Are you looking to get started with CBD? Or, perhaps you already are taking CBD every day and you’d like to know more about the different types of cannabinoids? If so, look no further.
In this article, we’ll give you the lowdown on what cannabinoids are, how there are two major types of cannabinoids–phytocannabinoids and chemical cannabinoids–, and you’ll learn the different names that these different cannabinoids go by.
What types of cannabinoids are there? Let’s find out.
Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid
Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA) is a common type of cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. It is a precursor to the well-known compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). While THCA itself is non-intoxicating, when the plant material is heated or smoked, it causes a conversion to THC and the psychoactive high associated with cannabis.
Over 100 minor cannabinoids have been identified so far in cannabis, but THCA is the most abundant by far, making up as much as 12% of the dry weight of the cannabis flower. It is also exceptionally stable, making it a target for research and extraction for medicinal properties.
Tetrahydrocannabinol
Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is one of the most common cannabinoids found in cannabis. It is the primary psychoactive constituent of cannabis and is responsible for the high effects associated with consuming the plant.
THC works by binding to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, disrupting communication between brain cells and producing a range of effects on the central nervous system. THC is the main ingredient in many medical marijuana products, as it has been found to provide relief from pain, nausea, and other symptoms associated with certain illnesses.
Cannabichromene
Cannabichromene, often abbreviated as CBC, is one of the more common cannabinoids found in cannabis and hemp plants. It is an active ingredient that makes up for nearly 2% of the total cannabinoids present in some varieties of cannabis.
CBC is non-psychoactive, which means that it does not produce a “high” like that of THC. Rather, it is believed to contain anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and analgesic (pain relieving) properties. Some studies have suggested that CBC can help reduce anxiety and depression when used as part of a holistic treatment plan.
Cannabidiol
Cannabidiol, commonly referred to as CBD, is one of the most popular and well-studied cannabinoids available. It has become a key component in a variety of wellness and health products due to its unique properties. CBD belongs to a larger family of compounds known as cannabinoids, each of which is thought to have unique effects.
All of these cannabinoids are found naturally in hemp and cannabis plants, and many are now being investigated for their potential use in the medical and pharmaceutical industries.
Cannabinol
Cannabinol (CBN) is one of the many active compounds in cannabis. It is an isomer of the most well-known compound, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and is unique in its effects. CBN is formed when THC oxidizes and is found in small amounts in cannabis plants.
As a neuro-modulating or depressant cannabinoid, CBN has sedative or anxiolytic effects and can be used to treat insomnia and chronic pain. It can be used in combination with other cannabinoids to generate different combinations of effects and can help in the treatment of pain, inflammation, and epilepsy.
Cannabidiolic Acid
Cannabidiolic Acid, also known as CBDa, is a common type of cannabinoid found in Cannabis and Hemp plants. CBDa is a precursor to Cannabidiol (CBD), the primary non-psychoactive compound found in Cannabis. CBDa can be further processed to form CBD and is considered an “inactive form” of CBD or a precursor to CBD.
It is believed to provide numerous health benefits, such as stress relief, improved sleep, and even anti-cancer properties. CBDa is usually found in higher concentrations in raw Cannabis and Hemp plants, as opposed to other processed derivatives of Cannabis, such as oils.
Cannabigerol
Cannabigerol is closely related to other familiar compounds like THC and CBD. CBG is often referred to as the “mother cannabinoid,” as it is one of the precursor compounds in the synthesis of other more prominent cannabinoids. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, antibacterial, anti-nausea, and anti-cancer properties.
Studies indicate it also helps with pain, depression, anxiety, skin health, and inflammation. CBG has shown promise in metabolic regulations related to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. CBG is currently being studied for its properties to help those with bladder dysfunctions like an overactive bladder, urinary incontinence, and bladder disorders.
Tetrahydrocannabivarin
Tetrahydrocannabivarin, or THCV, is one of the most common types of cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. It is similar in structure to the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) but does not have the same psychoactive effects.
THCV also has some unique positive effects on mental health, such as reducing anxiety and improving mood. Additionally, it can potentially be used to treat epilepsy, as it has anticonvulsant properties. THCV can also help to regulate blood sugar levels and has been shown to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Cannabicitran
Cannabicitran (CBT) is a unique member of the cannabinoid family. It is one of the rare cannabinoids found in cannabis and hemp plants, and it has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and other beneficial properties.
Unlike other cannabinoids, CBT does not produce psychoactive effects. CBT has been found to help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression, and more recent studies suggest that it may also relieve pain and help with seizures.
CBT is believed to work by binding to certain receptors in the body, including the CB1 and CB2 receptor sites. When THC binds to the CB1 receptor site, it creates psychoactive effects, but when CBT binds to the CB2 receptor site, it does not create any psychoactive effects. CBCT is an exciting and promising cannabinoid, and its potential health benefits are being increasingly studied.
Learn more and access information through online resources like Biopharma about CBT for additional insights!
Learn More About the Common Types of Cannabinoids
In conclusion, cannabinoids are an important component when it comes to understanding the medical benefits of cannabis products. They interact with the body. Differently, each produces its own unique effects.
With the knowledge of the different types of cannabinoids, it is much easier to make informed decisions about which cannabis product to use.
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