Short for Cannabibichromene, this is a main cannabinoid in Sativa plants; only two others naturally produce in higher supply, these being CBD and THC. Unlike some, this cannabis chemical is not psychotropic and does not inhibit mental function, yet research does show it to be a strong, TRPA1 agonist, hence why it is sought by relief seekers, and scientists and researchers, who are now exploring it for its therapeutic and anti-inflammatory properties.
This is not to say it was only recently found, though, as it was first discovered in the 1960s.
But despite this, scientists and researchers surprisingly know very little about how it works, yet they do know one thing and that is it has renowned potential at reducing inflammation.
This is not all, as CBC is also shown to limit discomfort by reducing pain perception at the receptor level. And with it supporting brain cell growth too, it is easy to see why scientists and cannabis experts claim it to be one of the most versatile cannabinoids of the century!
It also pairs well with other cannabinoids. Studies say taking it with ones like THC, or CBD or CBG, might cause an entourage effect that enhances its potential therapeutic benefits.
And speaking of CBC benefits, it also shows pharmacological effects, and ones unique to those of Delta-9 THC. For one, it has anti-inflammatory traits, and can support relaxation for the mind and body. This may allow spasm-prone, anxiety-susceptible people to relax.
Studies also say CBC can relieve pain, with some also saying it reduces body temperature.
Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBC is a cannabis compound that is not psychotropic, the reason being is it does not bind to receptors that bring such effects – like CB1 and CB2.
But even so, THC users who want the high that comes with classic cannabis still have lots to gain with CBC as research shows it enhances the effects and potency of THC by raising levels of it in the brain; this tells us there is a strong synergy between the two compounds!
What is CBC?
CBC is a mighty, potent, non-psychotropic cannabinoid. The last part meaning it will not get a person high. But like CBD and THC, research does show it supports brain growth by raising brain cell viability and development; a process known in the field as neurogenesis.
Atop of this, CBC is a main reason cannabis plants have anti-tumor and cancer properties. And with it engaging the CB2 receptor, CBC is praised for its relaxing and anti-inflammation effects too. The one caveat is it does not activate CB1 receptors so it will not help a person to heal or recover as swiftly as cannabinoids that do, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
This said, here are a few notable facts about this cannabinoid that is growing in popularity:
- CBC is a white-colorless oil that is soluble and dissolvable in ether and alcohol.
- CBC was isolated in 1966 by scientists Yechiel Gaoni and Raphael Mechoulam.
- CBC is rather safe, but some people do report effects like nausea and vomiting.
Let us now move on to look at how CBC works to bring the relief and effects it is known for.
How CBC Works
CBC is said to be effective at reducing inflammation, and perhaps even more so than CBD. This is great news for those who only want to leverage the therapeutic benefits of cannabis as CBC has pain-relieving, anxiety-inducing properties, and ones that do not get you HIGH.
CBC gives relief by binding to specific receptors in the endocannabinoid system, and more specifically, to ones that can reduce pain levels and perception when bonded to. In some studies, CBC is said to be ten times as potent and effective as CBD at treating tumors and bone-growth issues. It is also highly coveted for its antiviral, anti-inflammation properties.
Does CBC Get You High?
So, will CBC get you high? This is an excellent question. But no, CBC is not intoxicating, and it does not get people high. Nor does it have psychotropic effects as it does not cling to CB1 receptors in the brain, unlike THC, which is the most plentiful cannabis compound.
Does CBC Synergize with Other Cannabinoids?
CBC is a versatile cannabinoid with potential benefits that should excite relief seekers and cannabis enthusiasts alike. We say this as studies say it has anti-inflammatory properties! Research also tells us it has traits of anti-cancer drugs along with analgesic effects that rid pain. And it may work harmoniously with other cannabinoids too. Namely, THC and CBD!
As said above, CBC is not an intoxicating compound, so it will not bring a high or euphoria like traditional, THC-rich cannabis. The reason being is it does not bind to CB1 receptors, and if it does, it does so very weakly. However, it does bind to other receptors, like TRPA1 (ankyrin 1) and TRPV1 (vanilloid receptor), which are known for impacting pain perception.
This is a big deal as when CBC activates these receptors, natural endocannabinoids, such as anandamide, will release in greater amounts, which in most cases, reduces pain levels.
Many researchers say this makes CBC a harmonious companion with other cannabinoids as its effects, alongside those of CBD/THC, can create an entourage effect that enhances the relief and euphoria a person achieves, though more research is needed to say for sure.
CBC vs. CBD vs. CBG – Contrast and Comparison
None of these are psychoactive so they do not get people high like traditional marijuana.
This is not a big deal for most though as these cannabinoids are from the cannabis plant, which means people do not use them to get high, but for relief and therapeutic purposes.
As such, these cannabinoids are popular among people with daily pain who seek relief without the mind-altering effects of THC. Let us now have a look at how they compare:
CBC, anecdotal evidence makes CBC a promising cannabinoid – but with it being far less researched than cannabinoids like CBD – there is still lots to learn about how it works. As of now, its risks and effects are not fully known, so do be careful and cautious if you try it.
CBD, this is the most studied/researched of the three with a reputation for being safe and therapeutic. After all, millions of people rely on it daily to reduce stress and chronic pain. And with it now being legal most parts of the world, access to it is easier than ever before.
CBG, some refer to this as the Mother cannabinoid as it is this compound that allows other cannabinoids to develop. Its history goes back to 1964 when it was isolated from cannabis for the first time yet there is still a lot to learn about it, though it is distinct to CBD and CBC!
Note: Each of these compounds belong to the cannabinoid family, but you will notice each have unique traits and profiles that set them apart, though none of them are psychoactive!
What are the Benefits of CBC?
Early studies show CBC to have therapeutic, non-psychoactive effects, much like CBD.
And while scientists are in the early phase of studying it, their findings suggest CBC may:
- Relieve pain, this cannabinoid relieved pain in animals who were administered it.
- Address cancer, a handful of studies show it may slow or block tumor cell growth.
- Protect the brain, it may protect brain cells and ward off Alzheimer’s/Parkinson’s.
- Enhance appetite, this makes it a promising compound for those having anorexia.
- Reduce inflammation, it might resolve symptoms of arthritis and some diseases.
How does CBC compare to CBD?
There are many shared traits in the CBC vs. CBD contrast, the main two being neither are psychoactive, the second being each having healing and therapeutic benefits. What sets them apart is CBC mainly engages TRPV1/TRPA1 receptors (these impact pain perception) while CBD binds to many receptors, like 5-HT1A, which can reduce anxiety when engaged.
This is why some may take CBC and CBD together as they can receive the benefits of both.
In terms of the difference between CBC and CBD, the main thing that sets them apart is how each interacts with TRV1 receptors, as while CBC binds to this receptor in the central nervous system (making it useful for reducing inflammation), CBD best binds to receptors known as 5-HT1A. This makes it most sought of the two by those who want to reduce pain.
Final Thoughts on CBC
CBC is emerging as a promising, provenly powerful cannabinoid with immense therapeutic potential. From acne to cancer to stress and anxiety, it may treat a slew of common issues on its own, though it may do so even more effectively when taken with other cannabinoids.
While all the health risks and potential benefits of CBC are still being studied and actively evaluated, it is one of the most promising cannabinoids of our time! And it continues to be researched by medical cannabis scientists, who predict it will play a vital role in medicine.
We at Express Highs hope you got the insight on CBC you came for. We proudly serve tons of readers daily with news on the latest research chemicals and compounds, and we invite you to check out our blog for other related topics we know you will not want to miss out on!