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.
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