When you think of the chemical components found in a cannabis plant, there are probably two that immediately come to mind: CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol). But, what you might not realize is that there are as many as 100 cannabinoids and some 300 more non-cannabinoid chemicals produced by a single plant.

While CBD and THC tend to get all the attention, significant benefits are associated with these lesser-known chemicals called minor cannabinoids. This article highlights the minor cannabinoids CBN, CBC, THCV, and CDBV. It also discusses their differences, key benefits associated with several health concerns, and the importance of sourcing high-quality cannabinoids.

How Minor Cannabinoids Impact the Medicinal Effects of Cannabis

Because of their high levels of concentration in cannabis plants, THC and CBD are called major cannabinoids. However, this doesn’t mean that smaller levels of minor cannabinoids don’t impact the medicinal effects of cannabis.

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a biological system in the human brain that affects biological functions such as anxiety, metabolism, memory, and learning. The endocannabinoids that occur naturally in our brain, nervous system, and body are structurally the same as the cannabinoids found in a cannabis plant.

When they are consumed, the plant-based cannabinoids bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in our body to change the way we send and receive messages through our central nervous system and immune system. 

So, how do minor cannabinoids affect our ECS? 

The combined benefit of all the chemicals found in a cannabis plant is known as The Entourage Effect. Simply put, the effects of cannabinoids are believed to be much more potent when they act together. Even though minor cannabinoids aren’t as prominent as their major cannabinoid counterparts, they can collectively pack a heavier punch. 

CBN

CBN is a byproduct of THC and acts on the CB1 receptors in the body. This means it is mildly psychoactive, but only when ingested in large amounts. 

Key benefits:

• Relaxation
• Improved sleep
• Anti-inflammatory
• Reduces chronic pain

CBC

CBC is a non-psychoactive minor cannabinoid that has been shown to promote brain growth through neurogenesis. The cannabinoid acts on our CB1 and CB2 receptors, affecting how we experience pain. 

Key benefits:

• Reduces chronic pain
• Anti-inflammatory
• Reduces anxiety
• Anti-viral properties

THCv

THCV is a non-psychoactive minor cannabinoid shown to lessen appetite and improve metabolism. THCv D9 and D8 are stronger variations with more potent effects.

Key benefits:

• Weight management
• Improves insulin sensitivity
• Reduces anxiety
• Prevents panic attacks

CBDV

CBDV is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid believed to reduce activity in certain nerve cells. Like CBD, it has been shown to reduce the severity of seizures.

Key benefits:

• Anti-inflammatory
• Alleviates nausea
• Reduces frequency and severity of seizures 
• Reduces chronic pain

Why Safety and Compliance Guarantees Are Important

When finding a supply chain partner to source major and minor cannabinoids, quality and safety come first.

Without federal regulation on hemp-derived products, it is up to CBD companies and product suppliers to ensure that the cannabinoids found in their goods have met the highest ethical standards. This is the only way to ensure that the products going to consumers are high quality.

Some things to look out for in a supply chain partner include the following: 

Certifications

Certifications, such as an API Certification, demonstrate that the supplier has undergone stringent quality testing. Because certifications require third-party quality testing, you can rest assured knowing the product has been tested by a non-biased third party. Plus, having evidence to back the quality of your product goes a long way with consumers in the US and Europe. 

Transparency

A good supply partner will be more than happy to answer any questions about their process and certifications. They will openly share how their process works from start to finish. If you encounter a company that refuses to share this information with you, take it as a big red flag.

Third-Party Testing 

If a supply company has a reputable certification, they have put their products through rigorous third-party testing. Some companies will do this on their own to ensure quality and safety. Third-party testing is the first step with certifications and transparency, making it an essential aspect of any reputable CBD supplier.

Would you like to learn about KND Lab’s quality products?

We are the leading supplier in certifications and compliance for a reason. The quality and safety of our products are central to what we do, and we love sharing that with our clients.

Contact us today and learn more!