The Different Types of Cannabinoids: A Simple Guide 

CBD, CBN, THC, CBG – the list of cannabinoid acronyms is getting overwhelming. But with a simple explanation of each of the different types of cannabinoids, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about which products you might want to buy.

The cannabis plant (cannabis sativa) contains hundreds of compounds including many cannabinoids with different names and acronyms. This article will focus on some of the most common cannabinoids and what you need to know about them.

Cannabinoids

“Cannabinoids” is a term used for many of the compounds found in the cannabis plant. The effects of cannabinoids happen when the compound interacts with cannabinoid receptors found throughout the body, mostly the central nervous system. The effects of different cannabinoids also depend on where in the brain the interaction occurs.

There are two main types of cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2. The CB1 receptors are associated with the psychoactive effects of cannabis while CB2 receptors are not usually involved with psychoactive effects.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is one of the most well-known cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. THC binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors making it more powerful than some of the other cannabinoids in the plant. THC can cause psychoactive effects. You may also hear the expression “delta-9 THC” which also refers to THC.

Cannabidiol (CBD)

Cannabidiol (CBD) is another well-known cannabinoid because the market for CBD products for humans and pets has grown immensely over the past few years. The major difference between CBD vs THC is that CBD does not bind to CB1 receptors and doesn’t cause psychoactive effects.

CBD is the most prevalent cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. And there are different types of CBD products including topical treatments, tinctures, and edibles. If you are looking for full-spectrum products (products that have a range of natural cannabinoids including CBD) click view.

The FDA approved the use of CBD for the treatment of a rare form of epilepsy. CBD may also help with pain, inflammation, and some mental health issues but has not been approved for the treatment of those conditions.

Cannabinol (CBN)

CBN is a broken-down version of THC. It can produce psychoactive effects but they are usually less intense than the effects of THC. If THC is not properly stored and is exposed to oxygen over a period of time it breaks down to become CBN. The biggest difference between CBD vs CBN is also the psychoactive effects of CBN that CBD doesn’t have.

Determining the Different Types of Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are compounds found in the cannabis plant. Different types of cannabinoids include THC, CBD, CBN, and others. While THC and CBN have psychoactive effects, CBD does not. Always read labels before taking any products with cannabinoids or talk to your doctor.

And if you want more facts about cannabis, tips on improving your business, or advice on your finances, check out our other articles today!