We hear a lot about THC and CBD, but medical cannabis actually contains more than 120 cannabinoids. The big two, THC and CBD, are the primary cannabinoids and they’re also the most abundant ones in the plant. All other known cannabinoids are referred to as minor cannabinoids (or “accessory cannabinoids”) and are present in small quantities. And, while much medical research is focussed on THC and CBD, those lesser-known cannabinoids show promise and may play a crucial role in the therapeutic effects of medical cannabis.
It’s interesting to know that primary and minor cannabinoids from the cannabis plant can act like endocannabinoids, which are cannabinoids produced by our own nervous system. We all have a naturally occurring endocannabinoid system that helps maintains balance for almost everything that happens in our bodies. This includes sleep, appetite, digestion, mood, pain, and many other physiological functions.
Selective breeding and new extraction techniques have allowed the development of medical cannabis strains with cannabinoid profiles with higher amounts of specific minor cannabinoids.
WHAT ARE THE MINOR CANNABINOIDS?
Let’s take a look at the most common minor cannabinoids.
CBG (cannabigerol)
CBG is the mother of all cannabinoids—every other cannabinoid is derived from CBG as the plant matures. Unlike THC, CBG is non-psychotropic, which means it doesn’t cause intoxication.
You can find CBG in Spectrum CBG:CBD - Clarity Formulation, an oil that contains isolates of both CBD (20 mg/mL) and CBG (10 mg/mL), as well as more than 15 natural botanical terpenes. This oil pairs well with a dynamic lifestyle and daytime activities.
CBN (cannabinol)
CBN is created when THC is exposed to light and air. This is why you’ll find greater amounts of CBN in aged cannabis. Because CBN binds to the CB1 receptor (just like THC does), it can be intoxicating.
To add some CBN to your life, Spectrum CBN:CBD - Unwind Formulation is an oil containing isolate of CBN (10 mg/mL), as well as CBD (20 mg/mL) and more than 25 botanical terpenes. This oil is a perfect companion for unwinding. Spectrum CBN:CBD:THC - Nighttime Formulation contains CBN (10 mg/mL), as well as THC, CBD, and more than nine hand-selected botanical terpenes. It is designed to harmonize with your nighttime routine. CBN is also found in a gummy format, like Wana Quick Midnight Berry gummies.
THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin)
While less known and considered a rare cannabinoid, products containing THCV are now available, such as Vert Skinny Krypt. Unlike THC, THCV is non-intoxicating.
CBC (cannabichromene)
CBC is the third most common cannabinoid and also lacks intoxicating effects. This minor cannabinoid can work alongside other cannabinoids to increase their impact, something known as the entourage effect.
WE’RE STILL LEARNING
Interest in minor cannabinoids is growing among patients and healthcare professionals. While these phytocannabinoids show promise for treating a variety of health conditions, this is a growing area of medical research. Speak with your healthcare professional to learn more about how minor cannabinoids may fit with your medical care. If you’re wanting to find medical cannabis advice from a trusted healthcare professional, please visit https://shop.spectrumtherapeutics.com/pages/find-a-physician