The two primary active found in plant-based treatments are CBD and THC. Each, in its own way, is crucial to the effects produced by said medicinal plant-based products.
Both are similar in molecular structure but differ in how the atoms are arranged. CBD, or cannabidiol, is non-psychoactive and produces no sort of intoxicating effect. THC is the reason for the “high” associated with plant-based treatments, due to its psychoactive nature.
As the industry surrounding plant-based treatments continues to expand, more and more people are looking into whether it’s suitable for them. In Australia, the laws surrounding CBD and THC were changed to allow patients with valid prescriptions to access said treatments.
The medicinal plant-based products are prescribed to relieve symptoms associated with a variety of chronic conditions. For now, researchers are still in the early phases of exploring the efficacy of said treatments.
The only way to truly understand how plant-based treatments work is to review how each compound interacts with our bodies and brains.
The endocannabinoid system
The first step to understanding these active compounds is to understand the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The job of the endocannabinoid system is to regulate bodily functions. Research shows it has an impact on mood, appetite, pain sensation, memory, immune responses, and more.
The crucial elements can be divided into three parts:
Endocannabinoids
Our bodies produce endocannabinoids. These compounds work by attaching to the receptors of the ECS, signalling for the ECS to act.
The two known endocannabinoids identified by experts are
- anandamide (AEA)
- 2-arachidonoylglyerol (2-AG)
Endocannabinoid receptors
In our bodies and brains exists a network of chemical signals and cellular receptors packed densely amongst one another.
The two main receptors identified by experts are:
- CB1 receptors, commonly found in the central nervous system
- CB2 receptors, commonly found in your peripheral nervous system, especially immune cells
Endocannabinoids can bind to either of these receptors. Its effects are dependent on the specific endocannabinoid and the location of the receptor.
Enzymes
Enzymes work by breaking down endocannabinoids after the ECS has performed its function. By doing so, it prevents the effects of the ECS from continuing indefinitely.
The key enzymes overseeing this responsibility are:
- fatty acid amide hydrolase, which breaks down AEA
- monoacylglycerol acid lipase, which typically breaks down 2-AG
How do CBD and THC interact with the endocannabinoid system?
In a great coincidence, THC and CBD have an extremely similar chemical structure to that of endocannabinoids. However, both compounds interact with the ECS in different ways.
THC
- THC mimics endocannabinoids and binds to the ECS receptors
- By doing so, the brain’s reward system is activated and the system is overwhelmed; resulting in an intoxicating effect.
- The effects of THC can be wide-ranging and will differ from person to person; it may boost your energy, kick start paranoia, or cause you to relax.
CBD
- CBD approaches the ECS in a different way entirely, and rather has an inhibiting effect on the enzymes
- By preventing the enzymes from breaking down the endocannabinoids, the ECS is able to produce continued effects.
- CBD will not cause any sort of “high” or intoxicating effect on users.
The side effects and risks of plant-based treatments
As no treatment has the same effect on everyone, it’s important to know the possible risks and side effects associated with CBD and THC.
For the most part, the naturally occurring chemical compounds are considered largely safe for adult use. However, some have reported a few unwanted feelings after using plant-based treatments.
A few of the most commonly reported side effects are:
- Drowsiness
- Sedation
- Changes in appetite
- Dry mouth
- Changes in mood
- Fatigue
- Lethargy
- Increased heart rate
- Paranoia
Most patients are not likely to experience side effects when using CBD in isolation. Users consuming potent THC products are more likely to experience the above side effects.
There are also risks associated with using plant-based treatments while pregnant or breastfeeding. Doctors thus strongly advise against the use of such treatments under these conditions.
In addition, it is recommended that patients avoid using plant-based treatments if currently on blood thinners.
The risks of harm are also far higher if consuming unauthorised plant-based products that are not subject to third-party testing. Remember, purchasing CBD and/or THC is illegal without a prescription from a medical practitioner.
Other cannabinoids
THC and CBD are not the only naturally occurring chemical compounds we know of. A few of the other known ones that researchers are actively exploring include:
- CBG: Also known as Cannabigerol, it is often referred to as the mother of the chemical compounds. It is often only present in small amounts, making products with CBD rare and more expensive to purchase.
- CBC: Cannabichromene forms part of the “big six” chemical compounds and is non-intoxicating. Researchers are exploring the medical potential of CBC.
- CBN: Cannabinol is an oxidative degradation product of THC, often formed when THC is overexposed to UV light and oxygen over time.
As the market continues to expand, more focus will be allocated to researching the lesser-known chemical compounds such as those mentioned above.
Summary
CBD and THC are the two major active compounds found in plant-based treatments.
These compounds are similar in chemical structure but differ in how the atoms are arranged. The former is psychoactive and intoxicating, the latter is not.
Plant-based treatments in Australia are only available for patients with a prescription from a qualified medical practitioner. Only a doctor can effectively determine the suitability of CBD and/or THC for those struggling with chronic conditions.
Each active compound interacts with the endocannabinoid system, albeit in different ways. THC attaches to the receptors found throughout the ECS, while CBD prevents the enzymes from breaking down endocannabinoids.
Although considered largely safe, plant-based treatments may come with side effects. Those consuming high doses of THC are more likely to experience possible feelings of lethargy, fatigue, and paranoia amongst others.
A few of the other known compounds include CBG, CBN, and CBC. For now, we have limited information on these substances.
For more information on the primary active compounds of plant-based treatments, speak to one of our qualified experts today.