You’re no doubt familiar with the well-known players in full spectrum CBD oil — CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), but there are an array of lesser-known cannabinoids quietly working their magic within the hemp plant.
While CBD and THC have rightfully garnered attention for their remarkable properties, there is a whole world of other cannabinoids that are deserving of exploration. In fact, scientists have discovered more than 120 cannabinoids so far.
These hidden heroes, such as cannabidiolic acid (CBDa), cannabigerol (CBG), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), and many more, hold the potential to unlock new dimensions of wellness, bringing us closer to the full spectrum of hemp oil benefits.
Continue reading to venture into the uncharted territory of 6 lesser-known cannabinoids. Discover their origins, unravel their potential benefits, and unlock a new realm of possibilities for natural wellness.
6 Lesser-Known Cannabinoids
1. Cannabidiolic acid (CBDa)
CBDa exists in abundance in fiber and seed-oil hemp plants. While its neutral derivative, cannabidiol (CBD), has received much scientific attention and widespread recognition, CBDa has been relatively overlooked until recent years. However, emerging research is shedding light on the incredible potential of this cannabinoid and highlighting its unique properties.
In its raw form, hemp plants primarily contain CBDa rather than CBD. Through a process called decarboxylation, which involves heating or aging the plant material, CBDa converts into CBD. This transformation occurs when hemp is exposed to heat or light during extraction or consumption.
Traditionally, CBDa was considered an inactive precursor to CBD. However, scientists are now beginning to recognize that CBDa possesses its own therapeutic properties and potential health benefits. They believe it interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) distinctively from CBD.
Research suggests that CBDa may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. It may also help with anxiety, pain, and seizures. CBDa's unique effects on serotonin receptors and enzymes involved in inflammation modulation contribute to its potential therapeutic applications.
Furthermore, researchers have found that CBDa can reduce nausea and vomiting, and in some applications, CBDa doses of 1000 times less than CBD can have the same effect.
2. Cannabigerol (CBG)
CBG is the precursor or mother to other cannabinoids. During the early stages of the hemp plant’s growth, CBG is present in higher concentrations. As the plant matures, it undergoes enzymatic processes that convert CBG into other cannabinoids. This characteristic makes CBG a rare and valuable compound to extract in substantial quantities.
Research on CBG is still in its early stages, but preliminary studies suggest various potential health benefits. CBG has shown promise in its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential candidate for managing inflammation-related conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease and arthritis.
CBG also exhibits neuroprotective properties, which may support brain health and potentially help with conditions such as Huntington's disease and neurodegenerative disorders.
In addition to its interaction with the ECS, CBG may have unique mechanisms of action independent of cannabinoid receptors. For example, it can influence serotonin receptors, which play a vital role in mood and mental health.
The versatility of CBG extends beyond its potential therapeutic effects. CBG also acts as an antagonist to the effects of THC, meaning it may counteract some of the intoxicating properties.
3. Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)
THCV is structurally similar to its more well-known counterpart THC but has a slightly different arrangement of atoms, resulting in different effects on the body.
One of the remarkable characteristics of THCV is its potential as an appetite suppressant. Unlike THC, which is commonly associated with stimulating appetite, THCV has been found to have the opposite effect.
Research suggests that THCV may act as a regulator of energy balance and could benefit those aiming to manage weight, control food intake, or improve glycemic control and insulin sensitivity.
Furthermore, THCV, like CBG, has shown the potential to modulate the effects of THC. In low doses, THCV may act as an antagonist to the intoxicating properties of THC, potentially making it a therapeutic option for people seeking the benefits of cannabis without the strong psychoactive effects.
4. Cannabichromene (CBC)
Like other cannabinoids, CBC interacts with the ECS but does not directly bind to cannabinoid receptors. Instead, it interacts indirectly by influencing other receptors and enzymes. This distinct interaction sets CBC apart and contributes to its potential effects on the body.
One area of interest surrounding CBC is its potential in cancer medicine. In rodent studies, scientists have observed CBC activating the cell death (apoptosis) of tumor cells, which could limit the spread and proliferation of cancer. When combined with THC and CBD, it appears more effective than by itself, once again highlighting the interconnectedness of the active molecules in full spectrum CBD oil.
CBC has also shown potential in supporting brain health. Animal research suggests that CBC may promote neurogenesis, the growth and development of new brain cells. This property could have implications for neurodegenerative diseases and mood disorders. Furthermore, CBC's interaction with specific receptors involved in pain perception suggests its potential as an analgesic or pain-relieving compound.
5. Cannabinol (CBN)
CBN is found in relatively low concentrations in hemp plants, forming as THC naturally degrades over time or when exposed to air or heat.
CBN has gained recognition for its potential value in treating eye conditions. It could help with glaucoma, a severe condition that causes high pressure in the eye, leading to vision loss and blindness as it damages the optic nerve in the back of the eye. Lowering the pressure inside the eyeball is a mainstay in glaucoma treatment.
Scientists have discovered that using a topical formula containing CBN can positively impact retinal cells. When these cells were exposed to harmful high pressure, it resulted in a higher survival rate than CBD or THC. In other words, CBN performed better than CBD and THC in protecting the retinal cells under pressure.
Additionally, CBN has shown neuroprotective abilities, meaning it can help protect cells and structures within the nervous system. It can significantly reduce or even prevent natural cell death and, as such, may support the health of the nervous system by safeguarding its cells from damage or degeneration.
6. Cannabichromevarin (CBCV)
CBCV shares similarities with its counterpart, CBC, but CBCV also possesses unique properties that make it intriguing.
CBCV is structurally similar to CBC but with a slight variation in its chemical structure. This variation gives CBCV its distinct characteristics and potential effects on the ECS.
Although limited research has been conducted on CBCV specifically, it’s believed to interact with the ECS like other cannabinoids. However, while CBD and THC interact with both CB1 and CB2 receptors, CBCV appears to have a stronger affinity for the CB2 receptors of the immune system and peripheral tissues. As a result, it may offer unique benefits for inflammation, immune response, and even pain relief.
Early studies suggest that CBCV may reduce inflammation and inhibit the production of certain inflammatory molecules. It could, therefore, help manage inflammation-related conditions, such as asthma or heart disease.
However, further research is needed to understand its mechanisms and effectiveness in these applications fully. Continued studies may provide a deeper understanding of CBCV's mechanisms of action, potential health benefits, and its role within the complex network of cannabinoids in hemp.
Reap the benefits of multiple cannabinoids by choosing full spectrum CBD oil
When reaping the maximum benefits from CBD oil, choosing a full spectrum formulation is of utmost importance. Full spectrum CBD oil contains a wide range of cannabinoids, including CBD, THC, and others, such as CBDa, CBG, and THCV. These precious substances work together in harmony to produce what’s known as the entourage effect
The entourage effect refers to the synergistic interaction between various cannabinoids, terpenes, which are responsible for the plant's delightful aromas, and other plant compounds of full spectrum CBD oil. This collective effect amplifies the therapeutic potential and enhances the product's overall efficacy.
By opting for full spectrum CBD oil rather than broad-spectrum or isolate, you’ll not only benefit from CBD but also harness the power of other cannabinoids that contribute to the entourage effect. Each cannabinoid brings its unique properties and potential health benefits to the table, creating a comprehensive and holistic approach to well-being.
Choosing a high-quality, full spectrum CBD oil like Nesas Hemp allows you to tap into the full potential of the incredible hemp plant and its complex chemistry. Nesas Hemp's full spectrum CBD oil is carefully crafted from organically grown hemp plants, providing the fullest complement of hemp compounds on the market today.
So whether it's the anti-inflammatory properties of CBG, the potential neuroprotective effects of CBN, or the appetite-suppressing qualities of THCV, each cannabinoid contributes its unique strengths to the entourage effect. And with Nesas Hemp's dedication to preserving the hemp plant's natural integrity, you’re guaranteed a well-rounded, comprehensive experience that’s the best of nature's synergy.
