List of Important Cannabinoids and What They Do

There are over 100 cannabinoids in the hemp plant. That is a whole lot of cannabinoids and it can get confusing.

Here is a comprehensive list of important cannabinoids and what they do. We hope this list helps you find the right natural benefits to optimize your wellness.

List of Important Cannabinoids and what they do:

• - CBD

• - THC

• - CBN

• - CBG

• - CBC

What are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are a group of natural chemical compounds that interact with cannabinoid receptors throughout the body’s natural endocannabinoid system (ECS). These compounds are what give cannabis plants distinctive health benefits.

The purpose of the ECS is to stabilize the internal balance of the body according to the signals received by the brain. Neurons are highly specialized cells in the brain and they communicate through the release of neurotransmitters. Once an imbalance is detected, the body naturally synthesizes endocannabinoids to interact with necessary receptors depending on the issue. This communication stimulates a chemical response with the purpose of restoring homeostasis.

Different cannabinoids, like those that are derived from cannabis, interact with these receptors in different ways to assist with various imbalances. Research shows that cannabinoids are primarily team players and are most effective when used together. This concept is called the “entourage effect.”

What is CBD?

CBD is the abbreviated term for cannabidiol. This cannabinoid has become popular in recent years due to research and data supporting its beneficial properties. CBD is known to help with sleep, stress and physical pain as well as a plethora of associated concerns.

Most hemp plants are naturally rich in CBD, which can be used a number of ways including internally through CBD tincture, capsules, edibles and topically in CBD creams, salves and body oils. CBD does have a positive effect on producing a sense of calmness, but is not generally considered psychoactive because it does not product a negative or inebriating high.

What is THC?

THC is stereotypically known for producing a psychoactive high. These stereotypes also include bloodshot eyes, Cheeto and pizza consumption, forgetfullness and frequent use of the words “duuuude” and “hey maaan.” Though THC affects everyone differently, it is consistently used in the holistic medical world to help with things like chronic pain, nausea and sleep issues.

THC is the dominant cannabinoids for most marijuana plants, but is found only in very small quantities in most hemp plants. Most hemp plants can legally contain no more than 0.3% THC.

What is CBN?

CBN is a byproduct of the action of existing cannabinoids such as CBG and THC exposed to light and heat. In technical terms, CBN is a product of oxidation or degradation.

Research has consistently shown CBN to be most effective when combined with other cannabinoids in full spectrum hemp extract. The recent re-surface of CBN as a player in the world of natural health has been very encouraging for those searching for sedative effects without intoxication and may also help in pain reduction.

CBN appears to influence the activity of neurons that are sensitive to capsaicin, which is found in chili peppers, and an ingredient added to many topical pain relievers. These capsaicin-sensitive nerves are important to the body’s pain signaling and perception. Ease of discomfort may be an additional factor that contributes to getting a better night’s rest.

What is CBG?

Early studies on CBG have found potential neuroprotectant properties. CBG, also called cannabigerol, is typically found in only trace amounts in cannabis. Receptra Naturals full spectrum CBD products typically contain small amounts of CBG.

Researchers consider CBG to be the precursor to CBC, THC, and CBD and are often referred to as the plant’s stem cell. According to specialists, CBGA, the inactive, acidic form of CBG changes and breaks down to become the base molecule other cannabinoids found in cannabis form, including CBC, THC, and CBD

CBG has been shown to act as a buffer to the psychoactive feelings that come from THC use. It has been shown to help with feelings of paranoia that can come from using THC in high doses.

What is CBC?

CBC, or cannabichromene, is a cannabinoid that's often over shadowed by CBD and THC, though it is a relatively well-researched compound. One unique benefit is its ability to promote growth and development of nervous tissue in the brain, which is a concept called “neurogenesis.”

CBC is the second most commonly found compound found in cannabis after THC and CBD, depending on the strain. Like CBD, it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.