What Are Cannabinoids? A Complete Guide to Cannabis Compounds

Cannabinoids are a class of chemical compounds that interact with receptors in the human body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). The cannabis plant produces over 100 distinct cannabinoids, each with unique properties and effects.

The ECS is a complex signaling network that plays a role in regulating mood, pain perception, appetite, sleep, immune function, and more. When you consume cannabinoids, they interact with this system to produce their characteristic effects.

There are three categories of cannabinoids:

• Phytocannabinoids: Produced by plants, primarily cannabis (THC, CBD, CBG, etc.)
• Endocannabinoids: Produced naturally by your body (anandamide, 2-AG)
• Synthetic cannabinoids: Lab-created compounds that mimic cannabinoids (used in research)

THC (Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol)

The most abundant psychoactive cannabinoid. THC binds primarily to CB1 receptors in the brain and central nervous system, producing euphoria, relaxation, altered perception, and pain relief. It's responsible for the classic cannabis "high."

CBD (Cannabidiol)

The second most abundant cannabinoid, CBD is non-psychoactive — it won't get you high. CBD interacts with the ECS differently than THC, modulating receptor activity rather than directly binding. It's valued for its potential to promote calm, support sleep, and reduce inflammation.

CBG (Cannabigerol)

Often called the "mother cannabinoid" because it's the precursor from which other cannabinoids are synthesized. CBG is non-psychoactive and is being studied for its potential antibacterial, neuroprotective, and appetite-stimulating properties.

CBN (Cannabinol)

CBN forms as THC ages and oxidizes. It's mildly psychoactive — much less so than THC — and is commonly associated with sedative effects. CBN is popular in sleep-focused cannabis products.

Delta-8 THC

A naturally occurring isomer of Delta-9 THC with a similar but milder psychoactive profile. Delta-8 produces a clear-headed, relaxed high with less anxiety than Delta-9.

Your body has a built-in system designed to interact with cannabinoids. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) consists of:

• CB1 receptors: Concentrated in the brain and central nervous system. THC primarily targets these receptors to produce psychoactive effects.
• CB2 receptors: Found mainly in the immune system and peripheral tissues. CBD and other cannabinoids interact with these receptors to influence inflammation and immune response.
• Endocannabinoids: Your body produces its own cannabinoids (anandamide and 2-AG) that regulate the system. Phytocannabinoids from cannabis supplement this natural process.
• Enzymes: Break down endocannabinoids after they've served their purpose (FAAH and MAGL).

This is why cannabinoids work so effectively — they're interacting with a system your body already uses for regulation.

Cannabinoids don't work in isolation. Research suggests that the full spectrum of compounds in cannabis — cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids — work together synergistically in what's known as the entourage effect.

This means that a product containing multiple cannabinoids (like THC + CBD) may produce better results than either compound alone. It's why full-spectrum and broad-spectrum products are often preferred over pure isolates.

For example, CBD can modulate the psychoactive intensity of THC, reducing anxiety while preserving the positive effects. Similarly, terpenes like myrcene may enhance THC absorption, while limonene may contribute to mood elevation.

All Official Farmacy products are tested by independent, accredited third-party laboratories. Our COAs verify:

• Exact cannabinoid potency for every major and minor cannabinoid
• Absence of heavy metals, pesticides, and residual solvents
• Microbial safety screening
• Compliance with federal THC limits

We believe in total transparency. Every product page includes a link to the latest COA so you can verify exactly what you're consuming.