If you're the kind of person who thinks you can never have too much of a good thing, slow your roll. Sometimes, just a little bit of a good thing is the best thing for you. Welcome to the wonderful world of microdosing. Microdosing is the practice of taking small doses of a drug to achieve all the benefits without the buzz. When it comes to weed, microdosing can provide subtle yet powerful effects without getting high as a Georgia Pine. But just what is a microdose? How do you do it? What benefits can you expect? We’ll answer all these questions and more in this guide to the wonders of microdosing cannabis. Are you ready to go low and slow? Let’s do this!

Microdosing — unless you’ve been on a five-year media fast, you’ve probably heard the term. Most attribute the origins of microdosing to Silicon Valley as a way for aspiring tech super nerds to get a creative edge over rival tech super nerds. Pretty rad. We just hope they’re not creating sentient killer robots (they probably are).

Typically, microdosing is associated with psilocybin (magic mushrooms). However, people also microdose LSD, MDMA, and cannabis. Regardless of the substance used, the term microdose refers to the practice of taking a drug in a dose less than the standard dose required to feel the full effect of the drug.

While some say that the amount of drug ingested must be sub-perceptual (unnoticeable) to qualify as a microdose, there is some controversy here. In the case of psilocybin, a typical microdose may be anywhere from .3 to .1 grams. But .3 grams is not a sub-perceptual dose. Most people will feel that. Some will feel it powerfully. With cannabis, a typical THC microdose is 2.5 mg. A new user or someone THC-sensitive will definitely feel that as well.

So what qualifies as a microdose? We’re not here to make rules or tell anyone what to do. We’re here to help. The answer to this question really comes down to what works best for you. Some people prefer a sub-perceptual dose. That’s awesome. Others like to feel it, just not so much that they blast into orbit. That’s cool too.

The only question that matters is this: What kind of microdoser are you?

When you microdose cannabis, the objective is to reap the therapeutic effects of cannabis without getting high. We know what you’re thinking. Getting high is the whole point! We feel you on that. But for some people, the standard dose of cannabis can trigger paranoia and anxiety. For others, cannabis can cause lethargy, and confusion, and make it a real challenge to handle life’s day-to-day (Stop looking for your sunglasses. They’re on your head, silly.).

Cannabis microdosing should not cause a substantial change in mindset, mood, or attitude. Unless you’re in the sub-perceptual camp, any effect felt should be mild and subtle. Beyond the mental game, there is evidence that the threshold required to reap the therapeutic benefits of cannabis is lower than we thought. As a result, you may not need to get high to get well. Amazing!

So far, we’ve talked a whole bunch about microdosing as a way of squeezing all the good we can get from weed while keeping that high low-key. Well, THC is the cannabinoid primarily responsible for that high we’re trying to manage. No, we’re not dissing the entourage effect. There’s no doubt other cannabinoids and terpenes can temper your high. But THC is the prime mover.

THC produces this feeling by interacting with the endocannabinoid system as a CB1 and CB2 agonist. When THC binds to those cannabinoid receptors and activates them, it produces the sensation of being high. This means that THC is the cannabinoid primarily responsible for that paranoia, anxiety, lethargy, and those sunglasses that you forgot on your head (Duh.). When you microdose THC, all those unwanted side effects are gone. Poof. Nothing but sunshine and the benefits of consuming cannabis remain.

Most cannabis strains are THC-dominant. This makes THC the most abundant cannabinoid and the one to be most careful with when finding the right microdose for you.

CBD is one of the most abundant cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, CBD is not an intoxicant. It does not get you high. Another difference between CBD and THC is that CBD doesn’t bind to the endocannabinoid system’s CB1 and CB2 receptors. However, CBD does affect the interactions between these receptors and other cannabinoids.

By way of example, CBD may buffer the anxiety-inducing effect of THC by binding to other cannabinoid receptors, which may prevent THC from activating them. The result is less intense psychoactive effects, making products that blend CBD and THC a great choice for THC-sensitive users.

This is a clutch when considering how to microdose CBD. Remember the props we gave the entourage effect? Well, you could microdose CBD with THC as a way to temper THC’s effects. Another approach is to start your microdose mission with some full-spectrum CBD, which contains small amounts of THC. This will enable you to enjoy the health benefits of THC without that paranoia pinballing in your brain and pecking at your dome like an angry bird.

Ummmm…because it’s awesome? While that’s absolutely the right answer, it may lack the specificity to be helpful. So let’s drill down on all this awesomeness. Be advised: What follows is a wild romp through purely anecdotal human accounts. If you’re looking for science to back these claims, call your congressman and demand the federal government take cannabis off Schedule I so we can get the research done.

Microdosing may increase spiritual awareness and creativity.

We’re not saying that microdosing will help you see god, but some microdosers believe the practice heightens the senses and increases their spiritual awareness. Others claim increased focus and energy and a more active creative mind. I know we said there was no research, but microdosed cannabis may 

, a key marker of creativity. We’re not making that up, even though we probably could because we’re feeling VERY creative. How’s that for divergent?

Microdosing may improve mood and help shift perspective. Get your microdose on before going grocery shopping, doing the laundry, or cleaning the house. Be present in the moment with all of it instead of spending every minute thinking about what you want to do when you’re done. Yes, microdosing can help with mindfulness. That’s so Zen. Ohm.

Do you like to hit the gym? Go for hikes? Mountain bike? Run like you’re being chased? Dance like nobody’s watching? Microdosing may enhance all those activities. Many microdosers report that a little bit of weed increases motivation, focus, enjoyment, and recovery when they get their sweat on. This is a good time to do the entourage thing as well. Both THC and CBD fight inflammation and can also reduce pain from sore muscles. But they work better together, so definitely go full spectrum here — especially for our chronic pain patients.

We’ve covered so many of the benefits already. Come on. Do you really need more reasons? You do? Well then, good news! We have a whole bunch of them!

Cannabis microdosing may help your body function properly

Ever hear of the Physician Dustin Sulak? Well, he’s an expert in cannabis medicine, and when Rolling Stone Magazine asked him about the benefits of weed, he told them:

“Our bodies are already working to prevent dementia, reduce inflammation, and respond to any pathological process. If we can enhance the functioning of that system with a little bit of extra THC, we can benefit.”

Does this make THC a friend with benefits? Does that make sharing a joint awkward? Nevermind. More divergent thinking. Who’s feeling more creative? We are!

Microdosing cannabis works better with THC and CBD

One of the more significant reasons to microdose that we keep coming back to is that it’s a way to get the benefits of weed without getting blazed. But that begs the question. Why not just take CBD? That’s very clever and shows you’ve been paying attention. We love that. But there’s a problem with this line of inquiry. When you cut the THC, you cut a lot of beneficial effects of cannabis. This brings us right back to our old friend the entourage effect. Using both is best!

One more thing. We’re curious. Would you like to have more money? Us too! Did you know that when you switch that macrodose for a microdose, you can cut your cannabis spending by 80% or more? Look, when a top-shelf eighth runs $50 plus tax, stretching that cannabis dollar is never a bad idea. And when you use less cannabis, your tolerance is less likely to build up, which means you need even less weed. Way to stack those chips!

Can Microdising Help Medical Cannabis Patients?

In a word. Yes. Some studies suggest that microdosing may treat a variety of conditions for cannabis consumers struggling with a range of medical issues.

We all have aches and pains, but did you know that chronic pain is the #1 reason people try medical cannabis? It makes sense, considering how dangerous and addictive narcotic pain pills are. Yikes!

,“Patients using medical marijuana to control chronic pain reported a 64 percent reduction in their use of more traditional prescription pain medications…” as well as an improved quality of life. What more can you ask for? A solution that only needs a minimal effective dose of thc content to work versus a drug that we’re all too familiar with (and not because we want to be).

Here’s an interesting fact about THC that you might not know. While it can induce anxiety in high doses, 

it may reduce stress and anxiety when microdosed

. With low doses, your body may be able to absorb the effects without producing an adverse reaction. This is a win for those that suffer from social anxiety, PTSD and even depression.

While we still need more research, there is a case study on microdosing cannabis to treat Traumatic Brain Injury (“TBI”) that presented promising findings. (http://dspace.unila.edu.br/123456789/6212) In this study, a woman with TBI was treated with cannabinoid microdoses for six months. The result was reduced spasms, muscle tension, hyperreflexia, and stiffness, as well as improvements in short-term memory, cognition, speech, sense of humor, sleep, and quality of life.

We know that THC increases appetite by activating CB1 receptors in the body (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5877694/). What we don’t know is just how much THC is required to fire up that appetite. 

But there is one study from 2004 that found very low doses of delta-8 THC increased food intake in mice

While anorexia and cachexia are very different, both conditions benefit from consistent appetite stimulation. Microdosing THC may provide that stimulation without the impairment that some experience when high. This kind of help for a medical condition is invaluable.

What is the Best Dosage for Microdosing Cannabis?

Well, we can’t know what a microdose is without knowing what the standard dose is. According to the Marijuana Policy Project and numerous other sources, the broad consensus is that 10mg of THC is the standard dose.

As we all know by now, different people have different tolerances. They also have different ideas about how much or how little they want to feel when they microdose. This makes microdosing more art than science. To master this art it’s wise to start low and go slow.

2.5mg of THC is the sweet spot. Add 2.5mg of CBD for the entourage effect, wait a couple of hours, see how you feel, and adjust as needed. That’s all there is to it. You are on your way to becoming a microdose master. Hello, Yoda.

This is also an art, young Jedi. Just like dosage, this is a moving target that depends on the same factors: tolerance and desired effects. It’s also wise to apply the same general rule: start low and go slow. Just don’t become another Darth Vader, Okay?

What are the Best Ways to Microdose Cannabis?

We’re talking cannabinoid delivery systems here. As a general rule, smoking and vaping are not the best choice. Those methods make it very difficult to nail down precise dosing, and that’s what microdosing is all about. But don’t sweat it. We live in the magical era of legal recreational cannabis. There are so many amazing options to choose from that the hardest part is picking one. That’s so cool!

A class cannabis product, edibles take microdosing to the next level of precision. Sprinkle a few milligrams here and there, wait an hour or two and voila! The effects of microdosing are at your fingertips. Just remember that edibles take much longer to kick in than other delivery systems.

Several companies make gummies in 2.5 mg doses. Yum. Just grab a bag, and you’re ready to go!

Sublinguals are a great option if you want microdosing with fast effects. Like edibles, they come in pre-measured doses that make microdosing easy and precise. Most companies offer microdose tinctures, patches, and sprays. With all of them, the cannabinoids absorb quickly into your bloodstream under the tongue. There are many full spectrum options!

Yes, you can drink your weed. Try a refreshing cannabis seltzer in a microdosed serving size. Some even come with CBD. Hello again, entourage effect! This cannabis consumption method is on the rise and offers many delicious microdosing options.

For the no-nonsense microdoser tablets or capsules are a discrete, portable, precise, and convenient way to microdose. These offer microdoses in easy-to-handle packages, making them easy to take with you on your daily commute or long weekend.

In the past few decades, we have seen a shift in how people consume cannabis and microdosing is definitely leading the charge. No matter your choice of method, it’s important to remember that microdosing can be used to increase your living standards in so many ways. Whether microdosing to reduce stress, improve sleep, or enhance cognitive function, microdosing with cannabis is a safe and effective way to do it.

Start Your Microdosing Journey with Panacea

Every journey begins with the first step. Panacea invites you to take the first step on your microdose journey with us. Our knowledgeable budtenders can answer all your microdose questions, and our menu features all the best microdose options. Visit Panacea or 

Exploring the Wonders of Microdosing Cannabis

Cannabis has become a mainstream topic of conversation since the advent of legalization in various US states. It is a plant with a fascinating history and a wide variety of uses, which is why education is so important in our industry. Not to mention, depending on which state you reside in, cannabis exists in a gray area, without any straightforward legal status. This beginners guide is a great place to start if you’d like to learn the basics and benefits of cannabis.

For thousands of years, people all over the world have been using and ingesting cannabis for a variety of purposes. Since its legalization in California in 1996, it’s become more widely available across the US and with its legalization, the stigma associated with it is slowly starting to fade.

“More Americans believe pot should be legal — 68% according to a 2021 Gallup Poll— and 18% of Americans now admit to using it, an increase of 10% from 2005, according to Forbes.

Currently in the US, cannabis is available for medical use in 39 states, and for recreational use in 19 states. The cannabis industry is one of the fastest-growing, employing hundreds of thousands of Americans. The rapid expansion of the legal industry paired with the plant's rising popularity is driving changes to laws across the country at both state and federal levels. While some states have legalized recreational consumption, it is still illegal at a federal level due to its Schedule 1 status. In order to stay on the right side of the law, it's always important check your state’s laws and guidelines concerning cannabis consumption and possession.

Cannabis or marijuana, what’s the difference?

In short, cannabis and marijuana are two names that both refer to the same plant.

The name marijuana, pronounced “marihuana”, is thought to have originated in Mexico, around the 1840s. More recently, the medical and scientific communities use the name cannabis, referring to its Latin name ‘Cannabis Sativa’. This is intentional, as a means to steer away from any residual anti-Mexican sentiment the name marijuana might have from cannabis' criminalization in the 1930s.

It's important to note that the prohibition of cannabis was steeped in racist ideologies of the 1930s. The damaging rhetoric of the time period is still alive today and contributes to the stigma which the plant and its advocates and users, still carry. As a means to eradicate propaganda and prejudice, the term "marijuana" is slowly being removed from the industry's lexicon.

"Cannabis sativa" is a genus of psychoactive plants that have been cultivated for thousands of years all over the world, with possible origins in Central Asia. Another common variety included in this genus is hemp. In the US, "Hemp" is used to refer to cannabis plants with 0.3% THC or less.

In popular culture, thanks to music and TV shows, there’s a rich list of slang for cannabis including weed, pot, skunk, chronic, grass, bud, flower, mary jane, and so on. All of these slang terms refer to the same plant: cannabis.

For centuries, civilizations used cannabis recreationally and medically, in tribal rituals and healing ceremonies. There’s evidence of its use across the globe from the Indian Hindus, the Assyrians, the Greeks, and the Romans. Its medicinal properties were thought to help with arthritis, depression, amenorrhea, inflammation, pain, lack of appetite, and asthma.

As far back as 2800 BC, Emperor Shen Nung, who is believed to be the Father of Chinese Medicine, recorded the positive benefits of cannabis in his pharmacopeia. 

 published in 2022 by archaeologists in Science Advances suggests mourners burned cannabis as part of their tribal ceremonies in a remote mountain in Central Asia over 2500 years ago.

There are many different ways to consume cannabis, you can smoke it, vape with a device, eat it, take droplets from an oil, or apply it topically. As a plant, cannabis is extremely resiliant against wind, rain and other elements. Thanks to the advances of indoor horticulture, it can also be grown relatively easily all over the world, which contributes to its widespread use.

People enjoy cannabis recreationally to de-stress and have fun, and medically to help with chronic pain or the symptoms of illness. There are a few different factors that contribute to the effects you might feel:

Your intention. For example, are you using cannabis to help with pain or are you just looking to relax?

40% of Americans said they used cannabis products for pain

Americans use cannabis for mental health, and for physical symptoms. Research from BoFa Securities show sales of cannabis grew by 40 percent to $25 billion in 2022.

What are the common reasons for cannabis medical use?

The most common reason Americans use cannabis is pain control. According to a 

study published by Harvard University in 2020, evidence suggests that cannabis is effective 

Treating chronic pain, neuropathic pain (a burning sensation in the nerves), and helping with muscle spasticity associated with MS and other degenerative diseases. The study went on to note that, “Part of its allure is that it is clearly safer than opiates (it is impossible to overdose on and far less addictive) and it can take the place of NSAIDs such as Advil if people can’t take them due to problems with their kidneys or ulcers or GERD.”

The FDA has approved one cannabis-derived drug called Epidiolex, a CBD isolate used for people suffering from seizures. There are also synthetic cannabinoid drugs created to help with nausea, anorexia, AIDs symptoms, the negative side effects of chemotherapy, and patients for whom there are no other satisfactory alternative treatments.


What are the common reasons people enjoy cannabis recreationally?

Recreational cannabis use is about relaxation, leisure and mental health. In most states where recreational use is legal there is an age limit imposed for 21 years old and over.

A 2021 Gallup Poll explored the most common reasons people use cannabis recreationally. Women are more likely than men to use CBD products for anxiety (25% vs 14% respectively), and men are more likely to use CBD to improve their sleep.

There was a dramatic increase in cannabis consumption during the Covid-19 pandemic, likely due to increased stress and anxiety. People have been turning to cannabis to help cope with stress, using it to wind down, relax and improve their sleep.

 are the compounds found in cannabis. Our bodies also have naturally occurring cannabinoids, they're called endogenous cannabinoids, and cannabinoids contained in the cannabis plant are called phytocannabinoids.

There are two main cannabinoids related to how cannabis works with your body THC and CBD. They react with the receptors in our brains, called the CB1 and CB2 receptors.

THC, short for delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main psychoactive ingredient that gives a “high” feeling.

CBD stands for cannabidiol which can be extracted from both hemp and cannabis. CBD has a very similar structure to THC but doesn’t produce the same high.


Legally, a THC percentage of 0.3 or above in any cannabis product is still illegal in some states. Whereas CBD and hemp products with a THC percentage below 0.3 are legal ever since the 2018 Farm Bill was passed. It's always a good idea to check the laws where you live to stay within the legal bounds of the law.

The way cannabis works in the body is linked to our 

, also known as our ECS. When cannabis is taken in any form, the cannabinoids from the plant engage a series of receptors in our bodies, especially CB1 and CB2.

The cannabinoid THC reacts with the CB1 receptor in our brain, which contributes to psychoactive effects and causes the cerebral, "high" feeling. The CBD cannabinoids react with the CB2 receptors in the wider parts of our body, for example, our joints, muscles, and digestive system.

The ECS plays a vital role in pain sensation, mood, appetite and other bodily functions — that’s why cannabinoids can affect how we feel in various ways.

CBD is not psychoactive in the same way that THC can be - It has a much more subtle effect that allows it to be helpful for stress and anxiety related issues. CBD also has actions on the central nervous system, the gastrointestinal system, our hormones, bones, immune system, metabolism, and our muscular-skeletal system.

Cannabis comes in many different varieties called cultivars. There are thousands of different types of cannabis cultivars because of widespread crossbreeding of different plants. In the US, you’re more likely to encounter Sativa-dominant and Indica-dominant strains of cannabis.

The cannabis plant possesses different chemical compounds such as cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. These compounds can be enhanced and manipulated in different ways as part of the growing process. It’s important to note the name of the strain of cannabis doesn’t determine the effect it has on the body - it’s more to do with the compounds within that specific cultivar.

The three main types of cannabis strain designations that are widely used in the industry are:

Indica - this plant typically has short, bushy, dark green leaves. These strains are known to produce a more relaxed feeling.

Sativa - this plant has thin, wide, light green leaves. The effects are said to be more energizing and cerebral.

Hybrid - this means cross-cultivation of two other strains (Indica and Sativa). There are literally thousands of hybrid plants, each with their own unique properties.


Different strains and variants mean people can choose what suits them best depending on the results they're looking for. Despite these three commonly-used designations, we're now learning that effects are determined by the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids present within each cultivar.

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in a variety of plants. They make up a plant’s unique fragrance, colors, and flavors. They can influence our mood and reduce stress. Terpenes are already widely used in medicinal and holistic health, for example, lavender to enhance sleep, or eucalyptus for opening airways.

 play an integral role in a cannabis plant's growth and survival. These organic compounds enrich the color and pigmentation in leaves and buds and contribute to the flavor of the plant.

As our understanding of terpenes develops, it's clear these aromatic compounds are a medical powerhouse too. Unique combinations of terpenes from other plants and cannabis offer unlimited potential for healing, wellness and enjoyment.

There’s now a rich variety of terpene combinations and “flavors” popping up in dispensaries, so whatever health benefit you’re looking for, you can choose the one that suits you. For example, cultivars rich in the terpene Limonene develop citrus-forward flavors and aromas and are most typically associated with energetic and uplifting effects. More research needs to be done to solidify our understanding of terpenes, but so far terpenes looks promising for their antiviral, anti-cancer and even anti-depressant qualities.

The entourage effect is a term for the positive effect terpenes and cannabinoids have when they're combined. There's emerging evidence that all plant compounds in cannabis work in synergy, known as the entourage effect. A review in Frontiers in Neurology found that people with epilepsy who took a full spectrum CBD extract - a CBD-rich extract that also contains the range of other beneficial compunds found in the cannabis plant - had improved symptoms and fewer side effects than those who took isolated CBD.

There’s plenty of medical research on isolated terpenes and terpenoids (aka how they work on the body on their own). There’s more research needed to see the potential possibilities terpenes and cannabis could have for alternative medicines or therapies.

Some examples of popular terpenes include limonene, pinene, and linalool:

Limonene can be recognized by its strong citrusy scent. It’s been shown to positively work with how certain immune cells behave. Some therapeutic properties of limonene are:

Another naturally abundant terpene is pinene. Pinene exists in two forms: a-pinene and b-pinene. It’s a fresh, bright scent, derived from pine needles, rosemary, and basil.

Pinene is a bronchodilator, when inhaled it helps us breathe more air into our lungs. It has anti-inflammatory properties and fights against some infectious germs.

Shinrin-yoku, a Japanese tradition, directly translated means forest bathing. It’s a therapy of leisurely walking in a forest, soaking up the environment and breathing in fresh air. The air would be rich with pinene and give restorative effects on a person’s psyche and physiology.

Linalool is abundant in lavender and gives the flower its rich floral scent. It’s one of the most important compounds in aromatherapy, responsible for the calming effect many people get when smelling lavender. 

A study in Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces

 observed Linalool may affect the body in a variety of ways:

For a beginner, there’s no one best product or perfect dosage to recommend because everyone's body, needs, and preferences are different. How you feel when you use cannabis depends on your body, the strain, the compound, and the delivery method you choose. However, if you are a beginner, it's wise to begin "low and slow" with work your way up. For example, if you're interested in trying edibles, start with a low dose of 2.5mg, wait an hour to see how you feel, and slowly work your way up to 5mg and so on. This dosing method is called "titration" and is the best way to find the perfect dosage for you.

To keep yourself informed, keep abreast of new research, ask your budtender or medical cannabis professional for suggestions or advice, and to look into what might suit you best based on your personal tastes.

Visit us at one of our Panacea Wellness dispensary locations in Middleborough, Massachusetts and Annapolis, Maryland! We're looking forward to serving you.

Education Guide to Cannabis

What is the endocannabinoid system? This question has been asked by many people who are curious about how cannabis interacts with the human body, and for a good reason. Every person is unique, and with that comes unique ways of responding to medicinal compounds and cannabinoids like THC and CBD. So, let's dive in to learn more about the fantastic endocannabinoid system.

When was the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) Discovered?

This story starts with cannabis (as all the best stories do) and the Israeli researcher Dr. Raphael Mechoulam. In the mid-1960s, Dr. Mechoulam and his colleagues isolated CBD and THC as active compounds in marijuana.


In the decades that followed, scientists studied the biochemistry, pharmacology, and clinical effects of these cannabinoids. Still, none of the research revealed how THC and CBD worked in the human body. The best science could do was a hypothesis that THC exerted its effects by altering cell membranes to change the behavior of cells.


That all changed in 1988 when Dr. Allyn Howlett implemented a novel radiolabeling technique that identified cannabinoid receptors in rat brains. This discovery opened the door to understanding the endocannabinoid system, how it works, and how it is affected by cannabis.

But before you get too excited, it's important to understand that both the science of the endocannabinoid system and the science of cannabis are new and emerging. While we've made real progress and learn more every day, we are a long way off from approaching a comprehensive understanding of the ECS, cannabis, and its effects.

How Does the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) Work?

The endocannabinoid system uses endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes that interact in a complex cell signaling network. This network responds to internal and external stimuli to maintain homeostasis (biological harmony) in the body.

 is short for endogenous cannabinoids. They are lipid-based neurotransmitters that the body produces naturally. For example, nerve cells use neurotransmitters to communicate.


Science has identified two primary endocannabinoids:


Anandamide (AEA or arachidonoyl ethanolamide)

There's consensus in the scientific community that there are more endocannabinoids in the body, but they remain unknown and undefined.

Endocannabinoid receptors are found throughout the body on the cellular surface. Endocannabinoids attach and bind to these receptors. This signals the ECS and triggers a response.

Science has identified two primary cannabinoid receptors, and it may be on the threshold of identifying a third:

: Primarily found in the central nervous system (CNS), there are high levels in the neocortex, hippocampus, cerebellum and brainstem. They are also found on peripheral nerve terminals and extra-neural sites such as the testis, eye, and spleen.

Principally located in the immune system both in the brain and periphery, recently, it was found that CB2 may also play a functional role in the CNS.

GPR 55 may be a third cannabinoid receptor. Once thought to be an "orphan receptor," it has since been cloned, and we now know that Anandmie and other ligands can bind to it.

Endocannabinoids can attach to CB1 or CB2 receptors. The location of the receptor in the body and where the endocannabinoid attaches will trigger a different response from the ECS and cause different results.

: When you are experiencing pain, endocannabinoids may bind to CB1 receptors in the nerves of your CNS to relieve the pain. Alternatively, they could attach to a CB2 receptor in an immune cell to signal the ECS to combat inflammation that may be the source of the pain.

Enzymes are the third piece of the endocannabinoid system. The function of enzymes is to eliminate endocannabinoids once they are used. This ensures that endocannabinoids are used only while they're needed. In addition, this differentiates endocannabinoids from the typical neurotransmitter, which may persist or be stored for later use.

Two primary enzymes serve this vital function.

This enzyme breaks down 2-Arachidonoyl Glycerol.


These three vital components of the ECS are found in just about every major body system, including the brain, nerves, skin, bone, fat tissue, liver, pancreas, skeletal muscle, heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and the gastrointestinal tract.

How Does the Endocannabinoid System Regulate the Body?

Let's get back to biological harmony, AKA homeostasis. Our bodies experience constant internal and external stimuli and need to adjust to maintain homeostasis. So, when something brings us out of natural balance, the ECS may temporarily engage to get our operating system back to homeostasis.

Dr. Vincenzo Di Marzo, Research Director at the Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, described ECS function in this way: "With the 'pro-homeostatic action of the ECS, we mean that this system of chemical signals gets temporarily activated following deviations from cellular homeostasis. When such deviations are non-physiological, the temporarily activated ECS attempts, in a space and time selective manner, to restore the previous physiological situation (homeostasis)."

While the research continues to investigate the many complex ways that the ECS interacts with the human body, the scientific consensus is that the ECS may be a potential therapeutic target in the following physiological conditions:

Beyond that, it may be a target for the treatment of pathological conditions such as:


Let's dive a little deeper by answering a few direct questions.

So, how does cannabis affect the endocannabinoid system?

The body's naturally-occurring endocannabinoids, AEA and 2-AG, are very similar to the cannabis-derived cannabinoids CBD and THC. These cannabinoids can mimic endocannabinoids and bind with or otherwise affect CB1 and CB2 receptors. This is how cannabis can cause euphoria, treat pain, or diminish anxiety.

How does THC affect the endocannabinoid system?

, THC affects the endocannabinoid system because it mimics the chemical structure of anandamide. Both anandamide THC and interact with CB1 receptors. And while both may affect things such as the perception of pain and sense of reward, THC's impact is more pronounced, and the cannabinoid is primarily responsible for marijuana's euphoric high.

THC also interacts with CB2 receptors, but anandamide does not. While most CB1 receptors are located in the CNS, most CB2 receptors are part of the immune system. This may explain why THC has both psychoactive and therapeutic effects.

There is mounting evidence that THC may treat the following symptoms and conditions:

How does CBD affect the endocannabinoid system?

While some describe CBD as non-psychoactive, that's not correct. CBD is a mood-altering substance. When people use the term "non-psychoactive," they mean "not intoxicating." CBD does not get you high.

While CBD does not bind with CB1 And CB2 receptors, it does have an effect on other receptors:

CBD interacts with serotonin receptor 5-HT1A: This may explain its anti-anxiety effect.

CBD interacts with vanilloid receptor TRPV1: This may influence the body's perception of pain.

CBD blocks the FAAH enzyme: This prevents the breakdown of anandamide, boosting levels of this feel-good endocannabinoid.

. While more research is needed, humans presently use CBD to treat the following symptoms and conditions:

Interestingly, there is additional evidence that CBD and THC may work better together in a theory called "

The chemists Raphael Mechoulam and Shimon Ben-ShabaIn coined the term entourage effect in 1999 to describe their theory that the cannabinoids and terpenes in cannabis work synergistically. It was a controversial theory because it clashed with the established belief that marijuana's effects were attributable to THC. The theory remains controversial today due to the lack of cannabis science.

Is there evidence that supports the entourage effect theory?

A 2011 Review of Studies in The British Journal of Pharmacology found that taking 

 may provide additional therapeutic benefits for the treatment of:

Further, the terpene caryophyllene actually mimics endocannabinoids and binds with the CB2 receptor. This suggests it may have therapeutic effects. There is also significant evidence to suggest that CBD may 

. Finally, a study regarding the neuroprotective capability of CBD found that CBD may be more 

Do Synthetic Cannabinoids Affect the ECS?

The short answer is yes. The discovery of the ECS and the emerging science of how it works have resulted in the creation of drugs by pharmaceutical companies that use synthetic cannabinoids.

Marinol and Syndros: Both are made with dronabinol, a synthetic form of THC. These drugs are FDA approved for nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, loss of appetite, and wasting syndrome caused by HIV/AIDS.

Nabilone (Cesamet): A synthetic form of THC FDA-approved to treat nausea associated with cancer chemotherapy.

What is the endocannabinoid system?

Cannabis is one of the most praised and demonized plants in the world. No other topic stirs such an emotional response among doctors, researchers, politicians, and the general public as cannabis does. Cannabis is the most widely used drug globally. In the past few years, we’ve seen a worldwide legalization movement surrounding this plant. The public’s opinion on cannabis is changing from seeing it as an illicit, addictive drug to that of a medicinal plant with many therapeutic benefits.

Yet, as we’re coming from a period of prohibition and anti-cannabis propaganda, there is still a lot of misinformation surrounding it. Is cannabis safe? Can you experience side effects from smoking weed? Is it addictive?

Regardless of advances in research and the public’s support of the use and legalization of cannabis, several myths regarding this plant persist and aid in the continuous stigmatization of cannabis. These misconceptions become harmful when they hamper the advancements in the medical research of cannabis, as many researchers might not want to be associated with it. In turn, this does not allow us to fully uncover the medical benefits of the plant and make it a viable option for the people who need it.

In this article, we will ‘weed’ out (see what I did there?) the five most popular myths surrounding cannabis’ main component – THC - and give you the real facts.

First, let’s jump into what exactly THC is. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol (wow, that’s a long name. Surely you can see why it’s often abbreviated to ‘THC’) is the main psychoactive compound found in cannabis/marijuana plants. THC is the most famous of all the cannabinoids. It is known for its psychoactive effects and for its strong mental and physical therapeutic benefits. In other words, THC is the cannabis compound that makes you feel a euphoric high.

THC interacts with our body’s endocannabinoid system through cannabinoid receptors found on neurons in our brain and other organs like the heart, lungs, spleen, and liver. In turn, cannabinoid receptors will bind to neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and other endocannabinoids. These neurotransmitters affect parts of the brain that influence pleasure, happiness, stress, memory, and sensory perceptions. This is how we experience the effects and benefits of THC.

Now that we have briefly touched on what THC is (we’ll go into more depth in future articles!) let's move on to a little bit of myth-busting. Unfortunately, THC gets a bad rep thanks to a lot of misinformation out there. Let's dive into a few of the most common myths surrounding THC.

The term cannabis or marijuana is often used when people talk about THC. This is because THC is the main component in the cannabis or marijuana plant. Plus, THC is responsible for causing the euphoric head high. So, most of the myths mentioned below are connected to marijuana use in general and not just THC.

Currently, marijuana plants that contain more than 0.3% THC are classified as Schedule 1 drugs in the United States. This classification means that cannabis has no currently accepted medicinal use. However, this is far from the truth.

In the US, the FDA has approved Marinol and Syndros, two THC-based medications used to prevent nausea in patients going through cancer chemotherapy and anorexia associated with weight loss in people suffering from AIDS. The THC found in these medicines is synthetically created. Nevertheless, it goes to show that THC has medicinal value.

Moreover, the Harvard Medical School published a review on medical marijuana, mentioning THC’s potential to help manage chronic and nerve pain, highlighting its safety compared to opioids. They also mention marijuana’s effects as a muscle relaxant, showing its potential to help people manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. A highly promising area of research also focuses on THC’s potential to help people with PTSD. These are just a handful of the potential medical benefits of THC.

More research is needed before we have a better idea of the benefits of THC. Thankfully, the FDA is supporting and facilitating medical research focused on the therapeutic benefits of cannabis. So, we should have more answers soon.

Cannabis is often labeled a “getaway drug”, meaning that people who use cannabis are likely to get into using other “harder” substances. This is one of the most commonly used propaganda against weed. The term was popularized in the 1980s, during the War on Drugs periods. This hypothesis is based on the idea that people who use recreational substances may start with cannabis, given that it is a widely available substance.

However, there is no data to support this theory. In fact, a 2012 study conducted in Japan where weed is not as accessible as in the US found that that 83.2% of recreational substance users did not start with using cannabis.

In addition, since 1944, the LaGuardia Committee has committed an in-depth report on the effects of cannabis and concluded that cannabis does not act as a getaway drug.

When approaching this prevalent myth, we must start by defining what drug addiction is.

According to the Addiction Center, addiction is a physical and psychological dependence on a substance that causes people to act irrationally, with no regard to the harm they may cause to themselves or others.

THC stimulates our brain cells to release dopamine, the chemical which creates the feeling of pleasure. And when our brains get a taste of something good, it’s very hard to ignore it. So, we crave it.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that this euphoric craving is not the same as being addicted.

When it comes to cannabis use, health professionals use the term “Marijuana use disorder” instead of addiction. A Marijuana use disorder is associated with dependence, not addiction. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they do not mean the same thing.

While addiction causes people to act irrationally, dependence is characterized by built-up tolerance and the experience of mild, non-life-threatening withdrawal symptoms when you stop using cannabis. This means that you can become dependent on THC, but it’s not likely you’ll be addicted.

As we mentioned above, THC may be responsible for increasing the risk of psychotic symptoms like paranoia and hallucinations. However, studies show no factor linking cannabis use with psychosis. Instead, it is shown that THC may speed up the onset of it in people with a family history of psychosis. People who have a predisposition to developing psychosis are at risk of onsetting its symptoms from other stimulating substances as well.

What’s more, a 2019 study argued that the association between THC and psychosis goes both ways. THC may worsen or speed up the onset of psychotic symptoms, but at the same time, people who suffer from psychosis are more likely to use marijuana to ease their symptoms.

5. The THC high only lasts for a few hours

While the common knowledge may indicate that a THC high mainly lasts for a few hours, studies have shown that cannabis effects last for a minimum of 24 hours.

One particular study conducted in 1985 tested airline pilots on flight simulators at various intervals after they smoked a joint containing 19 mg of THC. The experiment shows that even 24 hours later their performance showed signs of impairment - even though the pilots were not aware of their impairment.

Simply put, THC has many potential medicinal benefits, it won’t kill you, it won’t turn you into an addict, or get you into harder drugs.

Now that we got that out of the way, it’s important to remember that ultimately THC is a mind-altering substance. While it may have many potential health benefits, it is very important that you use it responsibly, and only if it is legal in your area.

Listen to your body after you smoke and don’t be afraid to reach out to a doctor in case you happen to experience any side effects. Also, ensure that you only purchase THC products from reputable sources so you can trust the ingredients and quality.

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.css-1hnz6hu{position:static;}.css-1hnz6hu::before{content:'';cursor:inherit;display:block;position:absolute;top:0px;left:0px;z-index:0;width:100%;height:100%;}Exploring the Wonders of Microdosing Cannabis

Exploring the Wonders of Microdosing Cannabis