Beyond CBD and THC: The Hottest Cannabinoids and Terpenes You Should Know About

This article originally appeared on Cannabis.net and has been republished with permission.

Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the most well-studied compounds in the cannabis plant, and with good reason. CBD is known for its anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory and analgesic and anti-epileptic properties, while THC gives users the high we all love but also has powerful therapeutic benefits.

Both compounds have shown tremendous success through both anecdotal evidence and clinical research when it comes to dozens of ailments: from cancer to Parkinson’s disease, everyday stress and anxiety, depression, PTSD, nausea, insomnia, and more.

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However, in recent years, researchers have discovered that there are other notable compounds in cannabis that are just as important as CBD and THC. In fact, many of them are even more significant to some people depending on the conditions they may have. Because of this, cannabis product manufacturers are focusing on these cannabinoids and terpenes, which offer subtle yet powerful healing properties that you may want to explore.

Consumers residing in states that have legalized medical or recreational marijuana can find a plethora of oils, edibles, beverages, and even lotions laced with terpenes or cannabinoids in addition to CBD and/or THC. On the other hand, consumers have historically looked for products specifically for CBD and THC.

terpenes

Terpenes are compounds found in plants — not just cannabis — that are responsible for its aroma and flavor profile. These occur naturally in the plant and serve an evolutionary purpose: to ward off predators or to attract pollinators.

Each strain or phenotype of cannabis has its own unique ratio of terpenes and cannabinoids. There are around 50,000 known terpenes today, but the cannabis plant has around 250, although scientists may soon discover more. Terpenes can be extracted from the plant in the form of essential oils, although they can also come from other plants that contain the same terpenes such as lavender or pine. Where the terpene comes from affects its consistency and purity.

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The best ways to consume terpenes is through inhalation, edibles or beverages, and topical products. Volatile and potent by nature, it doesn’t take much to feel their effects.

Here is an overview of some of the most popular terpenes and their health benefits:

• Terpinolene is not widespread nor abundant in cannabis, but you only need a small amount to experience its benefits. It has a herbal and floral aroma and is known for its relaxing and calming effects.

• β-caryophyllene is an anti-inflammatory terpene that also has antibacterial, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Research has uncovered its potential abilities to fight neurodegenerative diseases as it also protects the brain from inflammation. Other studies show that it can help treat the symptoms of multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s.

• Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes found in marijuana plants. It has an earthy and musky aroma, but cannabis users appreciate its calming effects. Myrcene is one of the compounds responsible for the couchlock that users experience with some cannabis strains.

• Humulene is widespread in both cannabis and hops. It has a slightly spicy, musky and earthy scent. When it comes to its medicinal benefits, humulene is known for its antibacterial properties and anti-inflammatory properties, although some studies show promising properties for its ability to shrink tumors.

• Limonene is easily recognized by its sweet, fresh, and lemony scent. You can detect limonene in citrusy cannabis strains, which has been linked to its mood-boosting and mood-enhancing properties, as well as its ability to relieve stress. It also has powerful antidepressant properties that are ideal for anyone struggling with emotional stress; Limonene also has gastroprotective and antifungal benefits.

• Linalool has a woody, spicy, and floral scent. It is one of the oldest known natural sedatives, but it also has other important properties: linalool has an antispasmodic, anxiolytic, antidepressant and muscle relaxant effect.

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cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are unique, naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant. While scientists currently know of nearly 500 different cannabinoids, we’ve only identified about 70 of them.

The most well-known of these is, of course, THC, the compound responsible for the plant’s psychoactive effects. CBD is the second most popular that we have already mentioned. All cannabinoids work by interacting with the cannabinoid receptors, which are found outside of cells in the human body, most of which are concentrated in the central nervous system. The cannabinoid receptors are known as CB1 and CB2.

Just like terpenes, there are now specific cannabinoid products available on the market. Each of them has its own cannabinoid profile that has different benefits for the human mind and body.

Here are some popular cannabinoids to try:

CBG: Cannabigerol (CBG) is the grandfather of THC and CBD, chemically serving as the foundation and building block that the cannabis plant uses to make these other compounds. However, research shows that it can have numerous benefits, particularly for anxiety, treating irritable bowel syndrome, tumors, and bacterial diseases.

THCV: Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) has a similar molecular composition to THC, although it has fewer carbon atoms. It can be potentially intoxicating, however, as there is so little it’s almost impossible to feel. It’s commonly used as an appetite suppressant, so if you’re trying to lose a little weight it would be beneficial to look for products that contain THCV. Research has shown that it may also be beneficial for diabetics in controlling blood sugar.

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CBN: Cannabinol (CBN) is a cannabinoid produced when THC breaks down from exposure to light or when your cannabis has aged. However, when ingesting aged cannabis, the CBN content has a mild sedative effect, which may be useful for people struggling with insomnia. Some researchers believe that even a small amount of CBN compared to a 10 mg Valium pill is enough to relax the body.

CBC: Cannabichromene (CBC) is the second most abundant cannabinoid in most cannabis strains, after THC and CBD. It was discovered in the 1960s, and while more research is needed on this cannabinoid, scientists know that it enhances the benefits of other cannabinoids, particularly CBG, CBN, THC, and CBD, through the entourage effect. It is also interesting to note that according to recent research, CBC is 10 times more potent than CBD when it comes to treating stress and anxiety.

This article originally appeared on Cannabis.net and has been republished with permission.