What are Different Types of Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are compounds that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, playing a vital role in regulating various physiological processes such as mood, pain, and appetite. They are broadly categorized into three types: phytocannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, endocannabinoids produced naturally by the body, and synthetic cannabinoids created in laboratories for research and therapeutic purposes.

This article, “Cannabinoids Types,” offers a concise overview of these categories, exploring their origins, functions, and potential benefits. Whether you’re new to the subject or looking to expand your understanding, this guide aims to illuminate the diverse and dynamic world of cannabinoids.

What is Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system—a network crucial for regulating functions like mood, pain, appetite, and sleep. They work by binding to specific receptors, mainly CB₁ and CB₂, that are spread throughout the body. To illustrate, think of these receptors as locks and the cannabinoids as keys: when a cannabinoid (key) fits into a receptor (lock), it can trigger various responses in the cell, much like unlocking a door allows access to a room.

Cannabinoids Types

Cannabinoids compounds come from different sources: phytocannabinoids are naturally present in the cannabis plant, endocannabinoids are produced within our bodies, and synthetic cannabinoids are created in laboratories. This variety highlights both their importance in everyday physiology and their potential in therapeutic applications.

1. Phytocannabinoids

Phytocannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant. Over 100 different phytocannabinoids have been identified, but several stand out for their popularity and extensive research. Each of these phytocannabinoids contributes uniquely to the overall profile of the cannabis plant. Their combined interactions—often referred to as the “entourage effect”—suggest that the therapeutic potential of cannabis may be greater when these compounds work together rather than in isolation.

Ongoing research continues to explore how each phytocannabinoid influences human health, paving the way for innovative medical treatments and wellness products. Below are the key phytocannabinoids, each introduced with its own mechanism and detailed applications:

Δ⁹-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

THC is the most well-known phytocannabinoid, celebrated—and sometimes notorious—for its psychoactive properties.

• Mechanism: It binds primarily to CB₁ receptors in the brain, leading to altered perception, mood, and cognitive functions.
• Applications: Besides its recreational use, THC is employed in medical settings to manage chronic pain, stimulate appetite, and alleviate nausea, particularly in patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy.

Cannabidiol (CBD)

CBD is renowned for its non-psychoactive nature and has gained widespread attention for its potential therapeutic benefits.

• Mechanism: Unlike THC, CBD interacts with various receptors beyond the cannabinoid system, including serotonin receptors, which may contribute to its calming and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Applications: CBD is commonly used in products aimed at reducing anxiety, alleviating pain, managing epilepsy, and even aiding in sleep disorders. Its versatility has led to its incorporation in a broad range of wellness products.

Cannabinol (CBN)

CBN is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that forms as THC degrades over time, particularly when exposed to air or heat.

• Mechanism: It has a lower affinity for cannabinoid receptors compared to THC, resulting in more subdued effects.
• Applications: Early research suggests CBN may have sedative properties, making it a potential candidate for sleep aids, and it is also being explored for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits.

Cannabigerol (CBG)

Often referred to as the “mother” cannabinoid, CBG serves as a precursor in the biosynthesis of other cannabinoids, including THC and CBD.

• Mechanism: Although present in smaller quantities within the plant, CBG interacts with both CB₁ and CB₂ receptors, contributing to a unique range of physiological effects.
• Applications: Preliminary studies indicate that CBG may possess antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, positioning it as a promising compound for future therapeutic research.

Cannabichromene (CBC)

CBC is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found alongside THC and CBD.

• Mechanism: While its exact mechanisms are still being unraveled, CBC is thought to interact with the endocannabinoid system in ways that support pain relief and anti-inflammatory responses.
• Applications: Research into CBC points to potential benefits in promoting brain health, reducing inflammation, and enhancing mood regulation, often working synergistically with other cannabinoids in what is known as the “entourage effect.”

2. Endocannabinoids

Endocannabinoids are compounds naturally produced by the body that play a vital role in maintaining internal balance, or homeostasis. Unlike phytocannabinoids—which come from the cannabis plant—endocannabinoids are synthesized on demand by cells to help regulate functions such as mood, pain, appetite, and immune response. They work by binding to the same receptors (CB₁ and CB₂) that interact with external cannabinoids, ensuring the body can quickly adapt to internal changes. Together, these endocannabinoids contribute to a complex signaling network that allows the body to respond dynamically to various physical and emotional stimuli, underscoring their importance in overall health and well-being.

Anandamide (AEA)

Often nicknamed the “bliss molecule,” anandamide is involved in mood regulation, pain perception, and appetite control.

• Mechanism: It primarily binds to CB₁ receptors in the brain, influencing areas that control pleasure and reward.
• Function: Anandamide helps promote feelings of well-being and balance, playing a key role in reducing stress and modulating pain.

2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)

2-AG is the most abundant endocannabinoid found in the body.

• Mechanism: It interacts with both CB₁ and CB₂ receptors, which are distributed throughout the brain and immune system.
• Function: This endocannabinoid is essential for regulating immune responses, reducing inflammation, and maintaining overall cellular equilibrium.

3. Synthetic Cannabinoids

Synthetic cannabinoids are lab-created compounds designed to mimic the effects of natural cannabinoids by targeting the same receptors (CB₁ and CB₂) in the endocannabinoid system. Their potency and effects can vary widely, leading to both medical applications and significant recreational misuse risks, and because they can have unpredictable pharmacological profiles, their use outside of medical oversight carries notable danger. Yet, within controlled therapeutic contexts, synthetic THC analogs like dronabinol and nabilone can offer tangible benefits for patients experiencing severe nausea or appetite loss.

As research advances, scientists continue to explore new synthetic cannabinoids that may provide targeted relief with fewer adverse effects. Below is an overview of the mechanism and function of some commonly known synthetic cannabinoids.

Dronabinol (Marinol)

• Mechanism: Dronabinol is a synthetic form of Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It primarily binds to CB₁ receptors in the central nervous system, influencing neurotransmitter release and modulating pain, appetite, and nausea.
• Function: Clinically, it is prescribed to treat nausea and vomiting in chemotherapy patients and to stimulate appetite in individuals with AIDS or other wasting conditions. Because it mirrors the action of natural THC, dronabinol can provide therapeutic benefits in a controlled setting with known dosage and purity.

Nabilone (Cesamet)

• Mechanism: Similar in structure to THC, nabilone acts as a potent agonist at CB₁ receptors. It modifies neurotransmitter release in areas of the brain that regulate nausea, pain, and mood.
• Function: Nabilone is primarily used to combat severe chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting when other treatments are ineffective. Its predictable formulation and consistent potency make it a valuable pharmaceutical option under medical supervision.

Designer Cannabinoids (e.g., JWH-018, HU-210)

• Mechanism: These compounds are often full agonists of the CB₁ and CB₂ receptors—sometimes with much stronger binding affinity than natural THC—leading to powerful and unpredictable psychoactive effects.
• Function: Although originally developed for research, these “designer drugs” have appeared on the recreational market under names like “Spice” or “K2.” Their potency increases the risk of severe side effects, such as extreme anxiety, psychosis, and cardiovascular problems. Consequently, many are banned or tightly regulated.

What Are the Top 5 Intoxicating Cannabinoids?

Although cannabis contains many cannabinoids, only a subset have prominent psychoactive or intoxicating effects. Below are five known for their ability to produce varying degrees of psychoactivity:

1. Δ⁹-THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The most abundant intoxicating cannabinoid in traditional cannabis strains and responsible for the classic “high.”
2. THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin): Structurally similar to THC but can produce varied effects, sometimes described as energizing or appetite-suppressing at low doses; at higher doses, it may behave more like THC.
3. Δ⁸-THC (Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol): A less potent relative of Δ⁹-THC, reportedly producing a milder, smoother psychoactive effect.
4. HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol): A hydrogenated form of THC, said to have effects similar to THC but with a slightly different chemical structure that may alter potency and duration.
5. THCP (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol): A recently discovered cannabinoid that binds more strongly to CB₁ receptors than THC, potentially making it very potent; research is still emerging.

Which Is Stronger, CBD or CBN?

CBD (Cannabidiol) and CBN (Cannabinol) are both non- or minimally intoxicating cannabinoids, meaning they do not typically produce the same psychoactive “high” that THC does. However, “stronger” can refer to different aspects. In summary, CBD is neither “stronger” nor “weaker” than CBN in a straightforward sense—they each have distinct profiles and possible benefits. CBD is better known and has more extensive clinical evidence supporting its uses, while CBN is gaining interest for its mild sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, though more research is needed to confirm those effects.

Psychoactivity

• CBD is generally considered non-intoxicating. It does not bind strongly to CB₁ receptors, which are most responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis.
• CBN is mildly psychoactive in large quantities but is still far less potent than THC.

Sedative Effects

• CBD may have calming effects, useful for anxiety and stress, but it is not consistently linked to sedation.
• CBN is often marketed as a sleep aid, with some research suggesting sedative properties, though conclusive data is limited.

Therapeutic Strength

• CBD has a broader research profile indicating potential benefits for pain, inflammation, anxiety, epilepsy (particularly Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome), and more.
• CBN is still under early investigation, especially for potential sedative effects and immune modulation.