When we talk about what makes cannabis so effective—whether for relaxation, focus, or pain relief—we’re talking about cannabinoids. These are the chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce a range of effects.
But cannabinoids don’t just magically appear at their best once the plant is harvested. Like many elements in nature, they evolve, degrade, and change based on how the cannabis is handled post-harvest. That’s where cannabis curing comes in. Without proper curing, even the most carefully cultivated cannabis can lose its potency, aroma, and overall impact.
What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are a group of chemical compounds found in cannabis that interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the human body, a system responsible for regulating mood, pain, appetite, memory, and more.
There are over 100 identified cannabinoids in cannabis, each with unique properties and potential effects. While many consumers are familiar with THC and CBD, the cannabinoid spectrum is much broader.
Key Cannabinoids Found in Cannabis
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
- The most well-known and psychoactive cannabinoid.
- Binds with CB1 receptors in the brain to create the classic “high.”
- Effects: euphoria, increased appetite, altered perception, and relaxation.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
- A non-intoxicating cannabinoid known for its therapeutic properties.
- Interacts differently with ECS receptors and can counteract THC’s psychoactivity.
- Effects: anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, pain relief, seizure reduction.
CBG (Cannabigerol)
- Known as the “mother cannabinoid” because it's the precursor from which other cannabinoids form.
- Non-intoxicating, with early research showing potential for neuroprotection and inflammation reduction.
CBC (Cannabichromene)
- Another minor cannabinoid is gaining interest for its potential anti-inflammatory and anti-depressant effects.
THCV, CBN, and More
- THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) may suppress appetite and enhance energy.
- CBN (cannabinol) is formed as THC oxidizes and degrades, typically producing sedative effects.
Each cannabinoid offers a different experience and therapeutic profile depending on its concentration and interaction with terpenes and other plant compounds—a phenomenon known as the entourage effect.
How the Endocannabinoid System Works
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a network of receptors throughout the brain and body that regulate homeostasis. Cannabinoids bind to or influence these receptors, mainly:
- CB1 receptors (primarily in the brain and nervous system)
- CB2 receptors (mostly in the immune system)
Your body also produces its own endocannabinoids, like anandamide, which THC mimics. This explains why cannabinoids have such a direct effect on mood, memory, sleep, and pain.
What Happens to Cannabinoids During Cannabis Curing?
Cannabis curing doesn’t just preserve terpenes—it also plays a critical role in protecting cannabinoid potency and stability. After harvest, cannabis continues to metabolize and break down. Without proper curing, cannabinoids like THC can degrade into CBN, which produces less desirable effects.
Proper curing:
- Slows cannabinoid degradation
- Helps convert cannabinoid acids (like THCA) into active forms
- Maintains optimal potency over time
Essentially, curing locks in the cannabinoid profile created during cannabis cultivation, ensuring consumers experience the effects growers intended.
New to curing? Be sure to read What Is Cannabis Curing and Why Is It Important?
Why It Matters
Curing isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential for preserving the integrity of your flower. Whether you’re aiming for maximum therapeutic effect or the most enjoyable high, cannabinoids are what deliver. And curing is how you protect them.
Curious how moisture redistribution and relative humidity impact your cannabis quality? Check out our blog on The Importance of Moisture Redistribution and Relative Humidity During Cannabis Curing to learn how these factors influence proper curing and final product excellence.
