What You Should Know About Cannabinoids CBG, CBN and CBC
CBD is one of the most talked-about compounds in holistic wellness spheres. But the hemp plant offers dozens of cannabinoids – naturally occurring chemical compounds with a range of therapeutic effects – beyond CBD. What other cannabinoids deserve a little bit of the spotlight too?
Benefits of Broad Spectrum
Broad-spectrum CBD refers to hemp oil extracted with CBD in addition to several other cannabinoids and terpenes. In contrast, full-spectrum oil refers to oil extracted from cannabis plants that includes THC, and CBD isolate is exactly what it sounds like – CBD extracted alone. You can think of full-spectrum oil on one end of an extraction scale and isolate on the other; broad-spectrum CBD falls in the middle. All variations come with their own benefits and understanding the difference may impact what type you decide to consume. If you’ve read our blog about terpenes (other naturally occurring compounds found across the plant world), you might remember Dr. Ethan Russo’s ground-breaking study “Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects.” Originally published in 2011, the study altered the way we view and use hemp and revealed abundant opportunities for people looking to enhance their wellness regimens. As Russo’s study theorizes, when cannabinoids work in conjunction with each other rather than independently, something called the entourage effect occurs. These synergies, according to Russo, could provide the human body with overlapping benefits – leading many to believe that broad-spectrum hemp could be much more effective in helping us find relief and balance. There are several cannabinoids that don’t get the same attention as CBD or THC. Here are a few non-intoxicating cannabinoids that deserve some recognition.Cannabigerol (CBG)
- Generally found in low concentrations (less than 1%)
- In animal experiments, CBG has shown anti-inflammatory properties
- In 2015, a study revealed CBG’s potential neuroprotective benefits
- Studies demonstrate effective antibacterial benefits
Cannabinol (CBN)
- Studies have shown CBN’s ability to combat bacteria
- Like CBG, CBN may have potent neuroprotective applications
- CBN may serve as an appetite stimulant, as shown in animal studies
- In one rodent study, CBN demonstrated anti-inflammatory benefits
Cannabichromene (CBC)
- A study on mice showed CBC’s ability to reduce tumor growth and inflammation
- CBC has shown promising potential for pain relief
- In 2013, a study found CBC supported brain cell health