Are you curious why your friend gets the giggles with a single puff, and you feel more mellow and relaxed?
The answer lies within the endogenous cannabinoid system, which exists throughout our brains and bodies and is the reason cannabis works the way it does.
Understanding the Endocannabinoid System
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is key to maintaining your body’s balance. It’s a complex cell-signaling system that helps your body regulate functions such as sleep and mood.
Researchers have identified two internal chemicals, called endocannabinoids, that the ECS relies on to carry out its functions: anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).
These endocannabinoids are responsible for keeping your body functioning normally through their interaction with cannabinoid receptors, which are also part of the ECS.
The two primary cannabinoid receptors are CB1 receptors and CB2 receptors. CB1 is found in the central nervous system, and CB2 is found mainly in your peripheral nervous system and immune system.
Phytocannabinoids, or cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, can also interact with this system much like endocannabinoids.
As a result, consuming cannabis can influence the ECS and, in turn, all of the bodily processes it governs. In other words, the interaction between phytocannabinoids in the ECS is why cannabis works the way it does.
To dive deeper into how the ECS keeps everything in check, explore our detailed guide to the endocannabinoid system.
Why do people react differently to cannabis?
No two people experience cannabis the same way.
To find out why, let’s explore the role of the endocannabinoid system, the power of genetics, and even how your mood can influence your experience.
Genetic Variations
Our genes play a role in how we experience cannabis.
For example, the CB1 receptor is the primary target for THC in the brain. Genetic variations in the CB1 receptor gene can impact how strongly THC binds to it. This can influence the intensity and duration of the psychoactive effects you experience.
In addition, the endocannabinoids we produce naturally in our ECS are broken down and recycled by enzymes. The efficiency and number of these enzymes are determined by genetics.
Your genes can affect how long endocannabinoids stay active before they are broken down, and this may apply to how you process phytocannabinoids as well.
Metabolism Matters
Genes also code for enzymes responsible for metabolizing cannabinoids in the liver. Variations in these genes can determine how quickly your body breaks down THC and other cannabinoids, impacting the duration and intensity of the effects.
Other factors like body weight and gut bacteria can impact the duration and intensity of cannabis effects.
Cannabinoids and how they affect the ECS
There are more than 100 different types of phytocannabinoids present in cannabis. Below are some of the most important and abundant cannabinoids that consumers should understand.
THC
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the intoxicating effects of cannabis. THC interacts with the ECS to produce psychoactive effects in the body, which can lead to altered perception, mood changes, and impaired memory or coordination.
CBD
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid, meaning it doesn’t produce a high or altered mental state. CBD has gained popularity for its potential therapeutic effects, including alleviating anxiety and managing pain.
THCV
Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is a cannabinoid similar to THC in structure. It can produce a more energetic high, albeit less potent, than THC and is known for its potential appetite-suppressing properties.
CBDV
Cannabidvarin (CBDV) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid similar to CBD. Research suggests CBDV could potentially have anticonvulsant properties.
CBC
Cannabichromene (CBC) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that does not produce a high on its own. It has potential therapeutic benefits like anti-inflammatory properties and interacts with the ECS to contribute to pain relief, mood enhancement, and more.
CBN
Cannabidiol (CBN) is a cannabinoid known for its potential to help with sleep and pain relief. While not as potent as THC, its calming effects make it a useful cannabinoid for managing symptoms of sleeplessness or pain.
CBG
Cannabigerol (CBG) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that’s gained attention for potential therapeutic benefits including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and neuroprotective properties.
The vast number of cannabinoids in each plant can lead to various experiences for cannabis use. Where one person may experience an extreme high when consuming cannabis, another might not feel the same effect. The strain and type of cannabis used matter.
What about THCA, CBGA, and CBDA?
Acidic cannabinoids like THCA, CBGA, and CBDA are found in cannabis plants. These compounders are precursors to THC, CBG, and CBD.
To activate their full potential, cannabis needs to be heated through processes such as smoking, vaporizing, or cooking. This heat causes decarboxylation, converting THCA into THC, CBGA into CBG, and CBDA into CBD.
This chemical change is essential for these cannabinoids to effectively interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system and produce their desired effects.
Beyond Biology–Additional Factors Influencing Effects
Outside biology, there are three other influencing factors you could encounter:
- Mindset & Expectations–Your mood and expectations before consuming cannabis can influence various cannabis effects.
- Tolerance and Regular Use–Regular cannabis use can lead to tolerance, meaning you need more to feel the same effects.
- Cannabis Product & Consumption Methods–Edibles take longer to feel but can feel more intense. Smoking cannabis is immediate, but the effects don’t last as long.
Two studies to read to learn more about how cannabis works
To gain a deeper understanding of how cannabis works, you can explore several key studies and reviews conducted by notable researchers.
Here are two highly regarded studies that delve into the mechanisms of cannabis, its effects, and its potential:
- Cannabis and Cannabinoids: Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Therapeutic Potential” by Ethan Russo: Russo is a prominent researcher in cannabinoid medicine. This article reviews the pharmacology of cannabinoids, their therapeutic uses, and the potential benefits and risks of cannabis use. Russo provides insights into the entourage effect and the role of cannabinoids in treating various conditions.
- “A Delightful Trip Along the Pathway of Cannabinoid and Endocannabinoid Chemistry and Pharmacology” by Raphael Mechoulam: Mechoulam, a leading figure in cannabinoid research, often referred to as the “father of cannabis,” provides an in-depth exploration of cannabinoid and endocannabinoid chemistry. The paper covers the discovery of various cannabinoids and their interaction with the ECS.
Find Out How Cannabis Affects You
Because cannabis research is underfunded, it’s difficult to know precisely how cannabis might affect you personally. However, your weight, gender, genes, and consumption methods all affect how you experience cannabis.
As always, we recommend you start your cannabis journey with a low dose and go slowly. Don’t rush it; experience the strains for yourself to find the perfect fit for your body and mindset. The result is a more enjoyable experience with one of life’s most enjoyable plants. Learn more by visiting Blue Oak in person or by staying updated with the blog!
