Therapeutic Potential of Cannabinoids-Retrospective and Historical Developments

Cannabinoids are secondary metabolites occurring only in Cannabis plants, and Delta(9)-THC and CBD are the most important amongst them. After this discovery, synthetic cannabinoids have been produced. Different synthetic cannabinoids have distinct binding affinity for the cannabinoid receptors, thus exerting different mechanisms of action. Presently, they are a subject of numerous studies in the range of chemistry, pharmacology, and molecular biology in order to evaluate their therapeutic potential. This review presents historical perspective of Cannabis medicinal use and results of research on endocannabinoid system and syntethic cannabinoids.