Beyond THC and CBD (2/3)

Meet More Minor Cannabinoids

Minor Cannabinoids with Major Interest

Beyond THC and CBD, cannabis contains dozens of other cannabinoids—often called minor cannabinoids because they appear in smaller concentrations. Advances in cultivation and extraction have made it easier to isolate and study these cannabinoids, sparking growing interest among researchers, product developers, and consumers alike.

Here are a few minor cannabinoids and the effects most often associated with them:

CBG (Cannabigerol)

  • Sometimes called the “mother cannabinoid” because it is the chemical precursor to THC, CBD, and CBC.
    • Synthase versions of each acidic cannabinoid direct the conversion of CBGA into the other acidic cannabinoids, which are then turned into standard cannabinoids through decarboxylation (heat)
  • Users often report a clear-headed, mildly energizing effect.
  • Potential to support digestive wellness and maintain a balanced inflammatory response in the body, making it a potential aide for overall gut health.

CBC (Cannabichromene)

  • Typically non-intoxicating and found alongside THC and CBD.
  • Thought to contribute to a balanced, calming experience and is sometimes described as promoting relaxation without drowsiness.
  • CBC often adds subtle depth to the overall effect of a product.

CBN (Cannabinol)

  • Formed as THC ages and oxidizes, meaning it’s more prevalent in older cannabis flower.
  • Considered mildly intoxicating and often associated with relaxation and drowsiness.
  • Products with a combination of THC + CBN are often utilized as a sleep aid.

THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)

  • Structurally similar to THC but interacts differently with receptors.
  • Associated with less intense cravings for food than typical THC products.
  • Users often describe it as uplifting and energizing, with a more focused or stimulating quality compared to standard THC.

These cannabinoids don’t replace THC or CBD—they add layers. Each one subtly shifts the consumer experience, explaining why two products with similar THC levels can feel completely different.

In Part 3, we’ll explore acidic cannabinoids, the entourage effect, and why cannabinoid diversity matters.

Written by: Emily Croes, Budtender

References:

  • Walsh, Kenneth B., et al. “Minor Cannabinoids: Biosynthesis, Molecular Pharmacology and Potential Therapeutic Uses.” Frontiers in Pharmacology, vol. 12, 29 Nov. 2021, p. 777804, PMC , https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8669157/.
  • Care By Design. “Minor Cannabinoids: What Are They?” CBD.org, cbd.org/learn/minor-cannabinoids-what-are-they.
  • “Evaluation of Cannabimimetic Effects of Selected Minor Cannabinoids and Terpenoids in Mice.” PubMed, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38417478/.
  • Li, Shijia, et al. “Cannabigerol (CBG): A Comprehensive Review of Its Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential.” Molecules, vol. 29, no. 22, 20 Nov. 2024, p. 5471, https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/29/22/5471.
  • “Minor Cannabinoids CBD, CBG, CBN and CBC Differentially Modulate Sensory Neuron Activation.” PubMed, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41256665/.

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