Scientists have identified over 500 natural chemicals in the cannabis plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids. Cannabis strains have different concentrations of these chemicals, which leads to varying effects in the human body.
Cannabinoids are the most common type of chemical in the cannabis plant, with over 100 having been identified. They interact with the endocannabinoid system in the human body and are thought to be responsible for most of the plant’s therapeutic benefits. Cannabinoids are found in resin, most abundant in the female flower head, which is used in the manufacture of medicinal cannabis products.
The two most researched cannabinoids are Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol, THC, and Cannabidiol, also know as CBD.
Cannabinoids Research
Research into THC and CBD as well as many lesser known cannabinoids in cannabis is continuing globally. Below are some of the current research findings:
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
Potential effects 1,2
Analgesic, anti-Inflammatory, reduced spasm, antiemetic, sleep, intoxication, neuroprotective, appetite stimulation
CBD (Cannabidiol)
Potential effects 1,2
Analgesic, anti-Inflammatory, anti-convulsive, antiemetic, sleep, reduces the intoxicating effect of THC, anti-anxiety, anti-depressant, neuroprotective, appetite stimulation, improved cognition
THCA* (Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid)
Potential effects 1,2
Anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, reduced spasm- non-intoxicating (seizure), appetite stimulation, sleep, neuroprotective
CBDA (Cannabidiolic acid)
Potential effects 1,2
Anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, reduces spasm
CBG (Cannabigerol)
Potential effects 1,2
Analgesic, anti-spasticity, anti-anxiety
CBC (Cannabichromene)
Potential effects 1,2
Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-anxiety, anti-depressant
CBN (Cannabinol)
Potential effects 1,2
Anti-convulsive, analgesic, sleep, anti-inflammatory
THCV (Tetrahydrocannnabivarin)
Potential effects 1,2
Appetite suppressant, aids memory, anti-anxiety
Need more research?
Little Green Pharma has sponsored a website GreenChoices, that aims to provide meaningful research and education about medical cannabis as a possible treatment option.
The educational content was procured from independent medical professionals and includes the research library which can be used to find further information about the effects of medical cannabis on various conditions.
Make a booking
Book a consultation wit a qualified, specialist doctor.
References
1. Ahmed SA., et al. ‘Minor oxygenated cannabinoids from high potency Cannabis sativa L’, Phytochemistry , vol. 117, 2015, pp. 194-199.
2. Russo, EB, ‘Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects’, British Journal of Pharmacology, vol. 163, 2011, pp. 1344-1364.
3. Russo, E and Guy, GW., ‘A tale of two cannabinoids: The therapeutic rationale for combining tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol’, Medical Hypotheses, vol. 66, 2006, pp. 234-246.