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Missouri Cannabis Education
Cannabinoids
THC
What is the difference between THC , CBD , and other cannabinoids ?
CBDa by Leah Maurer , contributing writer
Leah
Leah Maurer , a native Missourian , is now a canna-journalist and activist living in Portland , OR . She is a co-owner of www . TheWeedBlog . com , a top national cannabis news and information publication , where she serves as the Editorial Lead . In 2014 , Leah founded Moms for YES on Measure 91 through grassroots efforts alone , it proved pivotal in the passage of the Measure , successfully legalizing recreational / adult-use cannabis in the OR . Leah is a social justice and cannabis activist at the core and hopes to see an end to the prohibition of cannabis globally .
12 October 2023
With the cannabis market and product choices continuing to expand in Missouri , consumers may wonder about the different cannabinoids available . Tetrahydrocannabinol ( THC ) and Cannabidiol ( CBD ) are the most common , but there are others .
Cannabinoids , the chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant , interact with the body ’ s endocannabinoid system ( ECS ). The ECS is a biological system of cell receptors located in the central nervous system . The ECS was first discovered in the late 80s / early 90s by researchers studying THC , and experts are still working to fully grasp its functions and capabilities . However , they have found it helps regulate various physiological processes such as mood , appetite , pain perception , and immune response . All these processes point toward the job of sustaining the body ’ s internal stability . When an external force ( such as chronic pain , outward stress , lack of sleep , etc .) throws your body off-center , the ECS is there to readjust . In recent years , experts have supported the claim that the ECS ’ s central role is maintaining homeostasis .
Three main types of cannabinoids that interact with the ECS : 1 . Endocannabinoids ( produced naturally by the body )
2 . Phytocannabinoids ( found in cannabis plants )
3 . Synthetic cannabinoids ( created in laboratories ) As mentioned , the most well-known phytocannabinoids are THC and CBD . However , many others have unique properties and potential health benefits .
THC is a central cannabinoid found in cannabis and the primary psychoactive compound in the plant , identifiable by the “ high ” it produces while interacting with the body ’ s ECS . CBD , another key compound found in cannabis plants , is not psychoactive . It doesn ’ t produce euphoric effects but does induce feelings of calmness and relaxation .
Aside from THC and CBD , the other cannabinoids that have been studied include THCa , THCv , CBDa , CBN , CBG ,