Cannabinoids
Definition: Cannabinoids are a family of chemical compounds made by the cannabis plant, mainly in its glandular trichomes. More than 100 have been identified, including THC, CBD, CBG and CBN. In the living plant they exist mostly as acids, such as THCA and CBDA, which convert to their better-known neutral forms when heated.
How Cannabinoids works
Cannabinoid production follows a short assembly line. The plant combines two precursor molecules, olivetolic acid and geranyl pyrophosphate, into CBGA. Enzymes then convert CBGA into one of three main acids:
- THCA via THCA synthase, which becomes THC when heated.
- CBDA via CBDA synthase, which becomes CBD.
- CBCA via CBCA synthase, which becomes CBC.
Which enzyme a plant makes is genetic, which is why breeders can produce THC-dominant, CBD-dominant or balanced strains.
Acids, heat and time
The acid forms are not intoxicating. Heat removes a carboxyl group in a reaction called decarboxylation, which happens almost instantly when flower is smoked or vaporized and more slowly in an oven. Over months, light, heat and oxygen also degrade THC into CBN, which is why old flower often tests lower.
How the body interacts with them
Humans have an endocannabinoid system with receptors known as CB1 and CB2. THC binds strongly to CB1, which is associated with its intoxicating effects. Other cannabinoids interact with these receptors differently or only weakly, and research into what that means is ongoing.
Why growers care
Cannabinoid levels depend on genetics first, then on light intensity, plant health and harvest timing. Spec sheets list them so you can compare strains on chemistry rather than names.