CBD stands for Cannabidiol, one of approximately 100 cannabinoids found in the Cannabis or Hemp plant.

It’s a common misconception that hemp and marijuana are two different species of plant.  In fact, they’re not distinct species at all. They’re just two different names for cannabis, a type of flowering plant in the Cannabaceae family.  While science doesn’t differentiate between “hemp” and “marijuana,” the law does.  Legally, the key difference between the two is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content.

THC is one of many cannabinoids, or chemicals found in the cannabis plant. It’s the one that’s primarily responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis.

The term “hemp” is used to mean cannabis that contains 0.3 percent or less THC content by dry weight.

Legally, “marijuana” refers to cannabis that has more than 0.3 percent THC by dry weight. THC content can vary among cannabis plants. Some strains are bred to be higher in THC than others.

The body produces endocannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors in your nervous system. Studies have shown that CBD may help reduce chronic pain by impacting endocannabinoid receptor activity, reducing inflammation and interacting with neurotransmitters.

The endocannabinoid system is made up of cannabinoid receptors and cannabinoids that are produced naturally by the body. These are not the same cannabinoids that are synthesized by the Cannabis plant, however they do produce similar properties and effects. These cannabinoids interact with our cannabinoid receptors naturally found in our body and brain. Current research suggests that our endocannabinoid system promotes homeostasis for our bodies by interacting with a wide range of body systems.

Terpenes are the oils that give plants their smell & taste. Terpenes can be found in fruits, herbs, plants, and even Cannabis! Similar to cannabinoids, terpenes also bind to receptors and are suggested by current research to have diverse potential health benefits. Terpenes contribute to the entourage effect.

The entourage effect refers to the concept that a combination of cannabinoids works better together than separately.  Simply put, the thesis is that combining cannabis compounds creates a different physical or psychological impact than a single compound on its own.

CBG, or cannabigerol, has been studied mainly as an anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and antibacterial.  Those suffering from skin disorders and discomfort may find the inflammation relief they are looking for in CBG. One promising study found that CBG may help to reduce intraocular pressure with less optical toxicity than either THC or CBD. Other studies reported benefits for bone growth, neurodegeneration, and mood stabilization. Reviews regarding CBG alone for pain have not been as favorable as for CBD and THC. It is non-intoxicating.

THCv works in tandem with THC. THCv’s full chemical name is tetrahydrocannabivarin. The name isn’t the only similarity to THC, as their chemical structures are also closely related. The effects of THCv, however, are very different. Studies on THCv have shown that it can help to curb your appetite, protect your neurological pathways, and work as an anti-convulsive.

CBN (short for Cannabinol) is a lesser-known cannabinoid. In nature, CBN is found in aging cannabis plants and can increase the effect of THC when smoked. THC degrades into CBN. By itself, CBN is credited with producing a relaxing, sleepy effect. A study by Steep Hill Labs has claimed that CBN, even in low doses, has a similar effect upon the body as a mild pharmaceutical sedative. Those suffering from insomnia, muscle spasms, and even ALS may find relief in CBN. People should not drive or operate machinery when learning how this cannabinoid affects them. A January 2020 article indicated potential benefits for ADHD, at least more effective than THC.

CBC is another non-intoxicating cannabinoid generally found in cannabis that has been grown in a tropical location. CBC, cannabichromene, is credited as an anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antidepressant compound. One study published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics concluded that CBC aided in reducing the size of tumors and cancer, particularly in cases of a certain type of breast cancer.