Cannabinoid receptors (CB receptors) are a key component of the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). They exist throughout the body’s immune and nervous systems and play key roles in regulating neural plasticity, electrical activity, coordination, proprioception, and cognitive function. When we consume cannabis, the cannabinoids in the plant interact with cannabinoid receptors in our body to produce effects.
Cannabinoid receptors allow our bodies to benefit from cannabis’ compounds.
Learn more about CB receptors here.
Cannabis science is one of the fastest moving frontiers medicinal sciences in the world. The pharmacology behind it has been accelerated by the realization that we’re all already marinated in cannabis-like molecules (endocannabinoids) and their receptors.
Endocannabinoids help regulate many physiological processes such as your mood, memory, appetite, pain, immune function, metabolism, and bone growth to name a few. Consuming cannabis also modulates this endocannabinoid system in many ways. The effects can be benevolent, although sometimes problematic.
Understanding the science behind cannabis is a key factor in being able to fully enjoy its medicinal value.
People have been using cannabis as medicine for thousands of years. The plant has also been widely used clothing, fuel, food, fiber, and medicine.
Cannabis contains more than 120 different cannabinoid molecules. But, as far as we know, only one gets you high: THC. The plant itself contains a huge amount of cerebral, non-intoxicating THC cousins with emerging medicinal potential. Their abbreviated names are often: CBD, CBG, THC-V, CBC, and CBN to mention a few.
Data Last Updated 05/22/2023