Cannabichromene (CBC) is a popular phyto cannabinoid that has been getting a lot of attention lately. While many people are familiar with THC and CBD, CBC may be the third most common cannabinoid produced by marijuana and the second most common cannabinoid found in hemp.
Herein, we will discuss what exactly is CBC cannabinoid, its benefits, and its effects on the body.
What is CBC?
Cannabichromene (CBC) is one of the many cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. It is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, meaning it doesn’t produce the high associated with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the most well-known cannabinoid.
CBC was initially discovered in 1966 in hemp. According to a 1975 research, CBC is a prevalent cannabinoid after THC, however not well researched. In some instances, CBC makes up to 64% of the cannabis plant’s profile.
In terms of functionality, CBC has some similarities to CBD and THC. Like the two common compounds, CBC can be developed by enzymatically converting its precursor cannabigerol ( CBG). Cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), a compound that decarboxylates to form CBG can potentially react with cannabis’s glandular trichomes.
The reaction results in the formation of cannabichromene acid (CBCA), which can decarboxylate to form CBC. Decarboxylation is the process of removing a carboxyl group from CBGA and releasing it as carbon dioxide to form CBC.
CBD Vs. CBC
You’ve probably heard of CBD. While CBD can be extracted from industrial hemp (a non-psychoactive plant), CBC is formed by breaking down cannabidiolic acid under ultraviolet light or heat.
It might help to note that CBC is found only in cannabis plants bred for high THC content Sativa strains and landraces. CBC is the third most abundant cannabinoid after CBD and THC.
Like CBD, taking CBC will not produce any intoxicating effects. However, these two cannabinoids follow a different pathway and attach to different receptors in the body.
CBC does not bind to CB1 or CB2 receptors as CBD does. Instead, CBC binds to vanilloid receptor 1 (TRPV) effectively. TRPV1 receptors are often considered the endocannabinoid system’s “third cannabinoid receptors.”
CBC can also interact with ankyrin 1 (TRPA1), a potential transient receptor. Both TRPV1 and TRPA1 receptors modulate the human body’s pain perception. These properties have made CBC popular among users as a possible pain aid.
CBC Oil benefits
CBC oil can be used for a variety of purposes. One of its benefits is promoting the production of endocannabinoids.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is responsible for regulating homeostasis in our bodies. It is responsible for helping us maintain proper balance in many ways—including pain management, mood regulation, hunger/satiety signaling, and immune system function.
The ECS consists of two main components: endocannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2). Endocannabinoids are endogenous chemicals our bodies produce that act as ligands (keys) to bind to receptor sites on cells throughout the body.
When they bind to these receptors, they trigger specific responses within those cells.
CBC Cannabinoid Effects
CBC is a non-psychoactive and non-intoxicating cannabinoid, which means it will not get you high. However, this does not imply that you will not experience any significant effects after consuming CBC tinctures.
The cannabinoids do not interact with CB1 receptors directly. Instead, it attaches to TRPA1 and TPRV1 receptors.
The interactions result in increased anandamide hormone in the body—an increase in anandamide results in calming effects, relaxation, and enhanced mood in CBC users.
Many people suggest CBC tinctures provide a similar effect to CBD, which is why a growing number of people have begun using CBC for various reasons.
However, given that CBC is relatively new in the cannabis space, more research needs to be done on the subject before we can make any firm conclusions on the exact effects CBC has on the body.
Wrap-up on CBC
CBC is one of the most versatile phytocannabinoids with a wide range of potential therapeutic uses. Despite having several methods of consumption, tinctures appear to be the most effective.
CBC tinctures are an easy way to consume this cannabinoid in your daily routine. They are made with a concentrated form of CBC extract and mixed with a carrier oil to increase bioavailability. You can buy CBC tinctures at online CBD stores with free shipping and ready to deliver your order anywhere within the US.
The benefit of a tincture over other methods is that you can easily adjust the dosage to suit your needs as you go along.
Michael Levin is a CBD enthusiast, a researcher, writer and editor in the cannabis space, experienced CBD user and educator. He believes CBD can help improve our overall health and wellbeing.
