THC falls into a larger class of chemicals called cannabinoids. These chemicals, present both in cannabis as well as naturally produced in the human body, have no CLEAR and concise purpose that we really know of, but we're learning new information every year about THC and other cannabinoids. Those who claim THC is a defense mechanism against animals are correct; research also shows the secretion of THC from a plant also has prominent UV-B protection attributes, which helps protect the plant from damaging UV rays.

Research indicates the purpose for the receptors in the human brain are much more prominent than we once thought.

For example, the cannabinoid receptors in the human brain- C1 and C2 respectively- each have different functions. C1 primarily is responsible for reactions within the central nervous system (CNS), while C2 seems to have more of an effect on the immune system.

The theory regards the receptor sites in the body- if the body has receptor sites for cannabinoids, then they must be produced naturally by the body. These naturally produced substances are called endocannabinoids. We have a very similar system on an opiate-based level with endoprhins, human-made opiates which are responsible for inducing pleasure, pain relief, etc.

Much in the way that smoking pot gives one the munchies, this is one of the primary functions of the endocannabinoids and their receptors- hunger control. Certain types of endocannabinoids released induce in humans a state of hunger, telling our body to crave food in order to eat. Endocannabinoids are released through mom's breastmilk primarily to encourage the infant to feed- this is why cannabis use during pregnancy poses little threat to the infant and mother, and also one of the main reasons why cannabis is such an effective nausea control mechanism.

Other functions of the cannabinoid receptors include (but are not limited to): relaxation, pain relief, altering time and space, and increased pleasure in sensory organs (i.e. better tasting, better smelling, better feeling, etc). This is why being stoned feels like a heightened sensory experience... Because it is!
Purple Banana Reviewed by Purple Banana on . Purpose of THC Does anyone know the purpose of THC? I, personally, do not think it is the "gift from God" that so many people claim it is. I tend to think it is more in the line of a self-defense mechanism that the plant developed through evolution, just like the opium sap that comes from the Opium Poppy, or a seed dissipation system, such as when insects and certain animals come to munch on the plant's leaves or flowers, they tend to get confused, fall unconsious or fall asleep. They might even overdose and Rating: 5