The cannabinoid compounds found in marijuana offer a variety of medical benefits. The effects are made possible by the interaction that occurs between the chemicals and neurotransmitter receptor sites.

A Look At Medical Marijuana

In the state of Oregon, patients may acquire a legal prescription for medical marijuana for the purpose of alleviating symptoms associated with many different medical conditions. The list of conditions or symptoms includes:

• Alzheimer’s

• Cancer

• Chronic muscle spasms

• Glaucoma

• HIV/AIDS

• Multiple Sclerosis

• Seizures

About Cannabinoids

After decades of research, scientists discovered that recreational marijuana affects the brain and body by binding with cannabinol receptors. Marijuana’s active ingredient, known as tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, attaches to CB1 receptors in the central nervous system and the CB2 receptors that are located throughout the body. However, the derivative cannabidiol or CBD does not bind with these receptors. The compounds suppress the fatty acid amide hydroxylase enzyme. In so doing, the chemical enables anandamide to remain in the body for an extended length of time. Anandamide is an endocannabinoid substance that is naturally produced by birds, fish, reptiles and mammals. The compound is a neurotransmitter that attaches to cannabinoid receptors and regulates many bodily functions ranging from appetite and memory to pain signals.

CBD and Neurotransmitting Receptor Sites

CBD reacts with numerous receptor sites that include the TRPV-1 receptors, which are responsible for regulating body temperature, inflammatory responses and pain reception. The compound also affects the 5-HT1A serotonin family of 5-HT receptors that are responsible for regulating mood, nausea, pain perception and sleep/wake cycles. CBD acts by inhibiting an excitatory response, which slows signals and reduces undesired symptoms. The compound also activates adenosine receptors that combine efforts with dopamine and glutamate to regulate cardiovascular function, cardiac oxygen consumption and vascular blood flow. Dopamine and glutamate trigger the reward center of the brain in addition to affecting attention, memory, mood, sleep, involuntary and voluntary muscle movement.

Cannabinoid Heavy Strains of Marijuana

Thanks to the research performed by scientists concerning Cannabidiols, growers have taken steps to breed plant strains that contain higher concentrations of the compound. Licensed medical marijuana dispensaries stay informed concerning the plant species that offer patients the most benefits. In Oregon, qualifying patients may fill their prescriptions at a local cannabis retailer Portland.