There are over 500 compounds and 104 active cannabinoids in the herbal plant known as ‘phytocannabinoids’. The human body also naturally produces cannabinoids known as ‘endocannabinoids’ which assist in maintaining regular bodily functions. The most clinically effective and well-studied cannabinoids used in medicinal treatment are cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
THC binds to receptors in the central nervous system to produce euphoric (psychoactive) effects and relieve insomnia, spasms, nausea and appetite loss. CBD binds to receptors in the peripheral nervous system so it does not produce euphoric (psychoactive) effects but has anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety and anti-epileptic effects.