Many people are aware that weed contains cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. Yet even seasoned cannabis consumers often don’t know that the human body produces its own cannabinoids, too. This intriguing fact was discovered quite recently. One of these endocannabinoids is anandamide, a substance also known as the ‘bliss’ molecule due to its positive mood effects. Just like CBD and THC in cannabis, anandamide can bind to cell receptors. Structurally speaking, it is in fact quite similar to THC. But what can this molecule do for cannabis enthusiasts? Can you use marijuana to make you happy?

The Properties Of Anandamide

Cannabis is back in the spotlights: recently, scientists have been busy mapping the plethora of compounds weed contains, with a heavy focus on their medicinal properties. Nonetheless, it is amazing to realize that plant-based cannabinoids like THC and CBD were discovered in 1964 and 1942, respectively; long before we came across the endocannabinoids that we produces ourselves. It was not until the start of the nineties before scientists found that weed phytocannabinoids can bind to human receptors.

The first endocannabinoid was discovered as recently as 1992, and this was coined anandamide. This body-made cannabinoid is generated in the cellular membranes and tissues of the brain. Normally speaking, natural anandamide levels are low. The compound does not remain stable for long inside the body, where it is quickly broken down into arachidonic acid and ethanol amine by the enzyme FAAH (fatty acid amide hydrolase).

This makes anandamide a fragile endocannabinoid, and in a poetical sense, that seems quite fitting. Anandamide is the Sanskrit word for joy and happiness, which is why it is known as the ‘bliss molecule’. Anandamide produces a blissful, satisfied state of mind. It is also involved in learning, motivation, memory, appetite, and happiness.

Low Anandamide Levels

Somehow, one would hope that the body produces copious amounts of this precious compound. Sadly, however, this is not the case. Perhaps that would simply be too good to be true. After all, bliss and happiness are equally transient in everyday life. Nonetheless, scientists are deeply fascinated by the substance, with a particular focus on the link between this neurotransmitter and FAAH.

As stated above, FAAH breaks down anandamide. Theoretically, then, inhibiting the activity of FAAH should raise natural body anandamide levels. That could have important therapeutic implications. However, other factors also influence anandamide’s effects: it can also affect the phytocannabinoids found in weed. To find out how this works, we need to explore the functioning of the human endocannabinoid system (ECS).

Anandamide, Cannabis, And Your Body

The human body is host to a bewildering diversity of processes, including the cardiovascular, digestive and immune system. In a way, the body is much like a complex factory in which all processes must run in mutual harmony to function. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is like a supervisory overseer that ensures everything remains balanced. To this end, the ECS uses two types of cell receptors, known as CB1 and CB2. Our own body’s cannabinoids, including anandamide, can bind to these receptors to convey messages to the cells.

However, phytocannabinoids found in marijuana, including THC and CBD, are also capable of conneting to these receptors. This allows them to affect your mood, appetite, memory, and more. So what are the effects of CBD and THC on anandamide? Can you use weed to find bliss and feel happy?

THC And Anandamide

Both THC and anandamide are able to connect with CB1 receptors, partly due to their chemical similarity. THC turns out to make stronger connections with CB1 receptors than anandamide, though. If someone uses cannabis, THC will have a strong influence on that person’s body and mind through specific chemical changes. This causes the famous high or stoned effects people experience while consuming cannabis. This implies that in a very real sense, anandamide is outclassed by THC, losing its ability to affect CB1 receptors as a result.

The effect of THC is noticeable in the way the brain works. THC affects memory, but it also promotes production of dopamine, another important neurotransmitter. This raises dopamine levels in the body beyond the usual thresholds. Similarly to anandamide, dopamine also causes feelings of pleasure; it is also involved in appetite and our sense of reward.

Anandamide And CBD In Cannabis

The effect of CBD on anandamide is much more direct. This is due to CBD’s inhibitory effect on FAAH’s capacity to break down anandamide. That allows anandamide to remain present in the brain for longer durations, which in turn extends our opportunities to benefit from the bliss molecule’s effects. Research has demonstrated that people with high anandamide levels stand to benefit from this effect. They experience improved mood, decreased anxiety, and greater pain relief.

Happier Because Of Weed?

Of course, it is impossible at this point to conclude that weed makes people happy, period. The phenomenon of happiness is governed by so many factors that we are unlikely to pinpoint any single factor responsible for our sense of bliss. In addition, we need more research to further clarify the relationship between anandamide and the effects of cannabis. Still, consumption of marijuana could potentially contribute to general improvement of mood. Part of the explanation could be that THC increases dopamine production; CBD’s inhibition of anandamide breakdown could be another aspect. Research appears to point in similar directions: cannabis consumption in a male penitentiary facility turned out to reduce levels of violence and improve inmate’s social cohesion.

The best cannabis strains to use for improving people’s positive moods would appear to be strains with relatively low THC levels (below 20%) and relatively high CBD content. That would maximise the benefits either cannabinoid contributes in this regard.

There are other ways to naturally increase your anandamide levels, though. Regular exercise is known to help, and both dark chocolate and truffles are natural anandamide sources, too! Moreover, happiness amounts to more than a mere matter of anandamide, or of cannabis for that matter, and that is probably for the best. Reading a good book can make people happy, as can a lovely stroll in the countryside, or the smiling face of someone we love. Fortunately, we all have myriad personal ways to boost our happiness and wellbeing. The trick is finding out what works for you, and what doesn’t.

Anandamide, Cannabis, And A Personal Path To Bliss

No matter how we look at it, the pursuit of happiness appears more complicated than the chemistry of a single cannabinoid like anandamide. Bliss turns out to be every bit as ephemeral and transient as the presence of these molecules in anyone’s bloodstream. Perhaps this is for the better: it would probably feel like cheating if ordering cannabis seeds or simply rolling up brought instant bliss for anyone.

Nonetheless, our Amsterdam Genetics community proves that growing marijuana and enjoying its results makes people happy every day. So regardless of your anandamide levels, perhaps now is a good time to see whether the cannabis grower’s hobby is a step on the way to finding your personal sense of bliss!

It’s just another one of life’s fascinating mysteries: the myriad effects of certain plant-based compounds like THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), capable of causing a high in humans (and other animals). Despite the sense of wonder, we do have some idea of what happens in the brain and beyond when we get high or stoned. THC interacts with certain receptors throughout the body, influencing processes ranging from emotion to pain perception. Even if you’ve never been high, and have no interest in getting high, you may still wonder what it might feel like. In this blog, we give you a glimpse of what being high means, and what effects THC has on a cannabis high.

THC And Brain Biology

Our brains consist of nerve cells (neurons) that convey information to one another, as well as to certain muscular and glandular cells. Recent studies point out that humans have over 86 billion neurons each! Brain cells communicate by means of neurotransmitters produced by the brain. Neurotransmitters convey messages by connecting with molecules called endocannabinoid receptors. Our body generates its own endocannabinoids whenever our internal balance is disrupted. This natural state of equilibrium between all the various processes of the body is called homeostasis. Our balance can get disrupted by external factors like cold or heat as well as by internal ones like stress, inflammation, pain, or fear. When that happens, our endocannabinoids contact our endocannabinoid receptors to try and restore the balance. We call this interaction between receptors and endocannabinoids the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Intriguingly, these endocannabinoids are highly similar to another type of cannabinoids, which are produced by the cannabis plant.

THC is a plant-based cannabinoid: a phytocannabinoid. Our body respond to these in the same way it would to endocannabinoids. In other words, the body regards THC (and other cannabinoids in cannabis) as its own. That means THC from weed plants can also bind to ECS receptors. Two such receptors exist:

• CB1 receptors mainly located in the brain and peripheral nerve system;
• CB2 receptors situated in the immune system and surrounding tissues all throughout the body.

When using cannabis, the (phyto-) cannabinoids connect with these two types of receptors. This is why THC can have all sorts of effects on us, as can other cannabinoids including CBD, CBN, CBG, and THCV. The anti-inflammatory effect of cannabis, for instance, is due to CB2 receptor connections. The effects of THC on the cannabis high stem from the substance’s similarity to the neurotransmitter anandamide. This is one of the reasons why cannabis can cause feelings of euphoria, just like anandamide can.

THC Effects On The Brain

Cannabis contains a variety of cannabinoids, but THC produces many of the special psychoactive effects of a high through the ECS. Other cannabinoids as well as vegetal flavonoids and terpenes all add their own twist to the experience through the entourage effect. That makes every high unique, depending on the composition of a cannabis strain and the consumer’s personality traits. CBD can influence a THC high in its own particular way, for instance. The specific effect depends on which CB receptors are activated in the brain; particularly by THC. Someone using cannabis can experience this both mentally and physically.

CB1 receptors are spread all over the brain and the wider nervous system. The effects of THC vary according to the exact location of receptors.

1. Neocortex: The neocortex is involved in complex thought, feelings, and movement. The impact of THC on this part of the brain alters the way we think, judge, and feel;
2. Basal ganglia: This part of the brain helps plan your actions and initiate motion. THC can delay response times here;
3. Nucleus accumbens: This brain structure controls motivation and rewards. Here, THC causes the sense of euphoria many people seek in cannabis;
4. Hypothalamus: Controls appetite and libido. THC binding to local receptors can increase cravings for food and sex;
5. Amygdala: this part of the brain governs emotions like anxiety and avoidance of pain. Here, THC can cause paranoia and anxiety;
6. Hippocampus: This bran structure processes and stores new information. The hippocampus governs learning. One of THC’s effects here is reduced effectiveness of short term memory;
7. Brain stem: The brain stem relays messages between the brain and the spinal cord. THC binding to these receptors can reduce feelings of nausea;
8. Cerebellum (hind brain): Coordinates physical balance and movement. The effect of THC on the receptors of this area can reduce motion control;
9. Spinal cord: The spinal cord relays messages from the brain to the rest of the body. When THC connects to the receptors located here, it can change perception and sensitivity to pain.

The Effects Of THC On Being High

The experience of a cannabis high is personal and subjective. Every particular weed strain affects everyone differently at different moments in time. The effects of THC depend heavily on the sensitivity of your own ECS, the method of using cannabis (smoking, vaping, or edibles), dosage, and prior experience or expectations. Furthermore, cannabinoids are biphasic, meaning that they have only a small window of positive effects. Use too little and you won’t notice any effect. Taking too much, however, risks overburdening your ECS. That can make you feel nauseous, dizzy, or paranoid, for example. This is why it is wise to know your ideal personal dose – if you want to try it in the first place, that is.

THC Effects At The Right Dose And Mood

Once you find that personal dose, though, cannabis can have a positive effect on your mood. Experiences range from feeling at ease and relaxed to an overwhelming sense of euphoria and joy. Do remember that any cannabis THC high is subjective: you can’t really predict how you will respond personally. As mentioned, your basic mood and the configuration of your ECS are key factors here. That’s why we recommend not trying cannabis when you are in a low, sad, or unstable mood, even though people report positive effects of cannabis on depression and anxiety, for instance.

Every Strain Has Different Effects

The composition of specific weed strains codetermine your experience of the high. The (crude) distinction between indica and sativa cannabis strains can be a useful to know, for instance. Compounds like CBD and terpenes also strongly affect a high and any underlying emotions.

THC can make you feel uplifted, but it can also stimulate your creativity, making you feel like painting, writing, or making music. You could also feel the urge to engage in deep conversations on the meaning of life. And we’re not even mentioning all the reasons for using or growing medicinal weed… Still, this doesn’t mean everybody ought to try weed for themselves: ultimately, the choice is yours alone!

Handling The Effects Of THC Responsibly

No matter how interesting the effects of a THC high may sound, you always stay in control over what you will and will not do. Never let others talk you into using cannabis, and always be honest about it to yourself and people around you. There’s much more to tell about responsible use of cannabis, be we will have to return to that in other blogs. At least now you know more about the effects of THC on your brain, your feelings, your perception, and everything associated with these.

You can read more about the specific effects of cannabis strains in the description of our marijuana seeds in the web store.

Cannabis is an incredibly complex species; one could spend a lifetime studying the effects, uses, and cultural impact of this special plant. Marijuana contains more than its fair share of extraordinary compounds, boasting a bewildering array of potent ingredients that includes cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and more. Each of these substances has its own special properties, and we zoom in on one of them here: CBN. Although CBN only occurs in small quantities in cannabis plants, this cannabinoid brings a unique set of benefits, both for recreational and for medicinal use.

Cannabinol Characteristics

When it comes to cannabinoids, CBN (cannabinol) is a bit of an odd one out. You’ll only find it in well-matured plants, after THC has oxidized to form CBN. CBN is present in younger plants, but concentrations are exceedingly low there.

CBN is mildly psychoactive, and it appears capable of triggering modest euphoria. Still, your chances of getting high from CBN are slim at best. Its most probable noticeable effect is the intensification of THC’s euphoric high.

In contrast to THC, CBN has no direct influence on the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Scientists suspect that CBD may be capable of toning down the effectiveness of marijuana. Although the characteristics of CBN are still largely unclear, lacking the extent of research enjoyed by CBD or THC, it does appear to confer several potential health benefits.

The Benefits Of CBN In Cannabis

Research indicates that CBN has powerful therapeutic potential, just like CBD, CBG, THCV, and other cannabinoids.

Soothing, Sedative Effect

Of all the compounds found in cannabis, CBD has the strongest sedative properties. This explains its use against insomnia, particularly when combined with delta-9-THC and CBD. A 1995 study on insomnia in mice proved CBN’s effectiveness in this respect.

This cannabinoid helps people fall asleep sooner as well as promoting continued sleep throughout the night. As an important benefit, consumers will wake up clear-headed afterwards. By contrast, regular sleep medication usually causes drowsiness that many people experience as an undesirable side-effect. Scientists involved in these studies indicate that CBN is probably most effective when combined with other cannabinoids and terpenes in cannabis, due to the entourage effect. Strains containing high levels of THC and myrcene appear particularly promising in treating sleeplessness issues. Of course, combinations that include THC are not an ideal solution for everyone, but full spectrum CBD supplements containing CBN can be a good non-psychoactive alternative.

The sedative properties of cannabinol appear even stronger than those of traditional tranquillizers such as Valium. Some people have claimed that the soothing effect produced by CBD can feel similar to a 10mg dose of diazepam.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Like several other cannabinoids, CBN has potential as an anti-inflammatory agent. Inflammation can arise after injuries, but they can also be caused by chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthrosis, asthma, or eczema. CBN does not interact with the receptors of the ECS; instead, it regulates endocannabinoid levels produced by the system. Moreover, CBD directs certain immune cells to act against inflammation. It can also impair certain substances that cause inflammation if left unchecked.

CBN In Cannabis To Treat Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a condition that causes skin inflammation associated with red, flaky spots. Initial study results indicate that CBD can curb excessive growth of keratinocyte skin cells. These cells are hyperactive in case of psoriasis, which causes the chafed, flaky skin symptoms. That marks CBN as a potential treatment for this highly common skin disease.

CBN Has Antibacterial Properties

Several studies have been conducted in an attempt to map the effectiveness of cannabinoids against certain bacteria; particularly of the MRSA variant. This type of bacteria is increasingly problematic in hospital settings: they can cause deadly infections that resist treatment with existing antibiotics. The resistance of these bacteria is caused by the constant, widespread use of antibiotics. Studies demonstrate that CBD is highly effective against bacteria, including high risk ‘superbugs’ such as MRSA.

Chronic Pain Treatment

Weed is often used to treat chronic pain. CBN could add a new dimension to this tried use of marijuana compounds. Cannabinol appears to promote production of peptides in nerve cells that can reduce sensitivity to pain. New studies indicate that these analgesic effects occur without involvement of the CB1 or CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system. Further research will have to identify how this effect occurs.

The Possibilities Of Cannabis With CBN

As we have seen, CBN shows potential for use with pain, insomnia, inflammation, and infection. Further benefits of CBN include potential as an appetite stimulant, possible protection against epileptic seizures, and vasodilatory properties. This means CBD could help lower blood pressure. All things considered, there appears plenty of reason to keep a close eye on this cannabinoid, no matter how hard it is to isolate cannabinol in large amounts.

Most cannabis strains contain CBN, and even though percentages are usually much lower than those of, say, CBD, we always stand to profit from its presence at least in theory. Growers can of course try to increase CBN percentages in their own harvests. That will take quite some time, however: wrapping fresh buds in plastic and storing them in a dry place for about three years is the customary advice. After that, a plant that originally contained about 20% THC should hold between 3 and 5% CBN. We’ll leave it up to you to decide whether that is worth the wait.

At any rate, our Full Spectrum CBD and CBG Oil contain small amounts of cannabinol for anyone intent on finding CBN. In our online seeds catalogue, you can find strains averaging about 1% CBN content like Dutch Duchess and Grapefruit Superstar. After a 9 to 10-week flowering time, they will yield flower buds containing THC, CBN, and a whole host of other valuable cannabis compounds for any grower to enjoy.

Every cannabinoid in marijuana plants has its own unique properties, and taken together, that’s quite the collection: over 100 have been discovered so far. Together, they produce the particular effects that have made cannabis so popular, including the recent spike in attention from medical researchers. Most cannabis enthusiasts know the best-studied cannabinoids to some extent, including THC, CBD, CBN, and CBG. A less familiar cannabinoid with every bit as much potential, though, is THCV. This compound has some psychoactive qualities of its own, although interestingly, it does not cause the craving for food that its near-twin THC produces. On top of that, THCV cannabis appears to hold some unique medical advantages, too. High time for an in-depth look!

How Does THCV Affect Cannabis?

Looking at the many compounds that marijuana contains, we find a long series of abbreviations, each of which is a distinct cannabinoid with its own combination of properties. Some are famous, but most are still quite obscure. THCV ranks among the latter kind. The abbreviation is similar to THC, yet even though the letters appear to correspond, THCV is still an altogether different substance.

THCV is an active cannabis component, although it occurs in much smaller quantities than CBD or THC, for example. Nonetheless, THCV adds its own unique effects to the mix, subtle as these may be. And just like other cannabinoids, THCV produces certain effects that alter in the presence of other cannabis compounds, compared to its effects in isolated circumstances. This phenomenon is know as the entourage effect. Moreover, THCV appears promising in its potential medical applications, too.

THCV In African Cannabis Strains?

After THCV was discovered in 1971, it was predominantly used for forensic purposes for quite some time. The reason for this peculiar use was the observation that high THCV concentrations mainly occurred in African marijuana strains. Consequently, the compound was used to determine whether confiscated weed came from abroad or from domestic growers. Fortunately, the tide is turning when it comes to cannabis policy. These days, the world is more interested in the medical potential of tetrahydrocannabivarin than in its judicial applications.

The Advantages Of THCV Cannabis

The specific effects of THCV are hard to distinguish from the overall cannabis high even for experienced connoisseurs. Still, this cannabinoid has some unique properties that could offer very real medical potential. Below, you’ll find a summary of the what we’ve discovered so far.

Suppresses Appetite

A well-known property of THC is its tendency to spark a strong craving for food known as ‘the munchies’. This is in fact why THC is used to treat people who lose too much weight. THCV, by contrast, produces the exact opposite effect, reducing appetite instead of stimulating it. This is due to THCV’s tendency to suppress the CB1 receptors of our endocannabinoid system (ECS). That means THCV has implications for people interested in losing weight. The best candidates are strains that are rich in THCV as well as in CBD, since this cannabinoid can also help keep our appetite in check.

Positive Effects On Diabetes

THCV might also prove to e effective against diabetes. Scientists tested the compound on mice and noticed how it improved cell receptiveness to insulin as well as helping control blood sugar levels. THCV reduces glucose tolerance. Researchers now suspect that THCV could be important for finding new diabetes treatments.

Potential Of THCV For Parkinson’s Disease

Similarly to several of its fellow cannabinoids, THCV has antioxidant properties. It activates CB2 receptors while blocking their CB1 counterparts. Scientists think that this could make THCV useful in the fight against Parkinson’s disease. THCV might help dampen symptoms such as tremors, and slow down the decay of brain tissue.

Analgesic And Anti-Inflammatory Effects

THCV’s propensity to activate CB2 receptors also enables it to help reduce inflammation. That makes it a promising candidate as an anti-inflammatory agent for use against a range of painful conditions.

THCV And Anxiety

Anxiety and anxiety disorders present another potential area for useful THCV applications. Research indicates that THCV may help reduce or even prevent episodes of anxiety. Most of the research conducted in this regard comes from Israel. Local scientists have determined that this cannabinoid is particularly effective by its capacity to suppress the sense of panic sparked by our innate fight-or-flight response. This evolutionary mechanism kicks in whenever we experience stressful situations, or when we feel threatened. This implies that people diagnosed with PTSD or other anxiety disorders may really stand to benefit from treatment based on THCV cannabis.

Can You Get High From THCV?

THCV and THC are very similar substances; even at the molecular level. That begs the question: can people get high from THCV, too? The answer is more complicated than you might expect. At low dosages, THCV does not produce a noticeable high effect. This compound is a CB1 antagonist that blocs these receptors. Similarly to CBD, THCV can counter the effects of THC and limit the high it produces.

Effects Of Cannabis With THC And THCV

At higher dosages, however, THCV starts to paint a different picture. At this point, the compound starts to change into a CB1 agonist. That turns the formerly non-psychoactive cannabinoid into a high-producing compound with stimulating properties while maintaining a level head. Furthermore, THCV works faster than THC, which makes for a fast-onset high that fades quickly, too.

THCV Cannabis In Practice

Anyone using cannabis, whether medicinally or recreationally, stands to benefit from the properties of THCV. Most strains contain only minute quantities of THCV, although some hold more than others. The two Amsterdam Genetics THCV cannabis strains below allow any grower to make the most out of this special compound.

Sadly, studies into this cannabinoid are still few and far between. It will take some time before the first actual THCV-based medicines are ready for use. Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t profit from the combined benefits of all the cannabinoids we know so far. Our blogs tell you more about which strains, cannabinoids, and other compounds are best to use for issues like stress, anxiety, fatigue, or pain, for instance.

Top THCV Strain #1: Amazing Haze

One Amsterdam Genetics strain that stands out for exceptional THCV levels is Amazing Haze. This potent sativa weed variant is widely appreciated for its cerebral effects both from a medicinal and a recreational perspective. Its effects are strongly brain-oriented, which becomes apparent in an uplifting, energetic, and pretty clear-headed buzz. An approximate THC level of 24% undoubtedly plays a part here, but the contribution of up to .5% THCV must also be substantial.

Interesting food for thought is THCV’s potential for dampening the sometimes intense mental activation that sativas can bring. That could make a THCV-rich sativa strain useful even for anxiety control. For non-medical connoisseurs, though, an activating high without the fridge-clearing tendencies can be an equally attractive prospect.

Top THCV Strain #2: Dutch Duchess

In contrast to Amazing Haze, Dutch Duchess Homegrown cannabis seeds are a THCV source from the indica end of the spectrum. These kush genetics make THCV rates of up to .2% a very real possibility. The immediate THC and THCV experience goes hand in hand with more physical (entourage) effects here. Moreover, Dutch Duchess genetics pair THCV with substantial CBN content. This culminates in a cannabinoid profile varied enough to produce a satisfied, relaxed high that can work wonders both for improved sleep and for profoundly chill evenings.

The Amsterdam Genetics collection holds carefully cultivated marijuana seeds for any taste and individual need. That means even cannabis growers looking for rare cannabinoids like THCV will find the best seeds for their next grow project here!

Anyone who uses cannabis, be it for recreational or medical reasons, consumes much more than just the celebrity cannabinoids THC and CBD. All in all, cannabis contains more than one hundred different cannabinoids. One of the less familiar ones that is rapidly becoming more popular is CBG (cannabigerol). Although CBG is not very prominent in weed percentage-wise, it does convey some important and unique characteristics to its effects. Recent research has shed new light on the power and potential of CBG. Below, you’ll learn why CBG may be far more useful than its cannabis prominence would suggest.

CBG, THC, And CBD In Cannabis

CBG is just one of a whole cornucopia of cannabis plant compounds. Weed is a natural product in which all the ingredients express their combined effects together. Moreover, these compounds influence each other’s effects by means of the entourage effect. That makes it very difficult, at least for now, to detect the specific effects of CBG when trying any one cannabis strain. The amounts are just too small. Scientists are able to isolate these individual substances, however, clearing the way for research into particular CBG properties.

In contrast to THC, CBG does not have psychoactive qualities. That invokes comparisons with its cannabinoid sibling CBD. Interestingly though, CBD does appear capable of directly affecting the endocannabinoid system (ECS) – a trait shared with THC, even if CBG affects other receptors than THC does.

Medical Potential Of CBG

The positive effects of CBG in cannabis overlap with those of CBD to some extent. Similarly to CBD, CBG is likely to offer anti-inflammatory and antibacterial possibilities. It is in fact very promising as an antibiotic that could be a new weapon against MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus), a bacteria that resists treatment with regular antibiotics. This resistance obviously makes MRSA infections dangerous, and so it would be a real leap froward if CBG would help us treat them. For now, this cannabinoid appears about as effective against MRSA as vancomycine.

How Does CBG Affect The Cannabis High?

In addition to the promising future CBG seems to have from a medical point of view, the compound is interesting from a recreational cannabis perspective, too. Even though cannabigerol does not have psychotropic qualities of itself, it can nonetheless affect the experience in its own particular ways.

Dampens The High Produced By THC

Even if experiencing a high may be precisely why someone uses cannabis in the first place, many people turn to marijuana for its potential health benefits instead. These people are generally less interested in the cannabis high, or they may prefer to avoid it altogether. Interestingly, CBG is capable of reducing the psychotropic effects of THC. This mental aspect of the high experience is due to THC’s ability to bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system, in which CB1 receptors in the brain are responsible for the mental high effects. CBG, however, is a CB1 antagonist, which means it can reduce the receptors’ responsiveness to THC. This means that high CBG weed strains will produce a less powerful high than strains with the same level of THC and less CBG (leaving the effects of CBD out of the equation for simplicity’s sake).

Counters Anxiety, Fear, And Paranoia Caused By THC

One of THC’s most inconvenient effects is its potential to cause fear, anxiety, and paranoia. Even though cannabis can help counter anxiety in certain cases, it can also make matters worse. High THC strains appear particularly likely to trigger anxiety symptoms. On the positive side, CBG appears able to counter this effect. This could be due in part to CBG’s ability to increase production of the neurotransmitter anandamide, known for its soothing, relaxing influence.

CBG In Cannabis Can Improve Moods

Even today, the effects of CBG are still partly shrouded in mystery – as are some of THC’s effects, for that matter. In all honesty, we still have limited understanding of how our brain works – let alone of how cannabinoids affect these workings. Why, for instance, does CBG not produce mind-altering effects while THC does? After all, either cannabinoid can bind to both CB1 and CB2 receptors. The present scientific consensus is that CBG has lower affinity for certain receptors, preventing the cannabinoid from flooding them. This would prevent changes to perception and consciousness similar to those produced by THC.

Despite the stark differences in effects, however, CBG does have real effects on mood. At high dosages, CBG can produce sensations of euphoria and deep relaxation. These can amount to a real mood booster, resulting in feelings of contention and wellbeing. This is actually part of the reason why CBG is under investigation as a potential treatment for depression. So even though CBG does not produce an actual high, it can definitely help people feel happier and more cheerful.

Full Spectrum CBG Oil

Even for the most experienced growers, CBG is a very tricky cannabinoid to harvest in any useful quantities. That was precisely why cannabigerol used to be so expensive for a very long time: it just takes a huge batch of marijuana to to produce any useful CBG yields. Fortunately, these days we have an affordable alternative in the form of Full Spectrum CBG Oil. This oil is derived from specially cultivated cannabis plants that contain hardly any THC while producing exceptional levels of CBG instead. That way, anyone is free to experience the benefits of this cannabis compound without growing the crops.

For everyone who does fancy growing weed for maximum CBG content, we’ve summed up some of our main sources of plant-based cannabigerol below.

Amsterdam Genetics CBG Cannabis Seeds

Although CBG is only found in low concentrations in regular cannabis, its potential for health and recreation looks promising nonetheless. It also appears that young specimens of certain cannabis strains contain more CBG than usual. That may enable growers to cultivate strains with more CBG in the near future.

Currently, it can be hard to find good, stable genetics with above-average cannabigerol percentages. In the Amsterdam Genetics seeds collection, however, you’ll find strains such as Tangerine G13 and Pineapple Kush, which can produce up to 2% CBG under the right grow conditions. Paired with the grower knowhow you’ll find in our grow blogs, these CBG strains are certainly worth a shot; even if you’re not just looking for maximum CBG potential.

As this blog proves yet again, the world of cannabis plants is a fascinating place. Did you know, for instance, what terpenes and flavonoids in marijuana can do for your health? These cannabis compounds have fascinating health potential too, as you’ll learn by exploring all our blogs.

Can CBD temper the high caused by THC? You’ve probably heard about it, but is it actually true? Of course, there are plenty of people who appreciate the effects of THC, but not everyone does; not all the time, anyway. People increasingly use weed for medical reason, for instance, and not all of these people appreciate the psychoactive effects of THC. And how does CBD work in case you get too much THC in your system? Can you tone down the impact of a too intense high with CBD weed, CBD Oil, or a bag of tasty CBD Gummies? High time for some research and a bit of CBD mythbusting!

CBD, The Most Important Cannabinoid After THC?

Growers around the world are getting hyped about CBD Weed. They order special CBD cannabis seeds to harvest as much of this useful compound as possible, for medical or recreational use. But what exactly is CBD?

CBD is short for cannabidiol. By now, it has become a famous abbreviation, since more and more people discover CBD for the useful, exceptional cannabis compound it is. In contrast to THC (tetra-hydrocannabinol), CBD will not get you high. The main reason for its growing popularity is its many potential health applications. CBD supplements such as CBD Oil, Tablets, or CBD Coffee and Gummies are popular choices for natural support of:

• A strong immune system;
• Pain reduction;
• Improved sleep;
• Countering infections and inflammation;
• Protecting (nerve) cells;
• Rapid muscle recovery after exercise

The list of potential CBD applications is getting longer by the week. But what about the interactions between CBD and THC in the body? Can CBD really counter the high produced by THC? That would be great news for anyone who accidentally took a few hits too many. And can you just add some CBD weed to your THC cannabis for some added nuance in your high? All the signs are here to suggest that it works. To find out why, we first need to draw a quick comparison between these two famous cannabinoids.

The Similarities And Differences Between CBD And THC

Obviously, the main difference between THC and CBD is the fact that THC can get you high while CBD cannot. On the molecular level, the two compounds are pretty hard to tell apart. That’s not surprising, as marijuana plants create both compounds from the same ‘mother of all cannabinoids’: CBG. Still, just one minute chemical difference is the cause of THC’s uniquely psychoactive effects. CBD has no properties that alter perception or cognition: it is entirely non-psychoactive.

Both CBD and THC can have effects on the body and the brain, however. They do so by interacting with two types of receptors. These are the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). They are situated in the central nervous system and throughout the rest of the body. CB1 and CB2 receptors govern all kinds of processes associated with your immune system, your emotions, metabolism, and other critical functions. Both cannabinoids engage with these receptors in different ways. The effect of THC is caused by activation of CB1 receptors located in the brain. This activation alters sensory perception of stimuli, influences memory and mood, and increases heart rate, for instance.

CBD (cannabidiol), causes altogether different effects. Although this cannabinoid also influences CB1 receptors, it functions as an antagonist, meaning that CBD dampens the effect that THC causes. So does that make CBD useful for countering the effects of THC? Initial research results certainly seem to point in that direction.

Less Stoned With CBD?

If you are a cannabis fan or a grower, chances are you have gotten slightly too high or stoned at some point. The effects of cannabis can be tricky to anticipate; especially when edibles are involved. So how great would it be if a bit of CBD could modify the severity of that high? If it’s anything to go by, we keep hearing promising anecdotes from experienced connoisseurs.

“I hadn’t smoked for quite a while, so I was slightly worried that the high might be too overwhelming. Luckily, the opposite proved to be true.”

One of our colleagues decided it was time for some proof of the pudding. This is his personal report on his CBD/THC experience:

“In the run-up to my ‘experiment’, I hadn’t used any cannabis for over a month. That served to intensify the effects and make them more noticeable. I rolled a cocktail of Blue Monkey CBD weed and Super Silver Haze to test the combined effects.

It was a tropically hot day in Amsterdam, so I went for a swim with some friends. I hadn’t smoked for quite a while, so I was slightly worried that the high might be too overwhelming. To my surprise, the opposite proved to be true.

The first thing I noticed was a profound high sensation in my head, but it felt comfortable and not too intense, despite some earlier negative experiences with haze and Netherhash strains. Later on, while I was in the water, I felt a strong body high as I was swimming around. All things considered, it seemed the CBD did just what I hoped it would do.

What Stood Out

The first thing that struck me was my greater-than-expected tolerance to THC; probably because of the CBD weed. We went through a whole gram of Super Silver Haze without any trouble. That would probably have been too heavy and intense without the CBD. That pretty much confirms my first assumption.

The second thing that stood out was the very ‘hazy’ sensation I went through despite the CBD, along with a strong body high. The typical haze effects never got uncomfortable though, no matter how strong they got. A real best of both worlds experience, so to speak.

Conclusion

I don’t think it’s hard to do the math here. I think I’ll keep some CBD Oil, Gummies, or Chocolate handy whenever I feel like trying some strong haze or other weed, or if I decide to smoke after a long bout of abstinence.

I would also advise any inexperienced smokers to keep a bag of CBD Gummies or other CBD products nearby, just in case they get too high. And since CBD has a lot of potential health benefits anyway, I’d recommend giving it a try anyway.”

How CBD Can Control A THC High

Clinical trials have shed some scientific light on the exact effects of CBD and THC on CB1 receptors. These insights may have brought us closer to development of cannabis-based medication. We already knew that CBD is capable of partially blocking CB1 receptor activation by THC. This led researchers to believe that CBD was a relatively weak antagonist. However, this theory proved insufficient to account for the specific effects of CBD at the cellular level.

A 2015 study clarified the matter to considerable extent. It turns out that CBD can bind to a specific site on the CB1 receptor, which differs from the favourite contact point of THC. After connecting to this location, CBD can alter the shape of the receptor to a point where THC finds it difficult, though not impossible, to connect to the same receptor. This lessens THC’s ability to activate CB1 receptors. These days, CBD is known as an allosteric modulator, which is a substance capable of altering another substance’s effects by binding to specific sites.

Another study, published in Front Psychology magazine, investigated whether CBD can reduce the effects of THC from a different perspective. The research was aimed at finding out whether CBD can counter the negative side-effects of THC, such as paranoia and memory loss. The analysis demonstrated that CBD has neuroprotective capacities that shield nerve cells from damage. Apparently, cannabidiol can control the effects of THC in more than one way.

CBD, THC, And The Entourage Effect

Research into the many valuable compounds found in cannabis plants is still underway. All too often, this quest is complicated precisely because of weed’s huge range useful ingredients, including cannabinoids, flavonoids, terpenes, and more. Whenever you isolate one substance from all the others to study its effects, you disrupt the natural context in which they occur. When used simultaneously, the various ingredients in cannabis mutually affect each other’s effects. This mechanism is known as the entourage effect. If, for instance, you take only CBD, the cannabinoid will produce different effects compared to CBD taken along with all other cannabinoids, including THC.

However, using cannabis for medicinal reasons also makes it hard to determine which cannabinoid does what in the overall effect. All cannabis strains have different proportions of THC, CBG, CBD, and many other compounds besides. That also makes it tricky to pinpoint exactly how much CBD counters the effect of THC. With research in this area still underway, we need more studies to get conclusive results.

The Perfect Cannabinoid Ratio

All cannabis strains carry some amount of CBD; just as every type of weed contains at least some THC, no matter how little certain hemp crops may hold. The question remains, however, which CBD:THC ration produces the exact effect a consumer is looking for. To give you an idea of the differences in highs (or lack thereof) between strains, we compare three imaginary strains; each with a different CBD to THC ratio.

CBD/THC Ratio 1:0 – No High, Plenty Of Effects

Our first example is a ‘true’ CBD strain. The proportions are similar to those of our own Blue Monkey CBD strain, at a CBD/THC ratio of about 40:1. Here, the effects of CBD definitely hold the upper hand. This strain will not get you high, but you will still notice an uplifting effect in terms of your mood. A pure CBD weed strain like Blue Monkey is the perfect match for anyone looking to gain maximum benefits from cannabidiol’s advantages, without any psychoactive effects.

CBD/THC Ratio 1:5 – A Nuanced High

This second example is a strain with fairly high CBD content that is still dominated by THC in its cannabinoid profile. Strains such as these are in the league of our Choco Cheesecake strain. Which has considerable THC levels and yet contains between 1.5 and 2% CBD. This hybrid indica cannabis strain produces a substantial high, but it also offers additional relaxing and other effects due to the relatively high CBD presence in its buds.

CBD/THC Ratio 1:10 – THC All The Way

At the far end of the spectrum we find strains carrying much more THC than CBD. So much so, in fact, that the effect of CBD is hardly noticeable. In strains like these, THC is bound to determine the high. Highly potent strains like our Super Silver Haze cannabis seeds leave no grower in doubt: this harvest will bring intense highs – a long-lasting headbuzz full of creative energy, in this particular case.

Getting To Work: Growing CBD Cannabis Seeds

No matter what the preferred ratio may be, using CBD in combination with THC always holds certain advantages. These could be related to medical marijuana use, but they may just as well help control the effects of a too intense high. You’ll just need to experiment a little to find out which ratios work best for you. One way to do just that is by growing CBD marijuana seeds, and then combining the result with a THC strain to experience their added effects. Mixing high CBD strains with strong THC strains grants maximum control over those optimal ratios.

Growers can also look for optimal balance between CBD and THC in that one perfect strain. Our Amsterdam Genetics seeds catalogue always states average THC, CBD, and other cannabinoid percentages for every strain we sell. Make sure to take these into account while ordering CBD or THC seeds online.

Keep Some CBD Treats Handy, Just In Case

Of course, you can also influence a THC high by taking a CBD supplement. The dedicated connoisseur will always make sure to have some tasty CBD ‘quenchers’ nearby. Our CBD nutrition gives you plenty of easy options to do just that.

Simply order some CBD Gummies or brew yourself a nice cup of CBD Coffee for a healthy, THC buffering snack. That way, you’ll keep your body balanced with an extra helping of CBD, while you always have a quick fix ready for whenever the effect of THC becomes a little too hot to handle.

You see: even though cannabinoids have many secrets left to uncover, CBD cannabis strains are clearly worth your while. Whether for medical or recreational use, CBD has something to offer for any grower, connoisseur, and gourmet cannabis lover!