What are Cannabinoids?

Cannabis plants naturally produce over a hundred different chemicals known as cannabinoids. Throughout history genetics have been bred specifically to produce either high amounts of THC or CBD, but now that’s beginning to change with the increasing popularity of other cannabinoids such as THCV, CBN, and CBG just to name a few. THCa, CBDa, and CBNa are the acidic forms of cannabinoids found in raw cannabis flower before heating and combustion. Once heated, these compounds then turn into THC, CBD and CBN. Cannabis is an incredibly versatile plant and as it becomes more embedded within our lives, more and more research is being done how how these different cannabinoids can benefit us.

THC

Delta 9 Tetrahydrocannabinol aka THC is the most commonly known and used compound found in cannabis. THC acts as a stimulant that especially activates CB1 receptors, which are mainly found in the brain, usually resulting in a euphoric high.

Potential Therapeutic Effects:

Anti-Depressant
Anti-Inflammatory
Appetite Stimulant
Neuroprotective
Nausea Relief
Pain Relief

CBD

Cannabidiol aka CBD is also one of the most commonly used cannabinoids, but unlike THC, CBD is non-intoxicating and doesn't cause an altered state of mind. CBD binds with receptors throughout the brain and body, and acts as an inhibitor of hormonal activity. CBD is known for its calming and pain relieving effects because it blocks hormonal activity and signaling of pain.

Potential Therapeutic Effects:

Anti-Depressant
Anti-Inflammatory
Anti-Epileptic
Antibacteriol
Neuroprotective
Sedative
Nausea Relief
Pain Relief

CBG

Cannabigerol aka CBG is often referred to as the “Mother of All Cannabinoids” because many other cannabinoids are derived from CBGa, the acid form of CBG.

Potential Therapeutic Effects:

Anti-bacterial
Cancer fighting
Cell and bone growth

CBC

Cannabichromene aka CBC is considered one of the crucial cannabinoids in working together with THC and CBD to enhance the effects of each.

Potential Therapeutic Effects:

Anti-Inflammatory
Anti-Depressant
Pain relief
Cancer fighting

CBN

Cannabinol aka CBN can be created from THC and is known to help with insomnia, when combined with THC. CBN is also known to increase the euphoric effects of THC.

Potential Therapeutic Effects:

Anti-bacterial
Neuroprotection
Anti-Inflammatory
Appetite Stimulant

THCV

Delta 9 Tetrahydrocannabivarin aka THCV is similar to THC in molecular structure, but without the intoxicating effects. THCV is currently recognized for its appetite-suppressing and energizing properties. THCV also shows great potential when used in combination with THC or CBD.

Potential Therapeutic Effects:

Appetite-suppressing
Energizing

Keep in mind that these statements have not been evaluated by the FDA, and there is a lot more research to be done to fully understand the potential of these newly recognized cannabinoids.