How Cannabinoids Can Produce Purposeful Effects: CBD, CBN & CBG
Can different compounds in cannabis be purposeful and better for you in different ways? As a short answer, yes. So come along with us in this blog to uncover how different cannabinoids in the cannabis plant can help us stay relaxed, sleepy, or energetic.
Cannabidiol (CBD):
Cannabidiol (CBD) is the most researched cannabinoid from the cannabis sativa plant, which has been proven to have several pharmacological effects. As all of these compounds do not produce a “high” effect on its own, they are used to supplement the full-spectrum THC to generate a desired outcome.
CBD can be derived from either the hemp plant or the cannabis plant. Being the second most active part of cannabis, it’s the most popular across all three compounds that we will be discussing in this blog. Since it is the most widely known, you can find CBD infused products at dispensaries, grocery stores, and can even order them to ship directly to you online.
The National Institute of Mental Health reports that 19.1% of adults in the US experienced an anxiety disorder in the last year, with higher rates across women in comparison to men. Thus, CBD has been on the rise as a main contender for helping reduce anxiety and depression. CBD binds to the CB1 receptors (in the brain and CNS), the serotonin receptor, and a few others that regulate anxiety and stress in the brain.
Yet, CBD is only a supplement and not a medication. Since further research still needs to be done in order to be more widely accepted and known, make sure that you are getting it from a reliable place. Here at The Drinkable Company, we ensure that all our products are lab tested and safe for your consumption.
Cannabinol (CBN):
Cannabinol (CBN) is one of the hundreds of natural chemical components called cannabinoids that are found in a cannabis plant. Unlike THC, CBN is a more mild component in marijuana that does not produce psychoactive effects. Instead, it offers a type of functional benefit when infused into different products, from drinkables to edibles.
In comparison to THC, CBN is about 25% effective which makes it a more mild component as it is not found in high concentrations in the plant. In the body, CBN binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors (immune system) in the body which can help balance mood, metabolism, the sleep-wake cycle, pain sensation, and the immune response. Still, its main purpose in many products is to act as a sleep-aid to ensure a more restful night and better morning. Similarly to CBD, CBN is received well by consumers who want to sleep better.
That being said, studies have shown that cannabinoids like CBN and CBD give more significant results when consumed in the full spectrum of cannabis rather than only high levels of the one specific cannabinoid. CBN can even have additional benefits by acting on the immune system to support anti-inflammatory functions and muscle relaxation.
Overall, this is a great choice for those looking to improve their sleep with cannabis.
Cannabigerol (CBG):
Cannabigerol (CBG) is referred to as the "mother of all cannabinoids" because many other cannabinoids come from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), an acidic form of CBG. Although still found in lower amounts in the cannabis plant than THC and CBD, it is a rare and highly-sought out compound for its many unique qualities.
Mostly found in younger plants since CBGA produces the THC and CBD compounds, CBG is often extracted from younger cannabis plants. Depending on the strain of the plant, the amounts of each compound will vary and some are favored over others for this reason. CBG will imitate our body’s natural cannabinoid system, endocannabinoids, but will not produce a “high.”
CBG binds to both the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body, and increases the function of anandamide which plays a role in enhancing pleasure and motivation. In this way, many products with CBG are marketed to help people focus, energize, and increase concentration.
Overall, adding CBG to your diet may improve the body’s digestion and metabolism of nutrients. Several products include CBG oil, so keep an eye out the next time you walk into your local dispensary.
What’s to Come?
There is still much research to be done in the realm of different cannabinoids and how they may benefit or harm us in the long run, but there exists enough information to be able to safely market and consume the products that are on the shelves today.
