As a cannabis consumer, you’ve likely heard of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD), but what about minor cannabinoids like Cannabigerol (CBG) and Cannabinol (CBN)?
While they might not be as abundant as cannabinoids that have become household names, they still play an important role in shaping your cannabis experience.
Below we’ll explore the world of cannabinoids’ unique properties, potential benefits, and how they can fit into your wellness routine.
What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are natural compounds found in the cannabis plant. More than 100 cannabinoids have been identified, each with unique effects and potential therapeutic benefits.
These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various physiological processes such as pain, mood, appetite, and immune response.
From the well-known THC and CBD to the lesser-known CBG and CBN, each cannabinoid offers a distinct profile of effects that can contribute to health and well-being.
What is THC?
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis and produces the “high” commonly associated with cannabis consumption.
It binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and throughout the nervous system, influencing a wide range of mental and physical processes, including mood, perception, and pain regulation.
Potential Benefits and Applications of THC
Pain Relief
Many consumers find THC effective for alleviating chronic pain. THC interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, binding to CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system, which can help modulate pain signals.
This interaction not only diminishes the perception of pain but may also enhance the overall pain tolerance of individuals.
Mood Enhancement
THC may elevate mood and promote relaxation, making it a popular choice for those seeking relief from stress and anxiety.
Many consumers experience feelings of euphoria and an enhanced sense of well-being when consuming THC. However, it’s important to note that the effects can vary widely.
At higher doses, some consumers might encounter heightened anxiety or paranoia. This duality highlights the need for careful dosage and individual consideration when consuming THC.
Appetite Stimulation
Often referred to as the “munchies,” THC may increase appetite, making it useful for individuals undergoing certain medical treatments that reduce appetite.
THC may enhance the enjoyment of food and encourage eating for those trying to maintain their weight or boost their nutrition levels.
What is CBD?
CBD is another common cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is non-intoxicating; in other words, you won’t get “high” off CBD like you would when consuming THC.
CBD has become increasingly popular due to its potential therapeutic benefits. These include its potential applications for anxiety, pain, insomnia, and inflammation.
To create CBD products, manufacturers typically extract it from hemp plants that contain 0.3% THC content or less. CBD is used in a wide variety of products, including tinctures, topicals, and oils.
Potential Benefits and Applications of CBD
Anxiety
Promising research indicates that CBD may be beneficial in reducing stress and anxiety symptoms caused by a variety of physical and mental health conditions.
Studies and clinical trials continue to explore the connection between CBD and anxiety reduction.
Insomnia
CBD may have the potential to help with both falling asleep and staying asleep.
People suffering from insomnia often report that consuming CBD eases their symptoms, though more research is needed to determine its true efficacy for promoting restful sleep.
Chronic Pain
CBD shows promise when it comes to pain management, as well. Because CBD may inhibit anti-inflammatory and neuropathic pain, it offers researchers an exciting option for pain management.
Researchers are still trying to determine precisely how CBD interacts with the body’s endogenous cannabinoid system to help reduce pain, and studies are ongoing.
Addiction
Another potential benefit of CBD could be in supporting addiction recovery. Cravings for tobacco and other substances may be reduced by CBD use under certain circumstances.
Animal models suggest CBD can help lessen cravings for alcohol, opiates, and stimulants. However, the results of animal models do not necessarily translate to human trials, so more research is needed.
What is CBG?
CBG is a lesser-known cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is often referred to as the “mother of all cannabinoids” because it is the first to form in young plants and serves as a precursor to other cannabinoids like CBD and THC.
CBG vs. CBD
In mature cannabis plants, CBG is generally found in smaller amounts than CBD. CBG is often considered the ‘stem cell’ of cannabinoids, thanks to its role in synthesizing other cannabinoids.
CBG also has a unique chemical structure and its way of interacting with the endocannabinoid system.
Potential Benefits and Applications of CBG
Anti-inflammatory
Some research suggests that CBG could have anti-inflammatory properties and help aid conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.
Neuroprotectant
CBG could also be a neuroprotectant, providing potential benefits for neurological conditions.
Pain Management
CBG provides promising potential in pain management for a variety of chronic conditions.
Bacterial Infections
CBG offers many antibacterial benefits and could even be used to treat Staph infections, among other types.
What is CBN?
CBN is a minor cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant.
It is formed through the oxidation and decomposition of THC, a process that occurs as the cannabis plant ages or is exposed to light and air. Unlike THC, though, CBN is a non-intoxicating compound.
You can find CBN in higher concentrations in older cannabis flower, though it is also sometimes extracted to create high-CBN cannabis products.
Potential Benefits and Applications of CBN
CBN is present in trace amounts in the cannabis plant, but it is primarily a byproduct of the degradation of THC.
High levels of CBN are typically associated with feelings of drowsiness, though researchers debate how accurate this conventional wisdom is. Studies into CBN and its effects are ongoing.
Potential Relief for Insomnia
Many consumers swear by high CBN products for promoting restful sleep. However, scientific evidence for these claims are minimal at best.
Appetite Stimulant
Animal studies have shown that CBN may stimulate appetite.
Animal studies are not reliable indicators of how a compound may affect humans, however, and more studies are needed to understand whether CBN may affect human appetites in the same way.
Pain Relief
A 2019 animal study suggests CBN may be effective for pain management.
Still, more research is needed to better understand whether the results would translate well to human patients.
CBD vs. CBN vs. CBG
Now that we know more about CBD, CBG, and CBN, let’s look at them side-by-side. Each of these compounds offers distinct effects and therapeutic potentials that cater to different needs.
| Cannabinoid | Potential Applications |
| CBD | Anxiety relief, pain management, anti-inflammatory |
| CBG | Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, potential neuroprotective effects |
| CBN | Sedative, potential aid for sleep |
Start your journey with cannabis and its amazing compounds
As we dive deeper into the intricacies of cannabinoids, we begin to see a fascinating tapestry of possibilities.
But amidst the intrigue, it’s essential to remember that everyone’s experience is unique. Research is needed to navigate this cannabinoid landscape effectively.
Discuss your concerns and questions about each of these beautiful cannabis compounds with the Blue Oak dispensary team to learn the best route for you to take!
