Major Cannabinoids
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
Psychoactive: Yes — primary psychoactive compound
Effects: Euphoria, altered perception, appetite stimulation, pain relief, relaxation (or anxiety in high doses). Binds to CB1 receptors in the brain.
Medical: Pain, nausea, appetite loss, muscle spasticity. Dronabinol (synthetic THC) is FDA-approved for chemotherapy nausea.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
Psychoactive: No — does not produce a "high"
Effects: Relaxation, anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory. Modulates THC effects; may reduce anxiety and paranoia from THC.
Medical: Epidiolex (CBD) is FDA-approved for certain childhood seizure disorders. Studied for anxiety, pain, inflammation.
CBN (Cannabinol)
Psychoactive: Mildly — forms when THC degrades
Effects: Sedating. More potent as a sedative than THC. Found in aged cannabis.
Medical: Being researched for sleep, antibacterial properties.
CBG (Cannabigerol)
Psychoactive: No
Effects: "Mother cannabinoid" — THC and CBD derive from CBG. Found in young plants. Mild mood lift, anti-inflammatory.
Medical: Studied for glaucoma, inflammatory bowel disease, neuroprotection.
CBC (Cannabichromene)
Psychoactive: No
Effects: Anti-inflammatory, may contribute to entourage effect. Often present in small amounts.
THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)
Psychoactive: Can be — depends on dose
Effects: At low doses may reduce anxiety; at high doses can be psychoactive. Appetite suppressant. Found in some African landraces.
The Endocannabinoid System
Cannabinoids interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), a signaling system that helps maintain balance (homeostasis).
- CB1 receptors — Mainly in the brain and central nervous system. THC binds here, producing psychoactive effects. Also in some peripheral tissues.
- CB2 receptors — Mainly in the immune system, spleen, and gut. CBD and caryophyllene (terpene) interact here. Less psychoactive.
- Endocannabinoids — Your body makes its own (e.g., anandamide, 2-AG). Cannabis phytocannabinoids mimic these.
The ECS helps regulate mood, pain, appetite, sleep, immune function, and more. Learn more on Wikipedia →