Understanding cannabiniods

This is the “acidic” form of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Cannabis plants naturally produce THCA and is the primary cannabinoid that will be present in most cannabis strains. Typically, plants have 10-20% THCA. A higher THCA number means a more potent plant.

This is the “active” or “neutral” form of THC. This is the primary psychoactive cannabinoid seen in cannabis plants. Plants do not directly produce Δ9THC. Instead, THCA is converted into Δ9THC through a process called decarboxylation. Decarboxylation occurs when the plant is smoked, otherwise heated, or exposed to light. Typically, plants have 0-5% Δ9THC. High levels of Δ9THC in plant material indicate the plant may have been improperly stored, cured, or indicate the flower is old.

Cannabidiolic Acid. CBDA is the CBD analog to THCA. It is the acidic from of CBD that plants produce. Typical non-CBD specific strains will have 0-2% CBDA. CBD Specific plants typically contain 5-20% CBDA. CBDA is not psychoactive.

 Cannabidiol. CBD is the neutral form of CBDA. Cannabis plants do not create CBD directly, however this cannabinoid can be formed through the same decarboxylation process described above.

 CBN-A is the acidic form of CBN. It is often formed from aged cannabis plants. Very old plants may contain 0-5% CBNA. CBN-A in combination with CBN are good indicators of the age and storage conditions of plant material. Higher CBNA and CBN typically indicates old plant material or poorly stored plant material.

 Cannabigerolic Acid. CBGA is a precursor molecule to THCA and CBDA. When a plant produces cannabinoids, it always produces CBGA first, then an enzymatic process converts CBGA to THCA and/or CBDA. CBGA can be used as an indicator of harvest readiness. If >1% CBGA is present in a sample, it typically means the plant can continue to produce active cannabinoids. A CBGA value of <1% is typically desirable. Plants commonly contain between 0-4% CBGA.

CBC is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, meaning it does not produce the "high" or intoxicating effects commonly associated with THC. It has been gaining attention for its potential therapeutic properties. While research on CBC is still in its early stages, some studies suggest that it may have anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), and potential antidepressant effects.  Like other cannabinoids, CBC interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the human body, which plays a crucial role in maintaining various physiological functions and promoting overall balance (homeostasis). As scientists continue to investigate the potential benefits of CBC and other cannabinoids, it adds to the growing body of knowledge surrounding the potential medical applications of cannabis and its derivatives.

THCV is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. It is structurally similar to THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, but they have different effects on the body and mind.

THCV is known for its potential effects on the endocannabinoid system, which is the network of receptors in the body that interacts with cannabinoids. In low doses, THCV is believed to act as a CB1 receptor antagonist, meaning it may diminish the psychoactive effects of THC. However, in higher doses, THCV can have its own unique psychoactive properties, although they are often described as more clear-headed and energetic compared to THC's intoxicating effects.

Apart from its interaction with the endocannabinoid system, THCV may have other potential effects. Some research suggests that it may act as an appetite suppressant and could be helpful for weight management. Additionally, THCV has been investigated for its potential anticonvulsant properties, making it an area of interest in epilepsy research.

As with many cannabinoids, the research on THCV is still evolving, and its full range of effects and medical applications is not yet fully understood. More studies are needed to explore its therapeutic potential and better understand how it interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system and other physiological processes.