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New York State Practitioner Education Medical Use of Marijuana 2-hr Required Course
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Section 1.0: The Endocannabinoid System and Phytocannabinoids
Part 2
Cannabis Plant and the Major Phytocannabinoids
Cannabis, a genus of flowering plants, has been cultivated for thousands of years and used for various purposes. Cannabis plants exist in many different ‘varieties’ (1), and besides obvious differences in appearance, varieties differ by their specific profile of components (phytocannabinoids and terpenes). In this part of the course, we will discuss phytocannabinoids and provide a brief overview of the biochemical activity of the two major phytocannabinoids, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). We will also discuss terpenes.
Scientists have identified over 400 chemical compounds produced by the cannabis plant. Of these compounds, at least 104 are unique to the cannabis plant and interact with endocannabinoid receptors or otherwise affect the endocannabinoid system (2, 3). These cannabis specific compounds are called phytocannabinoids (or cannabinoids).
Phytocannabinoids impact cellular activity via receptor-based effects on the endocannabinoid system. Additional effects may be non-receptor mediated. Examples of phytocannabinoids include delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabichromene (CBC), and cannabigerol (CBG). The two most well-studied phytocannabinoids are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
THC is the cannabinoid responsible for cannabis' psychoactive effects, and it is also responsible for many other health effects reported to be associated with cannabis use. Research suggests that THC's effects include reduction of nausea and vomiting, stimulation of appetite, reduction of pain and inflammation, and increase in muscle relaxation (4). Some of THC's potential adverse effects include dizziness, somnolence, dry mouth, disorientation, anxiety, and acute psychosis.
(Note: This is just an introduction to THC. Studies and research evaluating the mental and physical health effects of THC are described in other sections of this comprehensive cannabis course.)
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