Imagine discovering a compound within cannabis that could potentially revolutionise the way we treat chronic pain, depression, and even cancer. This isn’t some farfetched, futuristic promise – it’s happening right now with cannabichromene or CBC.
Unlike its more famous cousins, THC and CBD, CBC’s effects are lesser-known. However, as researchers try to gain a better understanding of its medicinal properties, this cannabinoid is emerging as particularly impressive thanks to its therapeutic potential.
In this article, we’ll explore what CBC cannabinoid is, its unique effects, and how it might benefit your health and wellness.
What Is CBC Cannabinoid?
Cannabichromene (CBC) is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis that interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). More specifically, its chemical structure includes a pentyl side chain, which influences its interaction with the ECS. This side chain reduces CBC’s affinity for binding to the brain’s CB1 receptors, which are associated with psychoactive effects.
Comparing CBC With CBD and THC
While CBC, CBD, and THC are all cannabinoids, they differ significantly in their effects and uses.
| THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) | The most famous cannabinoid known for its psychoactive properties, producing the “high” associated with marijuana use. It binds strongly to CB1 receptors in the brain, influencing mood, appetite, and perception. |
| CBD (Cannabidiol) | A non-psychoactive component that has gained popularity for its potential therapeutic effects. These include anxiety relief, anti-inflammatory properties, and seizure reduction. It interacts with both CB1 and CB2 receptors indirectly, modulating their activity without binding strongly to them. |
| CBC (Cannabichromene) | It is also non-psychoactive. It binds poorly to CB1 receptors but interacts well with others, such as TRPV1 and TRPA1, which are involved in pain perception and inflammation. This unique interaction contributes to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and neuroprotective effects. |
Legal Status of CBC
In the UK, while CBC itself is not specifically listed as a controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, the legality of products containing it can depend on their source. If it is derived from hemp strains that contain less than 0.2% THC, it is generally considered legal. However, if CBC is extracted from marijuana plants with higher THC levels, the product may be classified as illegal.
It’s also important to note that smoking cannabis, including products containing CBC, is illegal in the UK. However, vaping cannabis-derived products is allowed, provided they meet regulatory standards and contain legally permissible THC levels.
Medical Cannabis vs. Black-Market Marijuana
Medical cannabis should always be chosen over black-market marijuana to ensure safety, efficacy, and legal protection.
| Medical Cannabis | Black-Market Marijuana | |
| Quality and Safety | Tested and regulated to ensure it meets strict standards for purity and potency | Unregulated and can contain harmful contaminants like pesticides, mould, and heavy metals. |
| Potency | Provides consistent potency, ensuring patients receive the correct dosage for their treatment. | Often varies widely in strength, making it difficult to dose accurately. |
| Health Risks | Free from harmful contaminants and is grown under controlled conditions to ensure patient safety. | May pose significant health risks due to the presence of unregulated chemicals and unsanitary growing conditions. |
| Legal Protection | When prescribed by a healthcare provider, it offers legal protection and peace of mind. | Carries legal risks and potential criminal charges. |
Health Benefits of CBC
The ECS is like the body’s own cannabis system. It comprises cannabinoid receptors, naturally occurring cannabinoids (endocannabinoids), and enzymes that synthesise and degrade these cannabinoids. CBC influences these components in various ways, affecting how the system operates and maintains balance within the body.
Depression and Anxiety
CBC may increase the levels of anandamide, an endocannabinoid known for its role in pain relief and mood regulation. Due to its interaction with TRPA1 channels, CBC allows this “bliss molecule” to remain in the system longer, enhancing its beneficial effects and potentially acting as a natural remedy for depression and anxiety.[1]
Pain and Inflammation Relief
Many people explore medical cannabis for pain in order to find relief. By interacting with TRPV1 receptors, CBC can be useful for managing chronic conditions such as neuropathy and fibromyalgia. Moreover, current research shows that it can contribute significantly to the “entourage effect”.
This refers to the theory that cannabinoids work better together than they do individually, amplifying each other’s therapeutic effects. For example, CBC combined with CBD can enhance the pain-relieving properties of CBD, making it a more effective treatment for conditions like chronic pain and inflammation.[2]
Importantly, this diverse functionality makes it a promising candidate for various medical treatments. For instance, studies have shown that it can help reduce swelling and pain in arthritis more effectively than traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). [3]
Its activation of TRPA1 receptors also helps regulate inflammatory responses. This can be particularly beneficial for autoimmune conditions like multiple sclerosis, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.[4]
Neuroprotective Effects
Additionally, CBC has demonstrated potential benefits for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s by helping to maintain and protect neural stem progenitor cells, which are crucial for brain function and growth.[5]
Cancer
Research supports the potential of CBC in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. This anti-tumour effect is particularly notable in the case of breast cancer, where it has been observed to interfere with tumour growth and metastasis. While more research is needed, these findings suggest that this cannabinoid could be an important component in cancer treatment regimens.[6]
Acne
By inhibiting the production of sebum, the oily substance that can clog pores and lead to acne, CBC helps keep the skin clear. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties can further aid in reducing the redness and swelling often associated with the condition.[7] This suggests that it could be as effective, if not more so, than some traditional acne treatments, with the added benefit of having fewer side effects.
Possible Side Effects and Interactions
While CBC is generally considered safe, it can cause some unwanted reactions in some individuals. Like with any supplement or medication, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and interactions.
Potential Side Effects of CBC
| Dry Mouth | Similar to other cannabinoids, CBC can cause dry mouth. Staying hydrated can help mitigate this effect. |
| Fatigue | Some users report feeling tired after taking it, especially in higher doses. It’s advisable to start with a low dose and gradually increase it to find the optimal amount. |
| Digestive Issues | In rare cases, it might cause mild digestive issues such as nausea or diarrhoea. |
| Headache | Some people might experience headaches, particularly when starting out or taking higher doses. |
| Dizziness | Occasional dizziness can occur, especially when standing up too quickly after consuming CBC. |
CBC’s Interactions With Other Medications
| Blood Thinners | CBC may enhance the effects of blood-thinning medications, increasing the risk of bleeding. If you’re taking anticoagulants, consult your healthcare provider before using it. |
| Sedatives | Since it can cause drowsiness, combining with sedative medications or alcohol can enhance this effect, leading to excessive sleepiness or impaired coordination. |
| Antidepressants and Anti-Anxiety Medications | It might interact with these medications, potentially altering their effectiveness. Monitoring by a health professional is recommended. |
| Immune Modulators | Its interaction with the ECS might influence the effectiveness of immune-modulating drugs. |
| Other Cannabinoids | When used in combination with other cannabinoids, such as CBD or THC, CBC can increase or alter their effects due to the entourage effect. While this can be beneficial, it should be approached with caution. |
Strains High in CBC
Certain cannabis strains are known for their high CBC content, making them particularly attractive for those seeking the unique benefits of this cannabinoid.
Here are some notable examples:
| Strain | Properties |
| Maui Dream | Celebrated for its balanced effects, offering a combination of relaxation and mental clarity. |
| Blue Cherry Soda | Known for its sweet, fruity flavour, it provides a substantial amount of CBC, contributing to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. |
| Charlotte’s Web | Originally famous for its high CBD content, this strain also boasts considerable levels of CBC, boosting its synergistic healing potential. |
| Three Kings | A hybrid known for its calming and euphoric effects, making it suitable for managing stress. |
| Purple Cadillac | Offers a relaxing and sedative effect, making it ideal for evening use and alleviating chronic pain. |
| Jorge’s Diamond | With its sweet, berry aroma, this strain is known for providing anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefits. |
| Wookie | Recognised for its distinctive earthy and floral flavour, it can help improve low mood. |
Lyphe and Medical Cannabis: Your Path to Wellness
Choosing Lyphe for your medical cannabis needs means prioritising safety, expertise, and patient-centred care. Unlike black-market marijuana, we provide regulated, high-quality medical cannabis tailored to your specific health conditions. This ensures you receive the therapeutic benefits without the risks associated with illicit products.
Moreover, our extensive network of specialist doctors is dedicated to finding the right treatment plan for you, addressing a wide range of conditions such as chronic pain, neurological disorders, and mental health issues.
In addition to this, we make managing your health both convenient and cost-effective. Our subscription program offers substantial savings and includes benefits such as free clinic letters, priority transfers, and follow-up appointment costs. Our comprehensive patient support also extends beyond medical consultations. We provide a robust eligibility assessment process to ensure that you receive the appropriate care tailored to your needs.
So, take control of your health with a trusted partner in medical cannabis. Book an appointment with Lyphe today to start your journey towards better health.
Conclusion
In exploring CBC effects, we’ve uncovered its impressive potential for improving health and wellness. It can alleviate depression and anxiety, manage pain and inflammation, and even play a role in inhibiting cancer cell growth and treating neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Its unique ability to suppress lipid production also makes it a promising treatment for acne.
However, as with any supplement, it’s essential to be aware of possible side effects and interactions with other medications. So, if you’re considering integrating CBC into your wellness routine, the natural next step is to seek professional guidance. This ensures you get a tailored approach that maximises benefits while minimising risks.
References
- Ligresti, A., Moriello, A. S., Starowicz, K., Matias, I., Pisanti, S., De Petrocellis, L., … & Di Marzo, V. (2006). Antitumor activity of plant cannabinoids with emphasis on the effect of cannabidiol on human breast carcinoma. Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, 318(3), 1375-1387. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18354058/
- BayMedica. (2022, November 16). Breakthrough on the entourage effect: CBC and the future of cannabinoid-based medicine. Retrieved from https://www.baymedica.com/2022/11/16/breakthrough-on-the-entourage-effect-cbc-and-the-future-of-cannabinoid-based-medicine/
- Pertwee, R. G. (2008). The diverse CB1 and CB2 receptor pharmacology of three plant cannabinoids: Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabivarin. British Journal of Pharmacology, 153(2), 199-215. Retrieved from https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.777804/full
- Fadda, P., Robinson, L., Fratta, W., Pertwee, R. G., & Riedel, G. (2004). Differential effects of THC- or CBD-rich cannabis extracts on working memory in rats. Neuropharmacology, 47(8), 1170-1179. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006295218302016?via%3Dihub
- Zuardi, A. W., Rodrigues, J. A., & Cunha, J. M. (1991). Effects of cannabidiol in animal models predictive of antipsychotic activity. Psychopharmacology, 104(2), 260-264. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23941747/
- Ligresti, A., Moriello, A. S., Starowicz, K., Matias, I., Pisanti, S., De Petrocellis, L., … & Di Marzo, V. (2006). Antitumor activity of plant cannabinoids with emphasis on the effect of cannabidiol on human breast carcinoma. Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, 318(3), 1375-1387. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16728591/
- Costa, B., Giagnoni, G., Franke, C., Trovato, A. E., & Colleoni, M. (2004). Vanilloid TRPV1 receptor mediates the antihyperalgesic effect of cannabidiol in a rat model of acute inflammation. British Journal of Pharmacology, 143(2), 247-250. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/0024320580906311?via%3Dihub
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Disclaimer
The content provided on this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. We strongly advise readers to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns.
To reflect its medicinal nature rather than recreational use, we prefer the term ‘medical cannabis’ over terms such as ‘marijuana’, “grass”. or ‘dope’ which may carry negative connotations.
The opinions expressed in the blog belong to the respective authors, who are not medical professionals, and may not necessarily align with those of Lyphe Clinic. Lyphe Clinic does not endorse any specific products or services mentioned, except those provided through Lyphe Clinic.
Readers should be aware that the legality of medical cannabis varies by location, and this disclaimer may be subject to periodic updates.
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