THC exerts its effects by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which involves binding to and activating the cannabinoid receptors cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2).
The brain and spinal cord are rich in CB1 receptors, which are responsible for most of THC’s effects. When THC activates CB1 receptors, it alters neurotransmission (how neurons communicate) in a way that influences many bodily functions including pain signaling, appetite, cognition, the sleep-wake cycle, and nausea and vomiting. CB2 receptors are found predominantly in immune cells, and their activation by THC may have an anti-inflammatory effect.[1][2]