What are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant. These chemical substances interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), influencing mood, memory, appetite, pain, and more.

There are over 100 known cannabinoids, each with unique effects. The most well-known ones include THC, the main psychoactive compound, and CBD, which is non-psychoactive but therapeutic. These compounds can be found in different concentrations depending on the cannabis strain and how it’s processed.

Cannabinoids are classified as either endocannabinoids (produced by the body), phytocannabinoids (from plants like cannabis), or synthetic cannabinoids (lab-made). While all three types can affect the ECS, phytocannabinoids are most commonly studied and used in wellness and medical applications.

Learn more in our guide on What Are Cannabinoids? Effects and Benefits.

How Cannabinoids Interact with the ECS

Cannabinoids interact with the body through the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids that help maintain balance across many physiological functions.

The ECS includes two primary receptors: CB1 and CB2. When cannabinoids bind to these receptors, they influence processes such as mood, pain response, appetite, and memory.

CB1 vs. CB2 Receptors and Their Role in Psychoactivity

CB1 receptors are mainly located in the brain and central nervous system. When psychoactive cannabinoids like THC bind to CB1 receptors, they trigger changes in perception, coordination, and mood—causing the "high" typically associated with cannabis.

Major Psychoactive Cannabinoids

Some cannabinoids can directly affect brain function and alter mood, perception, or consciousness. These are known as psychoactive cannabinoids. Here are the most prominent ones:

Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

THC (Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It binds directly to CB1 receptors in the brain, producing the classic “high” that includes euphoria, altered senses, and relaxation.

THC is also responsible for many of cannabis’s therapeutic effects, including pain relief, appetite stimulation, and sleep support. However, high doses may lead to anxiety or impaired cognition in some users.

Because of its strong psychoactive properties, THC is highly regulated in most countries and often defines whether a cannabis product is legally considered marijuana or hemp.

Δ8-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8 THC)

Delta-8 THC is a close chemical cousin of Delta-9 THC but is considered milder in its psychoactive effects. It also binds to CB1 receptors but with less intensity, making it less likely to cause anxiety or paranoia.

Users often describe Delta-8 as producing a smoother, more clear-headed high. It's commonly sourced from hemp and has become popular in markets where Delta-9 THC remains restricted.

While legal in some regions under hemp laws, Delta-8 THC's legal status continues to evolve due to its psychoactive nature and synthetic production methods.

Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)

THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) is a unique cannabinoid with dose-dependent effects. At low doses, it acts more like CBD—non-psychoactive and therapeutic. However, at higher doses, THCV can become psychoactive by partially activating CB1 receptors.

Unlike THC, THCV’s psychoactivity is often shorter in duration and may produce stimulating rather than sedating effects. Some users report feeling energized, focused, or even appetite-suppressed.

CB2 receptors are mostly found in the immune system and peripheral tissues. While CB2 interactions help regulate inflammation and immune response, they do not produce psychoactive effects.

In summary, psychoactivity in cannabinoids primarily depends on how strongly they bind to CB1 receptors, especially in the brain. This receptor-specific activity explains why some cannabinoids alter consciousness while others do not.

Mildly Psychoactive or Psychoactive Under Certain Conditions

Some cannabinoids are not strongly psychoactive but may still influence mood, cognition, or perception under specific conditions. These effects are typically subtle and may depend on dosage, individual sensitivity, or interaction with other cannabinoids.

Cannabinol (CBN)

Cannabinol (CBN) is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that forms when THC ages or is exposed to heat and oxygen. While far less potent than THC, CBN may cause light sedation or relaxation in higher doses.

CBN has gained attention for its potential sleep-promoting properties. Although not intoxicating in the same way as THC, it can still mildly alter consciousness, especially when combined with other cannabinoids.

Its psychoactivity is most noticeable in sensitive users or when consumed in concentrated forms, such as tinctures or isolates.

Cannabichromene (CBC)

Cannabichromene (CBC) is considered non-intoxicating, but it may still affect brain function in more subtle ways. While it does not bind strongly to CB1 receptors, CBC interacts with other receptors like TRPV1 and 5-HT1A, which influence mood and pain perception.

Some studies suggest that CBC could enhance the effects of other cannabinoids through the entourage effect, potentially contributing to a mild shift in mental state when used alongside THC.

CBC is promising for its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefits, though more research is needed to confirm its role in psychoactivity.

Cannabidiol (CBD) – Debunking the Myth

CBD (Cannabidiol) is often mislabeled as psychoactive because it affects the brain—but it is not intoxicating and does not produce a “high.” Instead, CBD works by indirectly interacting with the ECS and modulating the effects of THC and other brain receptors.

CBD may reduce anxiety, improve mood, or promote relaxation, but these effects are non-psychoactive by definition. It can even counteract the psychoactivity of THC when taken together.

This distinction is crucial for medical users seeking therapeutic benefits without cognitive impairment or euphoria.

Non-Psychoactive Cannabinoids

Non-psychoactive cannabinoids do not produce a high or intoxication. These compounds interact with the body in beneficial ways without altering perception or mental clarity. They are ideal for users seeking therapeutic effects without cognitive impairment.

Cannabidiol (CBD)

CBD (Cannabidiol) is the most widely known non-psychoactive cannabinoid. It interacts indirectly with cannabinoid receptors and influences other systems such as serotonin and vanilloid receptors.

CBD does not bind to CB1 receptors in the brain, which is why it doesn’t cause a high. Instead, it’s valued for reducing inflammation, anxiety, and seizures. It’s also widely used to counteract the effects of THC.

Due to its strong safety profile and broad therapeutic potential, CBD has become a cornerstone of medical cannabis and wellness products worldwide.

Cannabigerol (CBG)

CBG (Cannabigerol) is another non-psychoactive cannabinoid, often referred to as the “mother cannabinoid” because it’s the precursor to THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids during plant development.

CBG interacts with both CB1 and CB2 receptors but does so without triggering intoxication. Early research suggests it may help with inflammatory conditions, glaucoma, and even neurodegenerative diseases.

CBG is rare in most cannabis strains, but its popularity is rising as breeders develop CBG-rich varieties for therapeutic use.

Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDA), Cannabigerolic Acid (CBGA), and Others

CBDA and CBGA are the raw, acidic forms of CBD and CBG, found in live or unheated cannabis. These cannabinoids do not cause any psychoactive effects and must be decarboxylated (heated) to convert into their active counterparts.

Though less studied, these acidic cannabinoids may offer unique benefits. For example, CBDA has shown potential in reducing nausea and inflammation, while CBGA is being explored for metabolic and cardiovascular support.

Factors Affecting Psychoactivity

The psychoactive effects of cannabinoids can vary widely from person to person. Several key factors influence how intensely a cannabinoid affects the mind and body. Understanding these can help users make informed decisions and manage their experience responsibly.

Dosage

Higher doses increase the likelihood of psychoactive effects. Even non-intoxicating cannabinoids like THCV or CBN may cause mild psychoactivity at elevated levels.

Small doses of THC might feel energizing, while larger amounts can lead to sedation or anxiety. Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it helps minimize unwanted effects, especially for beginners.

Individual Biology

Everyone’s endocannabinoid system is different. Factors such as genetics, tolerance, body weight, and metabolism all influence how cannabinoids are processed.

Some people are naturally more sensitive to THC, experiencing stronger effects even at low doses. Others may require higher amounts to feel any psychoactivity at all.

Biological sex, hormone levels, and age can also impact response to cannabinoids, particularly in medical use.

Method of Consumption

How you consume cannabinoids affects both onset and intensity. Inhalation (smoking or vaping) produces effects within minutes and often feels stronger due to rapid absorption into the bloodstream.

Edibles and capsules take longer to kick in—typically 30 to 90 minutes—but the effects can be more intense and last longer. Tinctures and topicals offer more localized or controlled results.

Understanding the method of delivery helps users predict and manage their experience more effectively.

Presence of Other Cannabinoids (The Entourage Effect)

Cannabinoids can enhance or reduce each other’s effects when used together. This phenomenon, known as the entourage effect, plays a major role in psychoactivity.

For example, CBD can reduce THC’s psychoactive intensity by blocking CB1 receptor activity. Meanwhile, other cannabinoids like CBN or terpenes like myrcene may enhance sedation or euphoria.

Products containing a full spectrum of cannabinoids often produce a more balanced and manageable experience than isolates or pure THC extracts.

Conclusion

Not all cannabinoids are psychoactive, but those that are—THC, Delta-8 THC, and THCV (at higher doses)—can significantly influence mood and perception by interacting with CB1 receptors in the brain. Cannabinoids like CBN and CBC may cause mild psychoactivity under certain conditions, while CBD, CBG, and acidic precursors (CBDA, CBGA) are non-intoxicating but still offer therapeutic benefits. Dosage, individual biology, and the entourage effect all play crucial roles in how cannabinoids affect the body.