The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex network in the human body that plays a role in various physiological processes. THC and CBD are believed to be the main agents responsible for the effects of cannabis, but research has suggested that the combination of different cannabinoids in cannabis may produce effects that are different from the simple combination of each individual component, a phenomenon known as the “entourage effect.”
CBD and THC are the two most significant cannabinoids found in cannabis. Raphael Mechoulam discovered the structure of THC in 1964 and found it to be psychoactive. The discovery of THC led to the exploration of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) which is made up of chemical compounds that bind to cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) found in the nervous system. The ECS influences a wide variety of processes, including motor learning, appetite, and pain sensation. THC is thought to bind to CB1 receptors in the brain and regulate hunger by affecting the production of endocannabinoids.
Cannabis taxonomy started by morphology, since the DNA was unknown at the time. Two species were defined: C. Sativa & C. Indica. Despite clear morphological differences, a lot of controversy started about the classification…
All living things in nature produce a wide array of organic compounds that are not essential for living processes, but contribute to other aspects of their ecology and survival, often by mediating interactions with other organisms. These compounds are called secondary metabolites. This newsletter explains what secondary metabolites are present, and what you might know them from.