Hemp cannabinoids are federally legal and available for commercial sale as of the 2018 Farm Bill. Since then, we’ve gained more access to hemp-based cannabinoids than ever before, and we have tons of different products to infuse them into. This means that consumers can now reap the potential benefit of dozens of plant-based cannabinoids (not just CBD) in products that help them most.
To be clear, each cannabinoid affects the body slightly differently even though they trigger the same cannabinoid receptors. When we understand the ways different hemp cannabinoids impact the body, we can choose products that are more closely aligned with our intended wellness goals.
Today, we’ll discuss the different hemp cannabinoids you should know about and discuss some of their potential effects on the body.
Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana
Before we can discuss hemp cannabinoids, we must explain the difference between hemp- and marijuana-type cannabis. Essentially, both are forms of the plant genus, cannabis and are only differentiated by THC content – hemp contains less than 0.3 percent THC whereas marijuana contains anything above that.
Importantly, THC is still federally illegal and subject to completely different restrictions and regulations. It is also not approved for interstate commerce and not protected by federal law. Consequently, any cannabinoid that comes from THC-heavy marijuana is also federally illegal, even if the product itself contains no THC whatsoever. As such, only hemp cannabinoids are legal and eligible for commercial sale – and there are a lot of them!
Natural Hemp Cannabinoids
Cannabis flowers produce more than 500 chemical compounds, including more than 100 different cannabinoids. Many of these elements develop at different stages in hemp flower growth process and often include an extra carboxyl atom (a), which makes the element acidic.
Importantly, these elements are “inactive” in their acid forms due, in part, to their increased size. However, when heated or exposed to UV light, the extra atom drops off these elements, which decreases their molecular structure by about 12 percent to decarboxylate (“activate”) them.
The following are the most common naturally occurring hemp cannabinoids. Note that the letter “A” represents their acidic forms.
CBG
CBGA is the precursor to all other cannabinoids, thus earning it the title “Mother of all Cannabinoids.” It develops early in the hemp flower’s growth process before transforming into other cannabinoids like CBDA, THCA, and CBCA.
Until recently, CBGA was harder to come by, mostly because farmers favored higher quantities of more mature cannabinoids like THC and CBD. However, recent research suggests that CBG and CBGA might exert a unique impact on the body when it interacts with the endocannabinoid system. For example, some suggest that CBG exerts significant anti-inflammatory potential and may protect the brain and nerve cells from damage. Additionally, it could possess antibacterial properties, though, research regarding CBG’s specific effects is sparse and non-conclusive.
CBD
CBD, or Cannabidiol, is the non-acidic form of Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDA). It’s become wildly popular following recent commercial hemp legislation, especially given an increased focus on natural, plant-based wellness options. Like other cannabinoids, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system by triggering CB receptor activation. In doing, CBD may help minimize swelling, boost mood, promote non-groggy rest, strengthen bones, stimulate hair growth, and more.
CBC
CBCA is another non-psychoactive hemp cannabinoid that develops from CBGA via natural cannabinoid synthesis. Though this particular cannabinoid binds poorly to CB1 receptors in the brain and spinal column, it binds well with other receptors that help control pain perception. Researchers also suggest that CBC may activate endocannabinoid production to improve EC system tone. Hence, CBC may help the body recover naturally while protecting the brain and body from pain and nerve damage.
THCV
Don’t let the name fool you. Unlike Delta 9 THC, THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) is a non-psychoactive hemp cannabinoid that seems to help regulate many facets of metabolism. Specifically, researchers found that THCV decreased appetite, improved metabolism, and increased satiety in rodent studies. Consequently, this hemp-based cannabinoid may promote weight loss and help manage obesity according to some experts. Some also suggest that THCV may help reduce the psychoactive qualities of D9 THC. However, the methods by which it does so are unclear.
Synthetic Hemp Cannabinoids
Cannabinoid science moves quickly, including new methods scientists use to transform non-psychoactive hemp cannabinoids into psychoactive substances. Examples of hemp-based synthetic cannabinoids include Delta-8, Delta 10, Delta-0, and HHC or hexahydrocannabinol.
To create synthetic hemp cannabinoids, chemists extract and purify CBD from hemp. Next, they modify it with acids or other chemical elements to create these new, psychoactive hemp substances.
Importantly, there has been some uncertainty regarding the legality of these synthetic hemp cannabinoids. However, recent legislation confirmed that D8 (and likely the rest) is federally legal as per the 2018 Farm Bill. To clarify, the Farm Bill legalized hemp and all of its derivatives for commercial sale. This includes CBD and other hemp-based cannabinoids. Because D8, D10, D-0, and HHC are created from hemp-based CBD, then synthetic cannabinoids created from the element are also legal.
Having said that, remember that there are no regulations to support the safety of synthetic cannabinoids. What’s more, developing these cannabinoids often involves the use of substances that are not safe for human consumption. As such, consumers must understand and trust their cannabinoid sources, especially if those cannabinoids are developed synthetically.
Hemp Cannabinoids Closing Thoughts
At Doc’s Oils, your health is our top priority. We are not here to sell products, but rather to help guide you through your wellness journey. Notably, your journey might include proper nutrition, regular stretches and exercise, chiropractic adjustments as needed, and a targeted supplement routine.
As such, we’ve developed an extensive product line with each item designed to target specific wellness goals. Our formulas include both isolated CBD and full-spectrum CBD extracts. These options can help you feel your best via a phenomenon called the entourage effect. Basically, the entourage effect suggests that certain cannabis-based elements work better together than they do when consumed separately.
Contact us to learn more about these amazing hemp cannabinoids or to discuss the best CBD oil products for your specific needs. You can also follow us on Facebook or join our mailing list for news, product updates, and more CBD education.
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