Dogs are cool, but cannabinoids (cann-ab-in-oids) are what we call man’s true best friend. Whether you consume cannabis or not, your body has a widespread system designed to receive cannabinoids called the endocannabinoid system. It’s codependent relationship with our nervous system plays a play a large role in both our neurological function and physical wellbeing.

The endocannabinoid system is composed of a series of receptors located throughout the brain and body and is responsible for things like learning, memory, metabolism, growth and development. The phyto-cannabinoids found within the cannabis plant mimic the cannabinoids naturally produced by our body and can help to regulate the function of the endocannabinoid and nervous system.

There are over 120+ active cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant and most are non-pyshcoactive. The few that have been studied so far (CBD, CBG, CBC, CBN, etc.) show great potential in helping treat and alleviate the symptoms of most physical and mental disorders.

Commonly identified cannabinoids and their benefits:

• CBD: Cannabidol is a non-pyschoactive cannabinoid that helps with things like anxiety, chronic pain, inflammation, insomnia, etc.
• CBG: Cannabigerol is the mother of all cannabinoids and what we like to call CBD’s “happy sister.” It’s what each cannabinoid starts as before aging and transforming into THC, CBD, CBC, etc. CBC is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that helps with things like chronic pain, anxiety, mood swings, appetite, energy, etc.
• CBC: Cannabichromene is a powerful, non psychoactive cannabinoid that is most effective in treating inflammation, neuropathic pain and gastrointestinal issues.
• CBN: Cannabinol is a mildly-psychoactive cannabinoid that is most present in aged flower (ex: if you leave your flower out “too long”, your flower will dry out but it will also increase your CBN content.) CBN interacts with both the CB1 and CB2 receptors and is an excellent aid for chronic pain, anxiety and insomnia.
• THC: Tetrahydrocannabinol is (my least favorite cannabinoids) but by far the most popular. This psychoactive cannabinoid is most effective when used to achieve a good headrush or helping to treat chronic pain, anxiety, stress, etc.
• Caryophyllene (found in black pepper, oregano, etc.) you may recognize from reading about terpenes. Caryophyllene is the only terpene that acts as a cannabinoid as well. When consumed, caryophyllene activates the endocannabinoid system and works with the CB2 receptors to provide anti-inflammatory and anxiety-relieving effects.