In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the potential therapeutic benefits of medicinal cannabis. This ancient plant, known for its psychoactive properties, has taken on a new role as researchers and medical professionals explore its potential to alleviate various health conditions. In this blog post, we’ll provide an introduction to medicinal cannabis, its components, and its potential benefits.
Understanding Medicinal Cannabis:
Medicinal cannabis, often referred to as medical marijuana, involves the use of the cannabis plant or its extracts for medical purposes. The plant contains over a hundred different compounds called cannabinoids, each with unique effects on the human body. The two most well-known cannabinoids are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
THC and CBD
THC is the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects commonly associated with cannabis use. It interacts with the brain’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating various physiological functions like mood, pain sensation, appetite, and sleep.
CBD, on the other hand, is non-psychoactive and is known for its potential therapeutic properties. It doesn’t produce the “high” that THC does but has been studied for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing), and anticonvulsant effects.
Terpenes
For a deeper dive, jump over to our article on Terpenes (hyperlink).