THC, or Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol, is the most well-known cannabinoid compound found in cannabis. It is the main psychoactive ingredient, and it is responsible for what most people consider the “high” they experience when consuming cannabis.
THC has been heavily studied since the 1960’s and has been found to have analgesic, anti-bacterial, anti-cancerous, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmotic, appetite stimulating, bronchodilating, and even neuroprotective properties! It does this by working with the Endocannabinoid System – a unique set of receptors within your body. This system is divided into two parts. The first are the CB1 receptors that are located throughout your brain, your digestive tract, various muscle tissue in your body, and various fat tissues in your body. The second are the CB2 receptors that are located throughout your immune system, your peripheral organs such as your spleen and tonsils, soft tissue within your brain, and throughout your gastrointestinal system. When cannabinoids such as THC, which heavily binds to the CB1 receptors and some of the CB2 receptors, are consumed, this system responds to help promote what is known as homeostasis – a healthy, optimally functioning body.
Your body actually produces its own set of cannabinoids called 2-AG (2-arachidonoylglycerol) and anandamide. These are referred to as endocannabinoids, and these compounds are mimicked perfectly by THC and the other cannabinoids within cannabis!
