Cannabinoids - General Info & Benefits

There are 3 Sources of Cannabinoids


Endocannabinoids

The human body has an endocannabinoid system that regulates many of our physiological processes. Endocannabinoid receptors can be found throughout our entire bodies including our brain, nerves, organs, immune cells, bone, fat and muscles. Endocannabinoids are part of the body’s internal systems that help maintain balance, a state known as homeostasis.

“Research initially suggested endocannabinoid receptors were only present in the brain and nerves, but scientists later found that the receptors are present throughout the body, including our skin, immune cells, bone, fat tissue, liver, pancreas, skeletal muscle, heart, blood vessels, kidney, and gastrointestinal tract..."

 

Research continues into the many ways the endocannabinoid system may interact with different physiological functions.

 

Phyto cannabinoids

Many different plant species produce cannabinoids with the highest concentration being found in Cannabis plants including hemp. Cannabis plants produce them to stay healthy and successfully pass on their genes to the next generation. Cannabinoids likely function as a natural insecticide and antimicrobial agent to help stave off predatory bugs and the diseases they carry. Cannabinoids may prevent DNA damage caused by ultraviolet radiation. The resin-based cannabinoids may protect the plant from temperature swings and water loss during drought. Cannabinoids help the cannabis plant stay resilient, and many people find consuming hemp-derived cannabinoids to be a meaningful part of their wellness routines. Our bodies recognize and respond to plant-based cannabinoids and utilize them in a similar manner to the cannabinoids we create on our own. Cannabis has long been used for its unique botanical properties. Today, many are exploring how it fits into a holistic approach to lifestyle and balance.

 

Synthetic Cannabinoids

Not all synthetic cannabinoids are the same—some are lab-made versions of naturally occurring cannabinoids used in pharmaceuticals, while others are novel compounds designed to mimic cannabinoid effects by binding to the same receptors in the endocannabinoid system. These synthetic compounds, often found in products like K2 or Spice, are made using a wide variety of chemicals and their formulas constantly evolve to evade regulation. Although they can produce effects similar to THC, many have been associated with serious health risks. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, synthetic cannabinoids can lead to dangerous physical and mental effects including rapid heart rate, vomiting, violent behavior, suicidal thoughts, and even death.
Source: https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/synthetic-cannabinoids-k2spice

 

Synthetic Cannabinoids should always be avoided. Fortunately, our society is experiencing a cultural shift away from demonizing cannabis and toward exploring the medicinal benefits the plant has to offer. Now we have legal access to so many naturally occurring cannabinoids so synthetic versions are unnecessary.