Cannabis Dispensary and Online Store in Ontario

Cannabis Sativa is a flowering plant species whose buds contain over 138 known cannabinoids, including delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), as well as terpenes, fatty acids, omegas, and flavonoids. Some cannabinoids, such as CBD, found in cannabis are non-intoxicating, however when cannabinoids act in synergy with other cannabinoids such as THC, through a phenomenon called The Entourage Effect, they produce psychoactive effects in the consumer. This is the “high” most individuals associate with cannabis use.

Dr. Raphael Mechoulam was responsible for discovering The Endocannabinoid System (ECS), which is responsible for bringing balance and homeostasis to different systems in the body.

The ECS has receptors in many different systems including circulatory, respiratory, digestive, excretory, nervous, immune, integumentary, skeletal, muscle, reproductive, and endocrine systems and is responsible for the regulation of overall health. The body naturally produces cannabinoids, known as endocannabinoids, which act on the ECS. Cannabinoids produced external to the body in plants are known as phytocannabinoids and must be consumed to take effect.

There are two main receptors in the ECS, which include CB1 and CB2 receptors. These receptors are designed to act as “master conductors” which regulate signals sent throughout the body. CB1 receptors are found primarily in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are found in peripheral organs and play a large role in immune function.

When cannabinoids enter the body, they act on CB1 and CB2 receptors, “unlocking” cellular potential and altering signals sent by different systems. This is why cannabis produces a physiological and psychological response, as it is literally altering how the cells in your body act and react.

Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol, known by its common nomenclature of THC is the cannabinoid that produces the intoxicating effect, or “high”, that most people associate with using cannabis. This may include feelings of euphoria, happiness, relaxation, decreased stress, decreased anxiety, and overall well-being. As individuals are as different as the strains they smoke, the effects will vary and are a unique experience to the consumer.

In the 1980s, the average THC content of available cannabis strains was around 3%. Today that number can reach as high as 30%, with an average 15% THC content, although we carry a number of different THC potencies in our store. Genetics researchers, breeders, and cultivators have figured out how to grow plants with very specific THC content to ensure the desired results are met.

THC enters the body and acts on the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). These receptors are concentrated in the brain, specifically areas that may affect short-term memory, learning and problem solving, and coordination.

THC acts by mimicking a chemical called anandamide. Anandamide is a naturally occurring cannabinoid produced by the human brain and is responsible for maintaining normal communication and function in the brain. THC acts on neurons to alter the messages the brain receives, which alters the chemical communication in the brain and causes the consumer to feel “high”.

Typically, the naturally occurring cannabinoids, such as anandamide, can maintain normal brain function, but when exogenous THC is consumed, the signals become altered. This may cause decreased coordination, short-term memory, and problem-solving abilities.