Beginner’s Guide to Cannabinoids

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) are the two most well-known compounds in cannabis. But cannabis has so much more to offer than just THC and CBD cannabinoids. In fact, there are dozens of lesser-known, naturally occurring compounds in the cannabis plant, all of which have their own unique properties and medical benefits.

Other Cannabinoids Found in Marijuana

CBC

Cannabichromene (CBC) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid with antibacterial effects that can kill or slow bacterial growth, reduce inflammation, slow the growth of tumor/cancer cells, and promote bone development.

CBDV

Cannabidivarin (CBDV) is non-intoxicating and most commonly found in indica strains, specifically landrace indica strains, and strains that are naturally low in THC. Like CBD, CBDV is said to significantly decrease the frequency and severity of seizures, and has also proven to reduce nausea and general inflammation throughout the body. Additionally, CBDV may be beneficial in treating pain and mood disorders.

CBGV

This cannabinoid, cannabigerivarin (CBGV), is non-psychoactive and is said to assist the body in absorbing the medicinal benefits of the cannabis compounds CBD and THC. CBGV may also provide the cannabis plant with defense against insects and helps plants resist diseases.

CBG

The non-psychoactive cannabigerol (CBG), while still in physiological testing stages, is positively affecting medical issues such as glaucoma (reduces intraocular pressure), inflammatory bowel disease (decreases inflammation), Huntington’s disease (protects neurons against degeneration), colon cancer (slows cancer growth), cachexia (stimulates appetite), and more.

THCV

Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is psychoactive and is said to be a successful appetite suppressant (helpful for fighting obesity and conditions associated with obesity). It also appears that THCV is effective in helping curb anxiety attacks in PTSD patients without suppressing emotion, and may even be an option for regulating blood sugar levels and reducing insulin resistance in patients with diabetes.

And that’s not even all of them! So far, researchers have determined that there are dozens upon dozens of these unique compounds in a single marijuana plant. They’ve identified at least 113 known cannabinoids and they all play a role in helping increase the quality of life for medical marijuana patients.

Have more questions about cannabinoids? Take a quick trip to one of our four Swell locations and chat with a budtender or contact us today!