By William Brown, Certified Cannabis Educator

Greetings All,

In this post, I'll supply a bit of background on a few compounds in Cannabis called cannabinoids and terpenes. This background will lay the foundation for supplying a better understanding of how these compounds can potentially benefit lung health, based on the available research.

With that being said, research surrounding cannabinoids and terpenes has raised a lot of questions about how they can benefit lung health. Cannabinoids are compounds found in the Cannabis plant that interact with the human endocannabinoid system to produce a variety of effects. Terpenes are some of the compounds responsible for the unique aromas of the Cannabis plant, and they, too, have been linked to potential lung health benefits.

Let's take a look at some of that potential.....

The Endocannabinoid System

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a vital system in the body responsible for regulating many of our bodily functions, including respiratory health, lung health and homeostasis. The ECS is composed of two cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are found mainly in the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system, while CB2 receptors are primarily located in the immune system (1).

The primary cannabinoids that activate these receptors are CBD and THC. CBD binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors, but with a much lower affinity than THC, which has an affinity only to the CB1 receptor. This means that CBD will only interact weakly with the CB1 receptor, while THC binds strongly to this receptor. Utilizing THC and CBD together add to the greater overall effect.

When it comes to respiratory health, smoking and vaping, the good folks at medicaljane.com show that cannabinoids like CBD and THC may play a role in mitigating or alleviating some of the negative effects of smoking on the lungs (2).

CB Receptors

CB receptors are proteins that are located on the surfaces of cells in the body. They are part of the endocannabinoid system, which helps to regulate various physiological functions, including mood, memory, appetite, pain perception, and inflammation. CB receptors interact with cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) to produce their effects. CB1 and CB2 are the two types of CB receptors. CB1 receptors are mainly found in the brain and nervous system, while CB2 receptors are found in the immune system.

When THC binds to CB1 receptors, it produces its intoxicating effects, while CBD interacts with both CB1 and CB2 receptors, but it does not have intoxicating properties. Instead, CBD is thought to act as an anti-inflammatory agent by interacting with CB2 receptors and decreasing inflammation. Research also suggests that CBD may help to reduce pain by interacting with CB1 receptors (3) in the brain.

Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are the primary active compounds found in Cannabis and have been studied extensively for their potential therapeutic benefits.

Cannabinoids (4) can be divided into three major groups:

• Endocannabinoids - produced in mammals
• Phytocannabinoids - produced naturally in the Cannabis plant.
• Synthetic cannabinoids - created in a laboratory setting.

The most well-known phytocannabinoid is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for producing the psychotropic or intoxicating effect that is associated with Cannabis use. THC is psychoactive and psychotropic.

The second most well known phytocannabinoid is cannabidiol (CBD). Unlike THC, CBD does not produce any intoxicating effects. CBD is psychoactive not psychotropic. CBD has been found to have numerous potential therapeutic applications. In particular, research has shown that both THC and CBD may be beneficial for respiratory health, as they have been found to reduce inflammation (5) and support immune function.

When it comes to lung health, cannabinoids may play a role in reducing the damage caused by smoking and vaping. An article titled "Natural Phenolic Compounds for Health, Food and Cosmetic Applications" in the journal for Antioxidants (6) shows that cannabinoids like CBD can help reduce inflammation and improve respiratory function, making them potentially beneficial for those suffering from respiratory conditions.

A study from the Society for the Study of Addiction suggests that cannabinoids may also play a role in reducing cravings associated with smoking cessation, making them a potential treatment (7) option for those trying to quit.

Additionally, cannabinoids have been found to act as anti-inflammatory agents, which may help soothe irritation in the airways. Moreover, there is evidence presented by Fitoterapia (a peer reviewed medical journal) that suggests cannabinoids may even act as antioxidants (8), helping protect against cellular damage caused by tobacco smoke or environmental pollutants. Another cannabinoid that has gained attention lately is THCa. THCa stands for tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, and unlike THC, it does not cause any intoxicating (psychotropic) effects. THCa has been linked to various medicinal properties (9) including anti-inflammatory and pain relief effects.

THC

THC is the one component found in Cannabis that is known for its psychotropic (intoxicating) effects. While many people associate THC with a ‘high’, it can also be beneficial for respiratory health. Studies have shown that THC can help reduce inflammation and act as an antioxidant which helps support the repair of the negative effects of smoking, vaping and other activities that can cause lung damage. By stimulating the CB2 receptors (10) located throughout the body. THC can help improve respiratory health and provide relief from respiratory issues like bronchitis, asthma and more. It’s important to note that THC has been found to possess anti-tumoral qualities as well, which may aid in the prevention of lung cancer.

CBD

CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the most widely studied cannabinoids and has been linked to various benefits in respiratory health, especially when it comes to smoking and vaping. It is known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and has been studied for its potential role in lung health.

CBD works by interacting with our endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is responsible for homeostasis in the body. This means that it helps maintain balance in the body, and has been linked to various positive effects on respiratory health.

Studies have suggested that CBD can be beneficial for smoking and vaping cessation, as it may reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It has also been linked to improved lung function and reduced inflammation. In fact, one study showed that CBD oil significantly decreased inflammation in the lungs after exposure to cigarette smoke.

All in all, CBD is a promising compound for respiratory health, especially when it comes to smoking and vaping cessation. However, more research needs to be done in order to understand its full potential.

CBG

CBG (11) or cannabigerol, is a lesser-known cannabinoid that is gaining attention for its potential to benefit respiratory health, and a plethora of other health related issues. It does this through interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating homeostasis in the body. In particular, CBG binds to CB receptors located throughout the body and can inhibit the release of certain neurotransmitters that have been linked to smoking-induced inflammation.

While more research is needed to determine the exact impact of CBG on lung health, it has been suggested that it could potentially be used to reduce symptoms associated with smoking or vaping.

Last but not least….

Terpenes

In addition to cannabinoids, the Cannabis plants contain hundreds of other natural compounds called terpenes. One of the most commonly studied terpenes is beta-caryophyllene (BCP), which is thought to contribute to the anti-inflammatory effect of Cannabis. Interestingly, BCP binds directly to cannabinoid receptors located throughout the body, suggesting that it may interact synergistically with phytocannabinoids.

Terpenes (12) are essential oils that give Cannabis its distinctive smell and flavor. They are also responsible for the various effects Cannabis can have on our bodies, including those related to lung health. Terpenes are thought to act synergistically with cannabinoids to produce the entourage effect, which is a combination of effects produced by Cannabis compounds working together.

When it comes to lung health, terpenes may have a direct impact on respiratory health and smoking/vaping habits. This could be beneficial to people who smoke or vape Cannabis (13). Some studies have also suggested that certain terpenes, such as caryophyllene, may be useful for treating symptoms associated with Covid-19 (14) (15). Additionally, we find some info supplied by Treadwell Farms that show how certain terpenes (16) like limonene may help fight bacterial infections in the lungs, providing relief from respiratory conditions like bronchitis and pneumonia.

By understanding the science behind terpenes and how they interact with the body, we can better understand the potential benefits of Cannabis when it comes to lung health. So the next time you think about smoking or vaping Cannabis, consider what terpenes might be present in your Cannabis and how they could benefit your respiratory system. For example, if you're suffering from asthma, linalool, pinene and humulene could be a great choice due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Limonene, meanwhile, might be helpful in fighting off bacterial infections. All of these terpenes work together to provide different types of relief and could be extremely helpful in promoting healthy lung function.

Terpenes found in Cannabis can also be helpful for providing expectorants, bronchodilators, and anti-inflammatories. Many terpenes are also anti-septic, anti-bacterial, and/or anti-fungal, making them especially helpful for treating allergies, infections, and asthma (17). When used correctly, terpenes may help reduce inflammation, reduce mucus production, and provide relief from asthma and other respiratory illnesses.

Final Thoughts

No matter what type of condition you're dealing with, it's important to do your homework and understand the potential risks and rewards before consuming any form of Cannabis.

The potential benefits and facts listed above are just the tip of the iceberg. The current rate of research is moving at a speed we have never known. As such, hopefully the scientific community will be able to show, even further, that Cannabis is truly medicine, and that the untapped potential of all its constituents hold therapeutics that shall benefit humanity to a level only dreamed of...

The future looks bright indeed.

Reference List

1. Grinspoon, Peter, MD, “The Endocannabinoid System: Essential and Mysterious” The Harvard Medical School Blog, August, 11, 2021, https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-endocannabinoid-system-essential-and-mysterious-202108112569

2. Dorm, Drake, “Cannabidiol (CBD) May Prevent Cancer From Cigarette Smoke”, No publish date, https://www.medicaljane.com/2013/08/20/cannabidiol-cbd-may-prevent-cancer-from-cigarette-smoke/

3. An, Dongchen, et al. “Targeting Cannabinoid Receptors: Current Status and Prospects of Natural Products.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol. 21, no. 14, July 2020, p. 5064. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21145064.

4. Milton, Sharon, “What are Cannabinoids: Their Benefits, Side Effects, & More, Discover Magazine, 9 Dec. 2022, https://www.discovermagazine.com/lifestyle/what-are-cannabinoids-their-benefits-side-effects-and-more

5. Prakash Nagarkatti, Rupal Pandey, Sadiye Amcaoglu Rieder, Venkatesh L Hegde, and Mitzi Nagarkatti “Cannabinoids as novel anti-inflammatory drugs”
Future Medicinal Chemistry 2009 1:7, 1333-1349 https://doi.org/10.4155/fmc.09.93

6. Panzella, Lucia. “Natural Phenolic Compounds for Health, Food and Cosmetic Applications.” Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 9,5 427. 15 May. 2020, doi:10.3390/antiox9050427

7. Hindocha, C., Freeman, T. P., Grabski, M., Stroud, J. B., Crudgington, H., Davies, A. C., Das, R. K., Lawn, W., Morgan, C. J. A., and Curran, H. V. (2018) Cannabidiol reverses attentional bias to cigarette cues in a human experimental model of tobacco withdrawal. Addiction, 113: 1696– 1705. https://doi.org/10.1111/add.14243.

8. Andrzej L. Dawidowicz, Małgorzata Olszowy-Tomczyk, Rafał Typek,
CBG, CBD, Δ9-THC, CBN, CBGA, CBDA and Δ9-THCA as antioxidant agents and their intervention abilities in antioxidant action, Fitoterapia, Volume 152, 2021, 104915, ISSN 367-326X,https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fitote.2021.104915.

9. Rise Cannabis, “THC vs THCa: What is Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid”, “Accessed” 31 Jan. 2023, www.risecannabis.com/cannabis-101/thc-vs-thca.

10. Mackie, K. (2008), Cannabinoid Receptors: Where They are and What They do. Journal of Neuroendocrinology, 20: 10-14. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2826.2008.01671.x

11. Ohwovoriole, Toketemu, Medically reviewed by, Gans, Steven, MD, “What Is Cannabigerol (CBG)”, Very Well Mind, Updated on November 08, 2022, https://www.verywellmind.com/cannabigerol-cbg-uses-and-benefits-5085266#toc-how-cbg-works

12. Kim, Taejoon, et al. “Therapeutic Potential of Volatile Terpenes and Terpenoids from Forests for Inflammatory Diseases.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol. 21, no. 6, Mar. 2020, p. 2187. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21062187

13. Atalay, Sinemyiz, et al. “Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol.” Antioxidants, vol. 9, no. 1, Dec. 2019, p. 21. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox9010021.

14. AUTHOR=Paland Nicole, Pechkovsky Antonina, Aswad Miran, Hamza Haya, Popov Tania, Shahar Eduardo, Louria-Hayon Igal, TITLE=The Immunopathology of COVID-19 and the Cannabis Paradigm, JOURNAL=Frontiers in Immunology, VOLUME=12 YEAR=2021, URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2021.631233 DOI=10.3389/fimmu.2021.631233, ISSN=1664-3224

15. AUTHOR=Jha Niraj Kumar, Sharma Charu, Hashiesh Hebaallah Mamdouh, Arunachalam Seenipandi, Meeran MF Nagoor, Javed Hayate, Patil Chandragouda R., Goyal Sameer N., Ojha Shreesh, TITLE=β-Caryophyllene, A Natural Dietary CB2 Receptor Selective Cannabinoid can be a Candidate to Target the Trinity of Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation in COVID-19, JOURNAL=Frontiers in Pharmacology VOLUME=12 YEAR=2021, URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.590201, DOI=10.3389/fphar.2021.590201. ISSN=1663-9812

16. Tread Well Farms, “How Specific Terpenes Work on Pain, Inflammation, Anxiety and More”, “Accessed” 31 Jan. 2023, www.treadwellfarms.com//blogs/cbd-education/how-specific-terpenes-work-on-pain-inflammation-anxiety

17. Organtica, “Terpenes to the Rescue for Allergies”, “Accessed” 31 Jan. 2023”, www.organtica.com/cannabis-terpenes-for-allergies/#:~:text=Some%20of%20the%20most%20common,only%20a%20one%20or%20two

About William Brown:

William owns and operates WbC Therapeutics, a company based on the therapeutic application of Cannabis as medicine. He is also a patient and authorized caregiver in his state. William is a certified Cannabis coach and has certifications from numerous respected Cannabis education institutions.

Contact William at the WbC Therapeutics through the e-mail link below to learn more about his services.

Effective Cannabis Newsletter is a platform to educate on the vital role of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in one's health. The information is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in or available through this newsletter is for general information purposes only. It is not medical advice; it is health awareness.