The Chemistry of Cannabis and Cannabinoids

The science of cannabis and cannabinoids encompasses a wide variety scientific disciplines can appear daunting to newcomers the field. encroachment folklore ‘cannabis culture’ into discussions cloud situation further. This Primer Review is designed give succinct overview chemistry cannabinoids. It hoped that it will provide useful resource for undergraduates, postgraduates their instructors, experienced chemists who require comprehensive up date summary begins with brief history botany cannabis, then goes on detail important aspects phytocannabinoids, endocannabinoids synthetic cannabinomimetics. Other natural constituents plant are described including terpenes terpenoids, polyphenolics, alkaloids, waxes triglycerides, toxic contaminants. A discussion key pharmacology associated endocannabinoid system follows, focus cannabinoid receptors, CB1 CB2. medicinal covered, highlighting range diseases targeted as well phytocannabinoid metabolism, distribution, delivery. modulation levels through inhibition endocannabinoid-degrading enzymes fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) discussed. concludes an assessment much touted ‘entourage effect’. References primary literature more specialised reviews provided throughout.