CBC Cannabinoid Benefits
As research on cannabis expands, we get to learn more and more about this unique herb. Its potential health benefits have never really been in doubt. Cannabis’ medical history predates modern science. Historical records talk of a plant that was central to traditional cultural and medical practices.
Today, we stand at the proverbial crossroads, a classic case of “too near but still too far.” A growing body of research continues to highlight the potential of cannabinoids as pharmaceutical agents. Some, like cannabidiol (CBD), have been approved for use as a drug ingredient. Tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9-THC) has partially joined this exclusive group of “accepted” cannabis compounds, albeit with caveats.
While CBD and THC have undoubtedly been the ‘star attractions’ in the cannabis landscape, other cannabinoids are emerging. Cannabichromene (CBC) may well be the latest entrant, despite being discovered over half a century ago.
However, research on THC and CBD eclipsed CBC. As a result, not much is known about it. Be that as it may, early research findings suggest CBC may have impressive health benefits. So, we forget about CBD and THC for a moment and shift focus to CBC.
What are its benefits?
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Key Takeaways
- CBC is a little-known non-psychoactive cannabinoid with several potential health benefits.
- Research on CBC is scarce, but existing studies suggest it may be a potent anti-inflammatory agent.
- Most CBC research findings are based on in vitro and/or animal studies. Clinical studies are non-existent.
How Does Cannabichromene Work?
CBC is a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid with the same ancestry as its more popular cousins, THC and CBD. The main precursor compound for these cannabinoids is cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). However, CBGA further decarboxylates into cannabichromenic acid (CBCA), from which CBC forms.
Because the endocannabinoid system is the primary target of cannabinoids, CBC displays an affinity for the CB2 receptors. However, it does not bind to the CB1 receptor.
Like other cannabinoids, it also demonstrates the capacity to interact with non-cannabinoid receptors. For example, it has been shown to interact strongly with the transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels, including TRPV1-4, TRPV8, and TRPA1.
It is through these molecular pathways that CBC exerts its pharmacological effects. However, its action mechanism is poorly defined.
CBC is rare and naturally exists in extremely low quantities of about 0.05 – 0.3%. For this reason, it is mostly artificially synthesized from THC, rimonabant, and SR144528.
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What Is The Difference Between CBC And CBD
there is little that sets CBC apart from CBD. Both cannabinoids are non-psychoactive and preferentially bind to the CB2 receptors.
However, a major difference between CBC and CBC is their natural concentrations. As mentioned earlier, CBC is rare and naturally exists in meager amounts. On the other hand, CBD is a major cannabinoid and is possibly the most abundant in hemp.
Also, CBC seems to have anti-tumor qualities that are more potent than all other cannabinoids. If this could be proven, it would significantly distinguish CBC from CBD. This claim was made in a yet-to-published study, so its veracity is uncertain.
As research on novel cannabinoids like CBC continues, more differences between these compounds will come to the fore.
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CBC’s Potential Benefits
Few studies have investigated the pharmacological effects of CBC. So, existing findings mostly come from fairly dated sources. Regardless, here is what these studies say.
Pain And Inflammation
A 1983 rat study showed that CBC might induce analgesia. It achieves this effect by modulating the activity of proteins involved in pain processing. The most likely pathways for CBC’s analgesic effects are the TRP cation channels, especially TRPV1 and TRPA1.
CBC preferentially binds to the CB2 receptors, which are involved in immune system functions and anti-inflammatory signaling.
CBC can also produce strong anti-inflammatory effects via non-cannabinoid pathways. As this study shows, this compound can interact with TRP channels involved in pain perception and inflammation.
Still, on its inflammatory effect, CBC has been shown to ameliorate colonic inflammation in rats. It does this by inhibiting the activity of MAGL (monoacylglycerol lipase) – an enzyme involved in the production of prostaglandins and arachidonic acid. These two substances are known to facilitate inflammatory tissue responses.
Promotes Neurogenesis
CBC may improve brain function by enhancing the viability of neural stem cell progenitor cells. These cells play a vital role in brain function. They evolve into astroglial cells, which support brain homeostasis.
Astroglial cells are also vital in preventing oxidative stress by minimizing inflammation, toxicity, and oxidative stress. These are among the leading causes of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s.
Anxiety And Depression
CBC may also help reduce symptoms associated with anxiety and depression. This 2010 study found that when combined with THC and CBD, CBC induces antidepressant effects. Of course, the challenge with this finding is that both CBD and THC exhibit anti-anxiety effects (THC in lower doses). So, it is difficult to tell if CBC was solely responsible for this effect.
However, it highlights the potential role of the “entourage effect” – the idea that cannabinoids top up each other’s effects. In fact, CBC is thought to enhance the “entourage effect” by potentiating the effects of other cannabinoids.
May Help Manage Acne
Acne is a skin condition characterized by plugged hair follicles. So, most treatment plans focus on clearing the oil (sebum) and dead skin.
CBC might help with acne thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to hinder the production of excess lipids.
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Is CBC Safe?
Not much is known about CBC’s safety profile. However, considering its similarity to CBD—a safe and well-tolerated cannabinoid—CBC may also be safe.
Be that as it may, the FDA warns certain demographics to avoid cannabinoids. These include pregnant and lactating mothers and diabetics. Similarly, people on blood-thinning medications are also advised to steer clear of cannabinoids.
These recommendations were not designed with CBC in mind. In truth, there are no toxicology reports on CBC, so its potential side effects are unknown. Keep in mind, however, that ‘unknown’ does not mean ‘absent.’ So, always seek professional guidance before taking cannabinoids.
Even if we don’t know much about CBC’s adverse effects, research and studies remain ongoing.
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Final Thoughts: CBC Cannabinoid Benefits
in spite of its age, CBC is largely a ‘grey’ cannabinoid. Granted, it displays anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and several other potential health benefits, but these are mostly based on animal studies.
Therefore, more research is undoubtedly needed to show if these findings can be replicated in human test subjects. The good news is that recent legislation has created a conducive atmosphere for cannabis research.
So, in due course, other health benefits of CBC may come to light. Until then, we can only wait for researchers to do their work.
Where To Buy CBC Online
if not for the reason that CBC has pharmacological effects that are potentially valuable to our health, you can try cannabinoids due to their positive influence on the endocannabinoid system. At least on this, scientists unanimously agree.
So, where can you buy CBC online? At Melee Dose! We have several products that contain CBC.
For example, this Watermelon Mimosa Live Resin Vape from Melee Dose is a wonder in mixology, combining the light notes of a mimosa with the fruitiness of watermelon. The aroma is rich, and so are the effects, which are punched up with CBC to enhance an already energetic high.
2 Gram Live Resin Disposable Vape: Watermelon Mimosa (HHC, CBC, Delta-9 THC)
Melee Dose, LLC
For more on the different varieties of CBC online, be sure to keep reading on 420 Method. We believe there is something for everyone!
