Medical Cannabis & Endocannabinoid System
Medical Cannabis Information
Cannabinoids are natural compounds found in the cannabis plant, concentrated within tiny resin glands called trichomes. These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS)—a major regulator of pain, mood, sleep, inflammation, memory, and immune function.
Plant-based cannabinoids (phytocannabinoids) such as THC, CBD, CBG, and others activate receptors throughout the body and may provide therapeutic benefits.
Different formulations, potencies, and delivery methods allow physicians to personalize cannabis-based therapy for each patient.
Endocannabinoid System
Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
The ECS is a natural biological system present in every human. Its primary role is to help the body maintain balance and homeostasis.
The system includes:
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CB1 receptors — concentrated in the brain & nervous system
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CB2 receptors — found in the immune system & throughout the body
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Endocannabinoids — your body’s own cannabis-like molecules (anandamide & 2-AG)
Plant cannabinoids from medical cannabis can bind to these same receptors, supporting pain control, mood regulation, sleep, appetite, memory, and inflammation management.
Cannabinoids
Major Cannabinoids
🔹 THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
Supports pain relief, appetite stimulation, nausea reduction, muscle relaxation, and improved sleep.
🔹 THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)
Non-psychoactive. May offer anti-inflammatory, anti-epileptic, and anti-proliferative effects.
🔹 THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)
May reduce appetite, support energy, and modulate THC’s psychoactive effects
🔹 CBD (Cannabidiol)
Non-intoxicating. Supports anxiety reduction, inflammation control, mood balance, seizure relief, and neuroprotection.
FDA-approved in Epidiolex for epilepsy.
🔹 CBG (Cannabigerol)
May support pain, focus, inflammation reduction, and gut health.
🔹 CBN (Cannabinol)
Mildly sedating; may support sleep and relaxation.
🔹 CBC (Cannabichromene)
May provide antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
Endocannabinoids (Produced by the Body)
🔹 Anandamide (AEA)
🔹 2-AG (2-Arachidonoylglycerol)
Cannabinoids (Prescription Only)
🔹 Marinol / Dronabinol (synthetic THC)
🔹 Epidiolex (CBD)
Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis and many other plants.
They influence aroma, flavor, and therapeutic effects, and often work synergistically with cannabinoids (the entourage effect).
🌿
Myrcene
(Mango, Hops)
Relaxation, pain relief, sedation
🌸
Linalool
(Lavender)
Calming, anti-anxiety, sleep support
🌿
Terpinene
(Cardamom)
Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
🌲
Pinene
(Pine, Rosemary)
Alertness, anti-inflammatory, bronchodilator
⚫
Caryophyllene
(Black Pepper)
Anti-inflammatory, anxiety relief, gut support
🌾
Phellandrene
(Water Fennel)
Energy, digestion, mood support
🍋
Limonene
(Citrus)
Mood elevation, stress relief, digestive support
🌱
Menthol
(Mint)
Cooling, pain relief, antimicrobial
🌬
Eucalyptol
(Eucalyptus)
Respiratory support, anti-inflammatory
Entourage Effect
The entourage effect describes how cannabinoids and terpenes may work better together than individually.
This synergy can enhance therapeutic outcomes and reduce unwanted side effects.
Different combinations can be tailored for symptoms such as pain, anxiety, inflammation, appetite, sleep issues, or mood.
