Common terminology
Endocannabinoid System
a neuromodulatory system responsible for regulating various cognitive and emotional processes within the central nervous system. It plays a key role in mood regulation, stress response, pain perception, appetite, sleep, and immune function. The ECS is composed of:
Endocannabinoids (naturally occurring compounds in the body similar to cannabinoids)
Cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2)
Enzymes that break down cannabinoids once they’ve served their function
The ECS interacts with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, which is why cannabis has such profound effects on the body and mind.
Cannabinoid Receptors (CB1 & CB2)
Cannabinoid receptors are specialized protein molecules found on the surface of cells that interact with cannabinoids. These receptors are part of the ECS and help regulate various physiological functions.
CB1 receptors – Primarily found in the brain and nervous system, responsible for psychoactive effects (e.g., THC binding to CB1 causes the "high").
CB2 receptors – Found mostly in the immune system and peripheral organs, involved in reducing inflammation and pain.
Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are a class of chemical compounds that bind to cannabinoid receptors in the body, influencing various physiological functions. There are three main types:
Phytocannabinoids – Found in cannabis plants (e.g., THC, CBD, CBG, CBN).
Endocannabinoids – Produced naturally by the human body (e.g., anandamide, 2-AG).
Synthetic cannabinoids – Lab-made compounds designed to mimic natural cannabinoids.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, it does notproduce a high, making it a popular choice for those seeking therapeutic benefits such as:
✅ Stress & anxiety relief
✅ Pain and inflammation reduction
✅ Improved sleep quality
✅ Potential neuroprotective properties
CBD is available in various forms, including oils, tinctures, edibles, topicals, and capsules.
THC (Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol)
THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It binds to CB1 receptorsin the brain, producing effects such as:
Euphoria (the "high")
Relaxation & stress relief
Pain relief & anti-nausea effects
Increased appetite (the "munchies")
THC is responsible for many of the recreational and medicinal effects of cannabis, but it can also cause paranoia or anxiety in some users, especially in high doses.
