Cannabinoids are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant. These compounds interact with the body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS), which regulates a variety of essential functions, including mood, pain, appetite, and immune response. There are over 100 known cannabinoids, with the most well-researched being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
In medical cannabis, cannabinoids play a critical role in providing therapeutic effects for patients with conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, epilepsy, and inflammation. Each cannabinoid interacts with the body in unique ways, offering a range of potential health benefits. Whether producing psychoactive effects (as in the case of THC) or promoting relaxation and pain relief (as seen with CBD), cannabinoids are central to the healing properties of cannabis.
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant. These compounds can interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) — a system of receptors, enzymes, and naturally produced endocannabinoids that helps maintain internal balance, or homeostasis.
Researchers have identified more than 100 cannabinoids, though the most widely studied are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
Phytocannabinoids: Cannabinoids that occur naturally in the cannabis plant.
Endocannabinoids: Compounds produced by the human body that activate ECS receptors.
Synthetic cannabinoids: Lab-created compounds designed to mimic natural cannabinoids, sometimes used in pharmaceutical research.
Cannabinoids can influence the ECS by binding to or modulating activity at two primary receptors:
CB1 receptors – Found mainly in the brain and central nervous system.
CB2 receptors – Found primarily in the immune system and peripheral organs.
THC and CBD interact differently with these receptors. THC binds more directly to CB1, producing psychoactive effects, while CBD influences ECS activity indirectly and does not produce intoxication.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The cannabinoid responsible for cannabis’s psychoactive effects.
CBD (Cannabidiol): Non-intoxicating and under study for a wide range of potential applications.
CBG (Cannabigerol): A lesser-known cannabinoid currently being researched.
CBN (Cannabinol): Found in smaller amounts; research is ongoing.
Scientific interest in cannabinoids is growing, and studies continue to explore how they may interact with the ECS. While THC and CBD are the most widely studied, researchers are also investigating the roles of other cannabinoids.
Homestead Health does not make medical claims about cannabinoids. Our role is to process cannabis into approved product forms under AMCC regulations and ensure those products are safe, consistent, and compliant.
As a licensed processor, Homestead Health only produces cannabis in forms permitted by the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission, which may include:
Tablets or capsules
Tinctures
Topical creams or gels
Transdermal patches
Suppositories
Metered-dose inhalers (oil-based)
Products such as smokable flower, vaping oils, and edibles (like gummies or baked goods) are not allowed in Alabama’s program.
Compliance: All products are manufactured within AMCC guidelines.
Safety: Each batch is tested by accredited third-party labs.
Consistency: Standardized methods ensure reliable results.
Transparency: We share clear, factual information without unverified claims.