This is a hot topic in the cannabis community (and beyond) because cannabinoids are what makes the difference in the legality of cannabis and hemp. Read more below about these powerful chemical compounds that give cannabis and hemp its psychoactive and healing properties.
What is a cannabinoid?
Cannabinoids are the naturally occurring chemical compounds in the Cannabis sativa plant. The 6 cannabinoids are: CBD, THC, CBN, CBC, CBG, and THCV. CBD is generally considered to be the least powerful. CBN products are newer to the cannabis market, and are considered to be “weed lite”. Another aspect to be aware of with cannabinoids are their quickly-shifting legal status as governments catch on to this loophole in federal drug scheduling.
THC
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a psychoactive substance that binds with cannabinoid receptors. CBD also does this, but not quite as well as THC. This is why THC is the cannabinoid that is responsible for the “high” feeling. THC is known to produce feelings of euphoria, as it stimulates areas in the brain that respond to pleasure. While THC treats many of the same symptoms as CBD and CBN, it is known to more specifically target glaucoma, low appetite, and muscle spasms.
CBD
Cannabidiol (CBD) has been gaining popularity within the general population over the last few years. It is a non-psychoactive substance, which means that it does not produce mind-altering effects like THC. CBD has garnered much attention from researchers in recent years, and has been shown to alleviate the symptoms of seizure disorders specifically. This discovery has led to research to see if CBD has an impact on Parkinson’s, schizophrenia, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, anxiety, and cancer. Other research has demonstrated CBD’s potential to mitigate insomnia, chronic pain, and addiction.
CBN
Cannabinol (CBN) is a more newly recognized cannabinoid and is similar to CBD in that it produces a more mild effect. While less popular than CBD, CBN is slowly gaining popularity for its ability to help with sleep and pain management. More research is needed to understand the benefits or risks associated with CBN. What we do know is that CBN is actually a psychoactive substance, producing similar effects to THC but at a more subdued level.
Canna Business Services has a wealth of experience providing organizations, government institutions, individuals, and other various audiences with educational opportunities surrounding the benefits of cannabis usage. Contact Canna Business Services to develop learning materials, present to your group, or for additional information about our educational services.
