Cannabinoids are the major “active ingredients” in cannabis, and while other cannabinoids like THCA, THCP or HHC may get more attention, there are a number of hard-working, non-intoxicating cannabinoids that are in the cannabis space—and they’re making a name for themselves.
Stepping into the spotlight are CBC, CBN, and CBG, and they’re all associated with some very intriguing effects. While they won’t impart the elevated properties you would expect from THC, there’s good reason they’ve been making such a splash.
Find out what all the fuss is about and read on to explore what they are, how they compare, and why they’re an important part of the proprietary blends that make up Urb’s first-class fleet of products.
CBC, CBN and CBG: Three Non-Intoxicating Cannabinoids Worth Knowing
Cannabinoids, like THC, CBC, CBN and CBG, are all part of a family of compounds produced by hemp and cannabis plants. In fact, there are over 100 different cannabinoids in this family, many of which we have yet to research and understand.
No matter which cannabinoid we’re talking about—whether THC, CBD, CBG, or any others—they all interface with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This vital regulatory network helps maintain essential functions such as:
- Memory
- Immune function
- Pain response
- Sleep
Along with cannabinoids, terpenes—the fragrant compounds that give different strains their distinctive aromatic qualities—also contribute to the overall experience your mind and body will have when you consume cannabis or hemp products.
Researchers are still teasing out the mysteries of the endocannabinoid system, as it was only identified in the 1990s. However, as time goes on and research increases, some things are becoming clearer, and one of the most important has to do with the distinction between “intoxicating” and “psychoactive.”
Non-Intoxicating vs Non-Psychoactive: What’s the Difference?
The terms “intoxicating” and “psychoactive” are closely related, and they’re easy to confuse. But while they may mean similar things, it’s important to distinguish between them.
- Psychoactive: Has some effect on our mood, perception, or consciousness. This means that alcohol is psychoactive, as are tea, coffee, or tobacco. Each affects how we process information and interact with the world, though to varying degrees.
- Intoxicating: Alters our ability to function. THC is considered intoxicating, as is alcohol. But tea, coffee, and tobacco are not. Why? Because they generally don’t affect or impair our ability to do things like drive motor vehicles or perform our jobs.
On a technical note, cannabinoids such as THC bind easily to our endocannabinoid system’s CB1 cannabinoid receptors and are generally considered to be intoxicating. Those that bind to our CB2 receptors or prevent others from binding to CB1 receptors are generally regarded as psychoactive.
With that in mind, though the cannabinoids CBC, CBN, and CBG are typically considered mildly psychoactive, none of them are intoxicating.
What Is CBC?
CBC—short for cannabichromene—doesn’t bind strongly to our endocannabinoid system’s CB1 receptors, but it does interact with some lesser-known receptors called TRPV1 and TRPA1, which help modulate inflammation and pain perception.
But while CBC doesn’t boast the range of effects commonly associated with CBD, the upshot is that CBC shows potential as a targeted, non-intoxicating pain relief option. Some research also suggests that CBC works in partnership with THC to produce even stronger pain-fighting effects, a phenomenon known as the “entourage effect” or “ensemble effect,” by which cannabinoids and terpenes combine forces and encourage more potent benefits or effects than they do on their own.
According to some research, CBC may also impart sedative effects. If so, along with its potential pain-relieving effects, it might be an excellent choice as an all-natural sleep support that won’t leave you groggy the next day.
What Is CBN?
CBN—also known as cannabinol—has a surprisingly long history in terms of cannabis research. When it was first identified in 1896, researchers thought it was the cannabis plant’s intoxicating compound, though CBN is only mildly psychoactive—about 25% as much as THC.
Still, research suggests CBN plays a role in several other potential benefits. The one that’s gotten the most attention is as a sleep aid, though current science is still a little unclear. One small-scale human study from 1976 found that CBN caused sedation in conjunction with THC; more recently, a rodent-based study found that CBN showed sedative effects.
Past its possibility to help support better sleep, some studies suggest that the CBN cannabinoid may help support the reverse of bone loss associated with osteoporosis and may have antibacterial properties against bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus.
What Is CBG?
CBG is short for cannabigerol, a comparatively rare cannabinoid that typically comprises less than 1% of most cannabis strains. In addition to potentially helping fight inflammation and reducing stress, there are indications the cannabinoid may help address some other, more challenging conditions.
One of these conditions is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a blanket term that includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Though IBD is a serious and potentially debilitating condition, a 2013 study showed that the CBG cannabinoid has potential to support treatment of the disease, which affects at least 5 million people worldwide.
Beyond this, CBG shows potential in supporting the treatment of glaucoma, and a study published in 2015 found that CBG was a potential neuroprotector when looking at neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, and Parkinson’s.
CBC vs CBN vs CBG: How Do They Perform?
While these three cannabis compounds have some obvious similarities, some differences set them apart and depend on how your individual body responds to cannabis and hemp products. So, what’s the best way to feel them out? We’ve got you covered—check out our line of Skybites gummies and compare CBC, CBN, and CBG yourself.
CBC and CBG: Boarding Skybites
Packed with beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes, Boarding Skybites combine the uplifting powers of CBD, CBG, CBC, and Delta 9. Start your journey with these delicious, convenient gummies and get ready for a smooth and enjoyable flight.
CBN: Landing Skybites
Ready for a deluxe ticket to relaxation? Our Landing Skybites leverage the soothing effects of CBN, CBD, and melatonin mixed with the calming terpenes linalool and myrcene. The result? A soft landing when and where you need it, lulling you into deeper rest with delicious berry flavors.
CBG: Frequent Flyer Flower
Looking for something a bit more buzzy? Check out our popular, smokable Frequent Flyer Flower, where you can enjoy the power of THCA and CBG in our AAA grade, American grown flower.
Fly With Urb For a First-Class Experience Every Time
There’s a whole lot more to cannabis and hemp than THC and CBD, and three cannabinoids—CBC, CBN, and CBG—are just a few that have been rapidly gaining attention. While they’re not intoxicating, each imparts a unique set of potential benefits, ranging from lasting relief from pain and inflammation to sleep support and more.
Want to take your journey even deeper? Visit our blog, where you’ll find in-depth articles on H4CBD and how it compares to CBD and an guide to live resin cartridges. If you want a first-class ticket to a high-flying collection of vapes, edibles, and other products that express the power of these unique cannabinoids, visit our full product collection today.
