CBD is the second most prevalent cannabinoid and is primarily produced by hemp plants and at lower amounts in cannabis. It works as a phytocannabinoid, or binding agent, that adheres to an individual's endocannabinoid system. Cannabidiol has soared in popularity due to its lack of psychoactive effects. Most users seek CBD for its medicinal properties since it was the first cannabinoid to be approved by the FDA. Its healing properties include an ability to help you relax, reduce irritability and ease restlessness.

CBDA is a derivative of CBGA and the precursor to the well known cannabinoid CBD. Over the last decade scientists have found that CBDA has a very similar chemical structure to that of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and thus has shown promise in treating pain due to inflammation by inhibiting COX-2 receptors in the brain that register pain. CBDA has also been shown to help regulate the over release of serotonin that causes severe nausea and vomiting in patients receiving chemotherapy, and while more thorough research is needed these results are very promising.

Cannabinoids are synthesized by Cannabigerolic Acid. CBG is the decarboxylated form of this acid that appears at low levels in most cannabis plants. Because its properties are beneficial to multiple parts of the endocannabinoid system, CBG has a wide range of therapeutic uses. It is non-psychotropic and can provide analgesic and antidepressant qualities.

CBN is a cannabinoid that is created during the breakdown of THC by UV light and exposure to oxygen. This breakdown usually begins during the drying and curing process. CBN is most commonly found in older or improperly stored cannabis samples. This compound is mildly psychoactive and is best known for its sedative effects. Strains and products with high concentrations of CBN can be a great choice for users looking to utilize cannabis products to ease restlessness and promote healthy sleep.

Delta 9 THC is the primary compound found in the resinous glands of a cannabis plant, and is directly responsible for psychoactive effects. It mirrors the body’s naturally occurring cannabinoids and attaches to these receptors to alter and enhance sensory perception. THC can create a feeling of euphoria by enhancing dopamine levels in the brain. The amount of THC in a cannabis product can vary widely based on the method of consumption and the strain at the source of that product. The high that is produced is often enhanced by the “entourage effect” which is a combination of multiple cannabinoids in conjunction with various terpenes and individual body chemistry.

THCA is a cannabis compound with a laundry list of potential mental and physical health benefits. THCA is the non-psychoactive precursor to THC, the most famous cannabinoid of all. While THC is responsible for the psychoactive “high” that so many of us enjoy, THCA has shown great promise as an anti-inflammatory, neuroprotectant and anti-emetic for appetite loss and treatment of nausea. THCA is found in its highest levels in living or freshly harvested cannabis samples. For this reason some users choose to juice fresh cannabis leaves and flowers to get as much THCA as possible.