Cannabinoids have received much attention in recent years - whether from the legalization of cannabis, which sweeps the USA, the many scientific studies into their effects or the increase of hemp and CBD. This attention brings a constant discovery in the field, with most of the advances appearing positive, if only initially. As such, we thought it would be good to look at some of the overarching pharmacodynamics of cannabinoids - their mechanisms and effects.

A LOOK AT THE MECHANISMS OF CANNABINOIDS

The cannabinoids found in hemp interact with the body by binding to the receptors of the endocannabinoid system. This is a system that exists in all human beings and extends throughout the body. Of course, the body will produce its own versions of cannabinoids to interact with this system, but adding external strains will improve the system's stimulation.

There are two major types of receptors in this system currently known (discovery of the endocannabinoid system is relatively new). The first is the CB1 receptor. CB1 receptors are found mainly in the brain, in the central nervous system and in related organs. They are thought to play a role in such functions as sleep, appetite, mood and pain perception.

The other type of receptor with which cannabinoids interact are known as CB2 receptors. These are found throughout the body - mostly in the immune system, in the gastrointestinal system and in the related organs. The activation of these receptors should help modulate the inflammation and reduce its severity.

THE EFFECT OF CANNABINOIDS

Although much more complicated, the above outlines the core mechanics of how cannabinoids interact with the body. It is noteworthy that all the following have been studied, with new interactions being regularly discovered and shaping our understanding of their true effects.

THC (TETRAHYDROCANNABINOL)

THC, is without doubt the most notorious and widely recognized cannabinoid of all. It is also often the most common cannabinoid found in cannabis. In hemp, it is only present in a tiny amount - so small is it often legal.

THC is psychoactive, so those who use it to feel "high". In addition, it is also thought to provide pain relief, stimulate appetite, reduce nausea and suppress muscle spasms.

CBD (CANNABIDIOL)

Perhaps the next most famous cannabinoid, CBD, is completely non-psychoactive, which means that its use can not cause a high level. It can be found in both hemp and cannabis in large quantities.

The main effects of CBD are the reduction of inflammation, pain relief, appetite stimulation, reduced nausea, reduced anxiety, psychosis management, reduced seizure frequency, muscle spasm suppression and slowing bacterial growth - just to name a few. As you can see, CBD is the focus of scientific investigation for a good reason.

CBC (CANNA BICHROMENE)

CBC, although in small amounts, spends much longer than other cannabinoids in the bloodstream. Thus, its effects can take longer. It is thought to offer pain relief, reduce inflammation, slow down the growth of bacteria and promote bone growth.

CBG (CANNABIGEROL)

CBG acts as a stem cell for other cannabinoids such as THC, CBC and CBD. When the hemp plant grows, CBG is transformed into everyone. As such, little remains in the mature plant when it comes to harvesting. Its effects are believed to be pain relief, reduced inflammation, promoted bone growth and have the ability to help combat fungal infection.

CBN (CANNABINOL)

CBN is generated when THC is exposed to oxygen. It results in a calming effect. As such, it is associated with pain relief, reduced muscle spasms, and improved sleep. When using cannabis, it is partly responsible for the lethargic "couchlock" effect that can sometimes be experienced.

As you can see, there is a lot to learn about cannabinoids and how they interact with our bodies. The pharmacodynamics of cannabinoids is a complex and very deep topic. The above will hopefully give you a good, brief overview of what's going on - but there's still plenty to read for those who want to learn more.