VIVA’s Quick Guide to Cannabinoids
How do I Choose the Right Cannabinoid?
What is each cannabinoid good for?
There are many different cannabinoids out on the market today, and the choices can be overwhelming. Every product you pick up is labeled with things like; CBN, CBD, THC, THCV, THCa, and the list goes on. But how do you figure out which of these cannabinoids is right for you?
Here’s the breakdown on what each common cannabinoid can do for you.
Let’s start with the most commonly seen on the shelf: THC
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is often classified into two categories: Sativa and Indica. “Sativa” strains can be defined as a “head high” experience, and “Indica” strains are felt more in the body, but really these two differences rely on the terpenes found in each.
THC binds to CB1 receptors, which block signals from the brain and produces things like lower body temperature, anxiety, sedation, increased hunger, and euphoric sensations.
THC is great for: nights at home watching movies, snack quests, meditation, and potential giggling fits.
CBD
CBD is also a common cannabinoid on the shelves. CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, so it doesn’t produce the same type of “head high” that THC does. CBD is felt more in the body, and can be used to treat pain.
CBD is great for: pain relief, relaxation, and stress-management.
Now on to the few you just now may be starting to notice on the shelves:
THCV
THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) is a rare cannabinoid that sort of has the opposite effects of THC, making it great for people who are wary of THC’s effects. It doesn’t bind to CB1 receptors and isn’t as psychoactive, so it doesn’t create the same experience as THC.
THCV can potentially help aid anxiety, suppress appetite, provide focus, and give an energetic mood boost, much like coffee.
THCV is great for: working out, intricate projects, and jump-starting your day.
CBN
CBN (cannabinol) is also less psychoactive than THC. It is similar to CBD, and possess the potential to help with things like relaxation and pain management. It also is showing promising signs in the medicinal world as an anti-convulsant, though consulting a doctor before medicating is of course recommended.
CBN is good for: aches and pains, falling asleep, and staying asleep.
CBG
CBG is yet another non-psychoactive cannabinoid that potentially helps with pain management, and appears only in cannabis high in CBD and low in THC.
Since its properties are so closely related to CBD, you’ll likely see the two paired together in products.
CBG is also good for: potential pain relief, relaxation, and stress-management.
CBDV
Cannabidivarin isn’t psychoactive, though it has been studied for several benefits, including the management and prevention of seizures, nausea, and inflammation. It can also be used to treat pain and mood disorders.
Other potential benefits are still widely unknown and are currently being tested.