July 14, 2024

List of Cannabinoids and Their Effects

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Inside the cannabis plant, you'll find an entire multitude of molecules. That's hundreds of different plant compounds, all produced by one miraculous species. Individually or working together, they create cannabis' diverse and nuanced effects. But, if cannabis is known for any type of compound, it has to be cannabinoids.

Considering one strain may contain a dozen or more of these fascinating molecules, it might be helpful to compile them all into a helpful cannabinoids list. Below, you'll find a list of cannabinoids and their effects to help you figure out which ones to explore first.

What Is a Cannabinoid?

A cannabinoid is a chemical compound. It is typically a multi-ring phenolic compound, which means the molecule has one or more hydroxyl groups (-OH) directly attached to an aromatic hydrocarbon group.

Cannabinoids are commonly attributed to cannabis plants, although other species also produce them in small amounts. When cannabinoids come from plants, they are called phytocannabinoids, and scientists have now more than 100 different cannabinoids attributed to cannabis alone.

Phytocannabinoids are so powerful because when consumed, they mimic molecules humans produce, known as endocannabinoids.

Phytocannabinoids vs. Endocannabinoids

Phytocannabinoids: Phyto is a prefix meaning "plant." So, phytocannabinoids are those molecules produced by plants, including cannabis.

Endocannabinoids: Endo is a prefix meaning "within." Endocannabinoids, therefore, translate to cannabinoids from within- those that our own bodies produce.

Why Cannabinoids Have Effects: The Endocannabinoid System

Our bodies have a remarkable relationship with cannabinoids. These tiny compounds work through an internal regulatory system called the endocannabinoid system. This system, only discovered in 1988, manages many aspects of our internal systems, including:

Blood sugar
Immune function
Muscle and fat tissue
Hormones
Pain center,
Reward center
Metabolic function

This critical system is made up of three parts:

Endocannabinoids (naturally produced by our bodies)
Receptors (CB1 and CB2)
Enzymes (to break down endocannabinoids after use)

When our body experiences imbalance, endocannabinoids bind to receptors to help restore balance. Once complete, the enzymes help break down the leftovers.

But it just so happens that other types of cannabinoids, including those from cannabis, replicate the same function of the endocannabinoids swirling around inside our bodies. Therefore, plant-produced cannabinoids similarly support our mood, memory, immune function, appetite, and more.

Cannabinoids and Their Effects

To date, the most well-known cannabinoids are delta-9 THC and cannabidiol (CBD), both of which are most prevalent in cannabis. But did you know there are actually more than a hundred known cannabinoids found in cannabis?

To start you off on your journey of cannabinoid discovery, here is a list of common cannabinoids and their known effects.

1. Delta-9 THC

Chemical Formula: C₂₁H₃₀O₂

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9-THC, THC, delta-9) is perhaps the most well-known of all the cannabinoids. It's prevalent across all types of cannabis, including marijuana, but it can also be derived from legal hemp. It's wildly popular for its psychoactive effects, which include relaxation, euphoria, bliss, sleepiness, enhanced auditory and visual experiences, and changes in time perception.

THC is uncannily similar to the endocannabinoid anandamide. Both THC and anandamide, which is often referred to as the "bliss molecule," bind to the CB1 cannabinoid receptors in your brain, leading to euphoric and pleasant effects.

In small to moderate serving sizes, delta-9 THC products are the perfect alternative to alcohol in social settings. It's an excellent tool for relieving daily stress and physical discomfort in larger servings.

2. CBD

Chemical Formula: C₂₁H₃₀O₂

Cannabidiol (CBD) is the second most popular cannabinoid, and it couldn't be more different than its psychoactive THC cousin. Although you can find some level of CBD across all cannabis types, it's generally extracted from legal hemp varieties that have been specifically bred for their high CBD content.

People love CBD for its soothing, calming, and relaxing effects — but it doesn't cause any psychoactive ones as you'd expect from THC. Instead of euphoria and bliss, you can expect relief from physical discomforts, sleepiness (in larger serving sizes), and improved mood and sense of well-being.

There has been a ton of research into possible applications for CBD, and it has a well-established safety profile (even in higher servings). In fact, it's so safe it's now increasingly used by pet owners to soothe the discomfort and stressors experienced by their pets.

Because CBD doesn't alter your state of mind, it's best suited for everyday wellness. Many people love CBD products because they help dissolve daily stress, bad days, and bodily discomfort.

3. Delta-8 THC

Chemical Formula: C₂₁H₃₀O₂

Not to be confused with delta-9-THC, you'll find a closely related version: delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-8 THC, delta-8). Delta-8 is a naturally occurring minor cannabinoid, and it is most frequently derived from hemp. Its effects are milder than the delta-9 version but still in the same realm of euphoria, relaxation, and increased appetite.

Delta-8’s effects are milder because of its unique chemical structure, which doesn't bind as strongly to the CB1 receptors in your brain. At the molecule level, it has a chemical bond on its eighth carbon chain instead of its ninth, which is considered an isomer of delta-9 THC.

Because it's less intense than delta-9, some people may find its effects more manageable, especially if they have a low tolerance to THC. This means delta-8 products are the perfect option for anyone who wants to experience THC for themselves but wants to start with a calmer option.

4. CBG

Chemical Formula: C₂₁H₃₂O₂

Cannabigerol (CBG) is the "mother of all cannabinoids" because many other cannabinoids naturally originate from its acidic form, CBGA. As the plant matures, its CBG contents gradually shift into acidic cannabinoids like THCa and CBDa. Despite what CBG may eventually evolve into, CBG is not psychoactive. Its effects are mellow, relaxing, and calming.

Because of the cannabinoid evolution, by the time cannabis is harvested for processing, CBG exists only as a minor cannabinoid. This is why, if you find it in a gummy or a tincture, it's been derived from legal hemp sources. Unlike other cannabinoids on this list, research into CBG is still relatively sparse, but it shows potential as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, though more study is needed.

CBG (and its precursor CBGA) are excellent partners for end-of-day rest and relaxation, especially when paired with other synergistic cannabinoids like CBDA.

5. THCV

Chemical Formula: C₁₉H₂₆O₂

Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is yet another type of THC, and while it has a similar structure, it produces distinctly different effects. THCV is known for its stimulating effects rather than any relaxing ones. THCV usually triggers a burst of energy and mental clarity without the intense euphoria or sleepier effects you might get from THC.

Over the last decade, THCV has earned a reputation as "diet weed" because of a curious line of study looking at how it affects hunger. Several preliminary studies have discovered that this cannabinoid seems to reduce hunger cues, but the results aren't conclusive.

THCV is a great cannabinoid for anyone seeking an energizing, clear-headed experience and who may want to avoid the usual THC-associated snack time.

6. THCP

Chemical Formula: C₂₃H₃₄O₂

Tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP) is one of the newest cannabinoids to be discovered. It is structurally similar to THC but with a much longer alkyl side chain. This structural difference makes THCP bind more strongly to CB1 receptors, which means it's far more potent than delta-9-THC.

In fact, early research suggests that THCP might be up to 33 times more active at CB1 receptors than delta-9 THC, leading to much stronger psychoactive effects. For you, that translates into more intense euphoria, relaxation, and altered visual or auditory effects. But, for anyone unfamiliar with THC, it might also increase the risk of unpleasant side effects.

THCP is best for those who already know and love the effects of delta-9-THC and are looking for extra intensity in the experience.

7. HHC

Chemical Formula: C₂₁H₃₂O₂

Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is a hydrogenated form of THC. It only exists in trace amounts in cannabis, so it is typically derived from legal hemp plants. Like THC, it has a binding affinity to the brain’s CB1 receptors, making this another psychoactive cannabinoid.

And while you may not make the connection from its name alone, HHC has similar effects to THC, although, for most, it's a milder experience. HHC usually has very comfortable, creative, and calm effects, making it an excellent alternative to more potent forms of THC. If you want to spark a little creativity or enter a relaxed flow state, HHC products are a great option in the cannabinoid lineup.

8. CBN

Chemical Formula: C₂₁H₂₆O₂

The final cannabinoid on the list is cannabinol (CBN), which is a mildly psychoactive compound. This is yet another cannabinoid that stems from a gradual degradation of another cannabinoid; in this case, THC slowly transforms into CBN over time.

Because CBN comes from THC degradation, you are likely to find it in older cannabis products. But it can also be derived from legal hemp sources. CBN binds weakly to CB1 receptors but can still produce slight psychoactive effects, especially in combination with other cannabinoids, thanks to the power of the entourage effect.

CBN is specifically known for its mellow and relaxing qualities. CBN is often referred to as the "sleepy cannabinoid." It provides mild relaxation and might help you unwind and prepare for bed.

9. THCA

Chemical Formula: C₂₂H₃₀O₄

Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is the non-psychoactive precursor to THC. That means THCA is in fresh cannabis flower, but it converts to delta-9-THC when exposed to heat through a process called decarboxylation.

For example, a THCA liquid diamonds vape gets heated before the cannabinoids enter your body. Through this process, THCA turns into delta-9-THC. Once it's Delta-THC, you'll feel all those familiar effects, like relaxation and euphoria.

THCA is less studied under a therapeutic lens than the more prevalent cannabinoids like THC and CBD. However, researchers are looking into this cannabinoid in its raw state for its anticonvulsant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Unheated and on its own, THCA’s effects are quite mild, but once heated and decarbed into delta-9-THC, this is the perfect cannabinoid for total relaxation, recreation, and comfort.

Time To Explore the Never-Ending List of Cannabinoids

woman smiling brightly with edibles around her on the grass

Clearly, cannabinoids are a diverse and fascinating world of compounds, each with distinct effects on the endocannabinoid system. From the well-known delta-9 THC to the lesser-known THCP, understanding these molecules can help you decide which ones fit your needs.

So, where will you begin your adventure? Why not here?

Whether you’re looking for potent Delta-9 THC gummies or disposable vapes with a blend of many cannabinoids- Hometown Hero’s vast selection of unique, federally legal hemp products is sure to offer an enjoyable and novel experience.

Until next time, happy exploring and mind your mind.

FDA Disclaimer: The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.