Types of Cannabinoids and Their Effects
While the world of cannabis has been on the front lines of controversy for many years, it’s since gained tremendous popularity for its wide-ranging benefits, some anecdotal while others heavily researched.
With that said, the benefits aren’t as simple as smoking cannabis and allowing the rest to work itself out. Instead, there are hundreds of types of cannabis strains and cannabinoids at large, each with its own unique functions and features.
Luckily, in this article, we’ve got you covered – detailing the five most common types of cannabinoids, their effects, and some expected benefits from each! But first, what are cannabinoids?!
What are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are a class of chemical compounds that are found in the cannabis plant and are offered in processed forms like oils, capsules, and edibles. Evidently, they can be consumed through various methods including smoking, vaping, and ingesting.
These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps regulate various physiological processes such as appetite, pain sensation, mood, and sleep.
The ECS is composed of receptors (CB1 and CB2) that are located throughout the body, including the brain, immune system, and various organs. When a cannabinoid binds to one of these receptors, it can produce a variety of effects.
The two most well-known cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), particularly delta-9 THC, and CBD (cannabidiol). THC is the primary psychoactive component in cannabis and is responsible for the “high” that people experience when using marijuana. CBD, on the other hand, is non-psychoactive and is often used for its potential medicinal benefits, such as treating anxiety, pain, and inflammation.
While some who use cannabis experience a lack of motivation or other unproductive and potentially “negative” effects, others experience quite the opposite, making for an extremely beneficial implement into daily life for many.
5 Types of Cannabinoids and Their Effects
In addition to THC and CBD, there are over 100 different cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, each with its own unique properties.
Some of the other well-known cannabinoids include CBN (cannabinol), which is known for its sedative properties and is found in aged or degraded cannabis, THC-V, which is known for its appetite-suppressing properties, as well as THC-O, delta-8 THC, and delta-10 THC.
With that said, below will be a brief detail of the five most common types and cannabinoids and their effects:
- THC-O
First up, we have THC-O, also known as tetrahydrocannabinol acid. This is the precursor to THC, the cannabinoid that’s most well-known for getting you “high.” THC-O is found in raw and live cannabis and is non-psychoactive.
It is converted to THC when exposed to heat or other processes. Some studies suggest that THC-O may have its own set of therapeutic benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- CBD
Next, we have CBD or cannabidiol. This is the non-psychoactive cannabinoid that’s become extremely popular in recent years for its potential medicinal benefits. It’s often used to help with things like anxiety, pain, and inflammation.
Additionally, CBD has been shown to have antipsychotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used as a treatment for seizures and other neurological disorders.
- CBN
CBN is a slightly psychoactive cannabinoid that’s found in aged or degraded cannabis. It’s often used for its sedative properties and can be helpful for getting a good night’s sleep. It’s also been shown to be potentially beneficial for individuals with glaucoma, however, more research is certainly required before conclusively suggesting its claim.
- Delta-8 THC
Delta-8 THC is a minor cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is structurally similar to Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive component in cannabis, but with a few key differences.
Delta-8 THC is considered to be less psychoactive than Delta-9 THC, meaning that its effects are milder and less likely to cause anxiety. It is also said to have a more calming and relaxing effect, making it a popular choice for those looking for a more subtle high.
Take Well-Versed, for example! A brand that has recently launched Delta 8 disposable vape pens that deliver a variety of effects, providing users with the opportunity to experience better sleep and relaxation to a boost of energy and max focus!
- Delta-10 THC
Delta-10 THC, similar to delta-8, is a rarer and less well-known cannabinoid. It is structurally similar to Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC, but with some subtle differences.
It is considered to be more potent than Delta-8 THC and less potent than Delta-9 THC; a common middle ground for those hoping to enjoy the psychoactive components without angst.
Delta-10 THC is said to have a more uplifting and euphoric effect compared to Delta-8’s more mild, relaxing effects. Though the Delta-10 benefits are wide-ranging, both Delta-8 and Delta-10 can be used for treating anxiety and other medically-related issues.
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