Cannabinoids 101

Did you know that there are over 100 cannabinoids which have been identified in the cannabis plant? Well, now you do. Cannabinoids are a class of diverse chemical compounds that act on cannabinoid receptors (CB receptors) in cells. These receptors are part of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which’s involved in a variety of physiological processes including appetite, pain-sensation, mood, and memory.

There are several types of cannabinoids:

1. Phytocannabinoids: Found naturally in the cannabis plant. The most well-known are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is known for its psychoactive effects, while CBD is known for its potential therapeutic benefits without causing a high.
2. Endocannabinoids: These are produced naturally in the body of animals. They help regulate various bodily functions. Anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) are two major endocannabinoids.
3. Synthetic Cannabinoids: These are artificially manufactured and can mimic the effects of natural cannabinoids. They are often used for research but can also be found in some products.

The study of cannabinoids and their effects on the human body is an ongoing area of research, especially with increasing interest in the medical applications of cannabis and its components.

Now, cannabinoids are classified as major, meaning they are plentiful within the cannabis plant, and minor, as they are less ample, and we are going to be covering the ones we carry here at The Calm Leaf.

Cannabidiol (CBD)

CBD is short for cannabidiol, and was discovered in 1940, making it one of the initial cannabinoids to be studied by researchers. CBD does exist in the marijuana plant as well, but it’s derived from hemp both for reasons relating to legality, and because it’s easy to isolate, as it can make up anywhere from 10%-20% of the plant material.

Being the dominant cannabinoid found in the hemp plant, it’s able to bind to cannabinoid receptors located throughout the body, enabling a process in which the body may achieve homeostasis as part of the ESC that’s present in all mammals.

While research is ongoing, some of the commonly cited benefits of CBD include:

• Pain Relief
• Anxiety and Depression Reduction
• Substance Use Disorders
• Antipsychotic
• Neuroprotective Properties
• Heart Health
• Sleep Improvement
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects
• Anti-Nausea Effects

None of these uses have been approved by the FDA as of yet (exception: Epidiolex, the only FDA-approved cannabinoid-based therapy for certain forms of epilepsy). However, with the amount of required R&D going into cannabidiol, it is likely that we will, in the near future, be hearing about new, data-backed uses for CBD.

Learn More About CBD

Cannabinol (CBG)

CBG, or cannabigerol was discovered in the 1960s, and it’s one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. CBG attaches primarily to CB2 receptors in the body’s digestive system and immune system, promoting balance and equilibrium that can offer valuable effects to the way in which a person feels.

Unlike THC, CBG is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a "high". CBG is often found in lower concentrations in the cannabis plant compared to other cannabinoids like THC and CBD (cannabidiol). Hence, it acts as the predecessor to CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids, giving it the nickname: “the mother cannabinoid”.

CBG has gained interest in the scientific community due to its potential therapeutic properties (and it’s often compared to CBD). Research is still in its early stages, but studies suggest that CBG may have various beneficial effects, including:

• Anti-Inflammatory Properties
• Neuroprotective Effects
• Antibacterial Properties
• Appetite Stimulation
• Anti-Nausea
• Reduces Eye Pressure

It's important to note that while these potential benefits are promising, more comprehensive clinical trials are needed to fully understand the effects and therapeutic potential of CBG.

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Cannabinol (CBN)

CBN, or cannabinol, is one of the many chemicals found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, CBN typically does not induce a psychoactive effect. CBN isn’t particularly plentiful in fresh or cured cannabis. You see, CBN is created when THC is oxidized, which means it's often found in older cannabis. Its concentration increases as the plant ages or is exposed to air and light.

Some of the potential therapeutic benefits attributed to CBN include:

• Sleep Aid
• Pain Relief
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects
• Neuroprotectant
• Appetite Stimulation

Note: While these potential benefits are promising, more research is needed to fully understand CBN's effects and how it interacts with the human body, especially in terms of its safety and efficacy as a therapeutic agent.

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Cannabichromene (CBC)

Cannabichromene, aka CBC, was discovered over 50 years ago, and while it doesn’t receive as much attention as THC or CBD, it has been the subject of considerable research. CBC is one of the over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. It’s considered one of the "major" cannabinoids, alongside more well-known compounds like THC and CBD. CBC is non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn't produce the "high" associated with THC. CBC can also be found in full-spectrum cannabis extracts and oils that retain a range of cannabinoids. Its concentration in most cannabis strains is quite low compared to THC and CBD.

Like other cannabinoids, CBC is thought to interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, but it does so in a way that is distinct from THC and CBD. It is believed to interact with other receptors in the body as well, contributing to its potential therapeutic effects.

Cannabichromene has been linked with the following benefits:

• Anti-Pain
• Anti-Inflammation
• Inhibits Acne
• Antidepressant

Much of this research above is still in the early stages and further studies, particularly human clinical trials, are needed to confirm these effects.

Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDA)

CBDA, or cannabidiolic acid, is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. It’s one of many cannabinoids in the plant but is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the "high" associated with THC. CBDA is the acidic precursor to CBD (cannabidiol). When cannabis is heated or aged, CBDA undergoes decarboxylation, converting it into CBD. While it’s often consumed as CBD, CBDA can also be beneficial in its raw form.

CBDA has been shown to inhibit the production of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzymes. Still, as a cannabinoid, CBDA attaches itself to cannabinoid receptors belonging to the endocannabinoid system.

CBDA has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects, which may include the following properties:

• Anti-Inflammatory
• Anti-Nausea
• Anti-Cancer

However, research into CBDA is still in its early stages, and more studies are needed to fully understand its effects and potential medical applications.

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Delta 6 THC

Delta 6 THC, also known as Delta-6a10a-tetrahydrocannabinol, is a compound found in cannabis. It's one of the many cannabinoids present in the plant, though it's not as well-known or as abundantly present as the more famous delta 9 THC or CBD.

The effects and properties of delta 6 THC aren’t as extensively studied or understood as those more common cannabinoids. But like other cannabinoids, delta 6 does interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, but the specific effects it produces, and its potency compared to more well-known cannabinoids are still under research.

Overall, the research on delta 6 THC is limited, and much of what is known about its effects comes from anecdotal reports rather than scientific studies. As with any cannabinoid, although federally legal, delta 6’s legally can vary per a state’s regulations.

Delta 8 THC

Delta 8 THC is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that makes up about 0.1% of the hemp plant. It’s an isomer of CBD, meaning that the molecules in the two cannabinoids are identical, but arranged differently from one another. Essentially, delta 8 is the result of oxidized delta 9 THC that has converted into a new cannabinoid. Delta 8 was initially discovered in 1965 and since, has been studied by researchers.

Delta 8 THC is about 70% as intoxicating as delta 9 THC, the dominant compound in marijuana, meaning that it produces a mild but notable high that many describe as soothing to both to the body and the mind. Delta 8 is also rich in properties that relate to the nervous system due to its classification as a cannabinoid.

Here are the potential benefits of delta 8 THC, based on available research and anecdotal reports:

• Reduced Psychoactive Effects
• Anxiety Relief
• Pain Relief:
• Appetite Stimulation
• Nausea Reduction
• Neuroprotective Properties
• Improved Brain Health

Keep in mind that while these benefits above are promising, research on delta 8 THC is still in its early stages. The compound is not as well studied as delta 9 THC, and more research is needed to fully understand its effects, benefits, and potential side effects. Also, as with any cannabinoid, although federally legal, delta 8’s legality can vary per a state’s regulations.

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Delta 9 THC

Delta 9 THC, also known as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), is a naturally occurring cannabinoid in cannabis. It was first isolated and synthesized in 1964 by Israeli scientists Raphael Mechoulam and Yechiel Gaoni at the Weizmann Institute of Science. This discovery was a significant milestone in the study of cannabis and its effects on the human body.

While it’s the dominant chemical compound in marijuana, it makes up only about 0.3% of the hemp plant. It’s a known psychoactive cannabinoid that works with the body’s endocannabinoid system by enabling cannabinoid receptors throughout the body to stimulate regulatory effects that can offer value to how we feel. Hemp-derived/federally-compliant delta 9 products usually have a much lower concentration of THC compared to marijuana-derived products. However, if you were to isolate the delta 9 in hemp and the delta 9 in marijuana, you’d find two identical compounds that behave exactly the same in the body.

Here are some of delta 9 THC’s potential benefits that have been suggested through research and anecdotal reports:

• Pain Relief
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects
• Appetite Stimulation
• Nausea and Vomiting Reduction
• Mental Health Benefits
• Sleep Aid
• Neuroprotective Properties
• Glaucoma Treatment

Additional data is still needed to better understand its effects, benefits, and potential side effects. Also, as with any cannabinoid, although federally legal, delta 9’s legality can vary per a state’s regulations.

Learn More About Delta 9 THC

Delta 10 THC

Delta 10 is a pretty new discovery that we’ve only known about for a few years now. It was discovered by accident and is an extremely trace cannabinoid that’s found in the hemp plant. Delta 10 THC is an isomer of delta 9 THC. Delta 10 THC is present in extremely low levels of the hemp plant, and so isolating it is very time-consuming and costly. Most delta 10 on the market is made through an isomerization process, in which delta 8’s molecules are reorganized to convert the cannabinoid into delta 10 THC. So, technically the way in which it’s made is a partial synthesis process.

Here are some potential benefits associated with delta 10 THC, as research in this area is still emerging and much of the data is based on anecdotal evidence:

• Mild Psychoactive Effects
• Stress and Anxiety Relief
• Energy and Focus
• Pain Relief
• Appetite Stimulation
• Anti-inflammatory Properties
• Potential Neuroprotective Effects

While these above benefits are based on preliminary evidence, more research is needed to fully understand delta 10’s effects and therapeutic potential. Also, as with any cannabinoid, although federally legal, delta 10’s legality can vary per a state’s regulations.

Learn More About Delta 10 THC

Delta 11 THC

Delta 11 THC is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Like its more well-known counterparts, it can interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, although its effects and prevalence in cannabis strains may vary. While it’s considered new to us, it was in fact referenced for the first time in the 1970s, although practically no research exists that gives us meaningful information about it.

Delta 11 THC can be made through a process of isomerization, but is found naturally in the cannabis plant, albeit usually in small amounts. Delta 11 might also be derived through specific chemical reactions or processes that modify other forms of THC.

Research on delta 11 THC is still quite limited, so its specific effects and benefits are yet to be fully understood. Still, as with any cannabinoid, although federally legal, delta 11’s legality can vary per a state’s regulations.

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Hexahydrocannabinol (HXY-8 THC)

HXY-8 THC, also known as hexahydrocannabinol, is a hydrogenated derivative of THC, the main psychoactive component of cannabis. This compound is relatively new and is part of the family of cannabinoids.

HXY-8 THC is created by adding hydrogen atoms to the THC molecule, changing its properties. This process, known as hydrogenation, is similar to the method used to turn vegetable oil into margarine. It typically results in a substance that is more stable and has a longer shelf life.

Now, HXY-8 THC’s effects on the human body are not well studied, and it's unclear how it compares to THC in terms of potency, effects, and safety. Like other cannabinoids, it likely interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, but the specifics of these interactions and the overall impact on health and well-being are still being researched. Also, as with any cannabinoid, although federally legal, HXY-8 THC’s legality can vary per a state’s regulations.

HXY-9 THC (9-Hydroxy-Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol)

HXY-9 THC, also known as 9-Hydroxy-Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol, is a metabolite of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It is formed in the body through the metabolism of THC. You see, when THC is consumed, it undergoes metabolic processes in the liver, leading to the formation of HXY-9 THC. This metabolite is believed to contribute to the overall effects of THC on the body. Research on the medicinal properties of 9-Hydroxy-THC is limited compared to THC. As with any cannabinoid, although federally legal, HXY-9 THC’s legality can vary per a state’s regulations.

HXY-10 THC (10-Hydroxy-THC)

HXY-10 THC, also known as 10-Hydroxy-THC, is a metabolite of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It is formed when THC is metabolized in the liver. Essentially, after consuming cannabis, THC is metabolized in the liver by enzymes. One of the metabolites produced in this process is 10-Hydroxy-THC. Research on the medicinal properties 10-Hydroxy-THC is limited compared to THC. As with any cannabinoid, although federally legal, HXY-10 THC’s legality can vary per a state’s regulations.

HXY-11 THC (11-Hydroxy THC)

HXY-11 THC, also known as 11-Hydroxy THC, is a semi-synthesized cannabinoid that replicates the metabolite produced in the liver when we consume delta 9. Although research on 11-HXY THC is still in its early stages, there is evidence to suggest that it may interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), just like CBD and other cannabinoids. Those who have tried it describe the high as identical to the effects they get from delta 9 edibles, in that the effects are more relaxing, body-oriented, and long-lasting. As with any cannabinoid, although federally legal, HXY-10 THC’s legality can vary per a state’s regulations.

HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol)

HHC, aka hexahydrocannabinol, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid located within the hemp plant’s seeds and pollen. HHC is the hydrogenated analog of delta 9 THC. Translation: HHC is chemically identical to delta 9, only with the addition of a hydrogen atom. Recognized for its remarkable chemical stability and bioavailability, HHC acts in a manner quite similar to delta 9 once absorbed into the human body – both in terms of its ‘high’ and its overall effects. HHC was first synthesized in 1947, however, it only recently gained attention in the cannabinoid market

It's worth noting that the research on HHC is still in its early stages compared to more well-studied cannabinoids like THC and CBD. However, some potential benefits based on preliminary research and anecdotal reports include:

• Pain Relief
• Anti-inflammatory Properties
• Anxiety and Stress Reduction:
• Improved Sleep
• Neuroprotective Properties:
• Appetite Stimulation:
• Euphoria and Recreation

Remember HHC’s effects can vary from person to person, and more data is required to fully understand its benefits and overall effects. Additionally, although federally legal, HHC’s legality can vary per a state’s regulations.

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PHC (Hydrox4phc)

PHC stands for Hydrox4phc, a synthetic cannabinoid derived from delta 9 THC. PHC does not occur naturally in cannabis plants but is produced through a chemical process that modifies hemp material. Once consumed, PHC effectively becomes THC in the body, offering a potent and long-lasting psychoactive experience, often compared to the effects of THC.

The production of PHC involves a series of chemical reactions that transform cannabinoids extracted from hemp (like CBD or THC) into new compounds. This process makes PHC a semi-synthetic compound, as it does not naturally exist in cannabis plants but is synthesized from natural cannabinoids.

As of now, there is limited scientific research on PHC, so no proven benefits. The compound is relatively new, and scientists have not had sufficient time to review its effects comprehensively. PHC’s legality varies depending on the state, but it is legalized on a federal level.

THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)

Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid, commonly abbreviated as THCA, is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. THCA is produced in the trichomes of the cannabis plant through the biosynthesis of other compounds. It’s the acidic precursor to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound commonly associated with the effects of cannabis. THCA itself is not psychoactive though. This is because it does not readily bind to the CB1 receptors in the brain, which’re responsible for the psychoactive effects of THC.

When cannabis is heated, as in smoking or vaporizing, THCA is converted into THC through a process known as decarboxylation. This is why raw cannabis does not have the same psychoactive effects as when it is heated.

THCA has several potential benefits:

• Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
• Neuroprotective Effects
• Anti-Nausea and Appetite Stimulant
• Anti-Proliferative Properties:
• Pain Relief

Note: Research into cannabinoids like THCA is ongoing, and much remains to be understood about their full range of effects and potential therapeutic uses. THCA’s legality varies depending on the state, but it is legal in most states, since it is fully legalized on a federal level.

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THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)

THCV is short for tetrahydrocannabivarin. It’s a naturally occurring, minor cannabinoid in the hemp plant. THCV was discovered in 1970, but the exact year of its discovery can be pinpointed to 1973, when it was identified and isolated by researchers. Regardless, it has been studied for decades by cannabis researchers. Generally, THCV is found in relatively small amounts compared to THC and cannabidiol (CBD).

The effects of THCV can vary depending on the dose and the individual's unique physiology:

• At low doses, THCV may act as a CB1 antagonist.
• At higher doses, THCV may act as a CB1 agonist, like THC, but its psychoactive effects are generally less intense and of shorter duration compared to THC.

So, it can behave like a sativa that can give you stronger focus and uplifting properties.

THCV has been associated with the following benefits:

• Appetite Stimulant
• Increases Satiety
• Helps Manage Obesity
• Reduces Panic Attacks
• Stimulates Bone Growth

Keep in mind that THCV’s effects can vary from person to person, and more research is required to totally understand its benefits and overall effects. And, although federally legal, HHC’s legality can vary per a state’s regulations.

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THCP (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol)

THCP is short for tetrahydrocannabiphorol and it’s an extremely minor cannabinoid that occurs in trace amounts in the hemp plant, as it was discovered in only December of 2019. THCP binds to CB1 receptors at 33x the rate of delta 9 THC, partly due to its longer alkyl side chain – in other words, it’s far more potent than the THC we’re more accustomed to. This provides THCP with the ability to get you 10x more high than delta 9, which is quite impressive. The high is also simultaneously quite euphoric and calming.

Research on THCP is still in the early stages, and much remains to be learned about its effects, potential therapeutic benefits, etc. Also, its legality varies depending on the state, but it is legalized on a federal level.

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THCB (Tetrahydrocannabutol)

THCB, aka tetrahydrocannabutol, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that’s found in hemp, and it was only discovered in late 2019 by a group of Italian scientists who specialize in cannabis.

THCB is a homologue of delta 9 THC and has a butyl side chain rather than a pentyl side chain that changes its chemical structure. In fact, this one change affects how the THCB interacts with CB1 receptors. It also impacts how this cannabinoid interacts with all cannabinoid receptors to yield distinctive effects throughout the body. THCB operates in a stronger manner with CB1 receptors than delta 9 THC, attaching to these receptors at an efficient rate, thus resulting in a higher potency that surpasses delta 9.

Research on THCB is still in the early stages, and much remains to be learned about its effects, potential therapeutic benefits, etc. Also, its legality varies depending on the state, but it is legalized on a federal level.

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THCH (Tetrahydrocannabihexol)

THCH, aka tetrahydrocannabihexol, is a less commonly discussed cannabinoid compared to its close relatives like Delta 9 THC and cannabidiol (CBD), as it was just recently discovered.

THCH can be synthesized in a laboratory setting one of two methods:

Method #1: Chemical Synthesis: Allows for the creation of cannabinoids that are rare or not naturally occurring, potentially including THCH. This method requires advanced knowledge of organic chemistry reactions, and the complexity of the synthesis will depend on the molecular structure of the target cannabinoid.

Method #2: Semi-Synthesis: This approach combines natural sources and laboratory modification. For example, a more common cannabinoid extracted from the cannabis plant could be chemically modified to create a rarer one (potentially like THCH). This process might be more straightforward than full synthesis, depending on the similarity between the starting molecule and the end goal.

Although THCH and THC are structurally similar, they can have different psychoactive properties, potency, and interactions with the human body, so more data is needed before getting a better understanding of these things. However, we do know that THCH’s legality varies on a state level, but it is legalized on a federal level.

THCJD (Tetrahydrocannabioctyl)

THCJD, aka tetrahydrocannabioctyl, is a synthetic cannabinoid, which means it is a man-made chemical that is similar to compounds found naturally in the cannabis plant. These synthetic cannabinoids are often used in research to study the effects of cannabinoids on the body and brain. They can bind to the same receptors in the brain as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive component in cannabis.

However, THCJD is about 19x stronger than THC, since its extended to side-chain has 8 carbon molecules (octyl side chain) attached versus only 5 molecules (alkyl side chain) in THC. Essentially, the longer the side chain, the more powerful the compound.

Now, research on THCJD is still in its early stages, but it likely provides benefits that’re similar to those of delta 9 THC. Also, THCJD’s legality varies on a state level, but it is legalized on a federal level.

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