Understanding THC, CBD and Minor Cannabinoids
A practical introduction to the key cannabinoids in medical cannabis — what they do, how they differ, and why the minor cannabinoids matter.
THC: The Primary Psychoactive Compound
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive constituent of cannabis. It binds primarily to CB1 receptors in the brain and central nervous system, producing the well-known psychoactive effects alongside analgesic, anti-nausea and appetite-stimulating properties.
In a medical context, THC-dominant products are prescribed for conditions including chronic pain, nausea associated with chemotherapy, and spasticity in multiple sclerosis.
CBD: The Non-Psychoactive Modulator
Cannabidiol (CBD) has no psychoactive effect and is thought to modulate THC's activity at CB1 receptors, potentially reducing anxiety and cognitive side effects. CBD itself has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic and anticonvulsant properties.
Epidiolex (a purified CBD formulation) was approved by the EMA in 2019 for treatment-resistant childhood epilepsy — the first plant-derived cannabinoid medicine to receive full pharmaceutical approval in Europe.
Minor Cannabinoids: CBG, CBN and Beyond
Beyond THC and CBD, the cannabis plant produces over 100 additional cannabinoids in smaller quantities.
- CBG (Cannabigerol) is often described as the precursor cannabinoid. Early research suggests anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.
- CBN (Cannabinol) is a mildly psychoactive degradation product of THC, associated with sedative effects.
- THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) is structurally similar to THC but appears to have appetite-suppressing and potentially antidiabetic effects.
- CBC (Cannabichromene) has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and potentially antidepressant properties in preclinical studies.
Why This Matters for Product Selection
For medical cannabis prescribers and specialist buyers, understanding the full cannabinoid and terpene profile of a product — not just THC and CBD percentages — is essential for matching supply to clinical need. Verdant Access works with producers who can provide comprehensive Certificates of Analysis covering the full phytocannabinoid spectrum.
Sources
- Pertwee RG. (2008). The diverse CB1 and CB2 receptor pharmacology of three plant cannabinoids: delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol and delta9-tetrahydrocannabivarin. British Journal of Pharmacology.
- Atalay S et al. (2019). Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol. Antioxidants.
- Nachnani R et al. (2021). The Brain Erythropoietin Pathway and Minor Cannabinoids. British Journal of Pharmacology.
