Cannabichromene (CBC)

CBC is a lesser known cannabinoid in marijuana. It is a non-psychoactive compound and is the second most abundant cannabinoid in marijuana. A study published in 1981 by the University of Mississippi noted that CBC showed strong anti-bacterial effects on a variety of bacteria. CBC appears to reduce inflammation and reduce pain. More recent studies show CBC may contribute to the mood elevating properties of cannabis.

Cannabidiol (CBD)

CBD, along with THC, is a key ingredient in cannabis. Its levels tend to vary between different strains of cannabis. It is non-psychoactive and has been studied extensively for its possible medical uses as an anticonvulsant, anti-oxidant, anti-tumoral and anti-depressant to name a few.

Cannabigeral (CBG)

CBG is only found in trace amounts in most marijuana strains. There is little research on this cannabinoid though it is thought to act like a sedative.

Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in the marijuana plant, and act on cannabinoid receptors present on the surface of cells found in different parts of the central nervous system. There are over 85 different cannabinoids that have been identified as having various effects.

Flavonoids

Flavonoids are aromatic molecules that help determine the unique smell and flavor of various marijuana strains. In addition to the smell and flavor, they are also pharmacologically active, and one flavonoid (cannaflavin A) has been found to reduce inflammation thirty times better than aspirin. They can also modulate the effects of THC.

Terpenes

Terpenes are volatile molecules that evaporate easily and also effect the smell and taste of marijuana strains. Some are developed by the plant to help repel insects and animals, while others help prevent fungus. They are also psychoactive and contribute to the overall effect of the strain.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

THC was discovered in 1964 and is the primary ingredient in marijuana. It has been found to provide a variety of medical benefits as well its ability to induce euphoria.

Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA)

THCA is the bio-synthetic precursor to THC. This means that THCA converts to THC under certain conditions. About 80-90% of the THC found in cannabis is actually in the form of THCA until decarboxylation occurs. Since decarboxylation occurs with heat, the differences in the THCA/THC levels with marijuana that will be smoked are not important. For cannabis extracts and oils, an understanding of THCA and THC becomes more in important in order to fine tune the product.

Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)

THCV is nearly identical in chemical structure to THC. It is being studied for use as an appetite suppressant and in helping to reduce the number of seizures caused by epilepsy. THCV, a psychoactive, delivers a clear-headed euphoria and causes the effects of THC to hit faster.