THC and CBD: The Science of Medical Marijuana

Marijuana, as with other medications, is composed of chemical compounds that create the medicinal effects sought by patients. The most famous compound found in cannabis (marijuana) is THC. THC was identified by researchers in the 1960’s which led to the discovery of what scientists now call the EndoCannabinoid System. Our bodies produce endogenous cannabinoids which play a key role in brain functions like memory, mood and our reward system as well as functions of our immune system. Our bodies have a natural network that responds to the compounds found in marijuana plants, phytocannabinoids, like THC. Many different cannabinoids have been isolated from the cannabis plants. There are at least 85 common cannabinoids in marijuana.

1. THC (tetrahydocannabinol) is the best known cannabinoid. As the primary psychoactive compound, it is responsible for the effect most patients are familiar with.
2. CBD (cannabidiol) is the second most prominent compound found in the cannabis plant. Many of the medical benefits of cannabis are attributed to the CBD content of the medicine. It has been found to have strong anti-inflammatory and anti-convulsive properties.

By focusing on plant genetics, marijuana can be grown to be richer in THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids, thereby impacting the medicinal effects. A greater understanding of the difference in genetics of Cannabis, including the respective contents of THC and CBD, and plant types such as indica or sativa, allows growers and patients to select strain types that will give them very specific effects. For example, Blue Dream, a popular hybrid strain, contains the following propositions of cannabinoids.

As Patriot Care begins to share our menu, we will include the THC and CBD contents where appropriate, to assist our patients in making educated decisions to best treat their conditions. Please stay tuned to our blog for additional blogs about the science of medical marijuana.