Understanding Cannabinoids
Here you will find information highlighting latest scientific literature related to the study of the Endocannabinoid System and various Phytocannabinoids, in addition to their potential therapeutic effects.
Introduction to Understanding Cannabinoids
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of over 100 compounds found in hemp and marijuana. It is the second most prevalent compound (second only to THC) in cannabis. CBD belongs to a class of molecules called phyto-cannabinoids and is non-psychoactive. See, Boggs et al., Neuropsychopharmacology. 2018 Jan; 43(1): 142–154. Preclinical and clinical research studies demonstrate that CBD has strong anti-convulsing, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-depressant, anti-tumor, anti-psychotic, and neuroprotective properties. See, Fernández-Ruiz et al., Br. J. Clin. Pharmacol. 2013 Feb; 75(2): 323–333. Continue Reading...
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) Explained
Since the discovery of the ECS, there has been a major rise in publications on medical cannabis and cannabinoid-based therapeutics, in addition to cannabinoid receptor pharmacology. These studies have accelerated greatly in untangling the ECS, both in the molecular and the physiological realms. For a detailed account on cannabinoid and endocannabinoid history, please refer to these outstanding reviews: Roger G. Pertwee, Br. J. of Pharm. (2006) 147, S163-S171 and Antonio Waldo Zuradi, Rev. Bras. Psiquiatr. 2006; 28(2):153-7. The identification of biosynthetic and degradative pathways of endocannabinoids in the following years, make up the classical ECS. Continue Reading...
Cannabinol (CBN) for Sleep - What Science Reveals.
In the introductory article of our “Understanding Cannabinoids” series, we covered extensively scientific literature related to therapeutic effects of Cannabidiol (CBD). As discussed earlier, while CBD and THC are the most studied cannabinoids for their therapeutic effects, there are over a hundred others that have been identified in cannabis. See, Lafayte et al., Dialogues. Clin. Neurosci. 2017 Sep; 19(3): 309–316. While the non-psychotropic cannabinoid, Cannabidiol (CBD) has been touted for its health benefits, scientists continue to explore the role of other cannabinoids for their health benefits as well. One such cannabinoid is cannabinol (CBN). Here we highlight the literature regarding using CBN oil for sleep. Continue Reading...
