How cannabis works in your body
Cannabinoids are the main active ingredients in cannabis and more than 100 have been identified. They can be produced by the human body, found in plants, or manufactured in a laboratory for use in prescription medications. The two most commonly discussed cannabinoids are THC and CBD, due to the fact that they are found in relatively high concentrations in the plant.
The Endocannabinoid System
Animals naturally produce cannabinoids (called endocannabinoids) that interact with cell receptors throughout our bodies. Endocannabinoids are like a key, receptors are like a lock, and they fit together to produce effects in the body.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is involved in many physiological functions, including inflammation, sleep, pain, memory, digestion, immune functions, and neuroprotection.
THC and CBD also interact with the receptors of our ECS. This could partly explain why cannabis has a wide range of effects.
What the product may be used for
Your healthcare practitioner may prescribe medical cannabis products for a range of different conditions. For futher information please contact your healthcare practitioner.
FAQs
Medicinal Cannabis 101
What are cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are the main active ingredients in cannabis and more than 100 have been identified. They can be produced by the human body, found in plants, or manufactured in a laboratory for use in some prescription medications. The two most commonly discussed cannabinoids are THC and CBD.
What’s the difference between THC and CBD?
Cannabinoids are the active compounds found within cannabis. The two most commonly discussed cannabinoids are THC and CBD.
THC (delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol) is the main active ingredient within cannabis.THC is responsible for many of the pharmacological effects of cannabis, including the intoxicating effect.
CBD (cannabidiol) is the second most prominent compound within cannabis.
What is decarboxylation?
To be effective, cannabinoids need to be heat-activated in a process called decarboxylation. This occurs when the plant matter is heated above 120℃.
What do indica and sativa mean?
The terms “indica” and “sativa” are botanical terms that describe the morphology (shape) of different cannabis plants, but they are also often used to characterise the range of possible effects from a variety of cannabis. Some people use the term “indica” to describe effects that are more sedating. Some people use the term “sativa” to describe effects that are more energising.
These terms can be a useful reference, but they are not scientifically valid.
Medicinal Cannabis Products
What’s the difference between cannabis oil and softgels?
Concentrated cannabis resin, containing cannabinoids and other active compounds, is extracted from cannabis flowers that have undergone thermal decarboxylation, then diluted with a food-grade carrier oil to make a product taken orally from a syringe.
Softgels are capsules filled with cannabis resin dissolved in food-grade carrier oil.
How are cannabis products consumed?
Cannabis products can be consumed in a number of ways. Guidelines on the consumption of cannabis products and appropriate dosing will be made by healthcare providers at the time of prescribing.
Is it safe to drive after consuming medicinal cannabis?
In Australia it is against the law to drive while under the influence of cannabis or cannabis products. Please consult your relevant state traffic authority or police for further information.
You should never operate a vehicle or heavy machinery or engage in any hazardous activity if impaired.