7 Surprising Plants with Cannabinoids That Support Your Endocannabinoid System

Perhaps you’ve heard of the term ‘cannabinoid’ thrown around a lot in the cannabis industry. But did you know that there are several other plants with cannabinoids found in Nature?

What Are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are active chemical compounds that interact with cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) found in humans and other mammals including cats, dogs, etc. These compounds help regulate essential functions such as mood, pain, appetite, and sleep. While cannabis is the most well-known source of cannabinoids, it’s not the only one.

There are two types of cannabinoids:

• Phytocannabinoids – produced by plants

• Endocannabinoids – produced naturally in the body

Let’s explore other plants that contain cannabinoids or similar compounds known as cannabimimetics, which mimic their effects.

•  Cannabis

Cannabis plants are the most popular plants containing cannabinoids. They are also the most studied cannabinoid-rich plants, which contain:

• CBD (Cannabidiol) – Non-psychoactive, known for calming, anti-inflammatory effects

• THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) – Psychoactive, known for euphoria and pain relief

Both compounds interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors to bring balance (homeostasis) to the body.

In the past few years, cannabis has become one of the most useful medicinal plants globally. Recent studies and anecdotal reports show that cannabis (marijuana and hemp) offers a wide range of potential benefits for the human body.

Other plants containing cannabinoids other than cannabis

Surprisingly, cannabis is not the only plant that contains cannabinoids. There are many other superfoods and flowers with cannabinoids that interact with and influence the endocannabinoid system in a very similar way.

There are also a few well-known plants that contain chemical substances known as cannabimimetic compounds that mimic the biological activity of cannabinoids.

Here is a list of 6 more plants that contain cannabinoids:

2. Echinacea 

Echinacea is a common medicinal plant that has been used therapeutically for decades to fight the common cold. It contains N-alkylamides (NAAs). These bind to CB1 receptors, similar to cannabinoids, to support immune function and reduce fatigue.

• Used traditionally to fight colds and inflammation

• NAAs influence immune response and ECS signaling

3. Cacao

Cacao (from which chocolate is made) contains anandamide, also known as the “bliss molecule.” This superfood gives the brain a happy mood. Anandamide is an endocannabinoid produced naturally in the brain that lifts the mood. Like cannabis, which gives euphoric effects, cacao provides a joyful feeling without creating a high. (Sumpter, 2021)

• Promotes mood elevation without the high

• Increases natural endocannabinoid levels

Cacao also contains other compounds that prevent anandamide breakdown, making its effects last longer.

4. Kava

Kava is popularly known for the drink extracted from its leaves. Hailing from the Pacific Islands, kava has long been used as a medicinal drink to ease mood disorders and has sedative effects.

It contains kavalactones, including yangonin, which binds to CB1 receptors. Apart from CB1, kavalactone also interacts with other receptors in the brain responsible for cravings and addiction.

• Offers relaxing and anti-anxiety effects

• Also affects receptors involved in addiction and mood

Yangonin’s interaction with the ECS is why kava is increasingly studied for anxiety and stress relief.

5. Japanese Liverwort

This native plant of New Zealand contains a large amount of a cannabinoid known as perrotentinenic acid, which impacts the ECS in the same way as THC. However, liverwort is non-psychoactive. 

• Binds to CB1 receptors but is non-psychoactive

• Traditionally used for liver and gallbladder problems as well as respiratory issues.

It mimics THC’s effects without the intoxicating high.

6. Black Pepper

Black pepper is a well-known household spice used to liven up any meal. This potent herb has a lot in common with cannabis. Black pepper contains beta-caryophyllene, a terpene that directly interacts with CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. (Smalheiser, 2019)

• Has anti-inflammatory and gut-protective effects

• Enhances the benefits of CBD and other cannabinoids

Beta-caryophyllene is also found in cannabis and is believed to contribute to the “entourage effect.”

7. Chinese Rhododendron

Hailing from Southern China, essential oils derived from the Chinese rhododendron have antimicrobial properties that can kill staph infections.

A 2011 study found that rhododendron is full of essential oils, flavonoids, triterpenes, and tannins believed to fight bacterial infections. 

The plant contains flavonoids and folic acid, which interact with the endocannabinoid system.

• Shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties

• Folic acid may act as a cannabinoid-like compound in the ECS

Used in traditional medicine for bacterial infections and inflammation.

How Cannabinoids Work in the Body

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a vital role in regulating:

• Pain

• Sleep

• Appetite

• Mood

• Immune response

Cannabinoids from plants (phytocannabinoids) support the ECS by mimicking or enhancing endocannabinoids. Even plants that don’t contain true cannabinoids often include cannabimimetic compounds that act in similar ways.

Why These Plants Matter

Understanding cannabinoids beyond cannabis opens new wellness possibilities. These plants may:

• Support immune health

• Reduce stress and anxiety

• Enhance mood and cognitive function

• Reduce inflammation naturally

Many of these compounds are non-psychoactive, making them ideal for daily wellness routines without the risk of intoxication.

Final Thoughts: Nature’s Wide World of Cannabinoids

Cannabis may be the best-known source of cannabinoids, but it’s far from alone. Nature is full of cannabinoid-rich or mimicking plants, from immune-boosting echinacea to mood-lifting cacao.

Integrating these plants into your routine, whether through food, tea, or supplements, can help support your body’s natural balance. Check out PharmaHemp for more structured support, lab-tested CBD products offer precise dosing and verified cannabinoid content.