Phytocannabinoids 101
Phytocannabinoids are naturally occurring cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant family. Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of 100+ known phytocannabinoids, which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to help restore balance and physiological homeostasis. The complex biochemical interaction of the matrix of phytocannabinoids working synergistically in the body is referred to as the “entourage effect.”
A true Full Spectrum Hemp Extract Oil is rich in phytocannabinoids and contains a variety of synergistic compounds, which interact with one another to unlock the plant’s full power and potential.
There are specific health benefits attributed to the cannabis plant’s isolated cannabidiol (CBD) molecule, but the majority of clinical research suggests the widest range of potential medicinal benefits occurs when key phytocannabinoids—including CBD, CBDa, CBDV, CBG, CBC and THC—and terpenes work together.
cannabinoids derived from hemp
Cannabinoids aren’t by-products of hemp where you can pluck and eat directly from the plant. They are very unlike nuts or fruit in this manner. Instead, to safely consume cannabinoids they must first be extracted from the hemp plant. In this process, the harmful plant compounds like chlorophyll, lipids and waxes are removed; and the cannabinoids become available to be infused into an oil or tincture.
The varying degrees of extraction will produce different spectrums, from a Full Spectrum Phytocannabinoid Hemp Oil to a Broad Spectrum Cannabinoid Oil or a Pure CBD Oil.
how do cannabinoids work?
We already know that cannabinoids are compounds found in the cannabis plant, but they also look very similar to those the body uses to regulate its internal environment. In fact, they are so similar that scientists refer to the body’s version as “endocannabinoids,” meaning cannabinoids made inside the body.
Some people, however, don’t make endocannabinoids in sufficient quantities, which can lead to pain, anxiety and low mood. And that’s where exogenous cannabinoids from cannabis come into play. When people use products containing CBD, THC or other cannabinoids, they interact with their bodies in a similar way as regular endocannabinoids, making up any deficit and changing their internal chemistry.
ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM
Does the body produce cannabinoids?
Yes, the body produces several cannabinoids (substances that look chemically similar to those made by the cannabis plant). So far, researchers have identified two such substances: anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). These compounds are not identical to those found in the cannabis plant, but because they are so chemically similar, they are able to interact with the body through the same channels.
How does THC interact with the Endocannabinoid System?
Not all cannabinoids from the cannabis plant work in the same way. THC—the cannabinoid responsible for feelings of euphoria and relaxation—appears to interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the brain and peripheral nervous system. When it binds to them, it mimics the effect of high levels of endogenous cannabinoids, such as anandamide. However, the effects are not identical. For instance, THC can stimulate appetite, which endocannabinoids have a much less pronounced effect.
How does CBD interact with the Endocannabinoid System?
CBD—one of the most used cannabinoids—interacts with the endocannabinoid system differently. Researchers aren’t completely sure how it works, but it doesn’t appear to work via CB1 or CB2 receptors. Instead, there’s evidence that it prevents the body’s endocannabinoids from breaking down, making them more bioavailable. There’s also a suggestion that it interacts with an as-yet undiscovered receptor.
While research is ongoing, evidence suggests that CBD can reduce pain in human and animal trials. Furthermore, it does not produce a “high,” but, instead, helps to bring the body back into balance.
different types of cannabinoids
benefits from cannabinoids
Phytocannabinoids have impressive therapeutic potential and are being sought after to help manage stress, anxiety, pain, inflammation, sleep and more. Key compounds are included in the cannabinoid list below, and you will find a different combination of these cannabinoids in our Phytocannabinoid Hemp Oil, CBD Gummies, Broad Spectrum Hemp Oil, and Pure CBD Oil.
Cannabichromene (CBC)
Cannabichromene is a cannabinoid that contributes to the overall analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antifungal effects of medical cannabis.
Cannabidiol (CBD)
CBD is a primary phytocannabinoid. Extensive research has demonstrated CBD to be a powerful antioxidant. Studies indicate its potential to treat a range of inflammatory, ischemic, age-related and autoimmune disorders.
Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDa)
Similar to CBD, CBDa has anti-inflammatory and anesthetic effects. Research suggests that CBDa may restrict pivotal inflammatory intermediators to treat pain and arthritis.
Cannabidivarin (CBDV)
Cannabidivarin is a homolog of cannabidiol. It is reported to have powerful anti-convulsive effects.
Cannabigerol (CBG)
Cannabigerol is an adaptogenic “parent molecule” from which several other cannabinoids (THC, CBD and others) are derived. CBG is antibacterial and anti-tumor, and it is shown to stimulate neurogenesis (brain cell growth) and help with insomnia.
Cannabinol (CBN)
CBN is bred from the degradation of THC and is prevalent in aging cannabis plants. Current research is limited on CBN but some studies demonstrate its potential effects as an antibacterial agent and an appetite stimulant.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (d8 THC)
Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol is similar to THC but has a slight difference in its chemical bond. D8 THC is shown to have positive effects on nausea, anxiety, appetite, and pain.
Delta 9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
THC is a phytocannabinoid responsible for the psychoactive effects of medical cannabis. Our Veré CBD products have less than 0.3% THC. We also carry zero-THC CBD Oil ideal for individuals in high-stress career fields requiring routine drug testing.
How does THC affect the brain?
The effects of THC on the brain can be considerable. When somebody ingests a cannabis or hemp product that contains THC, it immediately overwhelms their brain’s CB1 receptors, affecting many aspects of their experience.
CB1 receptors are found in many different areas of the brain, including the amygdala, basal ganglia, brain stem, cerebellum, hippocampus, nero cortex and spinal cord. Under normal conditions, receptors in the brain tightly regulate uptake of endocannabinoids. But when THC arrives in the bloodstream, they preferentially take it up instead, producing a vast range of effects. These include a slowing of reaction times, reduction in short-term memory, altered judgement and feel-good effect.
In general, you can think of the cannabinoid THC, as being like a “dimmer switch.” Chemically, it limits the ability of neurotransmitters to pass from one neuron to another, slowing overall brain function and changing how it operates. Unlike CBD, however, THC does not bring the brain back into balance. Instead, it acts as a much stronger dimmer switch, affecting both background neurological functions as well as producing a temporary feeling of euphoria.
cannabinoid research
Knowledge is power. Consumers should have easy access to scientific research and opinions about the medicinal properties and use of phytocannabinoids and synergistic compounds like Cannabidiol (CBD), Cannabigerol (CBG), Cannabinol (CBN), Cannabichromene (CBC) and terpenes.
These highly respected sites offer sound perspectives on the evidence-based medicinal benefits and scientific facts about cannabis.
- Mayo Clinic Medical Cannabis Research
- Cannabidiol in Humans | The Quest for Therapeutic Targets
- Cannabinoids in Health & Disease
Veré encourages you to expand your cannabinoid education and consider the potential benefits of cannabinoids and CBD Oil on your personal health and lifestyle.
more articles related to cbd
what is the entourage effect?
The entourage effect is derived from the synergistic interaction of the cannabis compounds working together. While most people are familiar with the cannabinoids THC and CBD, these are just two of the many players in effect. It’s the interactive synergy between all the cannabinoids, flavonoids, terpenes, and fatty acids naturally found in hemp. This gives credence to the whole is greater than the sum of its parts and why many research suggests the whole plant matters.
what is the endocannabinoid system?
Research has revealed that the endocannabinoid system is responsible for maintaining and controlling the body’s homeostasis (balanced system regulation). It accomplishes this through two known receptors: CB1 and CB2. The body produces its own endogenous cannabinoids, but many scientists suggest that a large portion of the population suffers from “cannabinoid deficiency.” Without sufficient dietary cannabinoids, the human endocannabinoid system operates at less than peak efficiency. This may lead to a general health decline. Supplementing our diets with full-spectrum phytocannabinoids could play an essential role in optimizing health.
CBD Oil vs. Hemp Oil
We admit that the CBD industry is confusing and can be challenging for a consumer to navigate. Often times we get asked questions like, “Is CBD Oil and Hemp Oil the same?” or “What is the difference between CBD Oil and Hemp Oil?” Although both oils are derived from the same plant, they are very different products and we aim to clear up the confusion by breaking down the distinctions and the terminology.
