From CBD to CBC. The Next Wave is Picking Up Speed
- Team Genova
- Oct 10, 2019
- 3 min read
If you are already riding the first wave of cannabinoids, then you know there is another wave coming right behind it which will expand to other valuable cannabinoid fractions. By now, you have likely heard of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) and their effects, but did you know there are many similar compounds found within the cannabis plant?
There are already quite a few working diligently in the space of biosynthesis and pharmaceutical engineering of these rare fractions which could have a far more targeted therapeutic approach to the dominant first wave of CBD and THC.
Due to the high cost and low concentration of these biologically active compounds, engineering this family of rare cannabinoid fractions is an interesting and valuable space to consider in bringing to market minor fractions such as CBC (cannaabnichromene) and CBG (cannabigerol).
CBC for example, was discovered over 50 years ago and research shows it to have some very promising benefits. Medicinally, studies have shown CBC to be a powerful agent working against inflammation and disease within the body in many areas.
Cancer: As a result of its interaction with the body’s natural endocannabinoid, anandamide, CBC as a potential cancer treatment was first published in 2006 in a study that looked at cannabinoids other than THC for their possible effects on cancer. So far, research has shown CBC to be the second-most potent cannabinoid able to inhibit the growth of new cancer cells. (CBG being the first)
Pain: Cannabichromene has been shown to inhibit pain and inflammation associated with collagen-induced osteoarthritis.
Acne: CBC has exhibited powerful anti-inflammatory properties and has also shown suppressed excessive lipid production in the sebaceous glands, a main factor in persistent acne. Although more research is required, the potential of a powerful anti-acne compound here is great.
Depression and Brain Health: With oxidative stress, inflammation and toxicity building up and affecting brain health, CBC has shown an effective display of the "entourage effect" wherein CBC appears to work in conjunction with both THC and CBD to deliver a powerhouse of antidepressant and anti-inflammatory properties.
CBG on the other hand has been found to act on very specific physiological systems. A true minor fraction comprising less than 1% of most strains, CBG like all other cannabinoids communicates with the human body's internal endocannabinoid system which works to keep the body in its balanced state of homeostasis. In general, the endocannabinoid system performs different functions specific to each area of the body. Endocannabinoid receptors are prevalent in many areas of the human body, and in the case of CBG has shown a synergistic active compound-relationship in its potential to target the following:
Glaucoma: Studies have shown CBG to reduce intraocular pressure with powerful vasodilator and neuroprotective effects to offer.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease: In animal experiments involving mice, CBG was found to be effective in decreasing the inflammation characteristic in IBD.
Cancer: CBG has shown its abilities to block receptors that cause cancer cell growth. In one study, it was shown to inhibit the growth of colorectal cancer cells in mice, thereby slowing colon cancer growth.
Anti-Bacterial: European research has shown evidence that CBG is an effective antibacterial agent, particularly against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
Skin Infection: Historically, as a topical formulation, cannabis based creams have shown to be effective against a variety of skin infections and inflammatory skin issues. With a greater understanding today of the different fractions within the pant comes the greater potential to develop more targeted creams and therapies for a multitude of skin issues.
Appetite Stimulant: Lab studies have shown success in appetite stimulation which leads to the potential to craft a novel non-psychotropic therapeutic option for cachexia the muscle wasting an severe weight loss seen in late stage cancer and other diseases.
Bladder Dysfunction: In a study that looked at the effects of five different cannabinoids on bladder contraction, CBG was the most successful in inhibiting muscle contractions, opening the potential to design a product aimed at preventing bladder dysfunction disorders.
With all of the research and information available on these powerful molecules found within the cannabis plant, it is a very interesting piece of the cannabis puzzle to consider moving forward in the market.
What are your strategies and thoughts on investing in and/or incorporating the science and engineering of these minor fractions into your business?
Lets chat.
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