Cannabinoids are a group of chemicals which activate the body's cannabinoid receptors. Before other types were discovered, the term referred to a unique group of secondary metabolites found in the cannabis plant, which are responsible for the plant's distinctive pharmacological effects. Researchers have discovered over 400 chemical constituents, more than 60 of which are unique to the cannabis plant. Currently, there are three general types of cannabinoids: herbal cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD) occur uniquely in the cannabis plant; endogenous cannabinoids are naturally produced in the bodies of humans and other animals; and synthetic cannabinoids are similar compounds produced in the laboratory.
Any of several dozen active substances in marijuana and other cannabis products” ( Levinthal, 141).
Chemicals that help control mental and physical processes when produced naturally by the body and that produce intoxication and other effects when absorbed from marijuana.
Endogenous receptors of the active cannabis molecules, particularly 9-THC. Two endogenous receptors have been identified: CB1 densely concentrated in the hippacampus, basal ganglia, cerebellum and cerebral cortex, and CB2, particularly abundant in the immune system. The central effects of cannabis appear to be related only to CB1.
The psychoactive chemical substances found in marijuana (Cannabis sativa). The presence of cannabinoids in urine or blood indicates recent marijuana use or close contact with it.
Cannabinoids are a group of terpenophenolic compounds present in Cannabis sativa L. The broader definition of cannabinoids refer to a group of substances that are structurally related to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or that bind to cannabinoid receptors. The chemical definition encompasses a variety of distinct chemical classes: the classical cannabinoids structurally related to THC, the nonclassical cannabinoids, the aminoalkylindoles, the eicosanoids related to the endocannabinoids, 1,5-diarylpyrazoles, quinolines and arylsulphonamides and additional compounds that do not fall into these standard classes but bind to cannabinoid receptors (Lambert, 2005).