Cannabidiol , also known as CBD , is the most abundant cannabinoid in industrial hemp and has been shown to have many therapeutic effects. Many cannabinoids are present in industrial hemp and they all have different properties, which is why it is good to ask what are the different components of the hemp plant?
Indeed, hemp is a variety of the plant species Cannabis sativa which is cultivated specifically for the industrial uses of its by-products. It is one of the fastest growing plants and one of the first to be spun into usable fibers 10,000 years ago. It can be refined into a variety of commercial items, including paper , textiles , clothing , biodegradable plastics , paint , insulation , biofuel , food , and animal feed .
What are the different components of the Hemp plant?
Here is a non-exhaustive list of the different molecules that we can find in Hemp:
the CBD ( C anna Bi Diol )
Cannabidiol is the most common cannabinoid in hemp.
CBDA ( C anna B i D iolic acid)
This is the precursor molecule of CBD. When exposed to heat or sunlight, CBDA converts to CBD through a process called decarboxylation (heating).
the CBN ( C anna B i N ol)
CBN forms during the breakdown of THC and is mildly psychoactive (less than THC). It is also known as a sedative and can be found in old cannabis.
the CBG ( C anna B i G erol)
A non-psychoactive cannabinoid that has been shown to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP), which may make it a useful treatment for glaucoma.
the CBC ( C anna B i C hromene)
Cannabichromene is one of the major cannabinoids synthesized from CBCA (its acid version), which itself is one of the three primary compounds in the hemp plant derived from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). CBC naturally degrades to CBL over time, or when the plant is artificially exposed to oxygen and heat, similar to how THC degrades to CBN.
the THC ( T etra Hydro C annabinol )
“The molecule that gets you high”. It binds to CB1 receptors in your brain, which are responsible for feeling high, coordination, movement, pain and more.
THCA : T etra H ydro C annabinol acid
Precursor molecule of THC that does not produce any psychoactive effect until it is exposed to heat or sunlight (decarboxylated), thus becoming THC.
Conclusion
CBD , CBC , CBDA , CBG and CBN are the main phytocannabinoids found in cannabis. These are compounds that interact with our endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system regulates many bodily functions and processes. Each phytocannabinoid (from hemp ) has unique properties that can potentially be used for different purposes. Currently, a lot of research is being conducted on these substances and their potential benefits.
