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CBC: Rediscovered cannabinoid with promising potential

Old (in)famous CBC

What is the CBC? CBC, or cannabichromene, is a substance that, like CBD, is non-psychoactive. It is a component of cannabis that was discovered in 1966 and what we know about it today is mainly due to research in the 1980s.

New studies on the effects of cannabis on the human body have focused on the cannabinoids CBD and THC. However, the growing interest in harnessing the plant's therapeutic effects is now bringing cannabinoids that have been overlooked, such as CBD, to the fore. Studies are revealing important new properties of these cannabinoids that could be crucial in the prevention or treatment of a range of diseases.

Although some high-CBD cannabis varieties have been grown in the past, interest in CBD and THC has led to the breeding of plants with high levels of these two cannabinoids, and cannabichromene is now present in small amounts in popular cannabis varieties. However, if its therapeutic importance is proven, it may be possible to re-breed cannabis varieties with a predominance of CBD.

 

Šlechtění rostlin pro získání konopí s vyšším obsahem kanabinoidů a kanabichromenu

And how is the CBC produced? Cannabichromene is produced by the decarboxylation of CBCA (cannabichromenoic acid), which is formed from the original compound CBGA (cannabigerol acid) after the enzymatic action of CBCA synthase. The decarboxylation process involves the removal of the carboxyl group in the form of CO₂ (carbon dioxide). This process is carried out by heating dried and crushed cannabis to a certain temperature for a specified period of time. This converts the inactive acidic forms of cannabinoids (CBCA) into active variants (CBC). Other cannabinoids such as CBD (cannabidiol) or THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are extracted from the plant in a similar way.

What are the effects of CBC?

Unlike other cannabinoids, cannabichromene has significant antibacterial and antifungal properties, according to some studies. This is why CBC could have applications in the drug industry, not only in body care products but also in household products.

CBC also has a positive effect on bowel motility without adverse effects. This could provide new ways to treat various diseases of the digestive tract.

Research shows that CBC, like the more popular CBD, has possible antidepressant and analgesic effects. It could also act on inflammation, especially in synergy with THC.

According to other studies, CBC is supposed to promote neurogenesis, the growth of brain cells. At the same time, it may improve the viability of neural stem cells (NSPCs), which can change into specialized astroglial cells. These cells are essential for maintaining homeostasis in the brain. They also play a key role in defence against oxidative stress. This occurs when cells are damaged by free radicals.

When nerve cells are damaged, the cognitive and motor skills of the affected person deteriorate and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's can develop. The effect of CBD on the formation and vitality of neural stem cells and astroglial cells suggests its potential importance in the prevention of these diseases.

CBC is generally considered safe and side effects are rare. Fatigue or dry mouth may occur. If you are taking medication or have health problems, it is recommended that you consult a doctor about taking CBC.

Výhody cannabichromenu, bílý banner s infografikou a chemickým vzorcem cannabichromenu

CBC and other cannabinoids

Although cannabinoids are derivatives of the same basic compound CBGA (cannabigerol acid) and are extracted in a similar way, their properties are different. This is because they differ in the number and arrangement of their carbon atoms and functional groups and thus interact with different receptors or bind to these receptors with different strengths.

Exactly how CBC works in the human body is not entirely clear, but we do know that while popular CBD and THC affect the entire endocannabinoid system, CBC only interacts with TRPA1 receptors, which affect pain perception, and partially with CB2 receptors.

CBC vs. CBD

Although CBC has received less attention compared to CBD, it is becoming apparent that both cannabinoids have unique therapeutic properties. What makes them specific?

CBC benefits:

  • antibacterial and antifungal effects
  • improving bowel motility

CBD benefits:

  • has significant antidepressant and antipsychotic effects
  • has the potential to lower blood sugar levels
  • supports the proper functioning of the immune system and metabolism
  • may be effective for nausea and vomiting

CBC and THC

CBC and THC act synergistically and comprehensively. CBC slows down the breakdown of THC so it can circulate longer in the bloodstream, increasing its effectiveness. Together, cannabinoids act on the body through different but complementary mechanisms, resulting in a wide range of effects. These effects include anti-inflammatory, analgesic and neuroprotective properties.

CBC and CBG

CBG is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid and, like CBC and CBD, has antidepressant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. It shares antibacterial and antifungal effects with CBC. In addition, studies suggest that CBG could be helpful for cancer, glaucoma and bladder problems. When these cannabinoids are combined, the spectrum of properties and synergistic effects are extended.

 

CBC vs CBG, Cannabichromene vs Cannabigerol horizontální obchodní infografická ilustrace o konopí jako bylinné alternativní medicíně a chemické terapii, zdravotnictví a lékařské vědě

What CBC products are on the market?

The market for CBC products is not yet as rich as the market for CBD products. Isolates, oils and vapes are particularly popular. But manufacturers are already coming out with the first CBC capsules and gummies. CBC isolate is a suitable choice for those users who are looking for a pure form of cannabichromene without adulterants and want to be able to dose and mix CBC according to their individual needs. CBC oil will be appreciated by those who prefer a convenient and safe way of consumption and expect a stable and long-lasting effect. Vapes are suitable for those who prefer a rapid onset of the effects of CBC.

CBCs are usually one of the components of broad-spectrum or full-spectrum products. It is often combined with CBG for a broader spectrum of effects and a possible synergistic effect. However, we can expect to see a wider range of CBC products as more research is conducted to better explain how CBC affects the human body.

Conclusion

CBC, cannabichromene, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid with promising therapeutic potential. Although it has not yet been studied as thoroughly as CBD or THC, the results of studies to date suggest that it excels in its antibacterial and antifungal properties and its ability to support gut function. Studies also suggest that it has significant antidepressant and analgesic effects and promotes brain cell growth.

It is available on the market in the form of isolates, oils, capsules, gummies and vapes. Although CBC appears to be a promising cannabinoid, further research is needed for its effective and safe use.

 

Author: Buds for Buddies

 

   

Photo: Shutterstock

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