Phytocannabinoids and the Endocannabinoid System

The reason behind the psychoactive and medicinal effects of the phytocannabinoids is because of the presence of an endocannabinoid system they can interact with. The psychoactive effects of THC are produced when it activates the CB1 receptor. Unlike the endocannabinoids, phytocannabinoids are not synthesized by the metabolic enzymes leading to a prolonged effect.

Phytocannabinoids, in addition to the cannabinoid receptors, also interact with several other receptors to have distinct effects.

The Endocannabinoid system is a crucial molecular system involved in establishing and maintaining homeostasis and subsequently human health. With ongoing research, scientists and researchers are trying to determine ways to tackle diseases and ailments using ECS and medical properties of cannabis.