CBG, CBN & CBC - the less famous Cannabinoids

The hemp plant contains over 100 different cannabinoids. CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are the most popular ones. But there are more cannabinoids that are worth knowing about. In this article we'll have a closer look at CBG, CBN and CBC.

Cannabinoids are plant compounds that are found primarily in the hemp plant. They dock onto the cannabinoid receptors found in the human body, which influence the release of neurotransmitters in the brain. The two best known cannabinoid receptors are called the CB1 and CB2 receptors. These are found in different areas of the human nervous system and perform different functions.

CBG (cannabigerol) is the preliminary stage for CBD and THC and can have antibacterial as well as anti-inflammatory properties. It is also thought to act as a weak antagonist of the CB1 receptor and it may help slowing down cell growth in tumors and cancer cells and in addition to that it may also promote bone growth. In contrast to THC, CBG does not have any psychoactive influences on the body.

In combination with oil, e.g. hemp seed oil, CBG can be taken orally by dropping it under the tongue but also in the form of capsules. At the same time CBG can be used on dry skin by applying it on the dry skin parts directly. Similar to CBD, CBG is also said to have anxiety-relieving, calming properties and support a healthy sleep.

CBN (cannabinol) is obtained by heating and oxygenating THC. Even though it is similar to THC, it is not psychoactive. Its extraction is rather difficult, since it is formed in the later growth stage of the cannabis plant. And even then there is only little CBN available for extraction.

It may be analgesic, sleep-inducing and may suppress muscle spasms. In addition to that it may support gastrointestinal problems and alleviate eye pressure. CBN is said to have the strongest sedative function. It is also antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and has a strong synergistic effect with other cannabinoids, such as CBD and CBG.

CBC (cannabichromen), different than the other cannabinoids docks onto different receptors, the TRPV receptors, and it can be analgesic, anti-inflammatory and may help in decelerating cell growth in tumors and cancer cells. There is only a small amount of CBC in the hemp plant.

A study shows potential that CBC might be a relief when it comes to acne. Like CBG it may also promote bone growth and it is also not psychoactive. Unfortunately there still needs to be done a lot of research.