ABSTRACT
The most important one as far as psychoactive properties are concerned is Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, also known as delta-9-THC (Δ9-THC). Nature, being a brilliant synthetic chemist, just makes the single isomer -Δ 9-THC. It is possible to make the other isomer in the laboratory, but -Δ9-THC has no psychoactive properties. THC is made in the leaves of the cannabis plant, the first step being the biosynthesis of Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid from cannabigerolic acid. Delta-Δ-THC is not the only important chemical in cannabis. In fact, cannabinoid receptors should really be called ‘anandamide receptors’, since they are intended for anandamide, not THC. THC just happens to be the right shape to fit the anandamide receptors, thereby fooling the brain by giving it false feelings of pleasure. As far as commercial sources go, Sativex®, which contains THC and cannabidiol, is approved for use in the United Kingdom as well as New Zealand, Canada, Germany and several other European countries.
