Cannabis sativa is the hemp plant from which marijuana and cannabinoids (leaves, stems, seeds) are derived. The most potent form of this plant's extracts is hash oil, a liquid. The dried resins are referred to as ‘hashish.’ The dried flowering tops and leaves are smoked as a cigarette, known as a ‘joint’ or a ‘reefer.’ This plant has been used for several thousands of years both recreationally and medicinally. Cannabinoids are a structurally diverse family of compounds with a large number of biological targets. Based on their origins, cannabinoids can be classified into three groups: phytocannabinoids, endocannabinoids, and synthetic cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are aryl-substituted meroterpenes unique to the plant genus Cannabis. The pharmacology of most of the cannabinoids is largely unknown, but the most potent psychoactive agent, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC, or THC) (CAS 8063-14-7), has been isolated, synthesized, and much studied. Δ9-THC and some synthetic analogs are used therapeutically. More than 400 active compounds have been isolated from the C. sativa plant. Sixty active compounds are unique to the plant and are collectively known as cannabinoids. Δ9-THC is the most psychoactive cannabinoid, producing euphoria, relaxation, intensification of ordinary sensory experiences, perceptual alterations, diminished pain
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| Cannabis sativa L. |
