Cannabinoids are chemical compounds produced by hemp. At the time this is being written, 113 cannabinoids have been discovered. Most of us are aware of THC, but you’d better duck because I’m going to hit you with 8 more.
Let’s go over a list of 10 cannabinoids and their effects in this straightforward guide.Â
Why Are Cannabinoids Fascinating?
Hemp cannabinoids work in partnership with your inherent cannabinoid system, and with each other, producing unique effects on your mind and body. You can feel anywhere from sleepy to social to super energized. Moreover, some offer miraculously medicinal synergistic effects.
In fact, they work a lot like your body’s own endocannabinoids. You’ve probably heard of or felt “runner’s high” or other states of natural euphoria? Yep, it’s just your endocannabinoids doing their thing.
The effects of hemp cannabinoids all start as their corresponding “cannabinoid acid” within the plant itself. It’s only through heating these acids that they secrete the desired active cannabinoids. For simplicity’s sake, we’ll cover these and not their corresponding acids.
So, let’s get into it. Here’s a list of 9 recreational and therapeutic cannabinoids at the forefront of science right now. Below this list, we’ll go over each one more in-depth.
- THC (Δ9–tetrahydrocannabinol)
- THC (Δ8–tetrahydrocannabinol)
- THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin)
- CBC (cannabichromene)
- CBD (cannabidiol)
- CBDV (cannabidivarin)
- CBG (cannabigerol)
- CBGV (cannabigerol)
- CBN (cannabinol)
No, they don’t all get you high. But there are a couple besides the familiar THC Δ9 (THC Delta-9) that come very close. Most are prized for their health benefits when taken solo or in combination.
1. THC Delta-9
Ah, the famed THC Delta-9, our first-discovered cannabinoid. Despite having long given credit for the enjoyment of marijuana, it’s sharing the smokey spotlight today.
THC Delta-9 is the most psychoactive cannabinoid and can get you laughing, relaxed, and inspire creative thinking, to name a few. Medical uses include the treatment of the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, HIV/AIDs, sleep apnea, and epilepsy.
2. THC Delta-8
THC Delta-8 is the new exciting cannabinoid compound everyone is talking about, and it has since spread its love all over the universe. It is about half as psychoactive as THC Delta-9 (above) and lasts half as long. It typically doesn’t produce unpleasant effects like paranoia, anxiety, confusion, etc that come with Delta-9 THC. But beware, because the munchies may still hit you full force.
Studies are correlating it with brain-protecting qualities, pain relief, and a decrease in nausea, whether caused by ailments or treatments.
3. THCV
THCV is the compound that is helping those suffering from seizure disorders. It reportedly helps fight neurodegeneration, spasticity, and even PTSD. It also offers some relief from anxiety and panic attacks.
To add to the list of benefits, you can count on THCV to act as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.
4. CBC
CBC is non-psychoactive. Brain healing, plasticity, and regeneration potential are being seen with this one. And, similarly to CBC and CBD, it helps balance out the effects of THC and has anti-inflammatory properties.
5. CBD
Even after its coronation as the “second-most-awesome cannabinoid”, CBD’s popularity continues to grow, warranting 6.4 million Google searches in April of 2019 alone. Still wowing the masses since the 20-teens, expect it to offer you calm relaxation and relief from pain and stress. If you need help sleeping or want better quality sleep, try CBD oil, made into a tincture.
6. CBDV
CBDV studies suggest it greatly reduces seizure severity and frequency. It may also help combat nausea, reduce inflammation, and offers relief for people with mood disorders and/or pain.
7. CBG
CBG is gaining attention but is less prevalent. It’s being looked at for the treatment of glaucoma, Crohn’s disease, IBS, and cancer. It’s non-psychoactive and its corresponding acid only shows up in small amounts within the cannabis plant.
8. CBGV
This cannabinoid is one of many that exist in cannabis as a defense against insects and resistance to diseases. In the human body, CBGV increases the effects of CBG.
Two forms of CBGV were highlighted in a 2019 research study on Leukemia treatments. These studies suggest it decreases pain and acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. This may be great news for people suffering from conditions such as fibromyalgia, for example.
CBGV is unique in that it improves skin quality and helps combat skin-related diseases. If you or someone you know happens to have dry skin, try a cannabinoid salve.
9. CBN
CBN is psychoactive but less so than THC Delta-8 and 9. It’s created slowly when THC is exposed to oxygen. This explains why cannabis loses its THC content and strength over time.
A lot more research is needed on CBN, so its understanding is limited right now. But so far we’re seeing clues it may be effective as a sleep aid and arthritis remedy.
Acronyms Abound in the World of Cannabinoids
Who do you know that could benefit from more comfort, relaxation, and peace of mind? Who could benefit from a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent? Who needs to be cheered up, given more creative potential, and appreciation for music?
Therein lie the reasons to get to know your friendly neighborhood cannabinoids, as they could help you live your most epic life. Between the mental and physical effects lies a synergistic potential beyond our wildest dreams. As science darts ahead, so will the speeding train of available recreational and medical potentials of cannabis.
Check out our product testing results here!
