Did you know there are more than 108 cannabinoids in a cannabis plant?

There is a lot of buzz associated with CBD, which is the abbreviation for “cannabidoil.” This naturally occurring chemical compound starts out as a different cannabinoid, CBDA or cannabidoilic acid. CBDA is also non-psychoactive and is the precursor to CBD. It’s even been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties.

CBDV is cannabidivarin, which is more likely to be found in cannabis Indica. Research is showing this cannabinoid might help with bone growth, and that it helps reduce nausea.

In recent studies, CBD and CBDV work together as anti-convulsant and anti-epileptic.

Another well known cannabinoid is THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol -also referred to as Delta9. THC is the cannabinoid that produces the euphoria and intoxicating “high” that can be associated with cannabis.

THCA is tetrahydrocannabinolic acid. The recent study on this cannabinoid is showing great promise. THCA is a great anti-spasmodic, meaning it helps reduce spasms. It’s also an analgesic, so it helps with pain perception.

Another little-known cannabinoid is CBG, or cannabigerol. With this cannabinoid, researchers have found it to have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. This is a natural antiseptic cannabinoid.

As with CBD, CBG promotes healthy digestion and contains anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation associated with IBD, IBS, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis.

These are just a few of the possible cannabinoids that might be found in full spectrum hemp products. While the above listed cannabinoids show promising benefits, it’s important to note that in a full spectrum product, a small amount of THC is present. If you are taking a full spectrum product consistently, the possibility of failing a drug test is high.

All phyto-cannabinoids work with our own endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system produces our own endogenous cannabinoids and works to bring our bodies back into homeostasis.

There is still much study and research to be done on cannabis and cannabinoids. We are still in the infancy stages of understanding all the positive benefits.

It’s important to note that ECS was discovered as recently as the early 1990s. It was discovered that we have two receptors in our ECS known as CB1and CB2.

CB1 receptors are antagonist, primarily found in the central nervous system. THC is the cannabinoid that most often effects this receptor. CB2 receptors are found in the immune system and outside of the brain. When our bodies are depleted, or suffers from a chronic condition, poor diet, or environmental impact, our endocannabinoid system is out of balance. By adding phyto-cannabinoids, we are able to regain homeostasis or balance in our life.

Cynthia Groff, CCMA is the owner of Sativa Health Products on Hilton Head Island. SativaHealthProducts.com