Cannabidiol (CBD)
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring compound found in the resinous flower of cannabis, a plant with a rich history as a medicine going back thousands of years. Today the therapeutic properties of CBD are being tested and confirmed by scientists and doctors around the world. A safe, non-addictive substance, CBD is one of more than a hundred “phytocannabinoids,” which are unique to cannabis and endow the plant with its robust therapeutic profile. (ProjectCBD.org).
The endocannabinoid system supports two cannabinoid receptors: CB1, which deals the central nervous system, and CB2 which is responsible for aspects of the immune, digestive and peripheral nervous system.
Cannabinoid-1 receptors are primarily found in the central nervous system, which consists of the brain and spinal cord.
Cannabinoid-2 receptors are primarily found in the peripheral nervous system and are particularly associated with inflammation and immune system response.
Cannabigerol ( CBG )
Cannabigerol (CBG) is the non-acidic form of cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), the foundational compound from which other cannabinoids are synthesized. CBG works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS functions to support homeostasis (self-regulating processes that help our biological systems remain stable and functioning).
Endocannabinoid receptors are prevalent in eye structures, and interestingly, CBG is thought to be particularly effective in treating glaucoma because it reduces intraocular pressure. It is a powerful vasodilator and has neuroprotective effects to boot.
Cannabichromene (CBC)
Cannabichromene (CBC) is one of the most prevalent compounds in cannabis and hemp, yet it’s virtually unknown to many people. CBC is produced in hemp and cannabis plants when the enzyme, CBCA synthase, interacts with CBG and forms cannabichromenic acid (CBCA). When CBCA is exposed to heat in a process known as decarboxylation, CBC is created.
Unlike other cannabinoids, CBC does not bind well to CB1 or CB2 receptors. But it still has a positive effect on our endocannabinoid system. Rather than interacting directly with endocannabinoid receptors, CBC boosts the beneficial effects of other cannabinoids by protecting CB1 and CB2 receptors from being degraded.
Cannabinol (CBN)
Cannabinol (CBN) is a mildly psychoactive compound in marijuana and is unique to the plant. Like the vast majority of cannabis components, CBN is fat-soluble, not water-soluble. It has a specific relationship with THC because, unlike other molecules, CBN doesn’t come directly from the marijuana plant. Instead, it forms from the exterior oxidation of THC.
CBN is by far the most potent sedative of any identified marijuana compound. It may help you get a restful night’s sleep without the grogginess or side effects of prescription sleeping pills.