Cannabinoids are a diverse group of compounds naturally produced by the Cannabis sativa plant. While many people are familiar with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), over a hundred other cannabinoids exist, often referred to as minor compounds. Among these, cannabichromene (CBC) and cannabigerol (CBG) are gaining significant scientific attention for their unique properties. Neither CBC nor CBG are intoxicating, meaning they do not produce the “high” associated with THC. These non-psychoactive molecules interact with the body through different mechanisms, suggesting they may offer distinct benefits that complement the effects of the more abundant cannabinoids.
Defining Cannabichromene (CBC) and Cannabigerol (CBG)
Cannabigerol (CBG) and Cannabichromene (CBC) are two distinct phytocannabinoids that occur naturally within the cannabis plant. CBG is classified as a minor cannabinoid because its concentration in most mature cannabis strains is generally low, often less than one percent. This low level results from its conversion into other compounds during the plant’s life cycle. Specific hemp cultivars have been selectively bred or harvested early to retain higher levels of CBG.
CBC is also a minor cannabinoid, sometimes considered the third most abundant in certain varieties of the plant. Both CBG and CBC share a similar basic chemical blueprint with other cannabinoids, but small structural differences determine their unique interactions within the body. Their relative scarcity in most common strains has historically limited research, but modern extraction and breeding techniques are making them more accessible for study.
The Unique Role of CBG as the Precursor
Cannabigerol’s defining characteristic lies in its origin as the direct result of the decarboxylation of Cannabigerolic Acid (CBGA). CBGA is considered the foundational molecule for nearly all other cannabinoids produced by the plant, earning it the designation of the “mother cannabinoid.” The plant combines precursor molecules to form CBGA, which serves as the central hub for cannabinoid biosynthesis.
Specialized enzymes within the plant’s glandular trichomes act on CBGA, converting it into the acidic precursors of the major cannabinoids. For example, THCA synthase converts CBGA into tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), CBDA synthase converts it into cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), and CBCA synthase creates cannabichromenic acid (CBCA). These acidic forms then convert into their neutral counterparts (THC, CBD, and CBC) naturally or through heat. Because most CBGA is converted early in development, little CBG remains by harvest, explaining its low concentration in the final product.
Interaction with the Endocannabinoid System and Beyond
The mechanism of action for CBG and CBC differs significantly from the direct binding action of THC on the primary cannabinoid receptors. CBG exhibits a weak affinity for the cannabinoid receptors, acting as a mild partial agonist or antagonist at both the CB1 and CB2 receptors. This allows it to subtly modulate the activity of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) without causing strong activation. CBG also interacts with other cellular targets, including the transient receptor potential melastatin 8 (TRPM8) channel, where it acts as an antagonist.
CBC shows minimal binding to the CB1 and CB2 receptors, suggesting its effects are largely independent of the main ECS pathways. Instead, CBC’s activity is primarily mediated through non-cannabinoid receptors, specifically the transient receptor potential (TRP) channels. It is a potent activator of both the TRPV1 (vanilloid 1) and TRPA1 (ankyrin 1) channels, which regulate pain perception, body temperature, and inflammation. CBC can also inhibit the cellular uptake of anandamide, a naturally produced endocannabinoid, allowing this molecule to remain in circulation longer.
Specific Research Focus Areas
Preliminary scientific investigations suggest distinct focus areas for both cannabigerol and cannabichromene, based on their unique physiological interactions. Research into CBG has focused heavily on its potential neuroprotective properties, with studies exploring its effects in animal models of neurodegenerative conditions like Huntington’s disease. Its anti-inflammatory properties have also been examined, particularly in models of inflammatory bowel disease. CBG is also being investigated for its potential to reduce intraocular pressure, a factor relevant to conditions like glaucoma.
For CBC, research has highlighted its role in potential skin health applications, with studies looking into anti-acne properties due to its effect on sebaceous glands. The compound is also being studied for its potential to promote neurogenesis, the process of forming new nerve cells in the brain. CBC is considered a contributor to the “entourage effect,” the theory that all cannabis compounds work synergistically to enhance therapeutic outcomes. Its action on TRP channels also makes it a subject of interest for its potential to modulate pain and inflammation.