483 know components

When we hear about medical marijuana, we normally talk about the effects THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CDB (cannabidiol) can produce, but many forget that these two components are only 2 of the 483 known components of the cannabis plant. CDB is e.g. only 1 of 65 other cannabinoids that can produce health effects.

In order to understand the potential health effects of cannabis, the effects of all these components must be seen in context, as they all influence each other in one way or another.

Important main components

Some important main components of the cannabis plant are (Health line):

  • THC. THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis plants and is the component that makes you “high”.
  • CBD. CBD is non-euphoric. CBD doesn’t get you high, but can provide you with a number of health benefits. For example, reduce pain and nausea, prevent seizures and relieve migraines.
  • CBN. Cannabinol (CBN) is used to relieve symptoms and side effects of neurological conditions, including epilepsy, seizures and uncontrollable muscle stiffness.
  • THCA. Tetrahydrocannabinol acid (THCA) is similar to THC, but it does not cause psychoactive effects. Its potential benefits include reducing inflammation caused by arthritis and autoimmune diseases. It can also help reduce symptoms of neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and ALS.
  • CBG. Cannabigerol (CBG) is believed to help reduce anxiety and symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and depression.

Terpenes

Terpenes are another naturally occurring compound in the cannabis plant that recent research shows can have many positive health effects. In addition to the terpenes directly influencing the plant’s smell, they also influence which effects the individual cannabis strain produces.

Common terpenes according to Leafly is:

  • Terpene bisabolol – terpene bisabolol is believed to help reduce inflammation and irritation. It may also have antimicrobial and pain-relieving effects.
  • Caryophyllene – believed to help reduce anxiety, ease symptoms of depression and improve stomach ulcers.
  • Linalool – helps to improve relaxation and boost mood with its floral notes.
  • Myrcene – is the most common terpene, and can help reduce anxiety and insomnia.
    – Ocimene – produces notes of basil, mango and parsley. Its primary effects may include easing congestion and warding off viruses and bacteria.
  • Pines – produce an intense pine aroma that can help increase memory, reduce pain and relieve nausea and coordination problems.
  • Terpinolene – cannabis with this compound can smell like apples, cumin and conifers. This terpene is believed to have soothing, antibacterial and antifungal properties.
  • Limonene – bright, smooth citrus notes come from this terpene which is supposed to improve mood and reduce stress.
  • Humulene – cannabis strains with this molecule can help reduce inflammation.
  • Eucalyptol – is refreshing and invigorating. It can also help reduce inflammation and fight bacteria.

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