Yes, you heard that right! Cannabinoid-infused coffee carries a punch when it comes health and wellness. 

Cannabinoids, which are compounds present in cannabis and hemp plants, have been shown to possess a wide variety of notable health benefits. First, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive compound found in cannabis, and there is evidence that it has pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and anti-emetic properties.

Second, cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound present in cannabis. CBD is thought to possess a truckload of potential therapeutic benefits including pain relief, anti-inflammatory properties, anxiety reduction, and potential anti-tumor properties. 

Third, there’s cannabinol (CBN) which is a mildly psychoactive compound that is formulated when THC is exposed to air or light. CBN is believed to possess potential sedative properties. This may make it a useful remedy for those who struggle with insomnia or other sleep disorders.

 Four, cannabichromene (CBC) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, which possesses anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects and even potential anti-tumor properties. Fifth, tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is a minor cannabinoid, which is thought to possess potential appetite-suppressing and anti-psychotic properties.  

Lastly, cannabigerol (CBG) is a non-psychoactive compound that is believed to possess potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Not to mention its potential neuroprotective properties.

How do these cannabinoids work in the body?

Cannabinoids carry out their effects in the body through their diverse interactions with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). For those who might be in the dark, the ECS is a complex signaling system that plays a key role in regulating numerous physiological processes in the human body. Among many others, this includes pain, inflammation, mood, sleep, and appetite. 

The ECS comprises 3 key components; endocannabinoids (like anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol), cannabinoid receptors (mainly CB-1 and CB-2 receptors), and enzymes that synthesize and degrade endocannabinoids.

 In the case of THC, it works by binding itself to CB-1 receptors, chiefly present in the brain and the central nervous system. This interaction has been shown to trigger the release of neurotransmitters including dopamine and serotonin, which results in feelings of euphoria and relaxation. Research also suggests that THC may block the release of specific neurotransmitters including glutamate. This is thought to contribute to this cannabinoid’s analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. 

On the other hand, CBD doesn’t bind itself directly to CB-1 or CB-2 receptors. Rather, it is believed to modulate their activity by interacting with other receptors and enzymes. For instance, there is evidence that this cannabinoid can inhibit the enzyme that breaks down anandamide, which increases levels of this endocannabinoid in the body.

 Anandamide is also thought to possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. So any increase in its levels in the body has been shown to contribute to CBD’s therapeutic properties. Lastly, this cannabinoid may interact with serotonin receptors, which contributes to its anxiolytic and anti-depressant properties. 

CBN, a breakdown product of THC, has been shown to exert its effects on the ECS primarily through binding itself to CB-1 receptors. It is also believed to possess sedative effects, which have been shown to be brought about through its interactions with the CB-1 receptors in the brain.

 Conversely, CBC doesn’t bind itself to CB-1 or CB-2 receptors. Rather, it is believed to modulate their activity indirectly. There is evidence that CBC can block the uptake of anandamide, which contributes to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. CBC is also thought to interact with other receptors including the TRPV-1 receptors that play a role in pain perception.

 On the other hand, THCV is a partial agonist of CB-1 receptors and an antagonist of CB-2 receptors. In other words, it works by modulating the activity of these ECS receptors in various ways, depending on the dosage consumed. At lower doses, THCV acts as an antagonist of CB-2 receptors, contributing to its potential appetite-suppressing properties. At higher doses, it acts as a partial agonist of CB-1 receptors, contributing to its potential antipsychotic properties. 

CBG, on its part, doesn’t bind itself to the CB-1 or CB-2 receptors, though it is believed to modulate their activity indirectly. Research suggests that this cannabinoid can block the uptake of anandamide, contributing to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Also, CBG is thought to interact with other receptors like the alpha-2-adrenergic receptor that is linked to its neuroprotective properties.

 It’s important to note that the various interactions between these compounds and the ECS are complex and not completely understood. Therefore, more studies definitely need to be conducted to fully elucidate the different mechanisms through which they act on the body. Additionally, the effects of these cannabinoids tend to vary depending on factors such as dosage, the route of administration, and individual differences in genetics and physiology.

Are these cannabinoids safe to consume and what are the potential side effects of consuming them?

The safety of consuming cannabinoids tends to vary depending on a number of factors including the dose, the frequency of use, the individual’s overall health status, and the mode of consumption. Here are some potential side effects of the different cannabinoids discussed in this article.

THC

THC can produce feelings of euphoria and relaxation. However, it may also produce anxiety, paranoia along with other psychological problems in some people. It may as well impair cognitive function and motor skills. This means it might not be safe to consume THC before driving or operating heavy machinery. Regular consumption of this cannabinoid might also cause dry mouth, red eyes, and increased heart rate. Also, regular use of THC may result in the development of tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. 

CBD

CBD is generally believed to be safe and has only a few known side effects. Nevertheless, some people might experience fatigue, diarrhea, or changes in appetite and weight when they regularly consume this cannabinoid. CBD might as well interact adversely with other medications. So it is essential to consult your healthcare provider before you begin to use it, particularly if you’ve got a medical condition or are on medication.

CBN

CBN is generally thought to be safe. However, research on its potential side effects is still ongoing. 

CBC

CBC  is believed to be safe and has few known side effects. Yet, there is still very limited research on its potential side effects.

THCV

THCV is generally believed to be safe, but studies on its potential side effects are ongoing.

CBG

CBG, like many other cannabinoids, is generally thought to be safe and it has few known side effects. Still, there is limited research on its potential side effects with regular consumption.

How effective is cannabinoid-infused coffee in helping users access these health benefits?

It’s noteworthy to state that there is still limited research on the effectiveness of cannabinoid-infused coffee to fully understand the potential benefits and shortcomings of this mode of ingesting cannabinoids. However, some early studies have shown that adding cannabinoids to coffee to make cannabis coffee can enhance the overall health benefits of both substances.

 For instance, a study published in the Journal of Internal Medicine suggests that coffee consumption is linked with a reduced risk of developing liver disease and this effect was even greater for those who also use cannabis. 

Yet another research published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics indicates that combining caffeine with THC produces a greater analgesic effect than either compound alone. Still, it’s important to mention that the effectiveness of cannabinoid-infused coffee depends on factors like the quality and potency of the coffee and the cannabinoids being utilized. Also, individual factors including metabolism and tolerance play a key role in the uptake of these compounds in the body.

Conclusion

Cannabinoids have been shown to deliver a variety of health benefits including pain relief, anxiety reduction, and anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds interact with the endocannabinoid system, which has been shown to play a significant role in the regulation of diverse physiological processes.

 One potential means of accessing these and more health benefits of CBD-infused coffee and other cannabinoids is drinking it regularly. While more research is necessary to fully comprehend the potential benefits and shortcomings of this method, early studies suggest that combining cannabinoids and coffee can indeed enhance the overall health benefits of both substances. 

If you’re interested in trying out cannabinoid-infused coffee, we highly recommend checking out Ott Coffee’s products. We use only the finest coffee beans and top-shelf cannabinoids that are independently tested for purity and potency. Plus, with our easy-to-use online ordering system, you can have delicious and high-quality CBD coffee along with other cannabinoid-infused coffee blends delivered straight to your door. So why not give Ott Coffee’s products a try today and start experiencing the potential health benefits for yourself?