kannabinoideihin

Cannabinoideihin, also known as cannabinoids, are chemical compounds that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system. These substances are found naturally in the cannabis plant (Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica), produced by the human body (endocannabinoids), and synthesized in laboratories (synthetic cannabinoids). The most prominent naturally occurring cannabinoids are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), although over 120 different cannabinoids have been identified in the plant.

CBD is non‑psychoactive and has been studied for potential therapeutic effects, including anti‑inflammatory, analgesic, anticonvulsant, and anxiolytic properties. THC, in contrast, is the primary psychoactive component and is responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis use. Other notable compounds include cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), each of which exhibits distinct pharmacological profiles.

Cannabinoids act primarily by binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the nervous system and immune cells. CB1 receptors are abundant in the central nervous system, mediating psychotropic effects and influencing appetite, pain, and motor control. CB2 receptors are mainly found in immune tissues, modulating inflammation and immune responses. Additionally, cannabinoids can interact with other receptor systems, such as serotonin and vanilloid receptors, contributing to their complex pharmacology.

Medical applications explored for cannabinoids include treatment of chronic pain, chemotherapy‑related nausea, multiple sclerosis spasticity, and refractory epilepsy such as Dravet and Lennox–Gastaut syndromes. Several cannabinoid‑based drugs, such as dronabinol and nabilone, are approved in the United States for nausea and appetite stimulation. In addition, vaporized CBD products are increasingly used for personal wellness.

The legal status of cannabinoids varies widely. In many jurisdictions THC remains a controlled substance, whereas CBD products derived from hemp with less than 0.2% THC are permitted for sale. Synthetic cannabinoids, often sold as “spice” or “K2,” are frequently regulated under analog laws due to their potent psychoactive and sometimes harmful effects.