Medical cannabis works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) – a vast network of receptors and chemical signals that helps regulate many critical bodily functions (including pain sensation, mood, memory, appetite, immune response, and more)​. The cannabis plant contains cannabinoids (primarily THC and CBD) that can bind to these cannabinoid receptors in our brain and body.

The ECS has two main types of receptors: CB1 receptors, which are abundant in the brain and central nervous system, and CB2 receptors, found mostly in the immune system and peripheral tissues. Our bodies naturally produce “endocannabinoid” molecules (like anandamide) that bind to these receptors to maintain balance in various processes​ THC (Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, can bind to CB1 receptors in the brain, mimicking our endocannabinoids​. By activating CB1, THC can modulate neurotransmitters and reduce pain signals, ease nausea, stimulate appetite, and affect mood and perception. These effects explain why THC-rich cannabis may help symptoms like chronic pain or poor appetite – but THC is also what causes the cannabis “high” at the same time.

CBD (cannabidiol), another major cannabinoid, works a bit differently. CBD does not strongly bind CB1 receptors, so it does not make you feel high and tends to mitigate psychoactive effects​. Instead, CBD influences the ECS indirectly – for example, by boosting our natural endocannabinoids or binding other receptor types related to anxiety and inflammation. This is why CBD can confer medical benefits (such as reducing seizures or anxiety) without intoxication. In essence, medical cannabis leverages these cannabinoid interactions with the ECS to restore balance in the body. By carefully adjusting the THC/CBD content for each patient, doctors aim to maximize symptom relief (like pain reduction, muscle relaxation, or seizure control) while minimizing side effects.