Cannabinoids
Cannabis contains over 100 known cannabinoids — chemical compounds that interact with your body's endocannabinoid system. Here are the most important ones to understand.
THC
Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol
The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the characteristic 'high.' THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain and central nervous system, producing euphoria, altered sensory perception, relaxation, and appetite stimulation. It's the most abundant cannabinoid in most commercial cannabis strains and the primary compound measured for potency.
Found in: Most cannabis strains; highest in modern hybrids (20-30%+)
THCA
Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid
The non-psychoactive precursor to THC found in raw, unheated cannabis. THCA converts to THC through decarboxylation — the process of applying heat (smoking, vaping, baking). Raw cannabis flower is technically THCA-dominant. In its raw form, THCA shows potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties without intoxicating effects.
Found in: All raw cannabis flower — converts to THC when heated
CBD
Cannabidiol
The second most abundant cannabinoid, CBD is non-psychoactive and has gained widespread recognition for its therapeutic potential. CBD doesn't produce a high but can modulate THC's effects, potentially reducing anxiety and paranoia. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system differently than THC, binding primarily to CB2 receptors and influencing serotonin receptors.
Found in: Hemp strains, CBD-dominant cannabis, balanced strains (1:1 THC:CBD)
CBG
Cannabigerol
Often called the 'mother cannabinoid' because CBGA (its acidic form) is the precursor from which all other cannabinoids are synthesized. CBG itself is typically found in low concentrations (< 1%) in most strains because it's converted into other cannabinoids during growth. However, specialty CBG-dominant strains are now being bred. Early research suggests CBG may support focus and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Found in: Young cannabis plants, specialty CBG-bred strains
CBN
Cannabinol
A mildly psychoactive cannabinoid formed when THC degrades over time through exposure to heat, light, and oxygen. This is why older cannabis tends to produce more sedating effects. CBN is most commonly associated with sleep and relaxation, though research is still early. It's increasingly found in commercial sleep-focused products combined with CBD and melatonin.
Found in: Aged cannabis, commercial sleep products, degraded THC
THCV
Tetrahydrocannabivarin
A unique cannabinoid with stimulating, energetic effects that are nearly the opposite of THC's sedating qualities. At low doses, THCV acts as a CB1 antagonist (blocking THC effects), while at higher doses it becomes psychoactive. It's been studied for appetite suppression — the opposite of THC's munchie-inducing effect. THCV is most commonly found in African sativa landraces like Durban Poison.
Found in: African sativa landraces (Durban Poison), specialty strains
CBC
Cannabichromene
The third most abundant cannabinoid in cannabis, though still found in relatively low concentrations. CBC doesn't bind well to CB1 receptors (hence no high), but interacts with TRPV1 and TRPA1 receptors involved in pain perception. Research suggests potential mood-elevating and anti-inflammatory properties. CBC may enhance the effects of other cannabinoids through the entourage effect.
Found in: Most cannabis strains in small amounts
The Entourage Effect
The entourage effect is the theory that cannabis compounds work better together than in isolation. When cannabinoids (THC, CBD, CBG, etc.) are consumed alongside terpenes and flavonoids found naturally in the plant, they produce synergistic effects that are greater than the sum of their parts.
This is why full-spectrum cannabis products (which preserve the complete chemical profile of the plant) are often preferred over isolates. For example, CBD may moderate THC's anxiety-producing effects, while myrcene may enhance THC's ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. The entourage effect is a key reason why strain selection matters — two strains with the same THC percentage can produce very different experiences based on their terpene and minor cannabinoid profiles.