The ABCs of Cannabinoids: Exploring the Lesser-Known Compounds Beyond CBD and THC

When most people think of cannabinoids, they immediately think of CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). These two compounds are certainly the most well-known, but they are just the tip of the iceberg. The cannabis plant contains over 100 cannabinoids, each with its own unique properties and potential health benefits. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at some of the lesser-known cannabinoids, including CBG, CBN, CBC, and THCV, and explore how they contribute to the overall therapeutic potential of cannabis.

1. What Are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant. They interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors, endocannabinoids, and enzymes that help regulate various physiological processes such as mood, pain, appetite, and immune function. Each cannabinoid interacts with the ECS in different ways, leading to a variety of effects.

• CBD (Cannabidiol): A non-psychoactive cannabinoid known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiolytic properties. It’s widely used for managing conditions like anxiety, chronic pain, and epilepsy.
• THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use. THC also has therapeutic properties, including pain relief, appetite stimulation, and anti-nausea effects.

2. CBG (Cannabigerol): The Mother of Cannabinoids

CBG is often referred to as the “mother of all cannabinoids” because it is the precursor from which other cannabinoids are synthesized. Although typically present in smaller quantities than CBD and THC, CBG has significant therapeutic potential.

• Neuroprotective Effects: CBG has been shown to protect neurons, making it a potential treatment for neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington’s disease. Research published in Neurotherapeutics highlights CBG’s neuroprotective properties.
• Anti-Inflammatory and Antibacterial: CBG has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and has been shown to be effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria like MRSA. A study in the Journal of Natural Products demonstrated CBG’s antibacterial properties.

3. CBN (Cannabinol): The Sleep Cannabinoid

CBN is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that is produced as THC ages and breaks down. While it doesn’t have the same intoxicating effects as THC, CBN is known for its sedative properties, making it a popular choice for sleep aids.

• Sleep Aid: CBN is often used in products designed to promote sleep and relaxation. A study in Current Biology suggests that CBN has a strong sedative effect, making it an effective sleep aid when combined with other cannabinoids like CBD.
• Pain Relief: CBN also has analgesic properties, making it useful for managing pain, especially when combined with CBD.

4. CBC (Cannabichromene): The Anti-Inflammatory Cannabinoid

CBC is another non-psychoactive cannabinoid with significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It’s one of the “big six” cannabinoids prominent in medical research.

• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: CBC works synergistically with other cannabinoids to reduce inflammation and pain. Research in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics has shown that CBC can inhibit inflammation-related pain.
• Potential for Neurogenesis: Some studies suggest that CBC may promote neurogenesis, the growth of new brain cells, particularly in areas associated with memory and learning.

5. THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin): The Appetite Suppressant

THCV is structurally similar to THC but has very different effects. While THC is known for stimulating appetite (often referred to as the “munchies”), THCV has the opposite effect and may actually suppress appetite.

• Appetite Suppression: THCV is being studied for its potential to aid in weight loss and management. A study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that THCV can reduce appetite and increase satiety.
• Potential for Blood Sugar Regulation: THCV is also being researched for its potential to help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a candidate for managing diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

6. The Entourage Effect: Why These Cannabinoids Matter

One of the most compelling aspects of cannabis is the entourage effect, a phenomenon where cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds in the plant work together to enhance each other’s effects. This means that a full-spectrum or broad-spectrum product that includes a range of cannabinoids, not just CBD or THC, can be more effective than isolated compounds.

• Synergistic Effects: For example, the combination of CBD and CBG can provide enhanced anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, while the combination of CBD and CBN can offer more potent sleep support.
• Broad-Spectrum Benefits: Products like Cannabolix’s full-spectrum tinctures take advantage of the entourage effect by including a variety of cannabinoids to provide a more comprehensive approach to wellness.

7. Incorporating Lesser-Known Cannabinoids into Your Routine

As research into cannabinoids continues to grow, more products are being formulated to include these lesser-known compounds. Here’s how you can incorporate them into your wellness routine:

• Targeted Tinctures: Look for tinctures that combine multiple cannabinoids to target specific needs, such as pain relief, sleep support, or cognitive enhancement.
• Topical Applications: For localized relief, choose topical products that include cannabinoids like CBG or CBC for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
• Daily Supplements: Consider adding a broad-spectrum or full-spectrum CBD supplement to your daily routine to take advantage of the entourage effect and support overall wellness.

Conclusion

While CBD and THC are the most well-known cannabinoids, the cannabis plant offers a wealth of other compounds with unique therapeutic benefits. Cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, CBC, and THCV each contribute to the overall potential of cannabis as a natural remedy for a wide range of health issues. By understanding and incorporating these lesser-known cannabinoids into your routine, you can enhance your wellness journey and experience the full benefits of the cannabis plant.

References

1. Valdeolivas, S., Navarrete, C., Cantarero, I., Bellido, M. L., Muñoz, E., & Sagredo, O. (2015). Neuroprotective properties of cannabigerol in Huntington's disease: studies in R6/2 mice and 3-nitropropionate-lesioned mice. Neurotherapeutics, 12(1), 185-199. Link

2. Appendino, G., Gibbons, S., Giana, A., Pagani, A., Grassi, G., Stavri, M., ... & Rahman, M. M. (2008). Antibacterial cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa: a structure-activity study. Journal of Natural Products, 71(8), 1427-1430. Link

3. Zuardi, A. W., Cosme, R. A., Graeff, F. G., & Guimarães, F. S. (1993). Effects of ipsapirone and cannabidiol on human experimental anxiety. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 7(1_suppl), 82-88. Link

4. Pertwee, R. G. (2008). The diverse CB1 and CB2 receptor pharmacology of three plant cannabinoids: delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, and delta9-tetrahydrocannabivarin. British Journal of Pharmacology, 153(2), 199-215. Link