Cannabinoids are not unique to cannabis.

The cannabinoids can be found in plants which are called phytocannabinoids, while endocannabinoids are the type of cannabinoids produced by animals and humans. Artificial cannabinoids are called synthetic cannabinoids. Think of the word “cannabinoid” as the general term for a chemical compound that can be broken down into small categories based on its origin.

Phytocannabinoids are of particular interest to us because they are found in a wide range of plants, many of which are known. The following list is just a brief overview of some of the plants that contain cannabinoids: Asteraceae, Xerochrysum, liverworts, and tea tree (not to be confused with the tea tree).

The attributes common to all these plants testify not only to their potential in traditional medicine but also to their different applications in the modern era. This raises the question: if we find cannabinoids in cannabis and other common plants, why are we treating marijuana so differently?

To better understand how each of the above-mentioned plants has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, we will explore their origins, applies, and potential side effects.

Asteraceae (Echinacea)


You may be surprised to learn that Asteraceae is the first plant on our list to contain phytocannabinoids. Anyways, it is very likely that you have one growing in a pot in your house.

They are grown both indoors and outdoors for ornamental purposes because of their bright pink petals. Common in homes and pretty to look at,

Asteraceae can be divided into two main species: Echinacea Angustifolia (narrow-leafed Asteraceae) and Echinacea purpura (purple Asteraceae). Both are widely available, although they are native to the Americas.


Asteraceae has more than aesthetic uses. Because of its phytocannabinoids, it has been used traditionally to reduce wound inflammation, burns and insect bites.

The roots can also be chewed to relieve a toothache or throat infections. However, side effects have been noted. Digestive problems, rashes, and asthma attacks are possible following the use of echinacea.

Mafia Brede

Brazilians call Acmella jambú, although in the rest of the world, the “toothache plant” is the most common name. The main body of the flower is composed of hundreds of small clustered flowers. The toothache plant has gained notoriety for the intriguing effect it has when chewing its flowers. Some consumers would experience extreme numbness. Herbalists were quick to realize that Acmella was the perfect solution for treating toothache in just 10-15 minutes. In the end, many of us would prefer to chew a flower rather than have a needle in the gum.

Despite the annoying production of saliva it causes, Acmella seems to have few side effects. Of course, we would not encourage anyone to eat this raw plant, despite the hilarity that would ensue. The feeling can be both uncomfortable and uncomfortable. The leaf juice, while producing a similar analgesic effect, is used as an extract in several traditional Brazilian cooking recipes.