The beginners guide to bud

For the cannabis-curious and the future connoisseurs

Cannabinoids

Cannabis’

Mysterious

Compouds

Written by Aaryn Indica

If you’re talking about cannabis, the topic of THC will naturally come up.

When it comes to the chemistry of cannabis, THC is - without a doubt - the holy grail. It’s the mysterious compound that can do everything from easing anxiety and killing your insomnia to reducing seizures, and easing the pain of cancer patients.

Plus it’s the thing that gets you high.

THC is king. It’s proof that cannabinoids - the class of compounds THC falls into - can do some mind-blowing things (smoking pun intended) .

Cannabinoids are the active ingredients found in cannabis and hemp. Cannabinoids work by interacting with the body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS), fitting into the receptors in our brain.

When thinking about cannabis though, you’d be wrong to count out the other cannabinoids.

In every bud of cannabis, there’s a complex profile of cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, and dozens of terpenes - all working together with THC to influence the outcome of your high and deliver you a damn good time.

This is called the Entourage Effect. When paired with THC, many other cannabinoids offer interesting effects - often influencing and even boosting the effects of THC.

In the wider world of cannabinoids, you have a lot of options you could go for too. Lots of cannabinoids are more common than you think, and others can even get you higher than THC.

Though THC may be the star, the ones in your circle still matter. So today we’re taking a deeper look at common cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, CBN, and more - so you can consider what other cannabinoids can do for you.

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But First…

Two Sides of the Cannabinoid Coin

Understanding the Cannabinoid Catalogue

THC isn’t the only cannabinoid that can get you high. In fact, it’s not the most potent either.

In terms of chemistry the wider catalog of cannabinoids can be split into two neat categories - psychoactive and non-psychoactive. Simply put, some cannabinoids get you high, and some don’t.

Non-psychoactive Cannabinoids like CBD, CBN, and CBG are what I like to call Common Cannabinoids. 

Common Cannabinoids are non-psychoactive cannabinoids that are often found in the legal market. These compounds are known for their therapeutic properties, and are often found in vapes, edibles, and tinctures.

These cannabinoids are well-researched and actively studied in the science community, making them safe and perfect for those dealing with chronic pain, neurodivergence, and more.

Alternative Cannabinoids are psychoactive cannabinoids that are often used as substitutes for THC - found in the more questionable ‘grey market ’. These cannabinoids are often found in ‘blended’ vapes or edibles.

These compounds are hemp-derived, lab-treated, and largely experimental. Many pose outright health concerns and can cause multi-day intoxication even in small doses.

This article is about Common Cannabinoids.

To learn more about Alternative Cannabinoids and other psychoactive compounds, check out our Cannasseur article on Cannabinoids Part 2 :

The Common Cannabinoids

  • THC (Tetra-hydro-canna-binol) –
    You know this one. This is the weed one. Otherwise known as THC-A.

  • CBD (Canna-bi-diol) –

    In terms of cannabis and hemp, CBD and THC basically go hand in hand. It doesn’t get you high, but it does bring a whole bunch of relaxing, anti-inflammatory, and anxiety-reducing benefits.

    Many people use it for stress, to manage chronic pain, sleep better - and even help manage the symptoms of neurodivergency. All while feeling crystal clear and calm.

  • CBG (Canna-bi-ger-ol) –

    CBG is like the mother of cannabinoids—it’s the starting point. During cultivation CBG compounds become the cannabinoids we love to much.

    On its own though, CBG can help with focus, regulate gut health, and deal with inflammation, making it a rising star in the wellness world.

  • CBN (Canna-bi-nol) –

    CBN is what THC slowly turns into over time, especially when cannabis ages. So if you ever find some old weed - proceed with caution, or prepare a spot to nap. Found in many indica strains, it’s known for its sedative effects, making it great for relaxation and sleep.

    If you've ever smoked old weed and felt extra drowsy, that's likely the CBN talking.

  • CBC (Canna-bi-chro-mene) –

    CBC doesn’t get much attention, but it’s believed to have powerful anti-inflammatory and mood-boosting effects. Science shows that CBC may be an serotonin uptake inhibitor, which just means CBC can help serotonin and dopamine linger in the brain longer.

    This up-and-coming cannabinoid is uplifting without the anxiety.

  • THC-V (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) –

    Unlike regular THC, THC-V is more of a stimulating, appetite-suppressing cannabinoid. It’s been called the “diet weed” because it may help with weight management, energy, and focus—basically the opposite of the munchies! If you’re a lover of some dank-smelling Durban Poison, then you probably like some THC-V.

Cannabinoids in cannabis go way beyond THC. By looking, researching, and asking for strains with an additional cannabinoid - it’s so much easier to find something that compliments your tastes.

Love a sleepy indica before bed? Ask for a vape with CBN, or look out for some Granddaddy Purp. If you’re looking for something uplifting for the midday slump, White Widow - which is high in CBG - might be more your speed.

Once you learn your cannabinoids - psychoactive or otherwise - it’s way easier to control your cannabis experience. Whether you like gummies, vapes, or flower itself, cannabinoids can definitely do something for you.

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