The Science of Cannabis - The Bengal Bite 🐯 - 4/9/2020
At the heart of cannabis are the cannabinoids - a group of over 100 molecules that bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in our body. Due to years of federal prohibition, scientists know relatively little about these compounds, but the science of cannabis is quickly evolving. Private research is expanding rapidly to better understand our endocannabinoid system and why certain cannabinoid and terpene (the molecule that gives cannabis its smell and flavor) combinations have such medical and recreational impact for many consumers.
Not only do we find this science fascinating, but we also believe it ultimately will prove to be very lucrative. R&D will unlock the capability to offer cannabis consumers a consistent experience at scale and will produce the patents and intellectual property that generate long-term value. The "Science of Cannabis" will be the driver behind many of the industry's long-term winners.
The Bengal Capital Team
Scientists are chasing the perfect high
"The cannabis business has arrived at a critical moment. Customers are increasingly seeking the same "proven consistency" that they expect from potato chips and soap. The financial stakes are clear: Despite lingering prohibitions in 17 states, legal cannabis is already an $8 billion industry in the United States. Domestic sales of alcohol, humankind's other favorite intoxicant, topped $200 billion last year. But to make cannabis as popular as booze requires solving that original problem: It's hard to imagine millions of people becoming new recreational users without being able to promise them that the product they're spending money on will give them the effect they want."
Cannabinoids can help with everyday ailments
There has been a lack of cannabinoid research due to years of prohibition. Scientists are just beginning to scratch the surface on the potential of the 100 different (possibly more) cannabinoids of the cannabis plant.
How cannabis and humans evolved together
Homo sapiens have a long, beneficial, and evolutionary relationship with cannabis, according to Dr. Sunil K. Aggarwal, a physician, medical geographer, and co-founder of the Advanced Integrative Medical Science Institute in Seattle.
Cannabis 101: CBG or cannabigerol, the next CBD?
Cannabis is a chemical powerhouse, with over 500 different compounds, including 100 cannabinoids, found within one plant. While CBD and THC are the most common cannabinoids, others are starting to make a splash. CBG (cannabigerol) has been called the "mother of all cannabinoids" because it can be converted into various other cannabinoids. Potential health benefits from CBG could include the management of pain, sleep, blood pressure, inflammation, anxiety, and gut health.