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List of Cannabinoids: Each Cannabinoid In Cannabis

While most of us don’t give it much thought when smoking our favorite strain, dabbing potent concentrates or gobbling up infused gummies, the cannabis plant is extremely complex.

Did you know there are more than 550 chemical compounds contained in cannabis? Over 100 of these are cannabinoids.

THC and CBD are the most prevalent…and the most popular. But the list of cannabinoids extends far beyond these two wildly popular cannabinoids.

Increased interest (and wider acceptance) of cannabis consumption has led to a deeper exploration of the complexity of cannabinoids.

Keep reading to learn more about the fascinating world of cannabinoids in cannabis.

Illustration of cannabis leaf with different cannabinoid molecules

Key Takeaways: Different Cannabinoids 

  • Cannabinoids fall under three main categories: phyto-cannabinoids (from cannabis), endocannabinoids (produced in the human body) and synthetic cannabinoids (artificially produced). 
  • THC and CBD are the two most popular and commonly occurring cannabinoids found in cannabis.
  • The endocannabinoid system plays a pivotal role in how cannabinoids interact with the body and mind.

Different Types of Cannabinoids 

If you are wondering how many cannabinoids exist in the beloved cannabis plant, you’ll find the list of cannabinoids quite extensive.

Over 125 cannabinoids have been discovered in the cannabis plant to date. These are known as phytocannabinoids.

Cannabinoids, however, can broadly be classified into three different categories: phytocannabinoids, endocannabinoids, and synthetic cannabinoids. 

These distinctions are crucial in understanding their origins and their effect on the body. 

Phytocannabinoids 

The word phyto means “of the plant,” and phytocannabinoids are natural compounds that are produced in the cannabis plant. Well-known cannabinoids in this area include CBD and Delta 9 THC which are potentially known to have therapeutic benefits on the human body. 

Endocannabinoids

Endocannabinoids are cannabinoids produced by the human body which are suggested to play a role in regulating several physiological processes. There are two naturally-occurring endocannabinoids: AEA (anandamide) and 2-AG (2-Arachidonoylglycerol). 

Synthetic Cannabinoids 

Synthetic cannabinoids are artificially created to mimic the phytocannabinoid’s effects. Common examples include THC-O and Dronabinol. 

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List of Cannabinoids in Cannabis

The list of cannabinoids is extensive and cannabis research is still in its infancy, meaning we still have a lot to learn about the various cannabinoids in the cannabis plant.

Cannabinoids are generally categorized as major cannabinoids and minor cannabinoids.

While major cannabinoids like CBD and Delta 9 THC are extensively studied, the minor cannabinoids are less explored.

That said, there is preclinical research that’s allowed us to learn more about these fascinating cannabis compounds largely responsible for the plant’s effects.

Major Cannabinoids

Major cannabinoids have a significant role in recreational applications. These are the more dominant cannabinoids, each well-documented when it comes to the effects they have on the endocannabinoid system and human physiology. 

CBD (Cannabidiol) 

Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is one of the most well-known phytocannabinoids. It has gained popularity due to its non-psychoactive nature and its many therapeutic benefits. 

The most popular reasons people use CBD are to relieve stress and anxiety, support sleep, manage pain and promote overall health. You can find a plethora of different CBD products to choose from. 

The most popular options for CBD include CBD gummies, tinctures, vape carts and pre-rolls. While tinctures tend to be the most popular, smoking CBD works the fastest and contains some serious benefits.

Delta 9 THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) 

Tetrahydrocannabinol, or Delta 9 THC, is arguably the most famous cannabinoid due to its psychoactive properties. It’s responsible for the “high” largely associated with marijuana use, and has held the spotlight in both recreational and medicinal communities for decades. 

Delta 9 interacts mostly with the CB1 receptors in the brain and central nervous system, which is ultimately what causes its psychoactive effects. If it wasn’t for the CB1 receptor, weed wouldn’t even get you high!

While more research is needed, there are several therapeutic benefits associated with THC (and other cannabinoids), and cannabis has a history of medical use that dates back some 2,000 years.  

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CBG (Cannabigerol) 

Cannabigerol is often called the “mother cannabinoid” because it is the precursor to every naturally occurring cannabinoid that exists.

There is preclinical research that shows CBG contains antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and appetite-stimulating properties. 

CBN (Cannabinol) 

CBN is an interesting phytocannabinoid. It’s not naturally occurring, but rather a byproduct of degraded THC in aged cannabis.

Research shows that THC will completely degrade to CBN after approximately four years. The cannabinoid is said to contain sedative-like properties, which has led to numerous CBN products often promoted for sleep.

Minor Cannabinoids

Minor cannabinoids are less common and found in the cannabis plant in smaller concentrations. That said, they are suggested to contain benefits of their own.

They also play a significant role in the entourage effect, a widely accepted theory that cannabis compounds work better together than their isolated counterparts.

Here are some important minor cannabinoids: 

CBC (Cannabichromene) 

While CBC doesn’t contain intoxicating effects like THC, it does interact with the endocannabinoid system to support various physiological processes.

Like CBD, CBC interacts with receptors aside from CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system.

While more research is needed, data suggests CBC could be 10x more powerful than CBD for managing stress and anxiety. It’s also said to be a powerful anti-inflammatory and antiviral compound with notable pain-relieving properties.

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CBE (Cannabielsoin) 

Cannabielsoin, or CBE, is another non-psychoactive minor cannabinoid.

It isn’t naturally occurring in cannabis, but formed rather from the metabolic process of CBD, meaning it’s a metabolite of CBD. 

CBF (Cannabifuran) 

CBF, also known as cannabifuran, is an extremely rare cannabinoid that is not naturally found in the cannabis plant.

Researchers still don’t know too much about CBF, but it’s thought to be a metabolite of THC. There aren’t any known benefits of CBF or how it interacts with the endocannabinoid system.

CBL (Cannabicyclol) 

CBL is another rare cannabinoid that is a byproduct of degraded CBC, very similar to how CBN is a degraded form of THC.

It was discovered in 1966 by renowned cannabis researcher Ralph Mecholaum, but there hasn’t been much cannabinoid research on CBL conducted since.

Fun fact: CBL was identified in a 2,700 year-old cannabis sample found in the grave of a Central Asian shaman.

CBT (Cannabitran) 

CBT is another extremely rare cannabinoid on the list of cannabinoids.

Research is limited, but the precursor of CBT is CBC, not CBG like most other cannabinoids.

Like other cannabinoids, CBT is suggested to have therapeutic benefits, but there simply isn’t enough research to make this claim. 

CBV (Cannabivarin) 

CBV, or cannabivarin or cannabivarol, is an oxidation product of THCV, much like CBN is an oxidized version of THC. Anecdotal reports suggest it’s similar to CBN in that it contains sedative-like effects.

While little is known about the effects of CBV, it does contain a low binding affinity for both CB1 and CB2 receptors.

This product should be used carefully though because it could potentially show up on some drug tests. 

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CBR (Cannabiripsol) 

CBR was recently discovered in South Africa, there is little to nothing known about this compound said to belong to the cannbiglendol compound. It is believed to react with both CB1 and CB2 receptors.  

Delta 8 THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)

Delta 8 THC is a minor cannabinoid that naturally occurs in small amounts in cannabis plants. This is why most Delta 8 products available on the market are created from hemp-derived CBD, which ultimately make them federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill.  

THCP (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol) 

This minor cannabinoid is making waves in the legal hemp industry for good reason. It’s said that THCP is 33x more potent than THC, making it a popular option among experienced cannabis consumers.

Because THCP is still in the early stages of research, the exact effects of the cannabinoid aren’t known. According to anecdotal reports, the effects of this cannabinoid is similar (yet stronger) than THC.

THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) 

THCV is one of the minor cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, but occurs in extremely low quantities (like less than 1%). It’s an isomer of THC, meaning it contains the same chemical formula but has a different arrangement of carbon atoms.

It’s becoming more popular on the legal cannabis market, with THCV gummies one of the most popular, uber potent products that exists.

Endocannabinoids 

Endogenous cannabinoids, or endocannabinoids, are those that are made naturally by the human body.

Endocannabinoids are lipid-based neurotransmitters that function as signaling molecules, with receptors found throughout the body, primarily in the nervous system and immune cells. 

There are two main endocannabinoids. Both are mentioned below. 

AEA (Anandamide)

AEA was named after the Sanskrit word “ananda” which means “bliss”. This is perhaps due to its mood-enhancing abilities. 

Some research shows that the chemical, also found in chocolate, is released during exercise gives a feeling of high endorphins. This means that AEA is associated with the runner’s high that athlete’s experience. 

Anandamide reacts with the CB1 receptor in the brain and nervous system. Research has shown that CBD use doesn’t increase anandamide levels but it enhances the endocannabinoid system by slowing down the breakdown process of the endocannabinoid. 

2-AG (2-Arachidonoylglycerol)

2-AG is a prominent endocannabinoid that is present in the body.

There’s research to support that 2-AG plays a significant role in cardiovascular health. It’s also said that this endocannabinoid is partly responsible for creating that content feeling after an orgasm. 

Synthetic Cannabinoids 

The cannabis plant’s natural cannabinoids have gained widespread attention for their therapeutic potential, meaning synthetics are also taking large strides.

The idea that cannabis is solely used to get high is becoming outdated in today’s world. 

These synthetically produced compounds aim to replicate the effects of naturally occurring cannabinoids, offering alternative options for recreational and medicinal communities. 

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Nabilone 

Nabilone is one of the two main cannabinoid-derived drugs that were synthetically developed for medicinal purposes.

The synthetic nature of Nabilone allows it to have precise dosing in a controlled environment. 

It is primarily used for individuals who need to manage side effects of chemotherapy or those who have issues with nausea and vomiting. 

Dronabinol 

Another drug in synthetic cannabinoid production worth mentioning is Dronabinol.

Unlike most cannabinoids extracted from plants, Dronabinol is usually administered in pill form whose medical benefits serve as an alternative for those who do not respond well to antiemetic medications. 

Dronabinol is commonly for those looking for relief from nausea or vomiting associated with chemotherapy or other conditions. 

THC-O 

THCO, short for Tetrahydrocannabinol-O, is thought to be 300% more potent than Delta 9 THC. You heard that right. 

When THCO is produced, it is stripped of terpenes and flavonoids. This creates an odorless and tasteless THC-O isolate.

Because of its potency, THC-O products, such as THCO vape carts, are quickly making a name for themselves on the mainstream market. 

HHC

HHC is a semi-synthetic cannabinoid that is a hydrogenated form of THC. 

This means that hydrogen reacts with the compound and changes the molecular weight and geometry. This makes the compound more stable and less susceptible to oxidation or breakdown.

There are several HHC products that have emerged on the legal cannabis market, including gummies, vape carts, flower and more. The effects of HHC are said to be similar to Delta 9 THC.

HHCp distillate

Delta 8 THC 

Delta 8 is another quickly growing cannabinoid. It is found in the cannabis sativa plant but in low quantities, which is why it’s typically produced from CBD via the process of isomerization.

Because of its limited research, the potential safety risks and effects of Delta 8 are not completely understood. It has a very similar structure to Delta 9, but what we do know is that Delta 8 is a THC isomer with a bond in the eighth carbon atom. 

It is also said to have fever adverse effects of things like paranoia or anxiety when compared to other cannabinoids. 

Delta 10 THC

As most readers probably understand by now, the chemical structures of Delta 8, Delta 9 and Delta 10 differ by only just a couple of atomic bonds. 

Anecdotal reports say that the effects of Delta 10 THC are similar to indica strains, meaning mellow, relaxing and maybe sleepy. 

Because Delta 10 extraction methods are producing trace quantities, experts are working on other ways to create larger amounts, meaning most Delta 10 is synthetically produced.

HHC-P

HHCP technically is not a compound of THC, meaning there are fewer restrictions on this hydrogenated form of HHC. In its pure form, it is a yellow and viscous oil.

Depending on the user,HHCP offers an intense experience. It does show to have an increased alkyl chain length, HHCP has the ability to bind well to cannabinoid receptors. 

THC-B

Thanks to the Farm Bill of 2018,THCB is pretty much legal in most states. THCB is one of the newest of the 100+ cannabinoids that have been discovered. 

THCB has four carbons on the alkyl side chain which allows it to bind to the CB1 receptor very easily and quickly. It’s suggested to act in a similar way to Delta 9 THC.  

THC-H 

Showing signs of potential pain relief, THCH is an alternative cannabinoid that can still get you high. 

Keep in mind that there are almost no published accounts or studies that talk about THCH. When we look at its chemical structure we can expect the potency to be a little stronger. 

THCh disposable vapes

Cannabinoids and the Human Body

Cannabinoids act in several different ways on the human body, and as research continues and cannabis use becomes more widely accepted, people are turning to products with a specific cannabinoid profile to achieve their desired effects. 

People use cannabis for lifestyle enhancement. Cannabinoids in different products have been known to contain potential medicinal benefits, such as anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibiotic properties and more.

Cannabinoids in cannabis work in the body because of the way they influence cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system.

For those that use cannabis recreationally, THC is the main cannabinoid of all cannabinoids in cannabis that causes intoxicating effects.

For those who want the benefits without the psychoactive portion, CBD is the way to go.

THC and CBD used together also show benefits. A balanced 1:1 THC/CBD ratio is said to be the most effective. THC and CBD together are the perfect example of cannabinoids in cannabis plants containing perfect plant synergy.

The Endocannabinoid System

Endocannabinoid systems are parts of all living mammals. It plays an important role in regulating the various physiological processes in the body. This includes its internal balance. 

Also known as the endogenous cannabinoid system, it was named for the way cannabinoids in cannabis interact with endocannabinoids in the human body.

This intricate ECS contains CB1 and CB2 receptors, naturally occurring endocannabinoids and enzymes that work together to influence functions like appetite, mood, pain perception and more. 

Endocannabinoid System Receptors

The cannabinoid receptors in the body behave differently when they come into contact with different cannabinoids. For example, the reason that THC is a psychoactive cannabinoid is because it binds to CB1 receptors.

Tetrahydrocannabinol has high amounts of CB1 receptors which bind to the brain and create the “high” effect. 

While a lot of people use CBD, this interacts differently with endocannabinoid receptors, with more of an indirect influence on the endocannabinoid system rather than a binding affinity to either receptor.

Cannabis can affect a variety of regulatory functions because of the way that it interacts with the endocannabinoid system and its

CB1 and CB2 Receptors

The endocannabinoid system relies on a complex network of receptors, including the endocannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, to regulate physiological processes.

CB1 receptors are found in the central nervous systems like the brain and spinal cord. They play a pivotal role in the psychoactive effects of cannabinoids.

When THC binds to the CB1 receptors, a cascade of events follows that leads to mood and perception change, along with memory. These are also linked to dopamine and serotonin which give feelings of pleasure.

CB2 is mainly found in tissues, immune cells and the spleen.

These have gained attention for their influence on the potential medicinal benefits of cannabis, showing to support immune cell activity and reduce inflammation.

Where Are The Cannabinoids Produced & Found?

Cannabinoid production happens in the cannabis plant through the conversion of cannabinoid acids, such as CBGA.

These cannabinoid acids are produced in the trichomes of cannabis plant flowers, developing into cannabinoid acids like THCA, CBDA and others as the plant matures. 

They are then converted to the active corresponding cannabinoid in mature flowers after going through a process known as decarboxylation.

The world of cannabis is a fascinating and rapidly evolving study, with both major and minor cannabinoids holding promise of therapeutic properties. 

All cannabinoids are important cannabinoids. As research continues, we’re likely to see more remarkable benefits of the many cannabinoids found in the mighty cannabis plant.