Cannabinoid Encyclopedia
12 cannabinoid profiles — effects, medical uses, and the science behind each compound.
Major Cannabinoids
CBD
Cannabidiol
The second most abundant cannabinoid in cannabis, CBD is non-psychoactive and has become widely used for its therapeutic properties. The FDA has approved a CBD-based drug (Epidiolex) for treating certain epilepsy disorders.
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THC
Tetrahydrocannabinol
The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain producing euphoria, altered sensory perception, and relaxation. It also has documented medical applications including pain relief, nausea reduction, and appetite stimulation.
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Minor Cannabinoids
CBC
Cannabichromene
CBC is the third most abundant cannabinoid and is non-psychoactive. It interacts with pain receptors and may contribute to cannabis's analgesic effects. Research suggests it may support neurogenesis (the growth of new brain cells).
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CBL
Cannabicyclol
CBL is a degradation product of CBC, formed when cannabis is exposed to light or heat over time. It is one of the least studied cannabinoids and is believed to be non-psychoactive. Research into its therapeutic potential is in early stages.
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CBDV
Cannabidivarin
CBDV is structurally similar to CBD and is showing significant promise in research for neurological conditions, particularly autism spectrum disorder and epilepsy. It is non-psychoactive and being studied by pharmaceutical companies.
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CBG
Cannabigerol
Known as the "mother cannabinoid," CBG is the chemical precursor from which all other cannabinoids are synthesized. Present in low concentrations in most strains, it is showing promise in research for antibacterial, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory applications.
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CBN
Cannabinol
CBN is formed when THC oxidizes and degrades over time. It is mildly psychoactive (approximately 25% as potent as THC) and is often associated with the sedative effects of aged cannabis. It shows promise as a sleep aid.
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Δ8-THC
Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol
Delta-8-THC is an isomer of Delta-9-THC with a slightly different molecular structure. It produces a milder, clearer psychoactive effect and has shown anti-nausea properties. Its legal status is ambiguous in many US states — always verify local regulations.
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THCV
Tetrahydrocannabivarin
THCV is structurally similar to THC but produces different effects. At low doses it acts as a CB1 antagonist (suppressing appetite), while at higher doses it becomes a CB1 agonist. It is being studied for diabetes, obesity, and appetite control.
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Acidic Precursors
CBDA
Cannabidiolic Acid
CBDA is the raw precursor to CBD found in fresh, unprocessed cannabis. Emerging research suggests CBDA may be more bioavailable than CBD and could be effective for nausea, anxiety, and inflammation in its raw form.
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CBGA
Cannabigerolic Acid
CBGA is the biosynthetic precursor to all major cannabinoids — it is converted by enzymes into THCA, CBDA, and CBCA. Sometimes called the "stem cell" of cannabinoids. Research is exploring its potential anti-inflammatory and metabolic benefits.
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THCA
Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid
THCA is the raw, non-psychoactive precursor to THC found in fresh cannabis. It converts to THC through decarboxylation (heat). Raw THCA has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties without producing a high.
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All content is for educational purposes only. Not medical advice.