The cannabis plant made up of over 500 different compounds. Since the hemp plant is a variety of the cannabis plant, we often use these words interchangeably. Of these compounds, cannabinoids are some of the most prevalent. The benefits of cannabinoids reach far and wide, and they play a significant role in the suggested benefits cannabis-derived products contain.
To date, 100+ cannabinoids have been identified in cannabis. The most well-known and widely studied cannabinoids are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). There are, however, a handful of other cannabinoids that are receiving increased attention from the cannabis community for the potential wellness effects they contain. Here we’ll take a look at some of the most common cannabinoids, as well as the prospective benefits of these cannabinoids.
The Benefits Of Common Cannabinoids
The following are some of the most commonly occurring cannabinoids, each with their own potential benefits that can further enhance the promise of full spectrum hemp products.
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Cannabidiol (CBD)
CBD is the most common cannabinoid that comes from the hemp plant, and its popularity has skyrocketed in recent years. CBD is said to contain some similar benefits of THC but there’s one major difference between the two. CBD doesn’t contain any intoxicating effects and doesn’t cause the “high” many associate with THC products. Because of this, CBD has become one of the most popular products to naturally support health and wellbeing. CBD products are widely available online and at retailers, but these products must contain less than 0.3% THC. Some of the most common reasons people take CBD include support for muscles and joints, sleep problems and stress. -
Cannabinol (CBN)
CBN is a cannabinoid that is non-intoxicating but well known for helping with restful and deep sleep. Like other cannabinoids, research on CBN is limited. The research that has been conducted, however, shows the cannabinoid may provide neuroprotective and antibacterial properties as well as help with muscle and joint discomfort. The reason CBN is so helpful for sleep is because of its potential sedative-like effects. While the research into CBN is just beginning, those who take it for sleep have found that it has improved their sleep dramatically. -
Cannabichromene (CBC)
Although CBC was discovered over 50 years ago, research on the cannabinoid is still in its infancy. That being said, preliminary research on CBC shows promising potential. A 2011 study, for example, found CBC may contain properties to reduce physical discomfort similar to CBD. CBC also shows to have a positive effect on neural pathway signaling in the brain, could be an effective treatment for some skin conditions. -
Cannabigerol (CBG)
CBG is present in most cannabis strains at significantly low levels (typically below 1%), however it’s a common cannabinoid that’s become the subject of increased attention in recent years. CBGa, the cannabinoid’s acidic form, is the precursor to all the other cannabinoids. CBGa is commonly considered the “Mother of Cannabinoids” as it’s the cannabinoid from which all other cannabinoids stem. Once activated through heat, it becomes CBG. While research is limited, early studies suggest that CBG reduce joint and muscle discomfort, could be an analgesic, antibacterial and neuroprotective properties. CBG is non-intoxicating and does not contain any euphoric effects. -
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
Tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC, is the most widely recognized and researched cannabinoid that exists. THC is the only cannabinoid that is shown to contain intoxicating effects, of which the experience can vary greatly between individuals. The diverse effects are caused by varying THC levels, different cannabis strains and a person’s individual body chemistry. THC contains several potential therapeutic benefits, and medical marijuana is legal in 33 states and Washington DC. There are many medical conditions that qualify for THC use, but the qualifying conditions vary from state to state.
Last Thoughts on The Benefits Of Cannabinoids
While CBD and THC are the most commonly occurring and researched cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, there are several others that are gaining increased attention for their therapeutic potential.
As cannabinoid-based products such as CBD continue to gain widespread acceptance, we’ll undoubtedly see more research that increases our understanding of cannabinoids, and the vast potential cannabis truly contains.