When we think of cannabis as a medicine, it usually conjures up images of agonizingly difficult binds, intense cerebral effects, and even death. However, there’s more to the plant than that. While HHC Flower and its derivatives are the most commonly prescribed psychoactive ingredient in cannabis (and also the active compound in all medical cannabis products), there are numerous other chemical compounds found within the flowering shoot of cannabis plants called cannabinoid receptors. These secondary metabolites are present in varying amounts throughout the plant’s entire year and can be identified by their unique smell, taste, and onset of effect. Read on for more information about these valuable clues about your favorite drug!
What is a cannabinoid?
Cannabinoids are an umbrella term that encompasses all the compounds responsible for the sexual and medical effects of cannabis. The most well-known of these compounds are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Other compounds such as non-in hydroxyaste, an anti-inflammatory compound that affects the central and peripheral nervous systems, and lutein, a pro-aging compound that can help promote healthy skin and hair, are also present in cannabis.
How are cannabinoids classified?
There are four types of cannabinoid receptors found in the human body: cannabinoid A receptors, cannabinoid B receptors, cannabinoid C receptors, and cannabinoid D receptors. Cannabinoid A receptors (CBARs) are located in the central and peripheral nervous systems, and cannabinoid B receptors (CBARs) are located in the immune system. Cannabinoid C receptors (CCR) are found in the skin, eyes, and penis. Cannabinoid D receptors (CDRs) are located in the brain and are involved in regulating mood and behavior.
What does a plant with marijuana receptors do inside of itself?
The flowers of many plants contain compounds called cannabinoids that are used in medical and recreational applications. Most notably, marijuana contains high levels of cannabinoids known as cannabinoids A and C as well as other compounds called cannabinoids D. These cannabinoids are biologically active and have been shown to have a broad range of physiological effects.
How to find the “romantic” cannabinoid in your favorite flower
You may be able to find high-quality extracts of your favorite flower in your local garden center. However, purchasing such flowers from a vendor or a greenhouse is not the most reliable source. Most flowers are only worth repotting if they are quite fragrant and spend a reasonable amount of time blooming.
The Bottom Line
Cannabis is an extremely useful drug and it is not to be under- or overlooked. While many would claim that it is a no-rise to the list of medicinal drugs, many other compounds can be used to treat a wide range of conditions. Cannabis has been used as a medicine for thousands of years and has been used as an add-on therapy to other medications.