Cannabinoids

We’ve all heard of CBD and THC, but recent research on cannabinoids has revealed that cannabis contains a diversity of molecules that we’re only just beginning to explore. Among them is CBDP, a phytocannabinoid that has captured the attention of some scientific groups for its rare structure and its yet-to-be-discovered biological potential. In this article, we’ll tell you what’s known so far about it, how it’s different from the CBD you already know, and what kind of research is being done to find out. What is CBDP or cannabidiforol? Although its name is reminiscent of CBD, CBDP or cannabidiophorol is part of a subfamily of cannabinoids known as phoroles, a group recently identified in the cannabis plant and characterized by having a seven-carbon alkyl chain. This variation in its chemical structure is uncommon among natural cannabinoids and is the key to the interest it has aroused. Some believe that compounds with this characteristic have a superior potency, as seems to be the case with THCP, another cannabinoid from the same subfamily. It is considered a natural phytocannabinoid as it has been identified in the cannabis plant. However, it is currently not possible to get CBDP plants in the same way that we get CBD flowers. Cannabidiophorol appears in extremely low amounts naturally, which makes it very difficult to obtain directly. For that reason, the CBDP found on the market today is usually made in laboratory processes from isolated extracts. This is why it is often found as a semi-synthetic cannabinoid, despite existing naturally within the plant. History of the discovery of CBDP Today it is recognized as a natural component of cannabis, but its history began in a laboratory, decades ago. In 1945, the effects of THCP, another cannabinoid with a similar structure, were documented for the first time through a synthetic analogue, i.e. it was created in the laboratory. These first observations paved the way for CBDP to eventually be produced in the laboratory, even before it was known that it existed in the plant. But much later, in 2019, a team managed to detect small amounts of CBDP in a specific strain of cannabis. This finding made it possible to reclassify it as a phytocannabinoid, that is, as a compound naturally produced by the plant. However, its presence is still so scarce that most of what is studied about it comes from synthetic versions. As it is such a scarce cannabinoid, there are still very few studies on it, so its biological profile and characteristics are still in very early stages of research (Haghdoost et al., 2024). How is it different from CBD (on a structural level)? From a basic chemical perspective, the main difference between CBDP and CBD is the length of the aliphatic side chain that is part of its molecular structure. While CBD has a five-carbon chain, CBDP is characterized by having a seven-carbon chain. Why does this matter? Because it has been hypothesized that longer side chains could increase affinity with certain receptors in the body, potentially making them more effective. This idea gained traction from the case of THCP, which appears to have stronger effects and interactions than THC (Haghdoost et al., 2024). From there, many wondered if something similar would happen with CBDP compared to CBD. However, current studies don’t fully support that assumption. The study by Haghdoost et al. (2024), one of the few available studies on this compound, did not find major differences in its potency and even pointed out that CBD could be more effective in certain cases. That’s why, while these structural differences are important, there’s still a lot of research to be done to understand how they translate into actual effects on the body. Differences in the effects of CBDP compared to CBD So, does CBDP behave differently in the body? To understand this, it’s helpful to remember how cannabinoids work in the body. These compounds interact with the endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors that helps regulate key functions such as pain, appetite, mood, or immune response. The best-known receptors are CB1, related to the nervous system, and CB2, which acts mainly on the immune system. Recent studies, such as that of Haghdoost et al. (2024), looked at the interaction of both CBD and CBDP with these receptors. The results showed that both compounds generated fairly mild responses. In CB1, neither produced significant effects. In CB2, CBD showed slightly higher activity. Other receptors such as serotonin and dopamine, associated with functions such as mood or motivation, were also evaluated. There, CBD showed mild activity, while CBDP had almost no behavior. Despite these similarities, an interesting difference was observed in one of the receptors outside of the traditional endocannabinoid system, which opened up a possible line of research that we explore below. CBDP’s potential for pain management One of the most relevant findings of the study was the way CBDP interacted with the mu-opioid receptor (MOR), a key protein in pain mechanisms. This receptor does not belong to the endocannabinoid system, but it is essential in many traditional analgesic therapies. In the study, CBDP showed a different action than CBD: instead of decreasing the activity of the receptor (as CBD does), it seemed to enhance it when there was already another substance acting on it. This suggests that CBDP could act as a positive allosteric modulator. In other words, it doesn’t activate the receptor on its own, but it could help amplify its signal if another compound has already activated it. This type of interaction opens up the possibility that CBDP may contribute, under certain conditions, to enhancing the body’s response to pain. Some people even speculate about how this might support the entourage effect by increasing the efficacy of other cannabinoids. Although this effect was moderate and there is still much to be understood, it represents a valuable starting point for future studies. As always, we recommend that you take these results with a grain of salt, as they are preliminary and need to be

We’ve all heard of CBD. It is normal that, when talking about cannabinoids, it is cannabidiol that gets all the attention. However, there is a wide variety of compounds in this plant that are also beginning to stand out for their particular characteristics. Among them, CBG, called the “mother cannabinoid,” has attracted attention. Both compounds are derived from cannabis, are non-psychoactive, and have been the subject of scientific studies for their potential effects on well-being. Now, what makes them different? How do they act in the body? And above all, why choose between CBG and CBD (or both)? CBD and CBG: origin, characteristics and evolution Before seeing how each one acts in the body, it is important to understand where they come from and what their journey has been. Although both come from the same plant, their concentrations, functions and presence in available products are very different. What is CBD and why has it gained prominence? Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of the most studied cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. It is found in higher concentration than other compounds and, unlike THC, does not alter perception or mental state. Its profile has been explored in different contexts for its possible ability to influence the balance of the nervous system, inflammation and rest. This wide presence and versatility of applications have made it an ally of the wellness industry and even a common ingredient in CBD creams, balms or oils. What is CBG and why does it attract attention? Cannabigerol, or CBG, is less well known, but it is key in the biosynthesis of other cannabinoids. Its acidic form (CBGA) is the starting point from which CBD, THC, CBC and other cannabinoids derive, hence it is known as “the mother cannabinoid”. However, since much of the CBGA is converted to these other compounds during plant maturation, CBG is usually found in very low concentrations. Only recently, thanks to advances in cultivation techniques and the development of specific strains, has it been possible to obtain greater quantities. Its possible influence on areas such as digestive health, immune response or neuronal activity has begun to be studied. How CBD and CBG work in the body Both CBD and CBG interact with the endocannabinoid system, a biological network involved in functions such as pain, mood, and inflammatory response. However, they do it in different ways. CBD does not bind directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors, but rather modulates them indirectly. This characteristic gives it some flexibility in how it influences different processes in the body. CBG, on the other hand, has shown a more direct affinity for these receptors. It is considered a partial agonist, which means that it could activate certain mechanisms with greater specificity. This difference has drawn attention in studies that analyze its possible more localized or immediate effect on certain functions (Calapai et al., 2022). Other mechanisms studied: receptors and enzymes Both cannabinoids have also been analyzed for their interaction with other systems in the body. One of them is the TRPV1 receptor, linked to pain perception and temperature. Another is the FAAH enzyme, which regulates levels of anandamide, a natural molecule associated with emotional balance and feelings of relief. These parallel paths allow us to observe that both CBD and CBG could influence similar processes, although through different routes. Properties of CBD and CBG: what has been studied and how they could influence well-being Many of the studies on these cannabinoids have focused on looking at how they might be involved in processes related to inflammation, physical discomfort, or brain function. Although research is still ongoing, there are certain areas where preliminary results have aroused considerable interest. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity: comparison between CBD and CBG CBD has been extensively studied for its possible ability to influence immune system molecules known as cytokines, which are related to the body’s inflammatory responses (Atalay et al., 2019). This property has been explored in relation to joint discomfort or skin problems. On the other hand, CBG has been analyzed in laboratory studies on intestinal inflammation, including conditions such as colitis, where it is observed that it could intervene in how inflammation is regulated (Li et al., 2022). In addition, both compounds have been recognized for their potential as antioxidants. This means that they could help neutralize free radicals, molecules that damage cells and are associated with aging and other cellular alterations (Calapai et al., 2024). Together, these protective actions of both compounds have led to new lines of research into their role in the overall balance of the body. CBD and CBG vs. Pain: Possible Differences in Their Mechanisms As for pain, CBD has been linked to its interaction with a protein called TRPV1, which is part of a system that regulates pain perception and body temperature (Blebea et al., 2024). That is why it has been considered in studies that investigate prolonged discomfort, muscle tension or stiffness in joints. CBG, although less studied, has also shown promising signs. It has been observed that it could interact more directly with specific receptors of the endocannabinoid system, such as those called CB1 and CB2. This interaction could be related to more specific effects on types of pain such as acute or nervous-origin (Li et al., 2022; Calapai et al., 2024). This suggests that each of these compounds could act at specific times or types of discomfort. Neuroprotective potential of CBD and CBG according to current research The effects of CBD and CBG on the nervous system have also been analyzed. In the case of CBD, studies suggest that it could help reduce inflammation in the brain and protect neurons from damage caused by so-called oxidative stress, which is a form of cellular imbalance related to neurodegenerative diseases (Fernández-Ruiz et al., 2013). In the case of CBG, research is underway to determine whether it could play a significant role in protecting neurons and in functions such as memory or concentration. Some studies explore its possible influence on the regulation of the immune system

When talking about hemp-derived compounds, two names often come up: CBD and THC. Both are part of the same chemical family, but their effects, uses and legal regulation are very different. What makes them so different? Understanding how they act in the body, what applications are attributed to them, and what the scientific evidence says can help you make more informed and confident decisions. And to do this, the first thing is to observe how they relate to your own biological system. How they act in the body: mechanisms of action Before talking about effects or uses, it is essential to understand what happens in your body when they come into contact with CBD or THC. Both act through an internal system called the endocannabinoid, which functions as a regulatory network. That is, as a set of “switches” that help maintain the balance between functions as diverse as mood, appetite or sleep. Let’s see what role each one plays. The Endocannabinoid System and Its Regulatory Role This system is present in your body from birth and fulfills key functions for your general well-being. It is made up of receptors (called CB1 and CB2), which act as sensors in different parts of the body. CB1s are primarily found in the brain, while CB2s are found in peripheral organs, the immune system, and tissues such as the skin. Cannabinoids like THC and CBD bind to these receptors in different ways, and that’s where the big difference begins. While one activates them directly, the other modulates them gently. That interaction sets the tone for its effects. THC and its direct effect on brain receptors THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) binds directly to CB1 receptors located in the brain. In doing so, it activates them as if it were pressing buttons that temporarily modify the communication between neurons. This can translate into changes in the perception of time, intense sensations or alterations in immediate memory. According to research such as that of Stella (2023), this activation gives it some beneficial potential, but it also makes its effects stronger and that is why it needs greater medical and expert control when used for these purposes. In young people or people with a certain predisposition, it can generate cognitive or emotional side effects that should be known in advance. CBD and its indirect influence Cannabidiol (CBD), on the other hand, does not directly activate these receptors. What it does is something more subtle: it modulates them. It is what experts call a negative allosteric modulator. In simple words, it slightly changes the shape of the receptor so that its response to other substances is more balanced. In addition, CBD interacts with other receptors such as TRPV1 (related to pain perception and temperature) or 5-HT1A (linked to emotional regulation and serotonin). This ability to influence several points at once could explain why its role in relieving pain, anxiety, or even cell protection is being studied (Blebea et al., 2024). Effects on the body: what the evidence shows With the mechanisms clear, we can now talk about its effects. The differences between CBD and THC are not only seen in how they work, but also in the changes they produce on a physical, emotional, and cognitive level. This is where science offers valuable guidance. Cognitive and emotional changes associated with THC Studies in humans and animals have shown that THC alters the activity of brain areas such as the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (Stella, 2023). These regions are involved in memory, judgment, and emotional control. As a result, THC can lead to temporary difficulties in working memory, decreased clarity when making decisions, or even mood variations. Although some people seek it precisely for these effects, they can also pose risks, especially when the amount or context in which it is used is unknown. That is one of the reasons why its regulation is stricter. Regulatory Effects of CBD on Mood, Pain, and Sleep CBD has been studied from a different perspective. As it does not generate psychoactive effects, its ability to modulate states such as anxiety or stress without interfering with mental lucidity has been explored (Blessing et al., 2015). In addition, research links it to potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that could be useful for the management of physical discomfort (Atalay et al., 2019). In terms of sleep, studies such as that of Rojas-Valverde (2021) have observed that CBD could promote rest without inducing artificial sleepiness. In other words, it would not be about sleeping more, but about sleeping better, naturally and without affecting your consciousness. This set of possible effects has made it an attractive option for those who seek to accompany their daily well-being. Safety, tolerance and possible risks Talking about cannabinoids not only implies knowing their benefits, but also their possible adverse effects. Understanding what their tolerance and safety levels are helps you better assess whether they’re right for you. Safety Profile of Cannabidiol (CBD) One of the reasons why CBD has gained popularity is that it is generally safe. In the few cases where there are adverse reactions, they are usually transitory: feeling tired, mild sleepiness or digestive discomfort (Blebea et al., 2024). It is also relevant that no risks of dependence or negative effects on memory have been identified. However, like any active substance, it can interfere with certain medications or health conditions. Therefore, if you plan to incorporate CBD into your routine, it is advisable to do so with professional supervision, especially if you are already under treatment or have a medical condition. Risks associated with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) use The case of THC requires more attention. When used repeatedly, you can develop tolerance (i.e., needing higher and higher amounts to feel its effects) and, in some cases, psychological dependence. Research such as that of Stella (2023) also warns about its possible impact on brain development in specific cases. For all these reasons, its legal application is restricted to very specific medical contexts and always under specialized evaluation. Plant origin and differences in the