Cannabis, an extremely fascinating and intriguing plant! You might have dabbled in or even fully experienced some of its awesome effects, but what’s really going on when cannabis meets your body? The ‘why’ behind this interaction is where things get really interesting. Don’t worry, we’re not trying to throw a science book at you. Instead, we’ll take a walk through how the remarkable cannabis plant interacts with your body so you can fine-tune your cannabis experience and cultivate your best result.
Let’s get into it!
The Endocannabinoid System: Your Body’s Natural Cannabis Network
The endocannabinoid system, or ECS, is a critical part of your body’s ability to maintain balance and function properly.
The ECS acts like a communication network, using two main types of receptors, CB1 and CB2. Visualize one mom calling another to spill tea about what happened that day on the playground. These two master communicator receptors help regulate everything in your body from mood and appetite to pain and even immune responses.
CB1 receptors – primarily located in the brain and nervous system
CB2 receptors – found throughout the immune system.
Amazingly every person on the planet has compounds naturally existing in their bodies that communicate with these receptors called endocannabinoids.
Here is where the reaction starts to get fun!
When you consume our magical friend called cannabis, these extraordinary components within the cannabis plant called cannabinoids , THC and CBD, also interact with these same CB1 and CB2 receptors. And, here is the key! Because these receptors are responsible for various bodily functions, cannabis is able to offer so many potential benefits. It’s a beautiful and natural symbiotic relationship between cannabis and the human system! Fascinating!
Follow me down this rabbit hole a little further!
THC binds mainly to CB1 receptors, producing the psychoactive effects associated with the “high.” On the other hand, CBD influences CB2 receptors, offering non-psychoactive benefits like relaxation and pain relief. Together, these cannabinoids work within your ECS to promote balance, helping you feel like your best self.
- THC: The One That “Gets You High”
THC works with the body by binding to those CB1 receptors in your brain, which play a big role in regulating things like mood, memory, and perception. When THC locks onto these receptors, it triggers changes that can alter how you feel and think.
The effects of THC can range from euphoria and relaxation to altered perception of time and heightened sensory experiences. However, not everyone reacts to THC the same way. Some people may feel energized and creative, while others might find themselves more relaxed or introspective.
- CBD: The One That Helps You “Chill”
Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t directly bind to CB1 receptors, meaning it doesn’t produce the psychoactive effects that get you high. Instead, CBD works indirectly with CB2 receptors, which are found mostly in the immune system and throughout the body.
CBD delivers a range of non-psychoactive benefits like relaxation, pain relief, and anti-inflammatory effects. It’s known for its calming properties, making it a popular choice for those seeking relief without the mind-altering experience. Plus, when CBD is used alongside THC, they complement each other.
This interaction allows for a more balanced experience, where CBD can even help soften some of THC’s stronger effects, like anxiety or intense highs.
- Terpenes & Flavonoids: More Than Just the Smell
Terpenes and flavonoids are responsible for those amazing scents and flavors that make each strain stand out. But they’re not just there for show. These natural compounds work alongside cannabinoids to shape the overall experience you get from cannabis.
These compounds work in harmony with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, enhancing their effects in what’s called the entourage effect. The idea behind the entourage effect is that all of the compounds working together create a better experience than each of the compounds on their own.
Depending on the terpenes and flavonoids in the strain, cannabis can potentially promote relaxation, boost energy, or even relieve stress. For example, limonene is known for its citrusy scent and energizing effects, while linalool, which smells like a bouquet of flowers, is associated with calming, stress-relief benefits.
Your Body, Your Experience
Cannabis won’t affect everyone the same way, so your experience is as unique as you are. Factors like genetics, metabolism, and tolerance all play a huge role in how cannabis hits you. That’s why it’s so important to start low and build slow, especially if you’re new to cannabis or trying a new product.
ADVICE FROM AN EXPERIENCED USER!
You can always consume more if you’re not really feeling it, but you can’t take it away once you’ve had it. It’s best to avoid the discomfort of overconsumption by simply taking it easy. What’s the rush anyway?
Next factor that contributes to what your experience with cannabis might feel like is how you consume it. Smoking or vaping gives you faster, more immediate effects since the cannabinoids will enter your bloodstream more quickly. Consuming via “Garden friendly” edibles, on the other hand, take longer to kick in because they have to be processed through your digestive system. But when they do hit, the effects tend to be more intense “they slap” and they tend to have a longer-lasting effect.
Each method brings a different vibe, so it’s all about finding what works best for your body and your desired experience.
Tips for Finding Your Ideal Dose
Finding your ideal dose is all about tuning into your body and taking it slow. Here are some tips to help you avoid going overboard:
- Know the potency: Check the THC and CBD percentages in whatever you’re using. Higher THC means stronger effects, so adjust accordingly.
- Give it time: Edibles can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to kick in, so be patient. Don’t make the rookie mistake of taking more too soon because you’re not feeling it yet.
- Pay attention to your body: Everyone’s tolerance is different, so listen to what your body is telling you. If you start to feel uncomfortable, it’s a sign you may need to scale back next time.
- Microdosing: If you prefer subtle effects without feeling too high, microdosing might be your best bet. Small, controlled doses can provide benefits without overwhelming your system.
Find Your Vibe at Brotherly Bud – Premier Recreational Dispensary
Understanding how cannabis interacts with your body is key to unlocking the best experience possible. It’s all about finding what works for you—the right strain, dosage, or method of consumption. Even though cannabis is a personal experience, the good news is that you don’t have to do it alone!
At Brotherly Bud adult-use dispensary, we want to make sure that your experience with cannabis is exactly what you are looking for. Our budtenders know just what to suggest based on your personal preferences, and they’ll answer any and all questions you have. Swing by and let us help you find your vibe.
*The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.*
