Minor Cannabinoids: What They Are and Why They Matter

You’re not the only person who’s ever wondered, What is a cannabinoid? 

Cannabinoids are more familiar than you may realize. By now, you’ve heard of THC and CBD, and have probably tried these compounds too! For hundreds of years, people have used cannabis plants to promote their relaxation and other health benefits.

We know that THC and CBD help with appetite, pain control, and epileptic seizures. But, what are the therapeutic benefits of the minor cannabinoids compounds?

Now, scientists are breaking down the different types of cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. We are learning more about the types of minor cannabinoids that exist. These chemical compounds all have various properties that provide different kinds of benefits when you use them. The types of cannabinoids present in a cannabis product can depend on the extraction process and the ingredients used. This solventless vs solvent-free article has more information on that.

So, what are cannabinoids and how do they work in our bodies?

What are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are found in the cannabis plant, both hemp and marijuana. They are chemical compounds that act like the compounds found in our endocannabinoid system. This system is very important.

It supports our memory, mood, pain levels, and appetite. The endocannabinoid system has cannabinoid receptors called CB1 and CB2.

When we ingest cannabis by eating, smoking, or topical application, the plant’s cannabinoids attach to our body’s receptors. We then feel the effects of the chemical.

Major cannabinoids are compounds that exist in large quantities, such as THC and CBD. Producers of cannabis have cultivated plants with large amounts of these types of cannabinoids. While THC and CBD are the dominant cannabinoid types, there are other lesser-known minor cannabinoids that offer non-intoxicating benefits.

What are the Minor Cannabinoids?

Minor cannabinoids are the chemical compounds found in cannabis. Growers haven’t bred strains for these properties. Different chemical compounds are found in different strains of the plant.

Since THC is the compound that creates the ‘high’ of marijuana, it became the most dominant, or major, cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. And, with at least eight million people in the UK using CBD, producers have cultivated cannabis plants with large levels of this compound as well.

With over 120 different compounds discovered so far, we are finding out more about the minor cannabinoids. Most cannabinoid types are found in minuscule quantities in the cannabis plant. Cannabis growers produce hemp and marijuana for very different reasons.

The chemical makeup of a marijuana plant and a hemp plant are different because of their breeding. Some minor compounds are found in some strains more than others.

Here is a list of the most exciting minor cannabinoids scientists are researching:

CBG Minor Cannabinoid

CBG, or cannabigerol, is known as the “mother of cannabinoids.” It is the first cannabinoid produced early in the growth cycle of the cannabis plant. This compound is often used together with CBD, although using it alone will produce similar effects.

The body’s endocannabinoid system processes CBG by binding it to both CB1 and CB2 receptors. CBG enhances the function of the neurotransmitter anandamide by increasing motivation, pleasure, and relieving pain. Studies show CBG reduces the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Glaucoma, and Huntington’s Disease.

CBC Minor Cannabinoid

CBC, or cannabichromene, is a rare compound from the cannabis plant. It is found in small concentrations.

This compound shows strong antimicrobial and antiviral effects. Evidence shows it may be helpful in stopping migraine headaches. Research also shows it may slow the growth of cancerous tumors.

CBC is mostly researched for its pain-killing properties. It works with the body’s TRPVI receptors. These receptors maintain inflammatory pain within the body.

CBT Minor Cannabinoid

Cannabicitran, or CBT, is a bit of a mysterious compound. Researchers know there are nine known types of CBT and it isn’t always present in the cannabis plant. When it is there, the levels are low.

Although few studies on CBT research are published, we do know its benefits exist when used with CBD. CBT is non-psychoactive so it doesn’t give the ‘high’ feeling like THC. CBT is actually known to weaken the effects of THC, reducing addictive qualities.

CBN Minor Cannabinoid

CBN, or cannabinol, forms when the cannabis plant blooms flowers. It is a by-product of THC. It is created by exposing it to light or heat. This occurs naturally by aging or not storing cannabis buds properly.

CBN does not create a psychoactive feeling like THC. Although, when combined with THC it produces a more sedated high. While limited research exists due to a lack of studies, CBN can benefit sleep.  Some scientific studies also show that CBN may increase appetites.

Benefits of Minor Cannabinoids

Combining the minor and major cannabinoid compounds creates the entourage effect. The entourage effect argues compounds in cannabis are best taken together. The chemicals have the most benefits when working together instead of taking just one.

A high-quality non THC distillate provides all these benefits.The entourage effect argues that whole-plant medicine is more effective.

Studies show that major cannabinoids taken alone are less effective than taking a whole-plant extract.Epilepsy symptoms were reduced with a 20% smaller dose of a mix of CBD and minor cannabinoids. This is compared to just CBD on its own.

These types of cannabinoids show great potential for the wellness industry. There is a huge market for using them in skincare and beauty treatments. A product that can promote relaxation, be anti-inflammatory and antioxidant  is highly desired.

The average consumer doesn’t know that there is more to cannabis than just THC and CBD. Yet, these minor compounds have the potential to really shake up the cannabis industry.

Scientists will devote further research on these chemicals. Soon more companies will embrace the benefits of minor cannabinoids.

Cannabinoids: The Next Supplement

The demand for minor cannabinoids will increase as more people experience the benefits of the cannabis plant and what it can do for their life. We can combine minor cannabinoids to enhance the benefits nature provides us. Adding minor cannabinoids to your CBD will enhance the benefits of its use.

Now you know everything about adding minor cannabinoids to your life and supplement routine!

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