What is Cannabichromene (CBC)?

CBC is one of the minor phytocannabinoids—with perhaps some major effects—derived from the cannabis plant. Studies carried out on it are limited. But results so far suggest not only that it has a wide array of therapeutic effects, but also that lesser known cannabinoids like CBC are doing some of the heavy lifting in the entourage effect. The entourage effect is the term experts use to describe how cannabinoids synergystically pool their resources to enhance the overall therapeutic effects of full spectrum CBD or particular cannabis strains.

As with all cannabinoids, we will be discussing the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and cannabinoid receptors. If you need, you can refresh your knowledge on the ECS here.

What Does CBC Do?

CBC has is non-intoxicating. Unlike THC, it binds poorly with CB1 receptors in the brain, which is where THC exerts its infamous psychoactive effects. CBC, however, seems to exercise its effects on receptors other than the traditional CB1 and CB2 receptors used by the more well known CBD and THC cannabinoids.

The truth is, because of researchers' limited access to cannabis for the last hundred years, there are still a lot of knowledge gaps regarding cannabinoid science. Now that prohibition has been lifted on industrial hemp and even on marijuana in many places, researchers are rushing to start filling those gaps. More cannabinoids may be identified. Mechanisms of known cannabinoids are waiting to be discovered and fully understood. The ECS is a master system over our health and well-being. There's still so much to be discovered.

However, many studies that have been performed yield results supporting why humans have used cannabis for therapeutic benefits for centuries. Research on CBC so far has shown that this cannabinoid has some impressive therapeutic effects, and when combined with other cannabinoids, those effects can be taken to the next level.

CBC may be a major contributor to the entourage effect in full spectrum CBD. Full spectrum CBD, unlike CBD isolate, includes other cannabinoids and phytonutrients, such as terpenes and flavonoids. With a full spectrum product, cannabinoids may be able to address ailments on many fronts, unlike isolate or traditional medications.

The Therapeutic Effects of CBC

Pain relief: Studies have shown that CBC has analgesic effects. The efficacy of relief has been observed to enhance when combined with CBD, which points to the entourage effect. A 2011 study concluded that CBD and CBC blocked pain detection and relieved pain in several different ways, including interacting with several target proteins involved in responding to pain. The results showed that the presence of multiple cannabinoids can address pain on multiple fronts.

A possible antidepressant: When administered as a sole therapy, CBC has exhibited antidepressant effects. It has done the same when combined with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Additionally, CBC has been shown to stimulate the growth and development of brain cells. This, in turn, lengthens the lifespan of those cells, which is significant, because depression may be caused by a decline in the growth of these cells.

Inhibitting fungal growth and development: In studies involving animal models, CBC has shown very potent antifungal and antibacterial effects against such organisms as Staph and E. coli.

Anti-inflammatory effects: Research has shown that CBC could serve as an effective anti-inflammatory agent. This means it can assist with conditions related to inflammation such as cardiovascular disease and arthritis. In another recent study, THC and CBC again showed the power of the entourage effect. The two cannabinoids produced anti-inflammatory actions in mice that they would not have been able to do separately.

Possible anticancer effects: Studies have shown that CBC helps regulate the uptake of anandamide. Anandamide is an endocannabinoid produced naturally in the body with anticancer properties. This enables it to remain within the human body, fighting off the cancer cells. Studies have also shown that CBC inhibits tumor growth, which implies that it could be used as a chemopreventive agent in the future.

Enhancing bone growth: CBC has been shown to activate the osteoclasts, raising the density of the bone and also minimizing the risk of osteoporosis and other bone health conditions.

Growth and development of new brain cells: CBC may play a role in facilitating the development of new brain cells, a process known as neurogenesis. This is important for memory consolidation, as Alzheimer’s disease and depression arise from a decline in the growth of these cells.

Acne: A 2016 study showed that CBC, along with other cannabinoids, had anti-acne properties and, because of its anti-inflammatory properties, CBC could also treat acne breakouts.

CBC Cannabinoid Takeaway

CBC has an impressive list of natural therapeutic effects that can prevent and treat a variety of conditions. In concert with other cannabinoids, CBC may offer backup therapies that address issues in ways that other cannabinoids and--traditional medicines, especially--do not. For example, it's believed to work differently than non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and without the harmful side effects. The best way to ensure that one is getting the benefits of as many different cannabinoids as possible is to take full or broad spectrum CBD.

For any comments or questions, The Hemp Haus team is always available and glad to help. Cannabinoids are their passion, and helping people discover high-quality CBD is their priority.

References

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