As more people seek natural, safer alternatives to pharmaceutical drugs, rare cannabinoids are poised for a boom. They offer targeted wellness effects that appeal to consumers.
Like CBD, rare cannabinoids have wide-ranging therapeutic applications. Unlike CBD, however, research on these minor cannabinoids tends to focus on specific, targeted health and wellness benefits.
CBN
Although it hasn’t gained much popularity like THC and CBD in any rare cannabinoid company, CBN is an integral part of a cannabis plant that should not be overlooked. It is a soothing cannabinoid that binds to the CB2 receptor to promote sleep and relax muscles. It also has pain-relieving and appetite-stimulating properties. CBN can also help boost the effects of other phytocannabinoids, primarily THC and terpene myrcene, creating synergistic effects that increase results. This is known as the entourage effect, and it contributes to the positive results that many experiences when using full-spectrum cannabis or hemp products.
Another benefit of CBN is its anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis. It has been shown to down-regulate T-cell immune responses, which can be a significant factor in chronic inflammation. CBN can also be an effective skeletal regenerator, helping to decrease bone loss and increase bone growth. It has been found to activate stem cells, producing new bones and tissue.
CBG
CBG (or CBC-GABA) is a cannabinoid that works behind the scenes to reduce chronic stress and inflammation. It has the potential to act as an agonist at alpha-2 receptors in the nervous system, lowering blood pressure and stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, as well as stimulating appetite.
Like THC, CBG can boost brain GABA levels and promote relaxation. Studies have shown it helps treat bladder issues and glaucoma by improving fluid drainage and relieving pain. It is also a potent cancer inhibitor, limiting the growth of tumors.
Research into the benefits of CBG is still in its early stages, but it’s a valuable cannabinoid with a unique profile and a promising future. As a result, it is a critical component in new therapeutic approaches to cannabis. CBG can be produced from a variety of plants, including hemp. It can be made by direct synthesis or from its precursor, CBGA.
CBC
While THC, CBD, and CBG are all well-known cannabinoids with therapeutic applications, lesser-known compounds like CBC also hold promise. The non-psychoactive cannabinoid cannabichromene is a vital chemical component of the cannabis plant and appears to have powerful anti-inflammatory effects. CBC was found to reduce inflammation associated with arthritis, and it can act as a pain reliever without the side effects of NSAIDs.
CBC has also been shown to inhibit tumor growth, and researchers believe it may be able to fight cancer by acting in conjunction with the body’s natural endocannabinoid, anandamide. CBC has been shown to prevent the uptake of anandamide, which allows it to remain in the bloodstream longer and potentially reduce the risk of cellular death.
Like THC, CBD, and CBG, CBC is a byproduct of cannabigerol acid (CBGA) breakdown in the cannabis plant. Specific plant enzymes “direct” CBGA to break down into one of the three cannabinoids. CBC converts from CBCA to CBC when exposed to heat and UV light.
THCV
THCV is a rare cannabinoid that most cannabis consumers only encounter in small quantities. Its intoxicating effects are highly dose-dependent, with low doses not inducing any noticeable psychoactive effects and high doses anecdotally described as providing a clear-headed, energetic buzz. THCV is also known to suppress appetite.
Research has uncovered some potential therapeutic applications for this phytocannabinoid. A study published in 2020 found that THCV improves insulin sensitivity and reduces obesity in diet-induced diabetic mice models. It has also been shown to inhibit nitrite production by inflammatory cells, which can reduce inflammatory symptoms.
Unlike THC, which has been shown to stimulate appetite, THCV blocks the CB1 receptor and suppresses hunger. This could make it helpful in treating eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa. It is also believed to be neuroprotective, making it a good candidate for treating multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s.
Also, Read: Why “Mail Order Marijuana” Is In The News In 2023?
