Cannabidiol (CBD) is finding its way into virtually everything these days. Offering the medicinal appeal of cannabis without intoxicating effects. CBD is likely to remain a dominant player in the health and wellness industry due to its vast potential. Certainly, THC isn’t going anywhere. However, CBD and THC are only two of more than 100 cannabinoids identified at this time. So, industry experts and educated consumers are now looking for what else cannabis has to offer.

 

Cannabigerol

Cannabigerol (or CBG) is often referred to as the “stem cell” of cannabinoids. It is the chemical precursor of the acid forms of THC, CBD, and cannabichromene (CBC). Like THC and CBD, CBG exists in its acidic form, CBGA, in the raw cannabis plant. When CBGA is heated, it is converted (decarboxylated) to CBG. CBGA is present in small amounts (typically less than 1%) in most cannabis strains. However, some strains are harvested earlier or cultivated to yield higher levels of this cannabinoid.

Much like CBD, CBG is not intoxicating. There are no federal regulations limiting the CBGA content of a cannabis plant. Animal studies suggest CBG has a protective effect on the brain. Other animal studies indicate CBG has pain-relieving effects and antidepressant properties. Additional research demonstrates anti-oxidant properties, anti-microbial properties, and an anti-inflammatory effect of CBG. And anecdotally, many CBG consumers report that it helps them focus on tasks better.

Could CBG in the near future surpass CBD in product sales? It’s possible, but perhaps more likely, these two cannabinoids will stand together in the medicine cabinet.

 

Cannabichromene

Most people have never heard of cannabichromene (CBC). But it is also a non-intoxicating cannabinoid with a multitude of potential therapeutic benefits.  Like CBD, CBC is formed from the acid form of CBG.

Research indicates CBC indirectly interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to stimulate activity of the body’s naturally occurring endocannabinoids. CBC also interacts with other receptors known as TRPV1 and TRPA1. These receptors are associated with transmission of inflammation signals and how the brain perceives pain.

Aside from its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, studies show CBC is a powerful inhibitor of acne. It also appears to have potent activity against a common antibiotic-resistant strain of bacteria known as MRSA. Additionally, a 2010 animal study found “significant” antidepressant effects with CBC.

CBC doesn’t get much attention, but it’s been shown to have significant benefits. And because of its actions outside the ECS, CBC has complementary pain and anti-inflammatory effects when combined with other cannabinoids.

 

Cannabinol

Cannabinol (CBN) is formed from the degradation of the acid form of THC by exposure to UV light and air. It interacts with CB1 receptors of the body’s endocannabinoid system which have a higher concentration within the central nervous system. Thus, it can have intoxicating effects. However, these intoxicating effects are not as powerful as those of THC.

CBN has gained a reputation as one of the most powerful cannabinoids for promoting sleep. Research suggests this may be attributable more to CBN’s enhancement of the sedative effects of terpenes like myrcene.

Similar to CBD, CBN appears to have anti-inflammatory properties through its effects on the endocannabinoid system (ECS). As a result, CBN may help relieve pain. In addition, CBN has been shown to stimulate peptide release from sensory nerves, thus reducing pain sensitivity.  Such reduction in pain sensitivity appears to occur without affecting CB1 or CB2 receptors. Thus, like CBC, a combination of CBN along with ECS activation by other cannabinoids may provide even greater pain relief.

CBN is poised for a boom in popularity because of its reputation for sedation and pain relief. It may also be sought after by some for a milder intoxicating effect than THC.

 

Tetrahydrocannabivarin

Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) has been recognized since 1970. Despite this, it is believed by many to be one of the next “up-and-coming” cannabinoids. THCV is thought to produce a more alert and energized euphoric feeling compared to THC, but for a shorter duration. At low doses, THCV blocks the CB1 receptor of the ECS, which means it’s not intoxicating. However, at high doses THCV has the opposite effect on CB1 receptors and will result in a euphoric sensation.

Most people don’t take THCV specifically to get high. Research suggests that it may have multiple health benefits. In a 2010 animal study, researchers found THCV was effective at reducing signs of swelling, inflammation, and pain.

Studies have also indicated that THCV may be effective for weight loss. Research shows at lower doses THCV demonstrates the ability to suppress appetite. In addition, regular administration of THCV was found to increase energy expenditure in mice. Therefore, THCV may prove to be an effective weight loss supplement along with exercise and a healthy diet.

THCV may also be effective in the treatment of diabetes. A 2013 study examined blood sugar levels in diet-induced obese mice and genetically obese mice. The study found THCV improved glucose tolerance in both types of obese mice.

Additionally, THCV appears to be beneficial in an animal model of Parkinson’s disease (PD). A 2011 study examined the effects of THCV in alleviating the symptoms and brain degeneration associated with PD. Mice were administered THCV both acutely and chronically. Researchers found chronic administration of THCV, through its antioxidant properties, delayed the progression of PD. They also observed improved parkinsonian symptoms in mice administered THCV even on a short-term basis.

Limited access to high THCV strains (and cost) has prevented most cannabis companies from manufacturing THCV products. However, THCV appears to offer a variety of potential health benefits which can’t be ignored. Thus, there’s reason to believe THCV will be featured in an increasing number of products in the near future.

 

Conclusions

Even huge CBD fans can recognize society’s current infatuation with this cannabinoid as a temporary one. In our culture, we are never satisfied. We are constantly looking for the latest and greatest.

As the stigma around cannabis fades, consumers will become more educated and discerning toward products which meet their needs. There is overlap in the health benefits of many cannabinoids. And other compounds in cannabis have great potential as well. Thus, the long-term outlook appears to be a powerful balance of cannabinoids, flavonoids, terpenes, and other bioactive compounds.

 

 

References:

Atakan Z; Cannabis, a complex plant: different compounds and different effects on individuals; Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology; 2012 May; 2(6): 241–254.

 

McPartland J & Russo E; Cannabis and cannabis extracts: Greater than the sum of their parts?; Journal of Cannabis Therapeutics; 2001; 1(3-4): 103–132.

 

Maione S et al; Non-psychoactive cannabinoids modulate the descending pathway of antinociception in anaesthetized rats through several mechanisms of action; British Journal of Pharmacology; 2011 Feb; 162(3): 584 – 596.

 

Olah A et al; Differential effectiveness of selected non-psychotropic phytocannabinoids on human sebocyte functions implicates their introduction in dry/seborrhoeic skin and acne treatment; Experimental Dermatology; 2016 Sep; 25(9): 701 – 707.

 

Turner C et al; Biological activity of cannabichromene, its homologs and isomers; Journal of Clinical Pharmacology; 1981 Aug-Sep; 21(S1): 283S – 291S.

 

Appendino G et al; Antibacterial cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa: a structure-activity study; Journal of Natural Products; 2008 Aug; 71(8): 1427 – 1430.

 

El-Alfy A et al; Antidepressant-like effect of delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol and other cannabinoids isolated from Cannabis sativa L; Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior; 2010 Jun; 95(4): 434 – 442.

 

Zygmunt P et al; Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabinol Activate Capsaicin-Sensitive Sensory Nerves via a CB1 and CB2 Cannabinoid Receptor-Independent Mechanism; The Journal of Neuroscience; 2002 Jun; 22(11): 4720 – 4727.

 

Wargent E et al; The cannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) ameliorates insulin sensitivity in two mouse models of obesity; Nutrition & Diabetes; 2013 May; 3(5): e68.

 

Riedel G et al; Synthetic and plant-derived cannabinoid receptor antagonists show hypophagic properties in fasted and non-fasted mice; British Journal of Pharmacology; 2009 Apr; 156(7): 1154-66.

 

Bolognini D et al; The plant cannabinoid Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabivarin can decrease signs of inflammation and inflammatory pain in mice; British Journal of Pharmacology; 2010 May; 160: 677 – 687.

 

Garcia C et al; Symptom-relieving and neuroprotective effects of the phytocannabinoid Δ⁹-THCV in animal models of Parkinson’s disease; British Journal of Pharmacology; 2011 Aug; 163(7): 1495 – 1506.

 

 

This content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to take the place of medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers of this content should consult their physician or qualified healthcare professional regarding specific health questions, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications. CannaGlobe, LLC does not take responsibility for possible health consequences of any person reading and/or following this informational content.

© 2019 - 2024 CG Companies, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

15511 Hwy 71 West, Suite 110, #420, Bee Cave, TX 78738 | 1-833-722-8339 | support@cannaglobe.com

Terms and Conditions | Privacy Policy | Returns and Refunds | Shipping Policy Disclaimers | Certificate of Analysis | Compensation Plan | Policies and Procedures | Income Disclosure Statement

Log in with your credentials

Forgot your details?