You already know about THC and CBD, but it’s time to learn more about the different cannabinoids in marijuana. Cannabichromene, or CBC for short, is one you’re likely to hear a lot about in the near future. It doesn’t get nearly as much attention as CBD or THC does, but we’re learning more every day about how all of the cannabinoids work together.
The Science of CBC Cannabinoids
To dive deeper into what CBC is, it’s important to take a quick look at the science of cannabis. CBC comes from cannabigerolic acid, which is often known simply as CBGa. Enzymes can convert CBGa into cannabichromene (CBC) or cannabichromene carboxylic acid (CBCa). CBCa can still get decarboxylated and become CBC, just as THCa is decarboxylated with heat to become active THC. There’s no need to get deeper into the chemistry at this point, so we’ll end our science lesson there and focus on the actual benefits of CBC.
Understanding CBD More Simply
You can use what you already know about THC and CBD to understand the other cannabinoids more completely without diving into chemistry and biology. For example, you already know that THC has psychoactive properties, and it’s the reason cannabis can create the intoxicating effects of being high. CBD, on the other hand, doesn’t offer psychoactive effects, but it’s known for inspiring a general sense of wellness. Even though these two cannabinoids are the rock stars in the cannabis plant, there are over 100 other known cannabinoids supporting CBD and THC.
To stick with the rock star analogy, THC and CBD are like John and Paul from the Beatles. Everyone knows them and loves them, and their unique personalities are clearly reflected in all of the group’s work. CBC is like Ringo. He’s not the most famous in the group, doesn’t get as much love as those at the front of the stage, and sometimes you can’t even see him back there behind his drum kit. Still, though, the White Album wouldn’t be possible without the balanced rhythm he provided.
All of the cannabinoids in cannabis, like the members of a legendary band, have to work together in concert (pun intended) to create something that makes the fans go wild and stands the test of time. The presence of other cannabinoids and terpenes will help THC and CBD shine brighter than they could on their own, and this is called the entourage effect.
What Is the Entourage Effect?
John and Paul were able to shine more completely with the Beatles than they could on their solo albums, and cannabinoids also perform differently depending on the entourage they bring with them. Different strains often lend themselves to different experiences, even when they have almost the same levels of THC. The presence of CBC in premium cannabis strains could be remarkable for a variety of reasons:
- One study concluded that the “combination of CBC and THC leads to enhanced tetrad and anti-inflammatory actions.” They further noted a potentially “additive relationship between the anti-inflammatory effects of CBC and THC.” This seems to indicate that strains with higher levels of CBC may be preferable for those who buy cannabis after experiencing discomfort or edema (swelling).
- A rodent-based study of non-psychoactive cannabinoids concluded that “CBD and CBC stimulated descending pathways of antinociception and caused analgesia by interacting with several target proteins involved in nociceptive control.” In more relatable terms, analgesia is defined as the inability to feel pain.
- Another study on rodents found that “the cannabinoids cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabinol (CBN) did not produce antidepressant-like actions up to 80 mg/kg in the mouse FST, while cannabichromene (CBC) and cannabidiol (CBD) exhibited significant effect at 20 and 200mg/kg, respectively.” Further studies on this topic may provide interesting information for anyone who smokes cannabis to unwind or who is prescribed medical marijuana for a stress disorder.
- Cannabis products are starting to earn their place in skincare routines, and this study might explain why. “CBC, CBDV, and especially THCV show promise to become highly efficient, novel anti-acne agents. Moreover, based on their remarkable anti-inflammatory actions, phytocannabinoids could be efficient, yet safe novel tools in the management of cutaneous inflammations,” the researchers report.
Buy High CBC Strains in Denver
Most companies don’t make products with a lot of CBC yet, but you can find this fascinating cannabinoid in many of your favorite strains. Research the strains on our online dispensary menus, or talk to a budtender when you visit either of our dispensaries in Wheat Ridge or Boulder. We’ll help you find premium cannabis that contains a lot of cannabinoids including CBC. Place your order today to start exploring more strains.
