While CBD may now have become one of the most popular and well-known health and wellness ingredients around the world, many of us were unaware of the cannabinoid only a few years ago. This impressive growth in popularity is largely owing to increased research around the cannabinoid and the resulting recognition for its impressive potential.
In this article, we are going to be taking a closer look at CBD as well as some other, lesser-known cannabinoids – CBG and CBN.
What is CBD and How Does it Work?
Cannabidiol – known by its abbreviated name, CBD – is the second most common cannabinoid produced by the cannabis plant. It belongs to the same family of compounds as THC – the most common and well-known cannabinoid known for its intoxicating effects. Despite this connection, CBD does not cause the ‘high’ often associated with cannabis use, however, it has been found to have a multitude of health and wellness benefits.
CBD works by interacting with our endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a system of receptors and compounds known as endocannabinoids that are produced in our bodies. Cannabinoids like CBD, THC, and many others are able to interact with this system due to the similarity in structure to endocannabinoids.
By interacting with cannabinoid receptors, these cannabis compounds can have an effect on various physiological and cognitive functions such as mood, anxiety and depression, sleep, and addictive behaviour.
Positive Effects of CBD
Research into CBD has been on an upward trend over the last decade, with a number of promising findings being recorded. The compound has been found to be an effective anti-inflammatory, prompting further research into its potential use in the treatment of various pain conditions.
Furthermore, there is an abundance of anecdotal evidence, as well as clinical trials, to show that CBD may help to improve sleep and symptoms of PTSD, and many people have taken up CBD products to help manage anxiety. Furthermore, a CBD-based medicine (Epidyolex) has been approved as an effective anti-seizure medication for use in treating some forms of epilepsy.
The Rise of CBD Products
CBD use has been on the rise among the general population in recent years, largely thanks to the development of convenient and easily accessible products. Among the most popular of these products are CBD oils. However, the compound has also been utilised in the development of skincare and beauty products as well as edibles and beverages.
While the popularity of CBD shows no signs of diminishing, the compound may soon have to share the spotlight with more of its cousins…
More About CBG and CBN
The two most common cannabinoids have, so far, had the limelight all to themselves. This is largely down to their abundance in comparison to other cannabis compounds. However, improved extraction methods and further research mean that we are now learning more about the “minor” cannabinoids that have been waiting on the sidelines.
CBG
Cannabigerol (CBG) is one of these cannabinoids. Over the last couple of years, research into this lesser-known compound has been on the rise, with scientists and researchers intrigued by its potential benefits. The compound has also seemingly caught the attention of the wellness industry as a number of CBG oils have now launched into the market.
CBG is the precursor to THCA, CBDA, and CBCA – the cannabinoids which eventually become THC, CBD, and CBC. Current research suggests that CBG could have potential as an anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-cancer agent, to name a few.
CBN
Cannabinol (CBN) is yet another of the more than 100 cannabinoids produced by the cannabis plant. Similarly to CBD and CBG, CBN is a non-intoxicating compound that has been found to have some medicinal and therapeutic potential. As a result, CBN oils and other products are now becoming increasingly available.
Interestingly, this compound is actually created when THC begins to age. While research into this particular cannabinoid remains limited, there have been some positive initial findings. Some studies have found CBN to be a powerful antibacterial agent, while others have shown that the compound may be an effective neuroprotectant and anti-inflammatory.
Conclusion
While we believe it unlikely that CBD’s popularity is set to diminish any time soon, it is looking increasingly likely that other cannabinoids will be fighting for our attention in the near future. CBG and CBN are yet more examples of the unique therapeutic properties of the cannabis plant – and we can’t wait to find out more about these “minor” cannabinoids!
