The Power of Cannabinoids: What You Need to Know
Introduction
Cannabinoids aren't just found in cannabis. Your body makes its own cannabinoids (called endocannabinoids), and you can find similar compounds in plants like black pepper and cacao. You’ll even come across synthetic cannabinoids made in labs—though those can sometimes come with effects that are stronger than you’d expect. Here’s a great breakdown of how your endocannabinoid system works. The endocannabinoid system is a cell signaling network that includes endocannabinoids, enzymes, and cannabinoid receptors that help regulate several functions in the human body.
Types of Cannabinoids
You can break cannabinoids into three main groups:
Phytocannabinoids - from plants like cannabis
Endocannabinoids - these are naturally produced by your body
Synthetic Cannabinoids - these are made in labs
Cannabis is packed with over 150 cannabinoids, but the two that are the most discussed are THC and CBD. THC is the one that gets you high, like in strains such as Sour Diesel or OG Kush. CBD, which you’ll find in strains like Charlotte’s Web, helps with things like pain and anxiety without the heady effects.
Want to learn more? Check out this detailed guide to THC and CBD.
How Cannabinoids Work in Your Body
Phytocannabinoids from cannabis connect with your body’s CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are spread throughout your brain, organs, and immune system. These have the ability to affect your mood or how energized you feel. CB1 is mainly found in the central nervous system which consists of the brain and spinal cord while CB2 is found in the peripheral nervous system.
For example, Granddaddy Purple is an indica strain that can help you chill out and wind down, while Jack Herer is a sativa strain that is more likely to enhance creativity and provide an uplifting buzz.
How Decarboxylation Works - How decarboxylation converts THCA to THC when exposed to heat
When you smoke or bake with cannabis, you're activating its magic. THCA (the raw form) turns into THC thanks to heat. This is called decarboxylation—it’s what gets you high when you light a joint or make some edibles. Here’s more on the decarboxylation process.
Why Cannabinoids Matter in the Cannabis Plant
Cannabinoids don’t just affect us—they’re also super important for the cannabis plant itself. Cannabinoid production increases when the plant is stressed to help protect it from UV rays and insects. In other words, cannabinoids act as a sunscreen and overall defense mechanism for the plant.
Minor Cannabinoids: What’s Next?
While THC and CBD get all the attention, minor cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, and THCV are on the rise. These lesser-known cannabinoids are increasingly showing up in product marketing as they have their own unique qualities that help with everything from sleep to pain relief and potentially weight management.
The Benefits of Minor Cannabinoids
CBG (Cannabigerol) has similar properties to CBD, such as analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, but it's often referred to as the "mother of all cannabinoids" because it’s a precursor to THC and CBD.
CBN (Cannabinol) is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that is known for calming and sleep-inducing effects.
THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) has been shown to exhibit neuroprotective activity, appetite suppression, glycemic control and reduced side effects compared to THC, making it a potential treatment for management of obesity and diabetes.
Experience the Benefits of Cannabinoids at Emerald Tea Supply Co.
We carry all types of products from flower to concentrates, edibles, and tinctures, we’ve got products packed with all of the cannabinoids like THC, CBD, CBN and CBG that will help you achieve that feeling you're seeking.
What You’ll Find in Our Dispensary:
Popular high-THC strains like Sour Diesel and OG Kush
CBD-heavy options like Charlotte’s Web
A variety of full-spectrum edibles and tinctures
And much, much more. You can stop by our Bloomfield dispensary or get your favorite products delivered straight to your door in Montclair, Nutley, Verona, and beyond
Why Cannabinoids Matter
Understanding cannabinoids is key to understanding how cannabis affects both the body and mind. Whether you're looking for pain relief, help with sleep, or just a more balanced mood, cannabinoids can help. Our budtenders can help you on your cannabis journey by offering informed advice on our selection of products and help you find what works best for you. Visit us today in Bloomfield, NJ, or place an order for delivery!