The Cannabinoids
From the famous THC to emerging stars like CBG
THC
The one you know
The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the 'high.' THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, affecting mood, perception, and cognition.
CBD
Wellness without the high
The second most abundant cannabinoid, CBD is non-psychoactive and widely used for wellness. It modulates the effects of THC and has its own therapeutic properties.
CBG
The mother cannabinoid
CBG is the precursor from which all other cannabinoids are synthesized. It's non-psychoactive and gaining attention for its potential therapeutic benefits.
CBN
The sleepy one
CBN forms when THC oxidizes over time. Mildly psychoactive, it's best known for its sedative properties and is popular in sleep products.
THCa
THC before the heat
The raw, unheated form of THC found in fresh cannabis. Non-psychoactive until decarboxylated (heated), it has its own therapeutic potential.
THCv
The energizer
A variant of THC with unique properties. At low doses it's non-psychoactive; at higher doses it produces a shorter, more clear-headed high. Known for appetite suppression.
CBC
The entourage player
One of the 'big six' cannabinoids, CBC doesn't bind well to CB1/CB2 but interacts with other receptors. It enhances the effects of other cannabinoids.
Delta-8 THC
THC's milder cousin
A variant of THC with the double bond on the 8th carbon instead of 9th. Produces similar but milder effects than Delta-9 THC.
Quick Comparison
| Cannabinoid | Psychoactive | Abundance | Primary Use | Boiling Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|
THC The one you know | ✓ | High | Pain relief | 315°F (157°C) |
CBD Wellness without the high | – | High | Anxiety | 356°F (180°C) |
CBG The mother cannabinoid | – | Low | Inflammation | 126°F (52°C) |
CBN The sleepy one | ✓ | Trace | Insomnia | 365°F (185°C) |
THCa THC before the heat | – | High | Nausea | 220°F (105°C) - converts to THC |
THCv The energizer | ✓ | Trace | Weight management | 428°F (220°C) |
CBC The entourage player | – | Low | Depression | 428°F (220°C) |
Delta-8 THC THC's milder cousin | ✓ | Trace | Nausea | 347°F (175°C) |
The Entourage Effect
Cannabinoids don't work alone. When combined with each other and with terpenes, they create synergistic effects greater than any single compound. This is why full-spectrum products often outperform isolates—the whole plant working together as nature intended.
THC
Psychoactive
- •Produces the "high" feeling
- •Binds directly to CB1 receptors
- •Stimulates appetite strongly
- •Can cause anxiety at high doses
CBD
Non-Psychoactive
- •No intoxicating effects
- •Modulates THC's effects
- •Anti-anxiety properties
- •Legal from hemp in most places
Research is Ongoing
Cannabis science is rapidly evolving. While we present current research, new discoveries are being made regularly. Always consult healthcare providers for medical decisions.