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Welcome to homework assignment 1.10 of the Core Cannabis Lite Track from Higher Learning LV. When you complete this assignment, simply click the link at the bottom of the article to return to the master page for this training track.
Welcome to Cannabinoid Clinic, an education project powered by Higher Learning LV. This series provides cannabis and hemp industry professionals with easily digested cannabinoid profiles that ask little of your time—but provide plenty of science-based information.
There are two categories of cannabinoids: Phytocannabinoids and endocannabinoids. Phytocannabinoids are those produced by cannabis/marijuana/hemp, while endocannabinoids are made by the human body. This series covers both.
Anandamide molecular structure
What is Anandamide?
Anandamide (also known as N-arachidonoylethanolamine or AEA) was first isolated and identified in 1992 by two independent research teams: The same Israeli researcher who isolated and synthesized delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in the mid-1960s, Raphael Mechoulam, and NIMH researchers William Devane and Lumir Hanus. Anandamide is one of two major endogenous (internally produced) cannabinoids that includes 2-AG.
"Anandamide is one of two major endogenous (internally produced) cannabinoids that includes 2-AG."
This endocannabinoid functions in a similar manner to THC. In fact, delta-9 THC mimics anandamide. It is theorized that those who may suffer deficient levels of anandamide due to an imbalance in or problems with their endocannabinoid system may gain benefit from supplementation with THC because it provides many of the same benefits as the anandamide made by our own bodies. When researchers refer to THC as a mimetic phytomolecule, it is because of this mechanism.
Anandamide Fast Facts
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