01/28/2026
The more you know! 😊✌️
Hello friends! I have decided to start on a bit of a new venture, & would like to periodically offer education from a medical perspective regarding the use of cannabis. If anyone has specific questions or has specific topics they would like to have covered in future posts, please send your ideas my way! Today we’ll start with basic info about the world’s most healing plant…the cannabis plant.
***THE HEALING PLANT: EXPLORING THE MEDICAL POWER OF CANNABIS***
The cannabis plant is more than just a source of recreational highs—it’s a botanical powerhouse packed with compounds that offer a wide range of medical benefits. Scientists and health professionals are continually uncovering new ways cannabis can be used to treat conditions from chronic pain to epilepsy. Let’s take a look at the plant’s primary components and how each contributes to its healing potential.
1. Cannabinoids: The Therapeutic Engines
Cannabinoids are the most famous compounds found in cannabis. These chemicals interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors in the body that regulates pain, mood, immune response, and more.
• THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
• Effect: Psychoactive (“high”)
• Uses: Chronic pain, nausea (especially in chemotherapy), glaucoma, PTSD, insomnia, low appetite
• Forms: Oils, edibles, capsules, v***r
• CBD (Cannabidiol)
• Effect: Non-psychoactive
• Uses: Epilepsy (e.g., Dravet syndrome), anxiety, inflammation, autoimmune disorders, chronic pain
• Forms: Tinctures, creams, edibles, beverages
• CBN (Cannabinol)
• Effect: Mildly psychoactive
• Uses: Sleep aid, antibacterial, neuroprotective potential
• Forms: Capsules, oils, infused products
• CBG (Cannabigerol)
• Effect: Non-psychoactive
• Uses: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, potential in treating IBD and glaucoma
• Forms: Tinctures, oils
2. Terpenes: The Aromatic Allies
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They give strains their distinctive scents and flavors—but also provide medical benefits through their own biological activity.
• Linalool (lavender scent) – calming, anti-anxiety
• Myrcene (earthy/musky) – sedative, muscle relaxant
• Limonene (citrusy) – mood elevation, antibacterial
• Pinene (pine) – alertness, anti-inflammatory
Medical Insight: Terpenes may work synergistically with cannabinoids in what’s known as the “entourage effect,” enhancing therapeutic effects when combined.
3. Flavonoids: The Unsung Heroes
Flavonoids are plant compounds responsible for pigmentation, antioxidant effects, and more. In cannabis, they make up about 10% of the plant’s chemical profile.
• Cannaflavin A – known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties (even stronger than aspirin in lab studies)
• Other benefits: Neuroprotection, anti-cancer potential, cardiovascular support
4. The Plant Itself: Parts & Forms
• Flowers (Buds): Rich in cannabinoids and terpenes; smoked, v***rized, or processed into concentrates.
• Leaves: Lower in cannabinoids but used in teas, juicing, or topicals.
• Stems/Stalks: High in fiber; used industrially but also explored for bioactive compounds.
• Seeds: Rich in healthy fats, proteins, and nutrients—not psychoactive.
Medical Forms of Cannabis
• Oils & Tinctures – Sublingual use for fast absorption
• Capsules & Edibles – Long-lasting effects, precise dosing
• Topicals – Targeted pain/inflammation relief without psychoactive effects
• Inhalation (Vape/Smoke) – Fastest onset for pain or anxiety relief
• Patches – Steady absorption through skin
