What are Cannabinoids?

Cannabis has captured global attention in recent years for its potential to support physical and mental wellness, expand consciousness, and offer therapeutic alternatives to traditional medicine. Central to this plant’s power are cannabinoids—a diverse class of chemical compounds that interact directly with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the human body.

Cannabinoids are naturally produced by cannabis plants, but they can also be synthesized in labs. They interact with specific receptors (mainly CB1 and CB2 receptors) found in the brain, nervous system, immune system, and more. The effects of cannabinoids range from psychoactive highs to anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and neuroprotective properties.

Let’s break down what cannabinoids are and take a closer look at eight of the most popular cannabinoids that are reshaping wellness and cannabis culture today.

What Are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that either occur naturally in the cannabis plant (phytocannabinoids) or are produced by the body (endocannabinoids). There are also synthetic cannabinoids developed in labs for medical or research purposes.

The most well-known cannabinoids—like THC and CBD—bind with CB1 and CB2 receptors to regulate things like:

As of now, researchers have identified over 100 cannabinoids, each with unique effects. Here are the top eight that are making waves in both recreational and medicinal cannabis markets.

1. THC (Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol)

Function: THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. It binds primarily to CB1 receptors in the brain, producing the euphoric “high” associated with marijuana.

Benefits:

Occurs in: THC is the decarboxylated form of THCA, occurring naturally in cannabis when heat is applied (smoking, vaping, baking).

Potential downsides:

2. THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)

Function: THCA is the precursor to THC and is non-psychoactive in its raw form. It does not bind efficiently to CB1 receptors until it’s heated (decarboxylated), at which point it becomes psychoactive.

Benefits:

Occurs in: Raw or unheated cannabis flower. THCA products, including flower, are legal federally under the 2018 Farm Bill if they contain less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight.

Potential downsides:

3. CBD (Cannabidiol)

Function: CBD is non-intoxicating and works more broadly across the ECS. It helps regulate CB1 and CB2 activity and may even reduce the psychoactive effects of THC.

Benefits:

Occurs in: Hemp and cannabis plants, often extracted into oils, tinctures, topicals, and edibles.

Potential downsides:

4. CBG (Cannabigerol)

Function: Often referred to as the “mother cannabinoid,” CBG is a precursor to both THC and CBD. It binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors and may play a role in regulating mood and inflammation.

Benefits:

Occurs in: Low concentrations in most cannabis strains, though some high-CBG strains have been bred specifically for extraction.

Potential downsides:

5. CBN (Cannabinol)

Function: CBN forms as THC ages and oxidizes. It has mild psychoactive properties but is mainly known for its sedative effects.

Benefits:

Occurs in: Older or aged cannabis. Often added to sleep formulas or nighttime edibles.

Potential downsides:

6. THCP (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol)

Function: THCP is a rare and highly potent cannabinoid discovered in 2019. It's believed to be up to 33 times more active at CB1 receptors than THC.

Benefits:

Occurs in: Trace amounts naturally, but often manufactured or extracted for concentrates and vapes.

Potential downsides:

7. THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)

Function: THCV is chemically similar to THC but produces very different effects, including appetite suppression and a more energizing high.

Benefits:

Occurs in: Naturally in select cannabis strains, particularly landrace African sativas.

Potential downsides:

8. CBC (Cannabichromene)

Function: CBC is non-intoxicating and binds indirectly with TRPV1 and 5-HT1A receptors, both associated with pain perception and mood regulation.

Benefits:

Occurs in: Many cannabis strains, though usually in low concentrations. Often paired with CBD and THC for entourage effect.

Potential downsides:

The Entourage Effect: Why Cannabinoids Work Better Together

Cannabinoids are rarely used alone in nature—or in effective products. Many users and researchers support the idea of the entourage effect, which suggests that cannabinoids work better when combined, thanks to synergy between cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.

For example:

This concept has revolutionized how cannabis is formulated, especially in full-spectrum and broad-spectrum products.

Are Cannabinoids Safe?

Most cannabinoids are generally well tolerated by the body, especially non-intoxicating ones like CBD and CBG. However, concerns remain around:

Consumers should always:

Final Thoughts

Cannabinoids are more than just buzzwords—they’re potent, naturally occurring compounds that interact directly with one of the body’s most essential systems. From THC’s euphoric high to CBD’s calming balance, and CBG’s potential as an antibacterial, cannabinoids offer a customizable toolkit for wellness, relief, and enhancement.

At Tesoro Hemp, we’re proud to offer THCA flower and cannabinoid-rich products grown with care and tested for purity—so you can explore the benefits of cannabinoids confidently and safely.

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