How Does THC Work?

THC can cause euphoric and relaxing sensations — but why?

After eating THC edibles, you normally feel relaxed, content, and perhaps a little giggly. You may also have heightened senses and feel especially hungry. THC causes such effects by binding to the receptors of your endocannabinoid system (ECS).

What is THC?

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the intoxicating compound in cannabis, is the main active ingredient in the plant. Of the various kinds of THC, the most popular is Delta-9 THC. By binding to cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS), Delta-9 THC affects your mood, perception, and sensations.

THC is one of the most abundant cannabinoids in marijuana plants. But in hemp, it exists in only trace amounts. Hemp-derived THC is federally legal in products that, like our Delta-9 Gummies, contain no more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC.

What is the endocannabinoid system?

Found in all mammals, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a network of cellular receptors and chemical signals that helps to regulate an array of physiological functions, including pleasure, pain, appetite, mood, and memory.

Cannabinoid receptors are most abundant in the brain and central nervous system. The two known types are CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are primarily located in the brain, CB2 receptors are in the immune system.

Our bodies produce molecules called endocannabinoids that stimulate these receptors. The cannabinoids found in plants, like THC and CBD, also stimulate them. Cannabinoids like THC and CBD can improve your health and well-being precisely because the ECS plays such a vital role in regulating aspects of the human body.

THC and the ECS

THC can also influence pain, sleep, mood, and hunger. The speed at which THC binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the ECS depends on the method of ingestion. If you smoke flower or use a vape pen, the THC enters your bloodstream within minutes and exerts its effects almost immediately.

If you eat a THC gummy or other edible, the THC must first go through your digestive system before entering your bloodstream and binding to receptors. With this method, it takes one or two hours to feel the effects.

The happy middle ground is THC drinks, which have fast-acting effects. THC drinks produce uplifting and euphoric effects that are felt in about fifteen minutes and last a few hours.

When THC binds to CB1 receptors, located mostly in the brain, a “high” result occurs. When THC binds to CB2 receptors, located mostly in immune cells, anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects are the main result.

Effects of THC on the Body

The exact effects of THC depend on your physical characteristics, how much THC you use, and how you consume it. People usually feel relaxed and happy after taking it, but if you take too much, it may cause stress.

Start with a low dose and slowly increase it until you attain the effects that you want. This is an especially good strategy if you are using gummies since the effects of gummies tend to last longer than the effects of other THC products. To counteract any possible stress, you may also want to consume CBD at the same time. Because it inhibits the binding of THC to receptors, CBD may reduce the intensity of the effects of THC.

THC is intoxicating; it can alter your sense of time, impair your memory, and slow your reaction time. It also may have wellness benefits, with the potential to impact sleep, nausea, and pain. Because of such benefits, 37 states have legalized medical marijuana.

Find Quality THC Products

Crescent Canna offers premium and affordable THC edibles and drinks. With a range of potencies available, you can find the perfect THC experience for you.

Every Crescent Canna product is third-party lab-tested and contains hemp-derived THC, so they’re available for adults across the country to enjoy.

Want to give THC a try? Check out our free THC gummies.