What Are Cannabinoids? A Beginner's Guide to CBD, THC, CBG, CBN & CBC
The hemp plant is naturally rich in beneficial compounds, including more than 100 cannabinoids. While CBD is the most well-known, it is just one of many naturally occurring cannabinoids that researchers continue to study for their unique interactions with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS).
Understanding the differences between cannabinoids can make it easier to choose a hemp product that aligns with your wellness goals. Whether you're curious about CBD, THC, CBG, CBN, or CBC, this guide explains what they are, how they differ, and what current research says.
In This Guide
- What are cannabinoids?
- What is the endocannabinoid system?
- What is CBD?
- What is THC?
- What is CBN?
- What is CBG?
- What is CBC?
What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in cannabis plants, including hemp. Scientists have identified well over 100 cannabinoids, each with its own chemical structure and unique way of interacting with the body.
These compounds work alongside the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling network that helps support internal balance, also known as homeostasis. The ECS plays a role in regulating many everyday functions, including mood, sleep, memory, appetite, stress response, and immune function.
The ECS consists primarily of naturally produced endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes that help break down these signaling molecules once their job is complete.
The ECS contains two primary receptor types:
- CB1 receptors, found primarily in the brain and central nervous system
- CB2 receptors, found mostly throughout the immune system and peripheral tissues
Unlike THC, many cannabinoids do not bind strongly to these receptors. Instead, they may influence ECS activity indirectly or interact with other signaling pathways throughout the body.
Researchers continue to study how hemp-derived cannabinoids interact with this system. For a deeper dive into the ECS, consider reviewing this study published by the International Journal of Molecular Sciences. While every cannabinoid behaves differently, naturally occurring cannabinoids and terpenes work together in complementary ways. This concept is commonly referred to as the entourage effect.
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is the most abundant cannabinoid found in most hemp varieties and has become the most widely researched non-intoxicating cannabinoid.
Unlike THC, CBD does not produce the euphoric "high" commonly associated with marijuana.
Many people choose CBD as part of their daily wellness routine because it offers a simple way to incorporate hemp into their lifestyle. CBD products are available in a variety of forms, including:
- CBD tinctures
- Capsules
- Gummies
- Topical salves
- Body oils
Research suggests CBD interacts with multiple biological pathways beyond the endocannabinoid system, which may explain its broad range of potential applications. Although interest in CBD has grown significantly over the past decade, scientists are still working to better understand its full range of biological activity.
It's worth noting that CBD was patented by the U.S. government as an antioxidant. On their own, antioxidants have a whole host of very important wellness benefits.
What Is THC?
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the cannabinoid most commonly associated with the intoxicating effects of cannabis.
THC interacts directly with CB1 receptors found primarily in the brain and central nervous system, which is why it can produce feelings of euphoria and altered perception. Ultimately, THC can get you high and is often used recreationally for that purpose. Functionally, THC binds directly to endocannabinod receptors rather than indirectly, which is one of the primary reasons that the interaction is more notable than other cannabiniods.
Hemp and marijuana both belong to the cannabis family, but they differ in their THC content. Under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp is federally defined as cannabis containing no more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight. This allows full-spectrum hemp extracts to naturally contain trace amounts of THC while remaining federally legal, although state laws may vary.
What Is CBN?
Cannabinol (CBN) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that develops as THC is exposed to oxygen, heat, and light over time.
Because of its unique origin, CBN is typically found in smaller amounts than CBD in hemp extracts.
Interest in CBN has increased in recent years, particularly in full-spectrum hemp products designed for evening wellness routines. Researchers continue to investigate how CBN interacts with the endocannabinoid system and how it may work alongside other naturally occurring cannabinoids and terpenes.
Receptra uses added CBN in our Serious Rest CBD Gummies to help promote restfulness.
What Is CBG?
Cannabigerol (CBG) is often called the "mother cannabinoid" because it begins as CBGA, the precursor from which many other cannabinoids, including CBD, THC, and CBC, are naturally formed during plant growth.
Although mature hemp plants typically contain only small amounts of CBG, it has become one of the most exciting areas of cannabinoid research.
Scientists continue studying CBG's unique interaction with the body's endocannabinoid system and other biological pathways. As research evolves, CBG is expected to play an increasingly important role in helping researchers understand the complexity of hemp's naturally occurring compounds.
Anecdotally, CBG has been used to promote calmness and relaxation, which is why it's strategically included in our Seriously Relax CBD Gummies.
What Is CBC?
Cannabichromene (CBC) is another naturally occurring cannabinoid found in hemp, although it generally occurs in much smaller concentrations than CBD.
Like CBD and CBG, CBC is non-intoxicating and has attracted growing scientific interest. Researchers are continuing to study how CBC interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system and how it may contribute to the overall cannabinoid profile of full-spectrum hemp extracts.
Although research on CBC is still in its early stages compared to CBD, scientists continue to explore its unique biological properties and its potential role alongside other naturally occurring cannabinoids.
Why Full-Spectrum Hemp Matters
One of the reasons many people choose full-spectrum hemp extract is because it contains a naturally occurring range of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other beneficial plant compounds.
Rather than isolating a single cannabinoid, full-spectrum hemp preserves much of the plant's original chemical profile. Researchers continue to investigate how these compounds may interact together, an area of study commonly known as the entourage effect.
At Receptra Naturals, we believe nature works best when left as close to its original form as possible. That's why our products are crafted with premium full-spectrum hemp extract, allowing you to experience the naturally occurring compounds found in the hemp plant.
Learn More About Hemp Wellness
As scientists continue to study cannabinoids, our understanding of hemp continues to grow. While every cannabinoid is unique, together they showcase the remarkable complexity of the hemp plant.
Whether you're just beginning your hemp wellness journey or looking to deepen your understanding of CBD and other cannabinoids, learning about these naturally occurring compounds is a great place to start.