In today’s post, Hempgan explores a topic that has received a lot of attention in both the media and scientific research: cannabinoids. These chemicals, which are prevalent in the cannabis plant, have sparked interest among doctors, scientists, and consumers around the world. Let’s explore what cannabinoids are, how they work, and what their potential benefits and applications are.
Cannabinoids are chemicals found in the cannabis plant that interact with the human body’s endocannabinoid system. This system is an intricate network of receptors and neurotransmitters that plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological functions, such as pain, mood, appetite, and memory. Of the more than 100 types of cannabinoids that have been identified, the most recognized are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Read on for a more detailed breakdown:
What are cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that bind to cannabinoid receptors, proteins that enable these substances to interact with cellular metabolism. These compounds exert their action particularly on the endocannabinoid system, which plays a crucial role in regulating and maintaining various physiological processes in our body.
Phytocannabinoids in plants The term cannabinoids is often used to describe phytocannabinoids, which are found in plants of the Cannabis genus. Although other plants also contain phytocannabinoids, Cannabis species are those that have the highest concentrations of these compounds. The main Cannabis species include:

- Cannabis sativa
- Cannabis indica
- Cannabis ruderalis
Distinctions between Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica and Cannabis ruderalis
The different strains of Cannabis are recognized and cultivated for their unique characteristics and effects. The three main species are Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis, each exhibiting distinct traits in their appearance, growth, effects, and medicinal uses.
Cannabis sativa is known for its tall, slender plants, which can grow up to 4-5 meters in height. Its leaves are thin and elongated, with narrow lobes. This species prefers warm, tropical climates and has a longer flowering period, usually 10-16 weeks. In terms of effects, Cannabis sativa is often associated with energizing and stimulating sensations, providing a cerebral high that often increases creativity and induces euphoria. Medicinally, it is used to treat depression, fatigue and mood disorders due to its invigorating effects.
On the other hand, Cannabis indica is a shorter and more robust plant, usually reaching 1 to 2 meters in height. Its leaves are wider and thicker. This species adapts well to colder and mountainous climates and has a shorter flowering period, ranging from 6 to 9 weeks. The effects of Cannabis indica are predominantly relaxing and sedative, providing a body high often associated with deep relaxation and sleep. For this reason, it is used medicinally to treat insomnia, chronic pain and anxiety.

Cannabis ruderalis is the third main species of Cannabis, characterized by its small and hardy plants, usually not exceeding 1 meter in height. Its leaves are small and thin. A striking feature of Cannabis ruderalis is its short flowering period and its independence from the light cycle, being autoflowering. This species grows well in cold and extreme climates. In terms of effects, Cannabis ruderalis has low levels of THC, resulting in mild psychoactive effects, but is rich in CBD, offering significant medicinal benefits. For this reason, it is often used in crosses to create hybrid varieties with autoflowering characteristics and high levels of CBD, being beneficial in the treatment of epilepsy, inflammation and other health problems without the intense psychoactive effects.
The trajectory and application of cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are predominantly found in the resin of the stem and flowers of the Cannabis plant, playing a crucial role in its therapeutic and psychoactive effects. In addition to the widely known THC and CBD, over 100 other cannabinoids have been identified to date.
The discovery of cannabinoids began in 1964, when Israeli scientist Raphael Mechoulam isolated THC and conducted studies that elucidated its effects. This pioneering work spurred significant advances in cannabis research, leading to the identification of other cannabinoids and the endocannabinoids produced by the human body. These discoveries revealed the existence of the endocannabinoid system, composed of CB1 and CB2 receptors distributed throughout the body.
Cannabinoid Acids versus Cannabinoids
The most recognized cannabinoids, such as CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), initially originate in the Cannabis plant in their acidic forms, CBDA (cannabidiolic acid) and THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid). These acids are converted to their active forms, CBD and THC, through a process called decarboxylation, triggered by heat or degradation.
Main Effects of Cannabinoids
Consuming cannabinoid-containing products can result in a wide range of effects, influenced by the type of cannabinoid, specific product, method of consumption, concentration of the substance, and other variables. While THC is known for its psychoactive effects, cannabinoids can also provide chronic pain relief, reduced nausea, decreased anxiety, and relief from other symptoms. The individual experience is shaped by the interplay of these factors.
The Endocannabinoid System
The endocannabinoid system is composed of cannabinoid enzymes and receptors distributed throughout the body, playing a crucial role in regulating physiological processes such as appetite, pain, inflammation, muscle control, metabolism, sleep, mood and memory. Through interaction with cannabinoids, this system contributes to maintaining homeostasis and internal balance.
The Action of Cannabinoids in the Body
The phytocannabinoids present in Cannabis interact with the endocannabinoid system, effectively activating cannabinoid receptors. Each cannabinoid has specific therapeutic properties, such as analgesia, anti-inflammatory and anticonvulsant. The unique composition of cannabinoids in each Cannabis variety, combined with cultivation factors such as soil and climate, determines the plant’s pharmacological and psychoactive effects. This complex interaction is responsible for the diversity of effects associated with Cannabis use.

Exploring the Universe of Cannabinoids
In this article, we delve into the fascinating world of cannabinoids, the predominant chemical components in Cannabis that have sparked interest among doctors, scientists, and consumers due to their therapeutic and recreational effects. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, cannabinoids regulate vital bodily functions such as pain, mood, appetite, and memory.
Of the more than 100 identified cannabinoids, THC and CBD are the most studied. While THC is famous for its psychoactive effect, CBD is recognized for its medicinal properties. These cannabinoids begin their journey in the acidic form, CBDA and THCA, and are converted to their active forms through decarboxylation.
Each species of Cannabis – sativa, indica and ruderalis – has specific characteristics that shape the effects of cannabinoids. While Cannabis sativa is known for its energy and creativity, Cannabis indica offers deep relaxation, and Cannabis ruderalis stands out for its endurance and high CBD content.
The history of cannabinoids began with the discovery of THC by Raphael Mechoulam in 1964. Since then, significant progress has been made, revealing not only other cannabinoids, but also endocannabinoids produced by the human body.
Consuming cannabinoid products provides a variety of effects, from pain relief to anxiety reduction. The complex interaction of phytocannabinoids with the endocannabinoid system, along with cultivation factors, plays a vital role in the therapeutic and psychoactive effects.
Thus, cannabinoids represent an area of great potential and versatility, with applications continually explored in both medicine and recreational use. Continued understanding and research into these compounds promises to transform our understanding and use of Cannabis.