Kootenay Botanicals Canada has long recognized cannabis for its various beneficial properties. A notable characteristic of cannabis plants is the presence of numerous substances known as cannabinoids or phytocannabinoids.
Current biomechanical studies and research into the therapeutic effects of these compounds are propelling the creation of diverse applications for these plants, offering hope to those seeking relief from their ailments.
Let’s explore the components of the plant and investigate ways to access cannabis if you’re interested in experiencing its potential benefits.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- The cannabis plant consists of substances such as cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
- The harmonious interaction of compounds in the cannabis plant results in a remarkable phenomenon known as the entourage effect.
- Full-spectrum cannabis extracts may provide greater medical benefits than isolated components of the plant.
The Cannabis Plants and Its Major Components
Cannabis, part of the Cannabaceae family alongside hops, is characterized by secondary substances known as cannabinoids or phytocannabinoids. More than 150 cannabinoids exist along with terpenoids, flavonoids, and alkaloids.
Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are the naturally occurring compounds in the cannabis plant, mainly found in flower buds. Known as phytocannabinoids due to their plant origin, they play a crucial role in the plant’s makeup. Among the many phytocannabinoids, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the most well-known and extensively studied.
Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic compounds that significantly influence the flavor and scent of cannabis. They are not exclusive to cannabis; they are found across nearly all plant life.
In cannabis alone, over 140 different terpenes have been identified, each providing its own unique characteristics. Some terpenes are exclusive to cannabis, enhancing its sensory experience. Kootenay Botanicals Canada highlights B-myrcene as the most prevalent terpene in cannabis, followed by trans-caryophyllene and a-pinene.
Flavonoids
Flavonoids are natural compounds found abundantly in fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, tea, and wine, contributing to their vibrant colors. In cannabis, flavonoids work alongside terpenes and cannabinoids. They exhibit anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, with specific compounds like apigenin displaying anxiolytic and estrogenic properties, while cannaflavins A and B show significant anti-inflammatory effects.
Molecules Journal: Exploring the Combined Components of Cannabis and Its Impact on Therapeutic Benefits
As reported by NORML, an impressive number of over 32,000 marijuana studies have been published over the past decade. Much of this research has focused on the effects of cannabis consumption, often sidelining other components, such as cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. The literature predominantly emphasizes major cannabinoids THC and CBD.
The journal Molecules investigates the interactions among various chemical compounds found in cannabis. This research underscores the importance of understanding how these components collaborate and emphasizes that such knowledge is vital for fully realizing cannabis’s therapeutic potential.
Understanding the Significance of the Endocannabinoid System
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) manages numerous physiological processes within the nervous system, and its dysfunction can lead to various health issues. Therapeutic strategies targeting ECS activity have shown promise for managing conditions related to neuroinflammation. The ECS is a complex network of receptors, including endocannabinoids derived from arachidonic acid, receptor ligands, and enzymes involved in endocannabinoid metabolism.
The ECS, featuring endocannabinoids like anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol, along with the enzymes that synthesize and break them down, as well as the cannabinoid receptor types 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2), is one of the most widely distributed signaling systems in the brain. Its effects extend to regulating stress responses, anxiety, memory, pain perception, and motivated behavior. Endocannabinoid signaling plays a crucial role in the ongoing development and refinement of neural circuits during adolescence.
The Entourage Effect of Cannabis Components within the ECS
The entourage effect is a pharmacological phenomenon demonstrating how the interaction of co-existing metabolites can modify the properties of individual molecules, regardless of whether these metabolites exhibit their own pharmacological activity.
Preclinical research published in Molecules Journal (2019) and Oncotarget Journal (2020) has illuminated the relationship between phytocannabinoids and terpenes. These studies suggest that the potential therapeutic benefits of full-spectrum cannabis extracts, as opposed to isolated compounds, may arise from what is referred to as the entourage effect.
Cannabinoids
Research in the British Journal of Pharmacology and Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders has noted the suppressive effects of a combination of THC and CBD on neuroinflammation in animal models of multiple sclerosis. Phytocannabinoids possess immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory characteristics. For instance, in LPS-activated microglial cells, THC and CBD exhibited different mechanisms, with THC influencing the IFNβ pathway and CBD inhibiting the NF-κB-dependent pathway.
Terpenes
Cheng et al. (2014), in the Journal of Pharmacology, found that β-caryophyllene, a terpene, tends to bind to CB2R receptors. This may contribute to the combined effects of various phytochemicals in C. sativa by alleviating neurotoxicity associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
Myrcene’s ability to facilitate the transport of delta-9-THC across the blood-brain barrier presents a promising avenue for developing AD treatments that effectively reach the central nervous system.
Flavonoids
Flavonoids have potential for combating oxidative stress and neurodegeneration, thereby enhancing the neuroprotective properties tied to the entourage effect. A comprehensive review in the journal Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience highlighted the neuroprotective attributes of various flavonoids. These compounds can reduce neuroinflammation and lessen neurodegenerative processes.
The Authors’ Take
Understanding the intricate interactions between cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids is vital for realizing the full therapeutic benefits of cannabis, as emphasized by the authors in their study. They also pinpoint critical evidence gaps requiring immediate exploration.
- Investigating the synergistic effects and underlying mechanisms of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids warrants focused research.
- Understanding the complexities of cannabis phytochemical production and accumulation mechanisms, particularly under varying light conditions, is crucial for advancing medical applications.
- Thorough phytochemical profiling of cannabis strains, including unique ratios of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, holds potential for refining treatment strategies, leading to personalized and effective medicinal interventions.
Where to Buy Weed?
Are you interested in exploring the potential health benefits of cannabis but unsure where to begin? Mail-order marijuana services and same-day cannabis delivery offer convenient options for accessing cannabis products. These platforms feature user-friendly websites that allow you to browse various cannabis from the comfort of your home.
Purchasing cannabis online not only provides access to affordable options and promotional discounts but also enables you to find high-quality cannabis products tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
Cannabis contains a variety of compounds, each capable of producing distinct effects. The synergy among these compounds enhances their therapeutic potential beyond initial expectations. Research, including studies in the Molecules journal, offers valuable insights into the mechanisms of cannabis, emphasizing the importance of using full-spectrum products for symptom management in certain conditions. While further targeted studies are needed, initial findings present promising possibilities and understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to buy cannabis online in Canada?
The price of cannabis per gram is significantly lower in Canada compared to the US. In physical marijuana dispensaries, the price range for a gram is typically between $10 and $12, while online dispensaries often have options starting at $2 per gram. A gram of cannabis online can cost around $5 for satisfactory quality in the AA+ to AAA grade range.
Can medical and recreational marijuana differ in price?
Cannabis can be consumed for medical or recreational purposes, and it’s important to note that medical cannabis is generally less expensive compared to recreational options. Medical cannabis costs may qualify for tax deductions, and in some instances, insurance coverage might be available to help offset expenses.
Are other marijuana products as affordable as cannabis flower?
Buying cannabis online is more economical than through traditional sources. Alternative products like marijuana edibles, capsules, and oils may have slightly higher prices but still remain within reasonable limits. Online dispensaries strive to keep competitive prices in the cannabis market.
Is bulk cannabis cheaper than per gram?
Yes. Purchasing cannabis in bulk often leads to discounts compared to buying per gram. This is especially advantageous for frequent users or those using cannabis for medical reasons. Buying per gram allows for initial experimentation with its effects.
Does cheap cannabis mean low quality?
Price can indicate the quality of cannabis, but it’s not the sole factor. While many assume that inexpensive cannabis equals inferior quality, this is not always the case. For example, it may indicate a batch nearing its expiration date, prompting dispensaries to sell it at a reduced price. Judging cannabis solely based on price may overlook important nuances affecting its overall value and experience.
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