Cannabinoids in the cannabis plant itself. These naturally occurring compounds in cannabis—such as THC and CBD—are produced in the cannabis plant’s resinous trichomes and directly interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system receptors to produce a spectrum of physical and mental effects. Phytocannabinoids are distinct from endocannabinoids, which naturally occur in the bodies of humans and animals.
“The phytocannabinoid THC is responsible for cannabis’ psychoactive high.”
What are phytocannabinoids?
Phytocannabinoids, more commonly referred to as cannabinoids, are compounds that are naturally produced by the cannabis plant. Together with terpenes, they produce a myriad of therapeutic effects and are what make you feel high. The two most prevalent and well-known phytocannabinoids are THC and CBD, but there are over 100 in existence including, CBG, THCV, CBN, and more.
Phytocannabinoids are responsible for imparting various effects in a person’s body as they bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system throughout the body, often with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-anxiety benefits. Most living organisms naturally produce compounds called endocannabinoids that help regulate various bodily functions such as appetite, sleep, and immunity, but these are not phytocannabinoids—phytocannabinoids refer only to cannabinoids produced by plants.