Cannabis plants and mammals have chemical compounds in their systems called cannabinoids. In people, they are called endocannabinoids. In plants, they are known as phytocannabinoids. The cannabis plant has many cannabinoids. The number is believed to be over 120. The two best known and researched are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
THC is responsible for the way both your brain and body respond to cannabis, including the psychoactive effect, or “high,” and associated physical impairments.
Humans produce cannabinoids by way of an important system in our bodies called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Large amounts of research suggest that the ECS plays a key role in regulating stress recovery, immune system response, protection of the nervous, and homeostasis. Endocannabinoids bind to cannabinoid receptors all around the body and help regulate a multitude of functions.
Unlike THC, CBD does not produce a “high.” There is some evidence that CBD may reduce or stop some of the negative effects of THC on the brain. The ratio of THC and CBD is key if you are using substances that contain both.
As humans, we have two types of these receptors, – CB1 and CB2. Sites with receptors can be found in many of our organs and also in other areas of the body. CB1 receptors are mainly located in the central nervous system, which includes the brain. CB2 receptors are to be found primarily in the immune system within the body.
When cannabis is ingested, cannabinoids interact with our receptor sites in the same way our own endocannabinoids do. As many of those receptor sites are stationed in the central nervous system that cannabis is likely to produce changes to our physical and/or cognitive state.
Everyone’s personal chemical makeup is different. The number and locations of these ECS receptor site locations can vary from person to person. This is the reason why 2 people taking the same amount of THC or CBD can have various different effects. Other factors that may contribute to the potential differences include age, weight and physical health.
It is recommended that anyone just starting out using any cannabinoid start low and move up slowly.
