THC-O and Cannabinoid Receptors

What is the Endocannabinoid System?

The Endocannabinoid System, also known as the ECS was identified by researchers in the early 1990s. The ECS is a complex cell-signaling system that experts are still trying to fully understand. The ECS is made up of three components; endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes. These components play a role in regulating a wide range of functions like sleep, mood, appetite, memory, reproduction, and fertility. 

Endocannabinoids are very similar to cannabinoids, but they are produced naturally by your body. They are only produced when your body acquires them, signaled by the endocannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are found in the central nervous system and CB2 receptors are found in the peripheral nervous system. 

Endocannabinoids have the power to bind to either receptor, but will only do so if the body signals it to act. For example, if you are experiencing inflammation, your body will alert the endocannabinoids to bind to the CB2 receptor.

How THC-O Interacts with the Endocannabinoid System

The main goal of the endocannabinoid system is “homeostasis”. Homeostasis is the self-regulating process in which the body maintains stability by adjusting to fluctuating external conditions. According to research, homeostasis is the primary role of the endocannabinoid system.

When THC-O is consumed, it quickly overloads the endocannabinoid system by attaching to the cannabinoid receptors throughout the brain and body, resulting in a wide-range of effects.

The most common effect that THC-O has on the body is its interaction with the Nucleus Accumbens (the part of the brain that regulates motivation and reward), evoking reported feelings of euphoria and mental relaxation.

THC-O has numerous benefits including the support of appetite stimulation, reduction of pain as a result of inflammation, and the relief from symptoms caused by stress and anxiety. The support of appetite stimulation may be linked to the interaction between THC-O and the hypothalamus. 

The hypothalamus is a receptor, located in the brain, responsible for controlling the inclination to eat. Reported effects of physical pain reduction could be linked to the interaction between THC-O and receptors in the central nervous system, located within the spinal cord. This area is known for regulating the information between the brain and body. 

THC-O is increasing in popularity due in part to its high rate of bioavailability, which refers to the degree in which the body is able to absorb a certain material. THC-O is thought to have a high rate of bioavailability because its functional group is removed after absorption, causing it to be considered a “prodrug”. The term “prodrug” simply refers to a material that doesn’t become active until its metabolized by the liver. 

How THC-O Interacts with the Brain

THC-O is reported to have some type of effect on brain communication, due to its similar structure to the brain chemical called anandamide. The chemical anandamide affects brain areas that influence concentration, memory, pleasure, movement, and time perception.

It is important to note that in addition to all of the benefits THC-O has to offer, there are some potentially adverse properties. THC-O is known to slow down reaction time, due to its interaction with the Basal Ganglia, which regulates the brain’s signal to the body to initiate movement.

Because of this, activities like driving or operating machinery should not be attempted while or after using delta 8 carts.

If you are interested in THC-O, go for a product that is made from USA Grown hemp and uses only natural terpenes as flavor additives. As always, be sure to do your research and make wise decisions when it comes to any alternative THC products.