Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found in cannabis and produced by all animals, including vertebrates and invertebrates.

Here are two of the major types of cannabinoids:

• Phytocannabinoids: When the cannabinoids are within cannabis, they are called phytocannabinoids. Typically they are found within the resin glands of the cannabis flower, called trichomes. The most well-known phytocannabinoids are the compounds tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).

Many sources agree there are about 113 different cannabinoids found in cannabis. However, there may even be up to 150 and research is still ongoing.

• Endocannabinoids or endogenous cannabinoids: Cannabinoids produced within our bodies are called endocannabinoids. Two of the major endocannabinoids are anandamide and 2-AG. There are several more that have been discovered, but their roles in the endocannabinoid system have not been determined.

Endocannabinoids, or internally produced cannabinoids, are an essential component of our bodies’ endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is largely responsible for maintaining internal balance. Phytocannabinoids mimic the functions of our endocannabinoids and are responsible for the euphoric effects associated with THC.

The most notable cannabinoid is the phytocannabinoid tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) (Delta 9-THC or Delta 8-THC), a well-known primary psychoactive compound in cannabis.