What is CBC? By now, you have probably heard of CBD and TCH as the popularity of these products has skyrocketed in recent years. However, you may not have heard of the lesser-known and studied cannabinoids such as CBC.
What is a Cannabinoid?
The term cannabinoid is defined as “any of various naturally-occurring, biologically active, chemical constituents of hemp or cannabis.” Cannabinoids do not have to come from within us to affect our endocannabinoid system.
Like CBD, CBC is more specifically referred to as a phytocannabinoid, meaning that it is a cannabinoid originating from a plant. Because their molecular makeup is similar to that of endocannabinoids, cannabinoids originating outside our bodies can interact with our endocannabinoid systems, altering activity and delivering therapeutic benefits. CBC is one of more than 100 different cannabinoids that can be extracted from the hemp plant.
Other common cannabinoids include CBDA, CBCA, CBDV, CBDVA, CBG, CBGA, CBN, CBNA, Delta 8-THC, Delta 9-THC, THCA-A, THCV and THCVA.
What is CBC?
CBC was first discovered by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam and Y. Gaoni in 1966. Since then, research has shown that CBC, the third most abundant cannabinoid found in the hemp plant after CBD and THC, could have many potential benefits.
So, what’s the difference between CBD and CBC? While the two non-psychotropic phytocannabinoids are very closely related, there are not the same. CBD has a strong impact on the CB1 and CB2 endocannabinoid receptors. CBC, on the other hand, interacts with the vanilloid receptors (TRPV1).
Benefits of CBC
While CBC was discovered over 60 years ago, research into the potential benefits is still in its infancy. However, new studies have shown that CBC could potentially have many therapeutic benefits. As stated above, CBC interacts with the TRPV1 receptors that play a role in inflammation and pain sensitivity. CBC could be integral in the relief of the pain and inflammation caused by arthritis, post workouts, etc.
It is also believed that CBC has neuroprotective properties. A 2013 study found that CBC promoted the “viability of adult neural stem progenitor cells” which are a vital part of the brain.
CBC, like CBD, is also thought to help people with depression and other mood disorders. Anandamide is a fatty acid neurotransmitter that is primarily responsible for the sensation of pleasure and motivation. The TRPV1 receptors, when activated, can increase levels of anandamide in the body, thus improving one’s mood.
Is there CBC in LHA Products?
Yes. All of Laura’s Homestead Alternatives products are full spectrum, meaning they all contain CBC. In fact, CBC is the most abundant cannabinoid in our products after CBD.
What exactly does full spectrum mean? Full spectrum CBD is derived from hemp and contains many cannabinoids beyond CBD, including CBC, along with other elements of the hemp plant, including naturally occurring terpenes, essential vitamins, fatty acids, protein, and more. You might sometimes find full spectrum CBD called whole-plant CBD extract for this reason.
The major benefit of full spectrum CBD oil is the positive effect when all the compounds work in unison. Full spectrum CBD also contains vitamins, essential fats, and protein. Vitamins A, C, E, and B are found in abundance in CBD, along with up to 20 amino acids and essential fatty acids, like Omega 3 and Omega 6.