CBD & Friends: Which Cannabinoid Is Right For You?

Whether you're a complete newcomer to the world of cannabinoids or you're a seasoned veteran that's been in the game for decades, occasionally it may feel like there is always a new abbreviation hitting the market, promising new benefits that you need to get your hands on. The truth is these compounds, known as cannabinoids, have always been present in the plant that we all know and love. Actually, there are hundreds of them! Often they are very similar but all of them carry their own unique benefits and synergies with each other.

In this article, we'll cover the cannabinoids that are the most well studied and researched; CBD, CBDA, CBN, CBG, CBV, and CBDV explaining their uses and differences to help you understand which ones are (or are not) for you and your needs.

What Are Cannabinoids

All of us have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that is built to utilize different cannabinoid compounds. The ECS is a complex system across our brains and bodies that is responsible for a multitude of complex bodily functions, from hunger to memory to fine motor skills. Cannabinoids from cannabis and hemp plants slot perfectly into this system providing the effects we feel.

Currently there are around 110 known cannabinoids, and more are likely to be found over time. First discovered in the 1950s by Israeli chemist and professor, Raphael Mechoulam, these compounds are what give hemp and cannabis the therapeutic and medicinal effects that they are known for. Each compound has unique properties and works compatibly with each other to help the body process more cannabinoids more efficiently. This is what is referred to as the "Entourage Effect"; meaning a wide range of cannabinoids is generally more potent and efficient than an isolated compound.

CBD

CBD is short for cannabidiol, the second most common cannabinoid in cannabis and hemp plants. Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive, meaning there are no intoxicating effects, or "high", making it more practical to use much more often. CBD is a very versatile compound, able to be infused into multiple forms of topicals, edibles, and oils to fit a variety of needs and lifestyles. CBD is the most well-researched cannabinoid to date and its known uses and benefits are constantly evolving and growing.

Studies have shown that CBD is very effective at helping the management of:

• Physical Discomfort
• Chronic Acute Pain
• Inflammation
• Anxiety and Stress
• Nausea
• Seizures and Convulsions
• Skin Conditions (Acne, Eczema, Rash)

CBDA

Most people are already familiar with CBD and its uses, but did you know that hemp plants produce very little CBD? Most plants grow producing CBDA, or cannabidiolic acid. When exposed to enough heat, the cannabinoid is activated, removing the acid and leaving the CBD that we are familiar with. CBD and CBDA are very similar compounds on a chemical level, but much less is known about the effects and benefits of CBDA. So far CBDA shows promise of being potentially effective at treating inflammation and nausea. Some recent studies have even tested CBDA as a possible treatment for certain forms of cancer.

CBN

CBN is an abbreviation for cannabinol. CBN is a natural byproduct of THC, forming when THC is exposed to oxygen or when cannabis or hemp plants begin to age. Despite being a product of THC, CBN is much less psychoactive.

CBN isn't quite as versatile as some of its other cannabinoid contemporaries, but instead of being a jack of all trades, it is very effective at what it is good for. Studies have been shown to be a very powerful sedative that can prolong sleep times. This effect seems to be enhanced when paired with THC.

Additional research has began to explore the possibility of CBN having painkilling, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and anticonvulsant properties. However, supplements for these uses aren't yet widely available.

CBG

CBG is short for cannabigerol and is a non-psychoactive compound that has several therapeutic benefits. CBG is a precursor to CBD and THC, converting into these cannabinoids when exposed to light and heat. CBG can accelerate the absorption of other cannabinoids, making it an important piece in the entourage effect.

Most strains of cannabis contain less than 1% of CBG, but this cannabinoid can be a very powerful tool when concentrated and used properly. CBG can naturally increase dopamine levels, supporting sleep, mood, and appetite. CBG can also stimulate GABA uptake in the brain, while also inhibiting serotonin receptors which may reduce anxiety and symptoms of depression. CBG has also shown promise of being effective treatments for glaucoma, MRSA, and even preventing the growth of some cancer cells.

CBG has powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that, alongside with it's non-psychoactive nature, make it a very promising cannabinoid for a wide range of medical uses!

CBC

CBC translates to cannabichromene, and despite being discovered over 50 years ago, research for this cannabinoid is still in the early phases. Similar to other CBD compounds, CBC is not intoxicating and studies have shown it holds the potential of several applications.

CBC binds effectively into certain receptors that other cannabinoids don't fit into as well. The receptors that CBC tends to bind to gives it the potential to alleviate pain in a similar way as a traditional painkiller, without the risk of side effects or harmful interactions. Combined with the anti-inflammatory properties of CBC and many other cannabinoids, CBC has shown to be particularly effective at treating pain for conditions lie osteoarthritis. More studies are necessary on CBC, but some scientists believe it can prevent sebaceous gland inflammation, which would make it an effective treatment for many types of acne.

CBDV

Lastly, CBDV, which is an abbreviation of cannabidivarin. CBDV is almost identical to CBD in molecular structure, yet it holds very unique potential applications that could be very beneficial in treating a number of neurological symptoms.

Early studies on animal models strongly support CBDV as a possible treatment to Parkinson's disease, injury induced tremors, epilepsy, and/or other conditions in which seizures may occur. Due to CBDV displaying exceptional anticonvulsant and anti-epileptic properties, it seems to both reduce the rate and duration of seizure attacks. Patents are already in process for the use of CBDV as a treatment for intractable forms of seizures.

CBDV also has shown early promise of providing relief from nausea and vomiting, as well as an appetite suppressant.

Conclusion

With so many cannabinoids to explore, there seems to be one to combat any ailment. The first step in narrowing down which one may be right for you is to identify your symptoms. Many of the most common symptoms (anxiety, pain, inflammation, sleep, and/or skin conditions) may be most easily remedied by CBD as it is widely available in many forms, legally accessible in most regions, and non-intoxicating.

Next, decide which administration fit you and your situation best. For pain, inflammation, or skin problems, topicals products may be most effective. For anxiety or sleep, you may want to consider ingestion through oils, edibles, or pills. Smoking CBD flower is also an available option for those who prefer it.

Talk to your doctor if you are considering a lesser researched cannabinoid for the treatment of a more uncommon condition. They likely may have access to more recent and up-to-date research, as well as a professional opinion on your specific case.

Many experts argue that the most effective use of many cannabinoids for therapeutic effects is to combine as many cannabinoids into one product. Often referred to as "full-spectrum", these products use the "entourage effect" to their advantage, using cannabinoids natural synergy to increase effectiveness, accelerating and snowballing therapeutic effects, white minimizing unwanted symptoms.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. NC Hemp Shoppe and its products are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease or medical condition. Due to lack of federal regulation on manufacturing and marketing of CBD and its counterparts, we implore you to do your own research and check the lab reports and user reviews of products before use.