Importance of cannabinoids in the functioning of the central nervous system

Abstract

At present, there is a great emphasis of public opinion on the legalisation of medical marijuana, i.e. the top parts of the cannabis plants rich in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Nevertheless, in the cannabis plants, there are many various cannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD). Scientific reports to-date indicate the possibility for using pharmacologically active cannabinoids in the treatment of such diseases/symptoms as: anorexia, vomiting, neuropathic pain, inflammatory diseases, multiple sclerosis, degenerative diseases of the central nervous system (Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Tourette’s syndrome), epilepsy, schizophrenia, and obesity. The article presents up-to-date information on the results of experimental studies concerning the effectiveness of cannabinoids, with particular consideration of diseases related with the central nervous system, including epilepsy, neuropathic pain, mental disorders, as well as obesity and anorexia.