As we hear more and more about CBD, we might start to hear more and more terms that we’re not familiar with. Because CBD is technically a chemical compound (though, a naturally occurring one) there is some science behind what it is and how it works. And, science can get a bit tricky. At IHSUPPS, we like to make things as easy to understand as possible. Today, we’re going to break down a term that might seem complex, but is actually pretty straight forward: phytocannabinoid. 

First…

What is a Cannabinoid?

A cannabinoid is part of a class of diverse chemical compounds that acts on cannabinoid receptors, which are part of the endocannabinoid system. Our bodies naturally produce endogenous cannabinoids. But there are also cannabinoids that our bodies don’t produce. 

What Is a Phytocannabinoid?

A phytocannabinoid is just a cannabinoid that is produced by a plant rather than by our bodies. CBD is a phytocannabinoid produced by the cannabis plant. 

Still with us? Good. 

How They Work

Our bodies produce endogenous cannabinoids, naturally. Phytocannabinoids are produced by plants. That’s it. That’s the difference. 

There are hundreds of different Phytocannabinoids, one of which is CBD, or cannabidiol. 

Right now, CBD and THC are the most well-known phytocannabinoids but, because of the way these interact with our bodies and support our endocannabinoid system, in the future, these will be just a few of the major players. 

Phytocannibinoids are so good for us because they are able to interact with and support our own endogenous cannabinoids. Their compounds and behaviors mimic our own endocannabinoids and have been shown to actually prevent the breakdown of these naturally occurring compounds. 

Because our endocannabinoid system is so important to our body, this can make a huge difference in how we feel. 

CBD VS THC

We’ve talked about this before, but it’s never a bad thing to review:

CBD is found in most strains of hemp, which is a strain of the cannabis plant. CBD has been shown to help with a number of conditions and ailments from chronic pain and depression to anxiety. 

THC is a psychoactive phytocannabinoid found on the marijuana plant. 

Since the legality of THC is still in question in many states, many companies choose to sell isolate forms of CBD. This means you are only getting the CBD compound. But, often, cannabinoids work best together…this is known as the “entourage effect.” When deciding what types of CBD to buy, some terms you want to watch out for are for are:

Isolate: Just CBD or one compound

Full-Spectrum: Contains a full array of naturally-occurring phytocannabinoids, including THC
Broad-Spectrum: Most of the phytocannabinoids, but no THC (this is what you can get from us!)

Now that you know what they are, take a look at what phytocannaninoids can do. They’ve been known to help treat:

• Addiction
• Insomnia
• Parkinson’s
• Hypertension
• Anxiety
• And more

We hope this post has helped clear up any questions you might have about phytocannabinoids. You can also learn more about CBD, and how it can help you feel better, on our blog and podcast.