Cannabis 101
We’re still learning about the cannabinoids produced by the cannabis plant. The more we figure out, the more we understand our bodily makeup and the cannabinoids (endocannabinoids) we create as humans and their functions. Our endocannabinoid system (ECS) is responsible for how we experience the psychoactive properties of cannabis. It also fulfills a much more important role, keeping our bodies regulated and helping to maintain homeostasis. When everything is going well with the endocannabinoids system, we’re enjoying peak performance.
Cannabis Education
The endocannabinoid system is directly linked to pain, appetite, stress, cardiovascular function, energy, reproduction, reward perceptions, sleep, and more. Endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes are the three main components of the ECS and are found throughout the entire body, including the nervous systems, in the bloodstream, skin, and virtually every cell of the brain. CB1 receptors impact motor and cognitive function. CB2 receptors are mainly found on immune cells and affect pain relief, neuroprotection, and neuroinflammation.
Cannabis + You
Everyone’s ECS is unique. The cannabis plant contains hundreds of chemical compounds that have the capacity to directly interact with our bodies and minds. Phytocannabinoid molecules, such as TCH and CBD, as well as flavonoids and terpenes, bind to our cells and receptors, influencing our experiences. They interact with different targets in the ECS for a wide opportunity of physical and mental effects and benefits. There is hope and expectation that further research into genetic variants might lead to the prevention and treatment of many diseases that stem from the dysfunction of the ECS.
Types of Cannabis Terpenes
Myrcene
- Scent: Earth and Musk
- Known to: Sedating, Relaxing
- Found in: Mangoes, Hops, Lemongrass, Basil
Pinene
- Scent: Fresh Air and Pine
- Known to: Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-anxiety
- Found in: Coniferous trees, especially Pine
Caryophyllene
- Scent: Wood and Pepper
- Known to: Anti-Inflammatory, Pain Relief
- Found in: Pepper, Cloves, Oregano, Cinnamon
Limonene
- Scent: Lime and Citrus
- Known to: Anti-Septic, Immunostimulant
- Found in: Lemons, Oranges, Grapefruit
Terpinolene
- Scent: Herbal, Floral
- Known to: Anti-Bacterial, Anti-Oxidant
- Found in: Apple, Lilac, Cumin, Tea-Tree
Nerolidol
- Scent: Herbal, Citrus, Wood
- Known to: Anti-Parasitic-fungal, Sedative
- Found in: Neroli, Ginger, Jasmine, Tea-Tree
Bisabolol
- Scent: Floral, Earth
- Known to: Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Oxidant
- Found in: Chamomile, Candeia Tree
Linalool
- Scent: Floral, Earth
- Known to: Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Oxidant
- Found in: Lavender, Coriander, Sweet Basil
Ocimene
- Scent: Sweet, Wood, Herbal, Citrus
- Known to: Anti-Viral, Energizer, Decongestant
- Found in: Kumquats, Orchids, Mint
Geraniol
- Scent: Floral, Citrus
- Known to: Anti-Spasmatic, Neuroprotectant
- Found in: Geraniums, Tobacco, Lemon
Cymene
- Scent: Wood, Sweet, Citrus
- Known to: Energizing, Attentiveness
- Found in: Thyme, Anise, Marjoram
Farnesene
- Scent: Sweet Wood, Herbal
- Known to: Calming, Anti-Inflammatory
- Found in: Turmeric, Chamomile, Quince
Cedrene
- Scent: Fresh Air, Wood, Sweet
- Known to: Anti-Bacterial, Deodorizer
- Found in: Cedar, Juniper, Fenugreek
Guaiol
- Scent: Pine, Wood, Floral
- Known to: Analgesic, Diuretic
- Found in: Guaiacum, Lilac, Ginseng
Humulene
- Scent: Earth, Wood, Spice
- Known to: Analgesic, Anti-Inflammatory
- Found in: Sage, Ginger, Ginseng
** Not intended for medical purposes.
