Cannabis, known for its innumerable benefits, has been claimed as the magical herb. It has over 560 substances, chemicals, and acids that work together to give its holistic effect. The most common compounds are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Though these compounds are widely acclaimed for giving cannabis its benefits, they are not the only compounds in cannabis. Cannabis is a complex plant with over 400 chemical entities of which more than 60 of them are cannabinoid compounds.
Marijuana is more than just CBD and THC. In fact, there are around 111 cannabinoids in marijuana. Although less known than its more famous counterparts, here are some of the other cannabinoids found in cannabis everyone’s going to be talking about next.
1. Cannabigerol (CBG)
Much like CBD, this cannabinoid prevents a chemical called GABA, an acid that functions as the chief inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system in the brain. CBG inhibits its uptake to provide muscle relaxation and anti-anxiety effects.
According to a study, CBG is also a COX-2 inhibitor and works to combat inflammation. CBG comes with much fewer side effects than hard drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen. While it does not produce a high on its own, it does have the ability to convert into THC or THCV, the two other cannabinoids responsible for the psychoactive properties of cannabis.
2. Cannabichromene (CBC)
CBC is the second most abundant compound found in marijuana and is found in a large number of marijuana strains. It has medicinal effects similar to CBD and has also been shown to provide a range of health benefits including anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and even antidepressant capabilities. CBC is non-intoxicating, so it doesn’t produce a euphoric high like THC.
Additionally, CBC has been shown to stimulate brain growth as well as promote anandamide in the body which can inhibit tumors and fight cancer. It is shown to block pain and inflammation owing to its therapeutic properties that can help deal with chronic pain associated with many diseases.
3. Cannabinol (CBN)
CBN is not a compound that’s naturally produced in the cannabis plant. Instead, CBN is produced when marijuana is left exposed to heat or long for a long time. During this period of exposure, THC molecules break down and convert to CBN. That is why CBD is likely to be found in abundance in poorly stored weed or weed that is simply left to go stale.
Unlike THC, CBN has extremely minimal psychoactive effects. It can provide pain and inflammation relief, stimulate appetite and bone regeneration but it’s most commonly used as a sleep aid. It has been used as an antispasmodic and can help those suffering from glaucoma and inflammation.
4. Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)
THCV is a cannabinoid very similar to THC. It produces a clear, euphoric high that is often described as psychedelic. The only difference is that while the former induces hunger, THCV actually suppresses appetite. For this reason, THCV is actually being investigated as an anti-obesity drug.
THCV has therapeutic properties that are shown to help anxiety and reduce panic attacks. There is also ongoing research to examine the effects of THCV in the treatment of Alzheimer’s.
5. Cannabidivarin (CBDV)
CBDV occurs naturally in the cannabis plant and contains many medicinal benefits similar to CBD. It is showing promising results in treating epilepsy and other neurological conditions. It can help reduce the frequency of seizures and relieve nausea.
CBDV is also beneficial in the treatment of pain and mood disorders. It is also showing promising results in treating HIV/AIDS and multiple sclerosis.
These cannabinoids work holistically with THC and CBD to give an entourage effect. With further research, different cannabinoids can be explored and combined with other cannabinoids to treat even more illnesses and ailments.