You’re probably familiar with the two most well-known cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant: THC and CBD. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-intoxicating compound that is legal across the United States and is often sought out for its stress-relieving and sedating properties. However, there are actually hundreds of other minor cannabinoids found in cannabis that have only recently begun to be studied. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the rare and minor cannabinoids and how one edibles company is utilizing them to enhance their customers’ lives.
But first, let’s define what a cannabinoid is. All mammals have an endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is a complex network of transmitters and receptors that help regulate important bodily functions such as sleep, stress, and pain management. Cannabinoids are molecules that activate these receptors in the ECS. Your body naturally produces its own cannabinoids, known as endocannabinoids, but cannabinoids can also be found in plants. Those produced by the cannabis plant are called phytocannabinoids. While it is possible to create cannabinoids in a lab, we will focus on those found in nature for the purpose of this article.
The cannabis plant produces over 100 known phytocannabinoids, and their potential benefits are still being explored by scientists. Let’s take a closer look at three of the most well-known rare and minor cannabinoids that you may encounter in commercial cannabis products.
CBN (Cannabinol): CBN is often referred to as the third most famous cannabinoid after THC and CBD. This is because it has gained a reputation as an effective sleep aid. However, there is only one study from 1975 that suggests CBN can make you drowsy, and it was conducted with just five participants. Therefore, it is still unclear if CBN truly deserves its nickname as “the Sleepy Cannabinoid.” However, some studies do suggest that CBN may have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. So, if you are struggling with stiffness or soreness that is keeping you up at night, CBN may be able to help you get some rest – just not in the way most people think.
CBG (Cannabigerol): CBG is sometimes referred to as “the Mother Cannabinoid” because it is the first cannabinoid that the plant produces. It is eventually converted into THC or CBD. Due to this conversion process, CBG is actually quite rare. However, it has potential benefits that are still being explored. In its acidic form (CBGA), CBG may have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It may also have potential in treating conditions such as glaucoma and inflammatory bowel disease.
THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin): THCV is a minor cannabinoid that is structurally similar to THC, but it has different effects on the body. While THC is known for its psychoactive properties, THCV is believed to have a more stimulating and energizing effect. It may also have potential in suppressing appetite and aiding in weight loss. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of THCV.
In conclusion, while THC and CBD may be the most well-known cannabinoids, there are many other rare and minor cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant that have potential benefits. As research continues, we may discover even more ways these compounds can enhance our lives.
