What is a Cannabinoid?
A Fundamental Guide
When people hear about cannabis, they often think of compounds like THC and CBD. But did you know these are just two of over 100 naturally occurring compounds called cannabinoids?
What is a Cannabinoid?
Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant that can interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (Pertwee, 2015). Some cannabinoids are psychoactive (meaning they can alter perception or mood), while others are non-psychoactive.
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The cannabis plant produces cannabinoids mostly in the resin glands (trichomes), which are found on flowers and sugar leaves. These compounds give cannabis its therapeutic potential, alongside terpenes and other plant molecules (Russo, 2011) and therefore are central to understanding how medicinal cannabis works in the body.
Types of Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids can be grouped into three main categories:
Phytocannabinoids
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Naturally produced by the cannabis plant.
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Examples: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD (cannabidiol), CBG (cannabigerol), CBN (cannabinol).
Endocannabinoids
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Produced within the human body.
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Examples: Anandamide (AEA) and 2-AG.
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Help regulate balance (homeostasis) in processes such as mood, sleep, pain, and appetite (Lu & Mackie, 2021).
Synthetic cannabinoids
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Man-made compounds developed for research or therapeutic use.
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Some are approved for medical conditions (e.g. nabiximols), while others are regulated or prohibited due to possible risks (Iversen, 2020).
How Do Cannabinoids Work?
Cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) — a signalling network in the brain, immune system, and other tissues.
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THC binds strongly to CB1 receptors in the brain, which explains its psychoactive effects (Pertwee, 2015).
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CBD has a more indirect role. It does not strongly bind to CB1 or CB2 receptors, but may influence other receptor systems and increase levels of the body’s own endocannabinoids (Lu & Mackie, 2021).
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Other cannabinoids, like CBG or CBC, are being studied for their potential to interact with ECS receptors and contribute to the entourage effect — the theory that cannabis compounds may work better together than alone (Russo, 2011).
Conclusion
Cannabinoids are the key active compounds in cannabis that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. From the well-known THC and CBD to emerging cannabinoids like CBG, they play a vital role in shaping how medicinal cannabis may influence health.
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As research grows, we’re learning more about how different cannabinoids may support health, either alone or through the entourage effect.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Laws regarding prescription medicines vary by region, and readers should always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any prescription medication.
​References: Iversen, L. (2020). The Science of Marijuana (3rd ed.). Oxford University Press. Lu, H. C., & Mackie, K. (2021). An introduction to the endogenous cannabinoid system. Biological Psychiatry, 79(7), 516–525. Pertwee, R. G. (2015). Endocannabinoids and their pharmacological actions. Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology, 231, 1–37. Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), 1344–1364.