The cannabis plant derives its unique characteristics from the chemical compounds, the plant’s genetic diversity, environmental influences, and cultivation practices. These factors work together to influence the overall look, flavour, scent, and effect of the cannabis plant. Its chemical makeup is so widely varied that even the same strains may still exhibit slight differences in chemical structure. Learning about how chemicals cooperate in cannabis may help prescribers make more informed decisions regarding medical cannabis treatment for their patients.
What gives cannabis plants their unique chemistry?
Key elements of the cannabis plant include its genetic composition, enzymes, and root systems, which collectively contribute to shaping the unique chemistry of cannabis plants. Each cannabis strain exhibits different genetic compositions that determine the synthesis of various compounds. Additionally, environmental variables like soil quality, climate, and cultivation methods, further contribute to the plant’s chemical profile. The enzymes present within a cannabis plant adapt to what is happening around it, such as environmental stressors like bad weather, by triggering its defence mechanism in the production of specific compounds, altering the unique chemistry of the cannabis plant. Additionally, the roots of cannabis plants are vital for nutrient absorption, influencing the production of specific chemicals.
What are the main chemicals in cannabis?
The cannabis plant contains more than 400 molecules, consisting of over 100 cannabinoids and a variety of terpenoids and flavonoids. Each molecule is responsible for producing different effects in cannabis by influencing the colour, flavour, and potential effects, which can assist registered healthcare professionals when deciding which strain to prescribe to their patients.
Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids occur naturally in the body of animals and humans interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system by triggering various physiological processes like mood, appetite, and immune response. The term cannabinoid refers to the chemical substance that connects the cannabinoid receptors of the body and brain. Within a cannabis plant, there are over 100 different cannabinoids. The most prominent are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is known for its psychoactive effects and cannabidiol (CBD), which is commonly known for its medicinal uses. When cannabis is consumed, the cannabinoids interact with the cannabinoid system, altering cell communication and triggering specific chemical releases in the body. Each cannabis strain’s unique chemical makeup is determined by the varying amounts and types of cannabinoid it contains
Terpenes
Terpenes are compounds that contribute to the distinctive scent and flavour profile of the cannabis plant. Over 100 different terpenes have been identified in various cannabis strains, each exhibiting a unique terpene profile. Terpenes are not exclusive to cannabis; they are widespread in nature, responsible for scents and tastes found in fruits, flowers and other plants. In the cannabis plant, terpenes work with cannabinoids, creating what is commonly known as the entourage effect. Additionally, terpenes contribute to the chemical diversity of cannabis, influencing the plant’s overall chemistry, which in turn influences the reactions in the body. Different strains may have varying terpene profiles, leading to the array of scents and flavours.
Flavonoids
Flavonoids are compounds that contribute to the cannabis plant’s colour pigmentation. While terpenes are responsible for the cannabis plants’ scents, flavonoids influence the visual of cannabis plants by contributing to their colour, ranging from green to purple. Flavonoids’ presence in a cannabis plant add to the complexity of compounds within the plant’s structure. Alongside terpenes, flavonoids impart unique traits that help distinguish between different strain varieties.
The entourage effect
The entourage effect in cannabis is a scientific theory which refers to the enhanced overall effect of using different compounds in a cannabis plant together, like THC and CBD. This interaction of various compounds suggests that the combined presence of certain compounds produces a more profound impact than the isolated effects of individual components. Cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, interact with receptors in the endocannabinoid system, while terpenes and flavonoids contribute aromatic and flavourful elements. When these compounds are present in a specific ratio and concentration, they may modulate and amplify each other’s effects, potentially influencing the overall therapeutic potential of a cannabis strain.
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Additional Information on Cannabis Strains
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