What Are Cannabinoids?

THC gets a lot of love when it comes to the reputation of the cannabis plant. However, the cannabis sativa plant has over a hundred cannabinoids naturally occurring in it.

As research into cannabinoids deepens, their potential wellness benefits and diverse applications in medicine and recreation are becoming more recognized and understood.

What Are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in the resin glands of hemp and marijuana plants. 

Their main purpose in plants is to protect them from pests, bacteria, and environmental damage, but they’re also intriguingly biologically active in humans and animals. They interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, influencing various psychological processes by interacting with cannabinoid receptors. 

The endocannabinoid system, or ECS, consists of endocannabinoids, CB1 and CB2 receptors, and specific enzymes. These work together to maintain homeostasis for optimal bodily function.

Our endocannabinoids act as neurotransmitters, transmitting signals throughout the peripheral and central nervous systems.

Introducing plant-derived cannabinoids can help boost endocannabinoid levels, enhancing these signaling pathways and supporting overall balance.

Delta-9 THC and CBD are the most prevalent cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, while minor cannabinoids like CBN, CBG, and CBC make up the rest of the plant's cannabinoid profile.

What Are the Different Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids can be categorized into two main types: phytocannabinoids (found in plants) and endocannabinoids (produced by the human body). Here are the two major cannabinoids found in the cannabis sativa plant:

1. THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The most famous cannabinoid, THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects or "high" associated with cannabis. It’s also known for its potential benefits in discomfort relief, healthy appetite, and stress support [1, 2].
2. CBD (Cannabidiol): Non-psychoactive and widely studied for its potential wellness benefits. CBD supports discomfort, sleep, and stress without altering one’s cognitive state [3].

What Are Minor Cannabinoids?

Minor cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds in the cannabis plant that are present in much smaller quantities than the major cannabinoids, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). 

Although less abundant, minor cannabinoids have been undergoing more research for their potential unique wellness benefits. 

Some of the most studied minor cannabinoids include:

1. CBG (Cannabigerol): Often referred to as the "mother of all cannabinoids," CBG is a precursor to other cannabinoids like THC and CBD. It’s being researched for its potential benefits in supporting healthy inflammation, managing discomfort, and supporting neuroprotection.
2. CBN (Cannabinol): CBN is a cannabinoid that forms as THC degrades over time. Unlike THC, it isn’t psychoactive in small and moderate doses. It’s best known for its role in sleep support [4]. However, more clinical research is needed to determine the efficacy of CBN and its effects on human bodies.
3. CBC (Cannabichromene): CBC is non-psychoactive and is of particular interest to researchers because it shows promise to support healthy inflammation and brain health, almost same with CBG. However, this research is still in the early stages. 
4. THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin): THCV is similar in structure to THC but may have different effects, such as appetite suppression, and is being researched for its potential in weight management [5]. While the psychoactive effects of THC may be associated with the munchies, THCV doesn’t seem to have the same reputation and is non-psychoactive in lower doses. 
5. CBDV (Cannabidivarin): CBDV is similar to CBD in structure and effects. Early research suggests it may offer additional benefits in supporting epilepsy and neurodevelopmental conditions [6]. However, most research on CBDV’s potential for these conditions has been conducted in murine models, and human testing is still needed for further research into this cannabinoid’s potential impact. 

While these minor cannabinoids are present in smaller amounts, their combined effects with major cannabinoids (known as the "entourage effect") can contribute to the overall health benefit potential of cannabis. As research continues, these minor cannabinoids may offer new avenues for treating various health conditions.

How Are Synthetic Cannabinoids Different?

Synthetic cannabinoids are lab-made chemicals designed to mimic the effects of naturally occurring cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, such as THC and CBD. However, there are significant differences between synthetic cannabinoids and their natural counterparts.

Synthetic cannabinoids are created in laboratories and often have chemical structures that differ significantly from natural cannabinoids. They’re designed to interact with the same receptors in the brain and body as natural cannabinoids but can do so in more potent and unpredictable ways.

Natural cannabinoids are organic compounds found in the cannabis plant. Their chemical structures are naturally occurring and have been studied for their effects on the human body.

The legality between a synthetic cannabinoid and a natural cannabinoid varies as well. Synthetic cannabinoids are often marketed as "legal highs." However, their legality varies widely because they are synthetic and only sometimes well-regulated. Many synthetic cannabinoids found on the street, called “K2” and “Spice,” are illegal due to their highly risky effects.

The legality of natural cannabinoids like THC and CBD varies depending on the region. In many places, THC is regulated or illegal, while CBD is legal and widely available due to its non-psychoactive nature.

The Future of Cannabinoids in Wellness

As research continues to highlight the advantages of minor cannabinoids, you might come across CBD brands promoting CBN or CBG isolates as the "next big thing." However, there's no solid evidence to suggest that any cannabinoid, including CBD, is most effective when used alone. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve of any cannabinoid to be used to treat or cure any medical condition, so it’s essential to do your research before buying cannabinoid products. 

However, this hasn’t prevented users from implementing cannabinoids into their wellness routine. Between available research and personal testimonies, people are turning to cannabinoids, such as THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, and more, to support relief, stress, and other wellness goals. 

These cannabinoids should be introduced to a multifaceted, comprehensive wellness plan. Discussing your decision to introduce cannabinoids to your routine with a healthcare professional is recommended. 

References: 

1. Überall, Michael A. "A review of scientific evidence for THC: CBD oromucosal spray (nabiximols) in the management of chronic pain." Journal of pain research (2020): 399-410.
2. Stith, S. S., Li, X., Diviant, J. P., Brockelman, F. C., Keeling, K. S., Hall, B., & Vigil, J. M. (2020). The effectiveness of inhaled Cannabis flower for the treatment of agitation/irritability, anxiety, and common stress. Journal of Cannabis Research, 2, 1-14.
3. Cindy, H. J., & Rupasinghe, H. V. (2021). Cannabidiol-based natural health products for companion animals: Recent advances in the management of anxiety, pain, and inflammation. Research in veterinary science, 140, 38-46.
4. Morano, A., Fanella, M., Albini, M., Cifelli, P., Palma, E., Giallonardo, A. T., & Di Bonaventura, C. (2020). Cannabinoids in the treatment of epilepsy: current status and future prospects. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 381-396.
5. Saleska, J. L., Bryant, C., Kolobaric, A., D’Adamo, C. R., Colwell, C. S., Loewy, D., ... & Pauli, E. K. (2024). The safety and comparative effectiveness of non-psychoactive cannabinoid formulations for the improvement of sleep: A double-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Journal of the American Nutrition Association, 43(1), 1-11.
6. Abioye, A., Ayodele, O., Marinkovic, A., Patidar, R., Akinwekomi, A., & Sanyaolu, A. (2020). Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV): a commentary on potential therapeutic benefit for the management of obesity and diabetes. Journal of cannabis research, 2, 1-6.