*DISCLAIMER

Important Note:

This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. If you have any concerns about your health or are considering using cannabis, please consult with a healthcare professional

Individual experiences with Indica can vary depending on the specific strain, dosage, method of consumption, and individual factors like tolerance and metabolism.

It's essential to start with low doses, especially if you're new to Indica or a specific strain, and gradually increase as needed.

Always consult with a healthcare professional (including holistically) before using cannabis for medical purposes, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications. 

Important Note: While research suggests potential benefits, further studies are needed to fully understand the effects of terpenes, especially in humans. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using terpenes for medicinal purposes, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. 

*Terpenes 

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis, that contribute to their unique smell and flavor

. 

Benefits of Terpenes:

Aromatherapy and Sensory Experience: Terpenes are responsible for the distinct aromas of different cannabis strains, influencing the overall experience.

Potential Therapeutic Effects: Research suggests that terpenes may offer a range of therapeutic benefits, including:

Pain Relief: Some terpenes like myrcene and beta-caryophyllene have demonstrated analgesic properties.

Anti-Inflammatory: Terpenes such as limonene and humulene may possess anti-inflammatory effects.

Anti-Anxiety and Mood Enhancement: Linalool and limonene are associated with calming and mood-boosting effects.

Sleep Aid: Myrcene and linalool are known for their sedative properties, potentially aiding sleep.

Antimicrobial and Antifungal: Some terpenes like pinene and limonene have shown antimicrobial and antifungal activity.

Entourage Effect: Terpenes may enhance the effects of cannabinoids like THC and CBD through a synergistic interaction known as the entourage effect. 

Potential Side Effects of Terpenes:

Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS): Terpenes found naturally in foods are generally considered safe for consumption.

Potential for Allergic Reactions: Individuals may experience allergic reactions or sensitivities to certain terpenes, especially in concentrated forms.

Skin Irritation: Concentrated terpenes can irritate the skin and cause allergic reactions, potentially leading to dermatitis.

Respiratory Irritation: Inhaling concentrated terpenes may irritate the lungs, particularly for those with respiratory sensitivities.

Interactions with Medications: Certain terpenes may interact with medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing side effects.

Hormonal Effects: Some terpenes may have hormonal effects, and individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions should consult their doctor before use. 

*The Entourage Effect

The "entourage effect" in the context of cannabis refers to the theory that various compounds within the plant (like cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids) work together synergistically to produce a more potent and beneficial effect than if they were taken in isolation. It suggests that using the full spectrum of compounds, rather than isolated ingredients, can enhance therapeutic outcomes and potentially mitigate negative side effects. 

Elaboration:

Synergistic Interactions:
The entourage effect proposes that different cannabis compounds interact in a way that enhances their individual effects, leading to a more impactful outcome. 

Enhanced Therapeutic Benefits:
Some suggest that this synergistic effect can lead to more effective treatment of various conditions, such as pain, anxiety, inflammation, and more. 

Potential for Reduced Side Effects:
For example, CBD (a non-psychoactive cannabinoid) is thought to modulate the effects of THC (the psychoactive cannabinoid), potentially reducing unwanted side effects like anxiety, sedation, and hunger. 

Full-Spectrum Products:
This concept is often associated with the use of full-spectrum cannabis products, which contain a wide range of compounds, compared to isolated cannabinoids like CBD or THC. 

Ongoing Research:
While the entourage effect is a widely discussed concept, it's important to note that scientific research to fully understand and confirm this theory is still ongoing. 

*Dioecious vs Monoecious

In plant biology, "dioecious" and "monoecious" describe the arrangement of male and female reproductive structures. Monoecious plants have both male and female flowers on the same plant, while dioecious plants have male and female flowers on separate individual plants. 

Monoecious: 

Monoecious plants have both male and female flowers on the same individual. This means a single plant can produce both pollen (male gametes) and ovules (female gametes). Examples include corn, zucchini, and squash. 

Dioecious:

Dioecious plants have male and female flowers on different individual plants. Some individuals in a dioecious species will be male (producing only pollen) and others will be female (producing only ovules). Examples include holly, spinach, and asparagus and of course cannabis/hemp.

*Cannabis Classifications (Consumption IQ)

Know what you are consuming.

More and more, the cannabis industry is moving away from the term “strains” and using chemovars (chemical varieties), since the word “strain” is often used to refer to bacteria and viruses.

Chemical varieties include:

Type I: High THC

Type II: THC/CBD combined

Type III: High CBD

ICON CLASSIFICATIONS

SATIVA-S

INDICA-I

RUDERALIS-R

SATIVA/INDICA-S/I

INDICA/SATIVA-I/S

SATIVA/RUDERALIS-S/R

INDICA/RUDERALIS-I/R

SATIVA/INDICA/RUDERALIS-S/I/R

*SATIVA

Sativa is a type of cannabis plant known for its energizing and uplifting effects, often contrasted with indica strains, which are known for their relaxing qualities. 

Plant description: Sativa plants are tall and thin with finger-like leaves. They can grow to about 6 feet (ft) or 2 meters (m). They take longer to mature than some other types of cannabis.

Typical CBD-to-THC ratio: Sativa often has lower doses of CBD and higher doses of THC, whereas indica tends to have less THC than CBD.

Commonly associated effects of use: Sativa often produces a “mind high” or an energizing, anxiety-reducing effect.

Daytime or nighttime use: Because of its stimulating effects, sativa is often used in the daytime.

Benefits of Sativa:

Increased Energy and Focus: Sativa strains are known to promote alertness and may help improve focus and concentration, making them suitable for daytime use.

Mood Enhancement: Sativa strains can elevate mood and induce feelings of happiness and euphoria, which may be beneficial for individuals dealing with depression or mood disorders.

Creativity and Productivity: Some users find that sativa enhances creativity and productivity, making it popular among artists and those seeking to boost their performance in various tasks.

Potential Therapeutic Benefits: Sativa strains may help alleviate symptoms of conditions like depression, fatigue, and stress. 

Potential Side Effects:

Anxiety and Paranoia: In some individuals, especially at higher doses or with certain strains, sativa may induce anxiety or paranoia.

Fast Heart Rate: Sativa can increase heart rate, which may be a concern for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.

Potential for Insomnia: While sativa can be energizing, excessive use or consumption late in the day might interfere with sleep for some individuals.

Other Possible Side Effects: Dry mouth, red eyes, and dizziness are also potential side effects associated with cannabis use, including sativa. 

Important Note: The effects of sativa can vary greatly depending on individual factors like tolerance, dosage, and the specific strain consumed. 

*INDICA

Indica is one of the two major types of cannabis plants. Indica strains, which are known for their relaxing qualities. . Indica plants are typically shorter and bushier than Sativa plants, with wider leaves and a more compact growth structure. 

Plant description: Indica plants are short and stocky with bushy greenery and chunky leaves that grow wide and broad. They grow faster than sativa, and each plant produces more buds.

Typical CBD-to-THC ratio: Indica strains often have higher levels of CBD, but the THC content isn’t necessarily less.

Commonly associated effects of use: Indica is sought after for its intensely relaxing effects. It may also help reduce nausea and pain and increase appetite.

Daytime or nighttime use: Because of its deep relaxation effects, indica is typically consumed at night.

Benefits of Indica:

Indica strains are primarily known for their relaxing and calming effects, often leading to what's described as a "body high". Some of the most commonly reported benefits of Indica include: 

Pain Relief: Indica's relaxing properties can help ease muscle tension, inflammation, and nerve pain, making it potentially helpful for chronic pain conditions, arthritis, muscle spasms, and migraines.

Improved Sleep: Indica strains are often used as a natural sleep aid due to their sedative effects, potentially helping with insomnia and other sleep disorders.

Stress & Anxiety Reduction: Indica's relaxing properties can help calm the mind and body, potentially reducing stress and anxiety.

Appetite Stimulation: Indica can help stimulate appetite, which can be helpful for individuals with appetite loss due to medical conditions or treatments.

Muscle Relaxation: Indica's effects can help ease muscle tension and stiffness, potentially aiding conditions like multiple sclerosis or fibromyalgia. 

Potential Side Effects:

While Indica is generally considered safe, like all cannabis products, it can have potential side effects, especially at higher doses. Some common side effects include: 

Drowsiness and "Couch-Lock": Indica's sedative effects can lead to drowsiness and a feeling of being physically heavy, sometimes referred to as "couch-lock".

Dry Mouth and Dry Eyes: These are common side effects experienced with various cannabis strains, including Indica.

Dizziness and Impaired Coordination: These side effects can occur, especially with higher doses.

Increased Appetite ("Munchies"): While this can be a benefit for some, it can also be a side effect that leads to unwanted weight gain.

Potential for Anxiety or Paranoia (less common than with Sativa): While Indica is generally known for its relaxing effects, some individuals may experience anxiety or paranoia, especially with higher THC strains. 

*RUDERALIS

Cannabis ruderalis is a subspecies of cannabis known for its low THC content, resulting in minimal psychoactive effects, and its high CBD content, which may offer medicinal benefits. It also stands out for its auto-flowering trait, meaning it flowers regardless of light exposure, a characteristic often used in breeding programs. 

Benefits:

Low THC, High CBD:
Ruderalis's low THC content makes it a good option for those seeking the medicinal benefits of cannabis, such as pain relief, anxiety reduction, and improved sleep, without the psychoactive "high". 

Hardy and Resilient:
Ruderalis plants are known for their resilience and ability to thrive in harsh environments. 

Auto-flowering:
This trait allows growers to produce crops more quickly and in various light conditions, making it valuable in breeding programs. 

Versatile in Breeding:
Ruderalis's unique traits, such as fast growth and resistance to pests and diseases, make it a valuable component in breeding hybrid strains with desirable characteristics. 

Potential Side Effects:

Minimal Psychoactive Effects:
Due to its low THC content, ruderalis typically has limited psychoactive effects, which may be a drawback for some users. 

Lower Potency and Yields:
Compared to other cannabis varieties, ruderalis may have lower yields and potency. 

Not Often Used Alone:
Ruderalis is rarely grown for recreational use due to its low THC content and is more commonly used as a component in breeding programs. 

In essence, ruderalis is valued for its unique combination of low THC, high CBD, hardiness, and auto-flowering trait, making it a valuable tool in both medicinal cannabis production and breeding programs. 

What Is THCA?

THCA, or tetrahydrocannabinol acid–specifically Delta-9 THCA, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid in hemp and cannabis (Cannabis sativa) plants. It is the acidic “precursor” to THC and exists primarily in young, freshly harvested cultivars. THCA is non-psychoactive until it converts to THC through non-enzymatic reactions when exposed to heat. Known as decarboxylation, this process activates cannabis’ psychoactive properties.

*THCA Therapeutic Effects

Research shows that THCA has promise for multiple health benefits and medical uses, including:

Appetite loss and nausea relief for people with cancer or eating disorders

Reducing pain and inflammation

Reducing chronic pain and muscle spasms, particularly for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis

Slowing the progression of cancer cells, specifically prostate cancer

Brain health, such as protecting memory and coordination and being effective against Huntington’s disease and other neuroinflammatory diseases, like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and ALS

Relaxation, potentially as a sleep aid and for insomnia

Reducing seizures and spasms, such as for epilepsy and multiple sclerosis

***THCB has a similar structure to THC, but it binds more strongly to CB1 receptors, resulting in heightened effects, though it’s still less potent than THC.

***Effects: Mild euphoria and relaxation, with subtle enhancements to sensory perception.
***Advantages: THCB can help with mood improvement, mild pain relief, and relaxation without overwhelming psychoactivity, making it suitable for daytime use.

*What Is THCB?

Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabutol, or THCB, is a cannabinoid close to THC, the most abundant phytocannabinoid in the cannabis plant and responsible for most cannabis’ psychoactivity.

According to the researchers who discovered it, THCB similarly interacts with the endocannabinoid system to THC, and it mainly acts on CB1 and CB2 receptors in the brain. The researchers also found that THCB had a stronger binding affinity with CB1 receptors in the brain than the more abundant THC.

Small animal tests were conducted following THCB’s discovery and showed promising results similar to THC’s impact on humans. The researchers observed and reported decreased pain, slowed reaction time, and deeper sleep. In the same report, the team observed potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

*Potential Uses and Benefits

The preliminary data suggests that THCB behaves similarly to THC, with a potential for pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. THCB may also be a potential sleeping aid, though we don’t yet know if THCB has the same psychoactive properties as THC.

Due to THCB’s stronger binding affinity to CB1 receptors, it is suggested that it could be more potent than THC. However, this effect has not been confirmed in humans as of yet. It should also be noted that THCB is not found in abundance in the cannabis plant, so the extent to which it has a noticeable effect when consumed is unknown.

***HHC is a naturally occurring hydrogenated form of THC, offering similar effects but with a slightly milder potency.

***Effects: A clear-headed, euphoric high with physical relaxation.
***Advantages: It provides stress relief, mild pain management, and relaxation without the intense psychoactive effects of Delta-9 THC, making it more approachable for beginners.

*What Is HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol)?

Hexahydrocannabinol, or "HHC," is a cannabinoid, a type of substance that binds with cannabinoid receptors in your body, including in your brain. These receptors are part of your body's endocannabinoid system that controls many of your daily functions, from how you feel to what you think to how you eat and sleep.

*HHC and Its Natural Benefits

While research on HHC is still in its early stages, preliminary findings suggest that it may have a range of potential benefits. Here are just a few:

1. Pain Relief
The capacity of HHC to relieve pain is one of its most intriguing potential advantages. HHC may be an effective alternative to conventional opioids for lowering pain and inflammation, according to some preliminary research.

2. Anxiety & Stress Relief
HHC might have an impact on anxiety and stress levels, similar to other cannabinoids. After taking HHC, several people claim to feel more at ease and at peace.

3. Sleep Aid
HHC may also improve sleep, which is a potential advantage. Many people struggle to find an appropriate treatment for common sleep disorders including insomnia. Those who have trouble sleeping may find HHC helpful in promoting deeper, more restful sleep.

4. Appetite Stimulation
HHC might affect the stimulation of hunger as well. People who experience low appetite as a result of illnesses like cancer or HIV/AIDS may find this to be especially helpful.

5. Neuroprotective Properties
The neuroprotective abilities of HHC are another possible advantage. According to certain research, HHC may protect brain cells and lessen brain inflammation, which may be advantageous for people who suffer from neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease or Alzheimer's disease.

HHC can be consumed orally, through vaping or smoking, as a tincture, or as an ingredient in foods.

HHC has the advantage of being combined with other cannabinoids, such as CBD and CBG, to produce a more all-encompassing wellness treatment. For instance, mixing HHC with CBD may improve both cannabinoids' capacity to reduce anxiety and relieve pain. 

***THCH is known for its high potency, with six carbon atoms in its side chain, which makes it significantly stronger than traditional THC.
***Effects: Powerful euphoria and deep relaxation.
***Advantages: THCH may be highly effective for pain relief and stress management, offering potent body relaxation.

*What is THC-H?

THC-H is a unique cannabinoid that distinguishes itself with a longer n-hexyl side chain composed of six carbons, setting it apart from Delta-9 THC, which has a 5-carbon side chain. THC-H’s chemical structure allows it to more readily attach to receptors in the brain, making it notably stronger than Delta-9 THC. In fact, THC-H chemicals attach to receptors with 10% greater affinity than THC. 

*Potential Therapeutic Benefits of THC-H.

Cannabis scientists have extensively examined THC-H’s therapeutic benefits. However, as a tetrahydrocannabinol compound, like THC, this exotic cannabinoid may exhibit similar properties such as:

Appetite stimulation

Analgesic (pain-relief)

Neuroprotective effects

Anti-inflammatory properties:

Anti-nausea 

Anti-vomiting

*What is THC-M?

THC-M, also known as tetrahydrocannabinol-monoacetic acid, is a psychoactive chemical found naturally in cannabis plants. Like THC, the most abundant and well-known psychoactive compound in cannabis, it binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain. However, it doesn’t cause the same “high” as THC. Instead, it exhibits its own unique psychoactive effects.

Cannabis plants produce THC-M in small amounts, and researchers can isolate it to study its distinct entourage effect. Scientists believe it likely contributes to the overall psychoactive effects experienced by cannabis users. However, it alone doesn’t produce strong psychoactive effects like THC does.

*Benefits of THC-M

Anti-inflammatory effects - Early research shows THC-M may help reduce inflammation.

Neuroprotective properties - Studies suggest THC-M may help protect brain cells and neural pathways.

Analgesic qualities - There is evidence THC-M may be able to provide pain relief.

Anti-seizure - Initial studies indicate THC-M may have anti-seizure potential.

Fewer intoxicating effects - THC-M appears less intoxicating than THC, making it an appealing medical cannabinoid.

Anxiety and stress relief - Some research points to possible anti-anxiety and stress-reducing effects.

Improved sleep - There are indications THC-M may help regulate sleep cycles and enhance sleep quality.

HHCO is the acetate version of HHC, which makes it more bioavailable and potent than standard HHC.

Effects: Smooth, relaxing psychoactive with a long-lasting effect.
Advantages: HHCO offers a more controlled and balanced high, suitable for those who prefer mild euphoria without anxiety or paranoia, often linked to THC.

*What is HHC-O?

HHC-O is a new Hemp-derived cannabinoid that is extracted from Hemp using a clean manufacturing process. HHC-O is a hydrogenated compound that binds to different receptors than regular Hemp cannabinoids such as Delta-8. A perk of hydrogenation is that it gives stability at the molecular level. HHC-O is thought to digest in the body the same way as Delta 9 THC. It is said that HHC-O is more potent than Delta-8 and Delta-10. Lastly, HHC-O also has properties that allow it be easier and more efficiently absorbed by the body.

HHCP, the hydrogenated form of THCP, is another highly potent cannabinoid with intense psychoactive effects.

Effects: A long-lasting, powerful high with enhanced feelings of euphoria and relaxation.
Advantages: Useful for people who need strong pain relief or wish to achieve a deep sense of calm and well-being.

*What is HHCP?

Hydroxyhexahydrocannabinol (HHCP) is a potent metabolite of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the primary psychoactive component of Cannabis, with distinct structural features and affinity for cannabinoid 1 receptors.

HHCP is characterized by its carbon backbone comprised of five carbons and twelve hydrogens, as well as two oxygen atoms and one hydrogenated form connected to the molecule in a unique manner.

The presence of this compound makes it even more potent than Δ9-THC, providing greater effects upon consumption.

HHCP has also been noted for its potential therapeutic benefits when consumed, making it an increasingly popular product in the hemp plant market.

*HHC-P Benefits

Hydrogenated hemp cannabinoid pre-cursor (HHC-P) has been reported to provide a range of benefits, including mental and physical relaxation, anxiety relief, improved mood, and a feeling of euphoria.

HHC-P is said to be up to ten times stronger than other cannabinoids due to its unique molecular structure which contains a carbon side chain with a double bond.

It is classified as a minor cannabinoid in the cannabinoid family and is known for its potent effects when used as an infused compound or distillate.

The powerful effect that it gives users often leads to a psychoactive experience not found in THC-infused compounds. This is because the extraction process involves hydrogenation and isomerization of the HHC-P molecule.

Research suggests that HHC-P can also possess anxiolytic properties and may have therapeutic benefits when used properly.

Studies conducted on heavy machinery operators showed that using HHC-P reduced physical tension significantly.

***THCP is highly potent, and its ability to bind to cannabinoid receptors is much stronger than that of Delta-9 THC.
***Effects: Intense and long-lasting euphoria, often more powerful than what regular THC users may expect.
***Advantages: Ideal for individuals who need sustained relief from severe pain or insomnia, with the added benefit of potentially reducing the need for frequent dosing.

*What is THCP?

Tetrahydrocannabiphoral (THCP) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid in cannabis plants with over 30 times the potency of delta 9 THC from marijuana. 

*Benefits of THCP

Using THCP can provide the following benefits: 

Pain relief

Anti-inflammatory effects 

Anti-nausea effects 

Anxiety and stress relief

Insomnia relief 

Appetite stimulation

Epilepsy 

*What Is Delta-8?

Delta-8 THC (or delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol) is a naturally occurring chemical compound, called a cannabinoid, that’s found in traces in hemp and cannabis (marijuana) plants. Delta-8 produces a fuzzy, euphoric high that's said to be similar to that from marijuana, but milder. Some people also use it to ease symptoms of conditions like stress, depression, or chronic pain. 

*Potential Delta-8 THC Benefits

Neuroprotective properties for a healthier brain

Some research suggests that delta-8 THC could help people produce Acetylcholine, which is a neurotransmitter. That neurotransmitter is partially responsible for many functions, including:

Memory.

Cognition.

Neuroplasticity.

And even arousal.

Stimulate the appetite

Eliminate their nausea 

Analgesic (AKA pain-relieving) properties

Fewer anxiety symptoms with its anxiolytic effects

Calm the nervous and immune system

A lighter, more controlled buzz 

Help reduce inflammation

Helps prevent sensory overload

***Delta-9 THC, is the primary psychoactive component in cannabis and one of the most well-known cannabinoids. While not as potent as newer discoveries, its effects are still strong and highly sought after. 

***Effects: Euphoria, relaxation, and altered sensory perception.
***Advantages: THC is widely used for chronic pain, nausea, and appetite stimulation, and its effects are well-documented and understood.

*What is Delta-9 THC?

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-9 THC) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is the most well-known and abundant psychoactive compound in marijuana, responsible for the “high” or euphoric sensation associated with cannabis consumption.

*Therapeutic Benefits of Delta-9 THC

Chronic Pain: Conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis.

PTSD: Alleviates anxiety, improves sleep, and helps manage traumatic memories.

Epilepsy: Reduces frequency and severity of seizures, often used in combination with CBD.

Cancer: Manages nausea, vomiting, stimulates appetite, and reduces pain.

Neurodegenerative Diseases: Helps with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis.

Glaucoma: Reduces intraocular pressure to slow disease progression.

Anxiety and Depression: Low doses can reduce anxiety and improve mood.

*What is Delta-10-THC?

Delta-10 THC is a minor psychoactive cannabinoid that occurs naturally in aged hemp and cannabis plants in trace amounts. 

Like Delta-9 THC, Delta-10 is tetrahydrocannabinol with psychoactive properties. Unlike Delta-9, however, Delta-10 appears in such low levels that manufacturers would waste an exhaustive amount of time and material trying to extract it from natural bud. As a result, most produce Delta-10 in a laboratory, converting hemp-derived CBD into Delta-10 using chemical solvents and acids. 

Delta-10 is so elusive that laboratories often misidentify the compound for CBC or CBL using standard High-Performance Liquid Chromatography methods,

*Benefits of Delta-10-THC

Neuroprotective properties 

Increases energy levels 

Pain and inflammation relief 

Reduces stress and anxiety 

Boosts mood 

*What is CBN? 

CBN was actually the first cannabinoid to be identified by scientists.

CBN occurs naturally in the cannabis plant as the plant ages. That’s because over time–and when heated or exposed to oxygen–the cannabinoid TCH converts to CBN. CBN can also be produced from THC that’s extracted from cannabis.

*Health benefits of CBN 

CBN as a sedative. 

CBN as a pain reliever 

CBN as an antibiotic 

CBN as an anti-inflammatory 

CBN as an appetite stimulant 

CBN as a cancer fighter 

CBN as an anti-convulsant 

CBN for bone healing and growth 

CBN as a glaucoma therapy

*What is CBD?

CBD is one of many active compounds in cannabis. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is nonpsychoactive. Nonpsychoactive means that CBD doesn’t cause a “high.”

Cannabis-derived CBD products may be more effective than those from hemp, but industrial hemp-derived CBD still provides many health benefits.

*Health Benefits

CBD can be used to treat conditions such as chronic pain, inflammation, migraines, epilepsy, autoimmune diseases, depression, and anxiety. 

**Approved to Treat Epilepsy

In 2018, the first FDA-approved drug, cannabidiol (Epidiolex), containing CBD was released on the market to treat two different kinds of epilepsy —  Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.

The FDA approved the treatment for patients as young as two years old. Studies showed it was effective in comparison to a placebo in reducing the frequency of seizures. 

*What is THCV?

THCV, a lesser-known cannabinoid found in some strains of marijuana, has been gaining attention due to its potential health benefits. Unlike THC, THCV in low to moderate doses does not have psychoactive properties and can even mitigate some of the "high" THC delivers. It has been studied for its potential medicinal properties, including pain and inflammation relief, neuroprotection, appetite suppression, and blood sugar regulation. Moreover, it may also aid in weight loss, control panic attacks, and contribute to bone health and growth. 

*THCV As Medicine

THCV [is] analgesic and anti-inflammatory, it’s neuroprotective, which means it protects the nervous system. It’s anti-nausea and vomiting. It helps with bone health and bone formation, it’s sleep-promoting, it’s anti-epileptic, it’s anti-anxiety. It’s a major anti-psychotic. And it helps with appetite suppression, it’s anti-diabetic and it’s anti-cholesterol.  Helps with Blood Sugar Regulation, Control Of Panic Attacks, Muscle Control And Neuroprotection

*What is CBG?

Cannabigerol (CBG) is a non-intoxicating substance found in plants of the Cannabis genus that may offer a variety of applications for humans. In other words, CBG comes from hemp, doesn’t get you high, and may also provide wellness benefits – much like CBD.

CBG is referred to as “the mother of all cannabinoids” because every single cannabinoid is derived from the acidic form of CBG: cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). And like every other cannabinoid, CBG functions as a phytocannabinoid and works with your endocannabinoid system to regulate and maintain homeostasis within your body.

Researchers describe CBG as a minor cannabinoid because cannabis plants produce smaller amounts of the substance compared to major cannabinoids like CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBG typically makes up less than one percent of the cannabis plant by weight. But cannabigerolic acid is an integral part of the plant’s production of CBD, and THC.

The potential medical benefits of CBG are similar to CBD, as they are both non-psychoactive compounds that differ in molecular structure. The molecular difference may cause slightly different effects.  CBG may produce a more energizing and uplifting effect, while CBD tends to have a more relaxed effect.   

*What are Radula Cannabinoids?

Radula is a genus of liverworts, a type of non-vascular plant, that produces unique chemical compounds called cannabinoids. 

These cannabinoids, like perrottetinene (PET), are structurally similar to THC, the main psychoactive component of cannabis. 

However, PET differs from THC in its stereochemistry (cis vs. trans conformation) and its bibenzyl tailchain (rather than a pentyl chain). 

Radula also produces other cannabinoid-like compounds like perrottetinenic acid and a CBD analogue called Perrottetinene diol (trans-PTD). 

Where are they found?

Radula species, particularly Radula marginata, are native to New Zealand and other regions. 

The liverworts have been identified as a source of cannabinoid-like compounds, including PET, which is found in Cladoradula perrottetii, Radula marginata, and Radula laxiramea. 

What are their effects?

Perrottetinene (PET) has been shown to have some psychoactive effects in mice, acting as a moderately potent CB1 agonist.

Studies have shown that PET can induce effects like hypothermia, catalepsy, hypolocomotion, and analgesia in mice, similar to THC, but with potentially fewer side effects. 

PET may also reduce basal brain prostaglandin levels, which are associated with some of the side effects of THC. 

Radula liverworts represent a potentially valuable source of cannabinoid-like compounds for medicinal research. 

The unique structural differences between PET and THC could lead to the development of new therapeutic compounds with fewer side effects. 

Understanding the biosynthesis of these cannabinoids in liverworts could also provide insights into the evolution of cannabinoids in the plant kingdom. 

*What are Phytocannabinoids?

Phytocannabinoids are a diverse group of chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant (Cannabis sativa). They are known for their potential pharmacological effects and are being investigated for various medicinal uses. Examples include tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and cannabigerol (CBG). 

What they are:

Phytocannabinoids are a class of natural compounds, specifically, oxygenated aromatic hydrocarbon metabolites, that are produced by the cannabis plant. They are characterized by a 21-carbon atom structure. 

Where they are found:

While the most well-known source is the cannabis plant, phytocannabinoids have also been found in other plants like Echinacea, Radula marginata, and Acmella oleracea. 

Phytocannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body. 

The ECS plays a role in regulating various physiological processes, including mood, pain, and appetite. 

Phytocannabinoids can bind to cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) within the ECS, influencing these processes. 

Potential Benefits:

Phytocannabinoids may have therapeutic potential for various conditions, including: 

***Pain management. 

***Anxiety and depression. 

***Inflammatory conditions. 

***Neurological disorders. 

***FYI***

While the cannabis plant is the most well-known source, some phytocannabinoids, like beta-caryophyllene, can be found in other plants

*Sources:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9887656/

2. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-15026-z 

3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10490883/ 

4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7776837/ 

5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15099912/

6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6249445/ 

7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8725316/

8. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-drug/def/delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol?redirect=true