Cannabidiol (CBD)

CBD is one of the top two most bioavailable cannabinoids in marijuana crops. It is renowned for its relaxing, non-psychoactive, and medicinal benefits.

CBD induces effects that help to counteract the “high” produced by psychoactive cannabinoids. It does this by inhibiting the release of FAAH (an enzyme that breaks down anandamide). This action encourages the availability of anandamide, also known as the bliss compound. Studies have shown that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties and other therapeutic potential.

Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

THC is literally the most famous cannabinoid in the weed ecosystem. This cannabinoid is the dominant compound that induces psychoactive effects on the user. THC reacts with CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system to produce the “high.” It emulates anandamide to induce the release of FAAH. Unlike other cannabinoids, THC is more potent and lasts much longer in the system.

Cannabidivarin (CBDV)

CBDV is a minor cannabinoid that is often found in wild and hybrid varieties of cannabis. Cannabis crops grown in Central Asia have trace amounts of this cannabinoid. Research is ongoing to understand the compound’s reaction with the ECS, but cannabis researchers have pointed out that it has a similar chemical structure to CBD.

Cannabichromene (CBC)

is a minor cannabinoid found in trace amounts in cannabis plants. Information about this cannabinoid is limited. Very little is known about its interaction with CB1 and CB2 receptors. Some studies suggest that CBC adds holistic efficacy to the entourage effect.

Terpenes and flavonoids

Aside from cannabinoids, cannabis contains other essential compounds like fatty acids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Most of these other compounds are poorly understood in the ecosystem. Yet, they all play vital roles in the entourage effect.

Terpenes are compounds that give cannabis strains their unique flavors. Terpenes are found in plants, fruits, and flowers of all crops, not just cannabis crops. Examples of terpenes are pinene, limonene, eucalyptol, and linalool. Terpenes also boost the effects of cannabinoids in the endocannabinoid system.

On the other hand, flavonoids give plants their pigment. They induce antioxidant effects in consumers. Their role in the entourage effect is vague, and their interaction, as well as the breakdown process, is yet to be established.

Knowing the TAC value of your cannabis products can be important. It’s just one more reason why cannabis regulations enforce manufacturers to include this information when labeling the products. It’s better when the total cannabinoids are listed. With this information, you can experiment with different product ratios to decipher the concentration that gives you the best cannabis experience. Medical officers can use this accurate measurement to determine the best therapeutic concentration for cannabis patients.

The Fresh Toast is a daily lifestyle platform with a side of cannabis. For more information, visit www.thefreshtoast.com.

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