CANNABIS EDUCATION

The main components in cannabis products which has pharmacological and curative effects are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). 

Both active substances have same molecular structure: 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms but with difference in positions of the atoms. They are chemically similar to human body’s endocannabinoids. 

Both active substances interact with human body’s endocanabinoid's system, even though they have very different effects. This interaction stimulates the release of neurotransmiters in human brain, which are responsible for transferring messages between cells affecting the pain, immune function, stress, sleep, etc.

Even though, they have similar chemical structures, they don’t have the same physiological effects. CBD helps with anxiety, depression, and seizures. THC binds with the cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors in the brain which results in euphoria. CBD binds very weakly to CB1 receptors. CBD requires THC to bind to the CB1 receptor and, in turn, can help reduce some of the unwanted psychoactive effects of THC, such as euphoria or sedation.

CBD doesn’t cause the euphoric effects and it is used to help with other various conditions, such as: seizures, inflammation, pain, psychosis or mental disorders, nausea, depression, migraine, anxiety.

CBD’s side effects may include: appetite changes, fatigue, weight loss, dizziness, diarrhea.

THC is used to help with the following: pain, muscle spasticity, insomnia, low appetite, nausea, anxiety.

THC causes temporary side effects, such as: increased heart rate, coordination problems, dry mouth, red eyes, slower reactions at times, memory loss, anxiety

These side effects are part of their psychoactive properties but they are not fatal.