You’ve probably heard them, whether it’s in the form of CBD flowers or CBG oils, or even CBN hash. It’s no coincidence: these cannabis compounds are on everyone’s lips because of the research surrounding them. And if you’re wondering what sets them apart or what role they may play in your well-being, you’re in the right place to find out.
What are cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that interact with a key system in the human body: the endocannabinoid system. This system is made up of a network of receptors distributed throughout the body, and plays essential roles in the balance of processes such as mood, inflammation, appetite, sleep or pain perception. Some cannabinoids occur naturally within the human body, and others come from plant sources. The latter have been the subject of growing scientific interest due to their possible applications in therapeutic, cosmetic and research contexts.
Types of cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are mainly divided into three types based on their origin: endocannabinoids (produced by the body), phytocannabinoids (derived from plants), and synthetic cannabinoids (created in the laboratory). More than 100 phytocannabinoids have been identified in the cannabis plant, although only a few have been extensively studied. Among them, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is best known for its psychoactive effects, while cannabidiol (CBD), cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabinol (CBN) have gained prominence for their potential without generating alterations in perception. Understanding these categories helps to better situate the role of each compound within the cannabis ecosystem and distinguish between its potential applications.
CBD, CBG and CBN: three cannabinoids with no psychoactive effect
CBD, CBG, and CBN are three phytocannabinoids that have gained prominence in scientific research and the development of legal products. Unlike THC, they do not generate psychoactive effects, which has facilitated their inclusion in cosmetic formulations, topical oils or products intended for study. Although they share a similar plant origin and molecular structure, they each interact differently with receptors in the endocannabinoid system and other mechanisms in the body. This diversity of action has aroused the interest of researchers and buyers who are looking for safer and more accessible alternatives within the field of well-being. Understanding what makes them unique and how they might influence your well-being is the first step to exploring their potential in an informed way.
Potential Properties of CBD
Origin of CBD in the cannabis plant
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the most abundant cannabinoids in many non-psychoactive cannabis strains. Its origin is found in cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), which is transformed into CBD through processes such as heating or natural aging of the plant. This transformation is key in the extraction and production of CBD products.
Thanks to its natural abundance, chemical stability, and ease of extraction, CBD has been extensively researched. It is, in fact, the most studied cannabinoid to date, and its versatility has led to it being included in skin products, topical oils, sports creams, and more.
How CBD works in the body
When you apply CBD, it interacts with the endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors that helps maintain balance in functions such as mood, pain, and inflammation. Within this system, CB1 and CB2 receptors are the ones you’ll hear about the most thanks to their relationship with the effects and potential benefits of cannabinoids. Although CBD does not directly activate CB1 and CB2 receptors, it does influence their activity, acting more as a modulator than a trigger.
In addition, CBD also acts on other important receptors, some of which have been studied are: TRPV1, related to the perception of pain and temperature; 5-HT1A, involved in emotional regulation; and PPAR-γ receptors, which play key roles in inflammatory and metabolic processes (Blebea et al., 2024).
CBD Uses Studied in Science
Scientific studies on CBD have addressed a variety of possible properties, with particular attention to its interaction with processes such as inflammation, pain, cell oxidation, and tissue regeneration. For example, its ability to modulate the inflammatory response without completely inhibiting the body’s natural mechanisms (Tijani et al., 2021) is being investigated, as well as its potential to relieve muscle discomfort and neuropathic pain in certain contexts (Alpy et al., 2023; Xu et al., 2023). In the field of hydration, it has been observed that it could stimulate the production of proteins such as aquaporin-3, which are essential for maintaining water balance between cells (Ikarashi et al., 2021).
In addition, CBD could participate in cell regeneration processes by influencing CB2 receptors, suggesting a possible involvement in tissue healing (Parikh et al., 2024). Its ability to reduce sebum production in the skin and control the proliferation of acne-related bacteria is also explored (Ferreira et al., 2024). In addition, some studies indicate that it can neutralize free radicals, which opens up lines of research on its role in protecting cells against environmental factors and aging (Atalay et al., 2019). These are just a few of the areas in which CBD is being researched, and while more clinical trials are still required, the current findings justify the interest the world has in this compound.
Potential Properties of CBG
Origin of CBG in the cannabis plant
Cannabigerol (CBG) is known as the “mother cannabinoid” because, in its acidic form CBGA, it gives rise to several important cannabinoids such as THCA, CBDA, and CBCA. During plant development, most CBGA is transformed into these compounds, leaving a very small amount of CBG naturally available.
Thanks to the development of CBG-rich varieties, it is now easier to extract and study it. This has made it possible to advance the understanding of its properties and possible applications, which distinguish it from CBD and other cannabinoids.
How CBG works in the body
CBG has a more direct interaction with CB1 and CB2 receptors, acting as a partial agonist. This means that you can partially activate them and modify their behavior. It has also been seen to have an affinity for receptors such as TRPM8, linked to the sensation of cold, and PPAR-γ, which reinforces its interest in areas such as inflammation, metabolism and skin care (Calapai et al., 2024).
Uses of CBG studied in science
Research on CBG has revealed a broad and promising field of action, although still at an early stage. In some studies, this cannabinoid has shown a possible ability to modulate intestinal inflammation (Li et al., 2022). Its potential to relieve certain forms of pain is also being explored, as it could intervene in the activity of receptors in the endocannabinoid system and other compounds such as anandamide (Li et al., 2022).
On the other hand, CBG could offer relevant cellular protection: it has been observed that it could slow down the formation of free radicals and stimulate antioxidant enzymes in laboratory settings (Li et al., 2022). In the antimicrobial area, it has shown interesting effects against resistant bacteria by weakening their cell membranes (Calapai et al., 2024). In addition, some studies suggest that it may influence genes that regulate key functions such as sebum production and cell renewal, making it a candidate of interest to work on skin well-being (Calapai et al., 2024). Finally, in animal models, its possible neuroprotective effect has been investigated, as it could help preserve neurons against oxidative or inflammatory damage (Granja et al., 2012). These first findings reinforce the interest in continuing to delve into its possible applications.
Potential properties of CBN
Origin of CBN in the cannabis plant
Unlike CBD and CBG, cannabinol (CBN) is not produced abundantly in the fresh plant. It is generated when THC oxidizes over time or with exposure to heat. This natural transformation gives it a particular chemical and functional profile, which has begun to be studied more closely in recent years.
How CBN works in the body
CBN has a low but significant affinity for CB1 and CB2 receptors. It is mainly researched for its effects on sleep, inflammation and cell protection. Although it is often studied alongside other cannabinoids, its individual properties are becoming more and more recognized.
Uses of CBN studied in science
Research on CBN has begun to reveal an interesting profile in various contexts, especially in the field of sleep and pain modulation. In the CUPID clinical study, CBN was administered to people with insomnia and a decrease in the time participants stayed awake during the night was observed, with no serious adverse effects recorded (Lavender et al., 2023). This finding opens the door to future research on its possible usefulness as a safe alternative for those seeking to improve the quality of rest.
In addition, CBN has been reviewed for its antioxidant potential, as in certain tissues it appears to reduce cell damage caused by oxidative stress (Voicu et al., 2023). It has also been observed that it could help regulate inflammatory processes and relieve discomfort, although most studies analyze it in combination with other cannabinoids. This presence in mixed formulations has reinforced interest in the so-called entourage effect, a hypothesis that cannabis compounds could enhance each other when they act together (Voicu et al., 2023; Russo, 2011).
What is the entourage effect?
When talking about cannabinoids such as CBD, CBG, or CBN, it is common to hear the term “entourage effect.” This expression refers to the possible synergy between different compounds of the cannabis plant. Rather than acting in isolation, cannabinoids could influence each other, modulating their effects when present together.
For example, it has been observed that combining CBD with CBN could improve results in sleep studies, while the presence of CBG together with other compounds could modify its anti-inflammatory or antibacterial action. This theory, initially proposed by Ethan Russo in 2011, also considers the involvement of terpenes and flavonoids, other components of the plant that could play a key role in the overall balance of the product.
Although this phenomenon is still being researched in depth, many current formulations seek to integrate multiple compounds using full-spectrum extracts, where cannabinoids, terpenes, and other elements of the plant are present together.
Conclusion
CBD, CBG, and CBN represent only a part of the universe of cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant, but their study has opened new doors in the scientific field and in the development of legal products. Although they share certain characteristics, their origin, their interaction with the body, and the fields being explored may vary.
There is still much research to be done, but each breakthrough helps to better understand the potential of these compounds in specific situations such as skin care, support for rest or the regulation of inflammatory processes. And while there are no definitive answers yet, what is clear is that understanding their differences and connections is an important step in making informed decisions.
If you’re exploring cannabinoid products, at Maionais we help you understand every detail of what they have to offer, so you can make decisions when buying CBD, CBG, and CBN products.
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