When people talk about cannabis, you often hear about THC and CBD, but did you know there are over 100 other cannabinoids in the plant? These compounds are what make cannabis so unique, each one interacting with our bodies in different ways. Some get you high, some don’t, and many of them are still being studied for their potential benefits.
From well-known players like THC to lesser-known ones like CBG and THCV, there’s a whole world of cannabinoids to explore. Ready to dive in and learn how common and rare cannabinoids can contribute to your cannabis experiences? Let’s break it down!
COMMON CANNABINOIDS:
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
THC, short for tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main compound in cannabis that gets you high. It’s the one responsible for that euphoric, relaxed, or sometimes giggly feeling you get when you consume weed. THC works by interacting with your body’s endocannabinoid system, specifically binding to receptors in your brain, which leads to those classic psychoactive effects.
Besides the high, THC is also known for potential benefits like pain relief, reducing nausea, and boosting appetite. It’s the most famous cannabinoid, but it’s just one of many cool compounds found in the cannabis plant!
Cannabidiol (CBD)
CBD, or cannabidiol, is the second most common compounds in cannabis, but unlike THC, it doesn’t typically non-intoxicating. Instead, CBD is all about the potential wellness benefits without the buzz.
While more research is still required, this cannabinoid has shown potential for anxiolytic effects, anti-inflammatory actions, and potential to ease neuropathic pain which makes it popular with people seeking calming, relaxing effects or relief from discomfort.
RARE CANNABINOIDS:
Cannabigerol (CBG)
One kind of cannabinoid present in the cannabis plant is cannabigerol (CBG). This part of the plant is frequently called the "mother of all cannabinoids." This is so because cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), an acidic form of CBG, is the source of other cannabinoids.
Compared to other cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), CBG is present in cannabis plants in lesser concentrations. Because of this, cannabigerol-derived consumer goods are uncommon and frequently pricey.
CBG is an interesting cannabinoid that doesn’t get you high, but it might just have some cool benefits for your body. Researchers are digging into how CBG interacts with different systems in our bodies, like serotonin receptors. Early studies suggest it could be useful in treating neurological conditions like Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis.
Cannabichromene (CBC)
CBC is another non-intoxicating cannabinoid that’s flying under the radar. It’s been showing up in a few experimental studies, and early results look promising—especially for its anti-inflammatory effects. Researchers are also exploring how CBC might help with Crohn’s disease and could even have potential to inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells.
Cannabinol (CBN)
CBN is like the mellow cousin of THC. It shows up when THC ages and breaks down (oxidizes) when THC is exposed to heat, air, or light. "This is the reason why aged, dry cannabis has higher levels of CBN," says Eric Adams, president, CEO, and director of InMed Pharmaceuticals, a company that develops and produces rare cannabinoids.
People are starting to pay more attention to CBN because it seems to help with sleep and relaxation. Though its effects are still not well-studied yet, if you’re after a calm, soothing effect, CBN could be one to keep on your radar!
THC-V ( tetrahydrocannabivarin)
THCV is like the energetic, potentially appetite-suppressing, sibling of THC. While THC is known for giving you the munchies, THCV might actually help curb your appetite, which is why some people call it the "diet weed."
It’s also said to give you a bit of a boost in energy. On top of that, early research suggests THCV might help with blood sugar regulation in people with type 2 diabetes, but more comprehensive studies are needed to confirm its reported effects, safety profile, and therapeutic applications in humans.
Delta-8 THC
Delta-8 THC is a psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. While it's less potent than delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, it can still produce euphoric effects. Health Canada classifies delta-8 THC as an intoxicating cannabinoid and is subject to a 10mg limit per package. Though these limits are currently being reconsidered in a federal review of the Cannabis Act.
