Welcome back to our educational series at TheNewAmsterdam.com. In this post, we will discuss the differences between synthetic cannabinoids and natural cannabinoids, two substances that, while sharing a name, have very different properties and effects.
Natural Cannabinoids: These compounds occur naturally in the cannabis plant. The most well-known natural cannabinoids are Delta-9 THC and CBD. Natural cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, producing a range of effects from psychoactive (in the case of THC) to therapeutic (commonly associated with CBD).
Synthetic Cannabinoids: These are man-made chemicals that mimic the effects of natural cannabinoids. They bind to the same cannabinoid receptors in the brain but often with much higher potency, which can lead to severe health effects. Synthetic cannabinoids are often found in illegal products like ‘Spice’ or ‘K2’, and due to their unpredictable effects and the unknown chemicals they may contain, they pose significant risks.
It’s crucial to understand the following differences between synthetic and natural cannabinoids:
- Safety: Natural cannabinoids are generally considered safe and have been used therapeutically for a wide range of symptoms. Synthetic cannabinoids, however, have been linked to severe health problems, including heart issues, acute kidney injury, seizures, and even death.
- Effects: The effects of synthetic cannabinoids can be unpredictable and often more intense than those of natural cannabinoids. While natural THC can produce relaxation and euphoria, synthetic cannabinoids can cause extreme anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations.
At TheNewAmsterdam.com, we value the health and safety of our customers. We are committed to providing high-quality, natural cannabis products and staying up-to-date with the latest research in the cannabis industry. We always recommend natural cannabinoids for their proven safety profile and therapeutic benefits.