form of CBDA, and it is a non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid that is often second-most abundant in the cannabis or hemp plant. How It Works Even though CBD has a low affinity for binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors, the compound “behaves as a non-competitive negative allosteric modulator” of the body’s cannabinoid receptors reducing the potency of THC. CBD is sometimes considered a CB1 receptor antagonist because of this. CBD interacts with serotonin receptor 5HT1A, modulating serotonergic transmission. CBD is also a COX-2 enzyme inhibitor, helping relieve pain and inflammation similarly to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen. Uses CBD provides therapeutic benefits for conditions like: Chronic pain Neuropathic pain (nerve pain) Arthritis Anxiety Depression Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Stress and inflammation Headaches/migraine Insomnia CBD’s anti-inflammatory effects could also make it useful for cancer, epilepsy, and autoimmune diseases like Crohn’s and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Potential Benefits Potential benefits of CBD include: A reduction in pain Anti-nausea Anti-inflammatory Anti-seizure Risks and Drawbacks The quality of products is highly variable. May need the presence of other cannabinoids to be effective. CBD can interfere with the metabolism of certain drugs, including anti-seizure medications and painkillers. Similarities and Differences Between CBG and CBD Even though CBGA is CBDA’s parent compound, it is found in cannabis in much lower percentages. Despite being different in many ways, CBG and CBD are thought to have some similarities in the effects that have been reported, including: Energizing in low doses. Helps alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression. Both cannabinoids may help maintain a healthy weight. How to Decide Which Is Best For You The combination of both may be ideal and most useful. Due to its low percentage in cannabis, there are few CBG-only products, and the ones that exist may vary in quality. When to Use CBG CBG-rich products may be best utilized during the daytime, especially with CBD. When to Use CBD CBD-rich products are ideal for daytime use due to their lack of intoxicating effects. High doses of CBD may be ideal for those looking to alleviate anxiety or insomnia. The Bottom Line CBD and CBG are useful for many conditions due to their stress-beating and anti-inflammatory effects, and they are best used together and influence how each cannabinoid behaves. However, both compounds are complex and more research is needed before we can determine conclusively how beneficial cannabinoids are. Frequently Asked Questions Is CBG or CBD better? Neither cannabinoid is better than the other, and both have their potential uses. There is a greater abundance of research on CBD than CBG at the moment. How is CBD different from CBG? CBG and CBD are different cannabinoids with different effects. Neither is intoxicating in the way THC is, and CBG may even counteract some of THC’s and CBD’s effects. What is better for sleep, CBG or CBD? In low doses, neither cannabinoid is good for sleep. CBG and CBD may need to be consumed in higher doses for sedative effects.

Table of contents Types of Terpenes How Terpenes Work in Cannabis The Bottom Line Frequently Asked Questions This article was originally published on Leafwell. Terpenes are aromatic compounds, which means they are responsible for the fragrances that we can smell in many plants. The cannabis species has around 200 different terpenes. However, at least 20,000 other terpenes exist elsewhere in nature. While cannabis plants are primarily used because they contain delta-9-THC and cannabidiol (CBD), some studies claim that terpenes could also have an impact on the effects of cannabis. Terpenes are not necessarily intoxicating like THC, but could be considered psychoactive as they do affect the brain and could create a high feeling. Terpenes contribute to the cannabis high through a mechanism known as the entourage effect. Types of Terpenes More than 200 different terpenes have been identified in the cannabis plant. Each plant has different combinations and quantities of these terpenes. Some of the most common terpenes in cannabis include: Myrcene Beta-Caryophyllene Humulene Pinene Linalool Limonene Alpha-Bisabolol Farnesene Myrcene is found in citrus fruits, lemongrass, carrots and pomegranate. Caryophyllene is present in black pepper and several spices. Humulene is found in many herbs. Limonene is in citrus peels, and linalool is in coriander. Terpenes do not possess any psychoactive effects, which means they will not get you high on their own. But since these compounds exist within the cannabis plant, many people are still curious whether they have some effect on the body. Given that everyday foods also contain these terpenes, it is unlikely they will make anyone high. However, it has been suggested that terpenes might enhance the effects of psychoactive cannabinoids such as delta-9-THC. Scientists refer to this mechanism as the entourage effect. So, while terpenes alone cannot make you high, they affect the brain and influence, amplify or dampen psychoactive effects when coupled with specific compounds. Terpenes are not intoxicating, but are technically psychoactive. How Terpenes Work in Cannabis THC and CBD produce effects on their own, but different terpenes enhance those effects. Other compounds within the cannabis plant, such as flavonoids, may also contribute to this synergy. For example, Cannabis sativa is a strain with higher THC quantities. However, sativa plants with more caryophyllene are said to enhance the high from THC. Furthermore, scientific evidence demonstrates that this terpene can bind to the same receptors as THC, most notably CB2 receptors (not CB1 receptors). Hence, caryophyllene might play an important role in the effect that THC has on the body. In contrast, Cannabis sativa plants with higher quantities of limonene are said to increase alertness. Additionally, myrcene might also have a synergistic effect with CBD. High quantities of myrcene can be found within the Cannabis indica strain. This terpene is said to have a calming and relaxing effect. CBD also has these effects, and when combined with myrcene, the anxiety reduction could be more significant. Cannabis varieties with less myrcene and more limonene could be more uplifting, whereas varieties higher in myrcene could be more sedative. Some researchers also think that terpenes could be used for therapeutic benefits once more evidence has come to light. For instance, some forms of pharmaceutical cannabis and cannabinoid-based medications only contain pure forms of THC or CBD. By adding terpenes to the formula, the therapeutic effects of these compounds could be enhanced. They may not only add to the high sensation, but they could also help with health and wellbeing, as well as reduce the impact of adverse effects. Overall, terpenes appear to help other compounds by improving their effects. Despite this, they have little to no effect on their own. Future research will investigate this connection in further detail to determine how one particular terpene could alter the effects of THC or CBD. The Bottom Line Terpenes are interesting compounds because of their entourage effect, which enhances the effects of the cannabinoids THC and CBD. Terpenes alone cannot make you high; however, they can contribute to a cannabis high due to their interaction. More research is required to understand this process in greater detail. However, it does look promising, and scientists also think terpenes could have therapeutic value. Frequently Asked Questions How do terpenes influence the effects of cannabis? Terpenes influence the effects of cannabis via a mechanism known as the entourage effect. For example, this mechanism can enhance or facilitate the effects of THC by binding to the same receptors in the body that THC does, or by influencing the behavior of other receptor systems such as dopamine, serotonin and GABA receptors. Are terpenes more important than THC? THC does not necessarily require terpenes to be effective. However, terpenes can enhance the effects of THC slightly. THC has a well-defined and noticeable effect. The benefits of terpenes, although not as immediately impactful as THC, is not to be undermined, as they contain many anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Terpenes could be said to be equally as important as THC, although this may depend upon person and condition.

Table of contents What Is 11-hydroxy-THC? How It Impacts the Human Body How to Avoid Consuming Too Much 11-hydroxy-THC Frequently Asked Questions This article was originally published on Leafwell. When you eat a product containing THC, your liver will process the THC and convert it into 11-hydroxy-THC. 11-hydroxy-THC (11-OH-THC) is the main active metabolite of THC. 11-hydroxy THC has a psychoactive effect similar to THC but has a faster onset, and it may be particularly effective for people suffering from chronic pain. However, the body’s absorption rates of 11-hydroxy-THC are relatively low, and the compound is not easy to keep stable outside of using solvents. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) may be the better option for using medical cannabis for pain and stress, but 11-hydroxy THC does have its uses, especially when it comes to inflammation. Unfortunately, the metabolite has not yet been studied in any great detail for its medicinal and therapeutic properties, but this is the case for THC as well. What Is 11-hydroxy-THC? 11-hydroxy-THC is the third form of a chemical found in raw cannabis. It will start as THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) in fresh cannabis, converted into THC after aging and heating. When consumed, THC is metabolized by the liver into 11-hydroxy-THC and then 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC. Eating THC-infused edibles increases the amount of 11-hydroxy-THC available in the blood because oral consumption allows THC to pass through the liver first. THC passes through the liver first, called the “first-pass effect” or “first-pass metabolism.” The liver enzyme CYP2C9 is responsible for metabolizing THC. Interestingly, when cannabis is consumed in this way, less THC makes its way around the body, and more THC is excreted. However, as the THC passes through the liver first, it is more readily converted into 11-hydroxy-THC. 1 mg of THC consumed orally can feel more potent than 1 mg of inhaled THC. Inhaling THC via vaping or smoke means THC goes through the lungs and straight into the blood, so the liver doesn’t get to convert as much THC into 11-hydroxy-THC. How It Impacts the Human Body 11-hydroxy-THC is thought to be 2-3 times more potent than THC and could have significantly more significant psychoactive effects. Orally consumed THC also needs to be digested first, so it can take longer for the effects to take about 1-2 hours. There is little research into how 11-hydroxy THC affects the brain and the body. The increased duration of time edibles have an effect for and the potentially greater psychoactivity of 11-hydroxy THC suggests that it could help treat chronic pain and insomnia. However, those who are not tolerant of THC may find the effects overwhelming. How to Avoid Consuming Too Much 11-hydroxy-THC Slow-and-low is the ideal way to go when it comes to avoiding the over-ingestion of THC. We recommend starting with a dosage of around 2 – 3 mg, waiting for an hour or two to see what effect it has, then consuming 2 – 3 mg more if needed. You can always go forward, but you cannot go back. It is easy to think, “This edible isn’t having any effect on me,” and then start eating more. The fact that so many edibles are sweet treats makes eating them all at once particularly enticing. However, it is best to avoid doing this, as many have become overly intoxicated this way. Having some non-cannabis (and ideally wholesome and healthy) treats to hand can help prevent overindulgence. Check out our blog here for tips on counteracting a negative experience. Frequently Asked Questions Why do people say the high from eating edibles is different? The “high” you get from edibles is different from inhaling cannabis because THC passes through the digestive system and liver first, meaning a greater amount of THC is converted into the more psychoactive 11-hydroxy-THC (11-OH-THC). Many people find that eating decarboxylated cannabis has a stronger effect than inhaling cannabis. The effecgts of edibles tend to last longer, too. Why do cannabis edibles seem to have little to no effect on me? Everyone has a different metabolism, so how one person processes THC can differ from how another person metabolizes THC. Genetic differences in liver enzymes like cytochrome P450 can affect how the body metabolizes drugs and medications, cannabis included. Other variables such as diet and what you’ve had to eat recently, body-mass index (BMI), individual tolerance, and activity levels can all affect the experience you have on edibles. The presence of other cannabinoids and terpenes, like cannabidiol (CBD) and beta-caryophyllene, can also affect the overall experience, as CBD can dampen THC’s psychoactivity to some extent. For more information on dosing medical cannabis, check out our guide here.  

Table of contents What Are Phytocannabinoids? What’s the Difference Between Phytocannabinoids, Cannabinoids, and Endocannabinoids? How Phytocannabinoids Work How They’re Created Functions, Benefits, and Therapeutic Uses The Bottom Line This article was originally published on Leafwell. Phytocannabinoids are compounds found in cannabis plants, the most well-known being THC and CBD. They have a range of beneficial effects and can help relieve the symptoms of various medical conditions. Read on to learn more about how these compounds work. What Are Phytocannabinoids? Phytocannabinoids are the cannabinoids found in cannabis. Although over 150 known cannabinoids exist, the most common cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). While it was initially thought that only Cannabis sativa housed phytocannabinoids, scientists have discovered that some flowers, legumes, and fungi also contain these molecules. However, these particular phytocannabinoids have slightly different chemical structures and have not yet been shown to produce the effects of the classical cannabinoids in cannabis plants. What’s the Difference Between Phytocannabinoids, Cannabinoids, and Endocannabinoids? Cannabinoids Cannabinoids are a class of molecules that cover both endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids. All cannabinoids have an active constituent that binds to the cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) within the body. There are natural cannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids. Synthetic cannabinoids come from artificial chemicals, are usually sprayed onto dried plant material, and are intended to mimic the effects of THC. However, they can be toxic, and many types of these synthetic cannabinoids are currently illegal in the United States. Phytocannabinoids Phytocannabinoids are a subgroup of cannabinoids that come from plants — mainly from cannabis — with the most common being THC and CBD. THC is a psychoactive cannabinoid that causes the “high” feeling associated with cannabis ingestion. CBD does not cause intoxicating effects, but it has many therapeutic benefits. Endocannabinoids Endocannabinoids — endogenous cannabinoids — are a subgroup of cannabinoids made in the body. They are found in the endocannabinoid system and play an essential role in maintaining homeostasis (balance). The two most important and well-studied endocannabinoids are anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG). How Phytocannabinoids Work Phytocannabinoids bind to cannabinoid receptors throughout the body and brain called CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are most prominent in the brain and central nervous system, while the CB2 receptors are primarily found in the immune and peripheral nervous systems. THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain to elicit psychoactive effects and produce many therapeutic effects. CBD binds to the CB2 receptors to aid in reducing inflammation, regulating the immune response, and other therapeutic uses. How They’re Created Cannabinoids are naturally present in the cannabis plant but not in their active form. For example, THC and CBD are found in acidic forms in the plant as tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA). CBDA and THCA come from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), where enzymes convert CBGA into CBDA or THCA. You may experience some therapeutic benefits from these cannabinoid acids. However, the psychoactive effect and most therapeutic effects require the cannabinoids to be activated. To be activated, these cannabinoid acids need to undergo a process called decarboxylation. This occurs when the cannabis is exposed to heat or light, such as smoked or cooked into edibles. Functions, Benefits, and Therapeutic Uses Functions Cannabinoids regulate how the parts of the body communicate with each other via the nervous system. They can also alter how signals are sent, received, and processed around the body. By binding to the CB receptors, cannabinoids can exert effects within the brain, central nervous system, immune system, and peripheral nervous system. THC binds to the CB1 receptor in the brain to produce psychoactive effects, whereas CBD does not cause these effects. CBD is an antagonist of CB1 and CB2 receptors in the presence of THC (meaning it reduces the psychoactive effects of THC). It is thought to improve mood and induce relaxation without THC’s signature “high” by modulating serotonin receptor transmission and enhancing anandamide signaling. Therapeutic uses Phytocannabinoids have many therapeutic uses in the body. The main phytocannabinoids, THC and CBD are usually the cannabinoids that come to mind when considering cannabis effects; however, the minor cannabinoids also have therapeutic benefits. THC. THC has many therapeutic benefits. It can be used to help treat or relieve symptoms of various conditions. These include: AIDS/HIV Alzheimer’s disease Anxiety Autoimmune diseases and disorders Cancer and cancer treatment Chronic pain Eating Disorders Glaucoma Insomnia Multiple sclerosis (MS) Nausea/vomiting Neuropathic pain Parkinson’s disease Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) CBD. Like THC, CBD can help treat and relieve symptoms of many conditions. Some of the conditions CBD may help include: Anxiety Autism Cancer Chronic Pain Depression Epilepsy Multiple sclerosis (MS) Neuroprotective effects Parkinson’s disease (PD) Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Stroke Minor cannabinoids. Minor cannabinoids in cannabis also have therapeutic uses. Cannabichromene (CBC) may be used to help treat: Acne Cancer Depression and anxiety Neurological conditions Pain and inflammation Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) may benefit those managing: Alzheimer’s disease Bone injuries Cancer Low blood sugar Pain PTSD Cannabigerol (CBG) may benefit patients managing: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) Anxiety Cancer Depression Glaucoma Head and brain trauma Huntington’s disease Inflammatory bowel diseases Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) Cannabinol (CBN) is sometimes called the sleepy cannabinoid as it is effective for treating insomnia due to its sedative effects. Additional benefits of CBN include: Anti-epileptic and anti-convulsant Anti-inflammatory Anti-bacterial Appetite stimulant Diabetes treatment Glaucoma treatment Hypertension treatment Mild pain relief The Bottom Line Phytocannabinoids come from plants, and the most common phytocannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). However, there are up to — and possibly over — 150 known cannabinoids. Phytocannabinoids have a lot of therapeutic potential and may help relieve symptoms of mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression and physical conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, and inflammation.

Table of contents What Are Endocannabinoids? What’s the Difference Between Endocannabinoids, Cannabinoids, and Phytocannabinoids? How Endocannabinoids Work How They’re Created Functions, Benefits, and Therapeutic Uses The Bottom Line This article was originally published on Leafwell. Endocannabinoids are molecules that play a role in making sure your body functions properly. They have several therapeutic uses, including helping to regulate inflammation, stress, and pain. Let’s learn more about them and how they work in the human body. What Are Endocannabinoids? Endocannabinoids or “endogenous cannabinoids” are neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) made by your endocannabinoid system (ECS). They affect behavior and cognition in a similar manner to THC — one of the main cannabinoids found in cannabis — but are produced within the body. The two most studied endocannabinoids are anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG). There are additional endocannabinoids, virodhamine, and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol ether, but these are not as well researched. What’s the Difference Between Endocannabinoids, Cannabinoids, and Phytocannabinoids? There’s a lot to learn about the ECS, including how cannabinoids, endocannabinoids, and phytocannabinoids differ. Basically: endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids are types of cannabinoids. The most significant difference between them is that your body makes endocannabinoids, whereas phytocannabinoids come from plants. Here is a bit more information about each of these compounds: Cannabinoids Cannabinoids are a class of molecules that contain a carboxyl group. This covers both endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids. All cannabinoids have an active constituent that binds (attaches) to the cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) within the brain and body or influences the behavior of cannabinoid receptors in some way if they do not bind to them directly.   Endocannabinoids Endocannabinoids are a sub-group of cannabinoids that are made in the body. The two most important and well-studied endocannabinoids are anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG). Phytocannabinoids Phytocannabinoids are a sub-group of cannabinoids that come from plants, specifically cannabis plants. There are over 150 different phytocannabinoids that have been discovered in cannabis plants, the most well-known being THC and CBD. THC is a psychoactive, intoxicating cannabinoid. When it binds to the CB1 receptors in the brain, it causes the “high” feeling commonly associated with cannabis ingestion. CBD does not have the same psychoactive effects as THC; however, it produces a lot of therapeutic benefits. How Endocannabinoids Work Endocannabinoids bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are found predominantly throughout the brain and central nervous system (CNS), and CB2 receptors are most commonly found within the immune system and peripheral nervous system. Endocannabinoids can bind to either cannabinoid receptor and elicit a different response from each type. If an endocannabinoid binds to a CB1 receptor in the CNS, it may help to relieve pain. In contrast, an endocannabinoid that attaches to a CB2 receptor in the immune system might help relieve symptoms of inflammation. How They’re Created Endocannabinoids are made from lipid membranes in the body. When the right signals occur, the endocannabinoids are “synthesized” and released into the body. The process that initiates the synthesis of endocannabinoids is not completely clear, though it is believed to involve an elevation of calcium inside the cells. It is also thought that the synthesis of each endocannabinoid is exclusive, meaning that different signals cause the synthesis of each endocannabinoid. In other words, anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) are not created simultaneously. Functions, Benefits, and Therapeutic Uses Functions Although the full extent of the functions of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is unknown, it is thought that the ECS plays a role in maintaining homeostasis. Homeostasis is a process in which the body regulates physiological functions such as body temperature and blood sugar to ensure the body continues functioning as expected, even when external conditions change. Specific parts of homeostasis that the ECS is thought to assist in regulating include: Appetite and digestion Inflammation and immune responses Memory and learning Metabolism Mood Reproductive system functioning Sleep Transporting signals around the body, such as the sensation of pain and pleasure The endocannabinoid system also plays an important role in the development of the brain and its synapses. Synapses are electrical connections within the brain that neurotransmitters (such as endocannabinoids) travel across to send information around the body. Therapeutic Uses Each endocannabinoid affects the body differently. 2-arachidonoyl glycerol, or 2-AG, is the most prevalent endocannabinoid, and it manages appetite, immune system regulation, and pain response. Anandamide, or AEA, is the chemical that causes the “runner’s high” you may experience after exercises such as running or even meditation and yoga. When cannabis is ingested, the phytocannabinoids (cannabinoids from the cannabis) bind to the endocannabinoids to exert their effects. The specific effects of the phytocannabinoids depend on which cannabinoid is ingested and which receptor it binds to. These therapeutic effects include: Pain relief Anti-inflammatory Anti-nausea Appetite stimulation Mood stabilization Anti-anxiety Antidepressant Multiple sclerosis treatment Epilepsy treatment Some conditions, such as IBS and Crohn’s disease, result from chronic inflammation caused by an imbalance in homeostasis. As the endocannabinoid system is believed to play a role in regulating the inflammatory response, endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids may help to reduce inflammation in these conditions. The Bottom Line Endocannabinoids are neurotransmitters produced by the endocannabinoid system within the body. These molecules play a role in maintaining homeostasis. Their structure is similar to phytocannabinoids (cannabinoids in cannabis), and they exert their effects on the body via the same receptors.