If you’ve ever looked at a cannabis label, you’ve probably seen THC and CBD. But cannabis contains many other naturally occurring compounds called cannabinoids, including CBG, CBN, CBC and THCV.
So what exactly are cannabinoids, and what makes each one different?
At Wychwood Cannabis on St. clair in Toronto, we know cannabis labels can sometimes feel like alphabet soup. Here’s a simple breakdown.
What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant. They interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is involved in regulating processes such as mood, appetite, sleep and pain perception.
THC and CBD are the best-known cannabinoids, but researchers have identified many others in cannabis.
And while you’ll often hear specific effects associated with different cannabinoids, cannabis can affect everyone differently. The amount consumed, product type, terpene profile and other compounds in the plant can all influence the experience.
THC — Tetrahydrocannabinol
THC is the cannabinoid most commonly associated with the intoxicating or “high” effects of cannabis.
Depending on the product and amount consumed, THC may be associated with changes in mood, perception, appetite and relaxation.
You’ll see THC percentages or amounts displayed on legal cannabis packaging, making it one of the easiest cannabinoids to compare between products.
Known for: Intoxicating effects and altered perception.
CBD — Cannabidiol
CBD is another major cannabinoid, but unlike THC, it isn’t generally considered intoxicating.
CBD products have become popular among people looking for cannabis options without the traditional THC high. Cannabis products may contain CBD alone or various ratios of CBD and THC.
Known for: Non-intoxicating cannabis products and THC/CBD balanced products.
CBG — Cannabigerol
CBG, or cannabigerol, is found in smaller quantities in most cannabis plants.
It’s sometimes called the “mother cannabinoid” because its acidic precursor, CBGA, can be converted by the plant into precursors of cannabinoids including THC, CBD and CBC.
CBG is becoming increasingly common in oils, beverages, edibles and other cannabis products.
Known for: Being a minor cannabinoid receiving growing attention in cannabis products and research.
CBN — Cannabinol
CBN, or cannabinol, can form as THC ages and oxidizes.
You may have seen CBN products marketed particularly for nighttime use. However, research into CBN and sleep is still developing, so marketing claims shouldn’t be confused with established clinical evidence.
Known for: Appearing frequently in products marketed for evening or nighttime use.
CBC — Cannabichromene
CBC, or cannabichromene, is another non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in cannabis.
It’s much less familiar to most consumers than THC or CBD, but researchers continue to investigate its properties and how it interacts with other components of cannabis.
Known for: A lesser-known, non-intoxicating cannabinoid that is still being studied.
THCV — Tetrahydrocannabivarin
THCV has a similar name to THC, but it isn’t simply another version of THC.
Its effects can vary depending on dose and other factors, and research into THCV is still relatively limited. You’ll increasingly see it highlighted on certain cannabis products as interest in minor cannabinoids grows.
Known for: A less common cannabinoid with effects and potential uses that are still being researched.
THC vs. CBD vs. Minor Cannabinoids
THC and CBD still dominate most cannabis products, but they’re only part of the picture.
CBG, CBN, CBC and THCV give consumers even more information to consider when looking at a product’s cannabinoid profile. At the same time, a cannabinoid percentage alone doesn’t tell you exactly how a product will make you feel.
Terpenes, dosage, consumption method and your individual response to cannabis matter too.
The Bottom Line
Cannabis is more complex than simply choosing Indica, Sativa or Hybrid.
Understanding cannabinoids such as THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, CBC and THCV can help you better understand what’s actually inside the products you’re considering.
If you’re unsure what all those letters on a cannabis label mean, stop by Wychwood Cannabis in Toronto and ask us. We’re always happy to help you understand the product information so you can make an informed choice.
For adults of legal age. Cannabis affects everyone differently. Start low and go slow, and always follow the directions on the product label.