Cannabinoids are a group of chemical compounds that are found in cannabis plants. Some are medicinal, recreational and synthetic. Researchers have identified over 100 different cannabinoids, with the most well-known being delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is a complex signaling system that plays a role in regulating various physiological and cognitive processes in the body.
Phytocannabinoids, such as those found in cannabis, can mimic the effects of endocannabinoids (cannabinoids that are naturally produced by the body). By interacting with the ECS, phytocannabinoids can modulate and influence a variety of physiological systems, leading to potential health benefits such as: seizure control, reduction of nausea and vomiting, decreased anxiety and depression, pain relief, and reduction of inflammation.
In raw cannabis flower, there are 8 major cannabinoid acids that can be found, including CBGA (Cannabigerolic acid), THCA (Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), CBDA (Cannabidiolic acid), CBCA (Cannabichromenic acid), CBGVA (Cannabigerovarinic acid), THCVA (Tetrahydrocannabivarinic acid), CBDVA (Cannabidivarinic acid), and CBCVA (Cannabichromevarinic acid). These cannabinoid acids can be converted into their corresponding cannabinoids, such as CBD or THC, through processes such as heating or aging.
