Cannabinoids: Effects & Benefits

Cannabinoids are the active compounds in cannabis that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to produce various effects. Whether it’s relaxation, pain relief, or mental clarity, each cannabinoid plays a unique role.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common cannabinoids, their effects, and how they shape your experience:

Major Cannabinoids & Their Effects

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
Effects: Euphoria, relaxation, altered perception, increased appetite.
Benefits: Pain relief, nausea reduction, improved sleep, appetite stimulation.
Psychoactive? Yes—responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis.

CBD (Cannabidiol)
Effects: Calming, non-intoxicating, reduces anxiety and inflammation.
Benefits: Supports relaxation, helps with pain, anti-seizure properties, reduces stress.
Psychoactive? No—does not produce a high, but may enhance THC’s therapeutic effects.

CBG (Cannabigerol)
Effects: Focus-enhancing, uplifting, promotes mental clarity.
Benefits: May help with inflammation, gut health, neuroprotection, and stress relief.
Psychoactive? No, but may influence mood and cognition.

CBN (Cannabinol)
Effects: Sedating, deeply relaxing, sleep-promoting.
Benefits: May support sleep, muscle relaxation, and pain relief.
Psychoactive? Mildly—primarily in older cannabis due to THC degradation.

CBC (Cannabichromene)
Effects: Mood-enhancing, non-intoxicating, supports brain function.
Benefits: Potential antidepressant-like effects, pain relief, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Psychoactive? No, but interacts with other cannabinoids to enhance effects.

Minor Cannabinoids & Their Effects

THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)
Effects: Alertness, appetite suppression, energy boost.
Benefits: May help with weight management, blood sugar regulation, and focus.
Psychoactive? At high doses, it may have mild euphoric effects.

CBDV (Cannabidivarin)
Effects: Calming, anti-seizure, anti-nausea.
Benefits: Studied for epilepsy, autism, and neurological disorders.
Psychoactive? No.

Δ8-THC (Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol)
Effects: Milder euphoria, relaxation, less anxiety than Delta-9 THC.
Benefits: Pain relief, nausea reduction, appetite stimulation.
Psychoactive? Yes, but less potent than traditional THC.

Δ10-THC (Delta-10-Tetrahydrocannabinol)
Effects: Uplifting, energizing, clear-headed.
Benefits: May promote focus and creativity without intense sedation.
Psychoactive? Yes, but milder than Delta-9 THC.

HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol)
Effects: Relaxation, euphoria, mild psychoactivity.
Benefits: May help with anxiety, pain, and sleep.
Psychoactive? Yes, but effects vary from person to person.

The Power of the Entourage Effect

Cannabinoids work together with terpenes to enhance or balance their effects—this is known as the entourage effect. Understanding which cannabinoids and terpenes work best for you allows you to create a more personalized cannabis experience.

Find your balance. Discover your perfect blend.