WHAT IS A CANNABINOID AND HOW DOES IT WORK WITH THE HUMAN BODY?

WHAT IS A CANNABINOID?

Cannabinoids are a class of chemical compounds found mainly in the cannabis plant, though some also occur naturally in other plants and the human body.. These molecules interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS)—a network of receptors that help regulate essential functions like mood, memory, appetite, immune response, pain, sleep, and more Harvard HealthNCBIScienceDirect.

2. KEY CANNABINOIDS: WHAT THEY ARE AND HOW THEY BEHAVE

Delta-9-THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)

The most well-known cannabinoid, THC is psychoactive, meaning it can produce the “high” associated with cannabis. It activates ECS receptors—especially CB1 in the brain and CB2 in the immune system.

CBD (Cannabidiol)

A non‑intoxicating cannabinoid, CBD does not produce a high. Though it doesn’t bind strongly to CB1 or CB2, it influences other receptors and pathways in the ECS. CBD is widely used in various wellness products, primarily derived from hemp (cannabis with ≤ 0.3% THC).

CBN (Cannabinol)

A mildly psychoactive cannabinoid, CBN has a lower affinity for ECS receptors, meaning you'd need higher doses for effects. It was the first cannabinoid ever isolated—back in 1896.

Δ8-THC (Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol)

Similar in structure to delta‑9 THC but typically less potent, Δ8‑THC also activates CB1 and CB2 receptors.

3. HOW CANNABINOIDS INTERACT WITH THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM

Cannabinoids exert their effects by interacting with CB1 and CB2 receptors, found in the nervous and immune systems, respectively. You read that correctly...our bodies HAVE cannabinoid receptors! The human body also produces its own cannabinoids—called endocannabinoids, like anandamide—which behave similarly and help maintain internal balance.

In both cases, cannabinoids influence processes by regulating how cells communicate and respond to stimuli.

4. SINGLE CANNABINOID vs FULL SPECTRUM PRODUCTS

Single Cannabinoid (Isolate)

Isolates contain one pure cannabinoid—like CBD—with no additional plant compounds. For example, CBD isolate is refined to exclude THC and other cannabinoids, offering a more predictable and uniform product.

Full-Spectrum Products

These retain multiple natural compounds from the cannabis plant—cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and sometimes trace THC (within legal limits). The idea is that combining these compounds can yield a “whole plant” synergy, often referred to as the entourage effect, where the components work together in ways that may be more effective than isolated compounds.

Broad-spectrum is a middle ground: it includes multiple cannabinoids and terpenes but typically excludes THC entirely.

The cannabis plant offers a complexity of natural chemical components that provide a variety of effects and properties. Knowing how cannabinoids work and what they are can aid in the decision making process and education for consumers looking to research hemp and cannabis products.