Lesser-Known Cannabinoids

Most people know about the famous cannabinoids like delta-9-THC and CBD; however, there are many other cannabinoids present in the cannabis plants that people might not know about. And they, too, have therapeutic benefits.

Delta-8-THC

This lesser-known cousin to delta-9-THC has far weaker psychotropic properties but has amazing anti-nausea and appetite stimulation benefits. Delta-8-THC also connects with both CB1 and CB2 receptors, which most cannabinoids do not do. It boosts levels of acetylcholine in the brain, which is promising for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and myesthenia gravis, which are thought to be connected with acetylcholine deficiencies. Very few companies are currently isolating it for retail sale, but Oleum Extracts out of Washington State sells a distillate cartridge with mostly delta-8.

THC-V

Tetrahydrocannabivarin, or THC-V, is one of the most common cannabinoids in cannabis, yet is only just entering the spotlight. Some preliminary studies show THC-V having a biphasic effect — in low doses, it can reduce the psychoactive effect of THC, but in high doses it causes a psychoactive effect. It is thought that THC-V is what gives sativa strains their energizing feeling and quick mental effect. One of the biggest reasons to be excited about THC-V is its potential use with diabetes. Preliminary studies show that a combination of CBD and THC-V improved fasting insulin

levels, reduced blood glucose levels, improved insulin response, reduced blood pressure and reduced inflammation markers.

CBC

Cannabichromene, or CBC, is found in cannabis plants grown in tropical climates. This compound has been found to be therapeutic for bone growth, bacteria growth prevention, inflammation reduction and pain relief. These properties would make CBC an excellent choice for patients with conditions like osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Being used preventatively could possibly reduce the number of surgeries that a patient would have to undergo, and could also make the post-surgical recovery period much faster and more comfortable.

CBN

Cannabinol, or CBN, is a non-psychoactive component in cannabis. It is commonly found in aged flower, and is thought to be a by-product of THCa when exposed to temperature and time. CBN is the compound in cannabis that is found to be most sedating, which is probably why the flower you found stashed away from last year has more of a couch-lock effect! CBN is also thought to help with pain and muscle spasms.