THCA: What It Is, Effects and Safety | PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Cannabinoids Guide THCA THCA THCA, THC-acid, 2-COOH-THC pronounced: tet-ruh-hy-droh-kuh-nab-ih-NOL-ik AS-id The raw, unheated form of THC. Not intoxicating until it is heated. Acidic (raw) cannabinoidFormula: C22H30O4Intoxicating: No TypeAcidic (raw) FormulaC22H30O4 IntoxicatingNo Key focusInflammation Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid · 358.5 g/mol The molecule Chemical structure This is the accurate skeletal structure of THCA, drawn from PubChem data. Each corner and line-end is a carbon atom, and the red O marks oxygen. Its formula is C22H30O4 and it weighs 358.5 g/mol. Anti-inflammatoryAnti-sicknessNeuroprotectiveRaw / unheated About What is THCA? Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, or THCA, is the raw form of THC found in fresh, living and undried cannabis. Here is the surprising part: THCA is not intoxicating. Eating raw cannabis flower will not get you high. THCA carries an extra acid group that THC does not have. That group is the reason the two behave so differently. In the body How THCA Works The acid group on THCA stops it from fitting the CB1 receptor well, so it does not cause a high. Instead, research suggests THCA acts on other targets, including PPAR-gamma receptors, and shows anti-inflammatory activity a little like some common painkillers. Early studies, mostly in the lab and in animals, have looked at THCA for inflammation, nausea, and protecting nerve cells. Some patients use raw cannabis, for example in juices, to get THCA without the high. Receptor snapshot Where THCA Acts The endocannabinoid system has two main receptors. Here is how strongly THCA acts on each. CB1Brain & nervous systemNone Its bulky acid group stops it fitting CB1 well. This is why raw, unheated cannabis does not make you high. CB2Immune system & bodyWeak / indirect Weak action at CB2. Beyond CB1 and CB2: Acts on PPAR-gamma and has COX / anti-inflammatory activity. In the plant How THCA is Made THCA is made from the mother acid CBGA by an enzyme called THCA synthase. It is the main cannabinoid in most dried high-THC flower, before it is heated. When you vape, smoke or cook the flower, heat removes a carbon dioxide group and turns THCA into THC. This is the single most important step in making cannabis intoxicating. PathwayTHCAadd heat →Delta-9-THC Good to know Safety and Side Effects THCA in its raw form is not intoxicating and appears well tolerated. The main practical point is that heat, even gentle warmth over time, converts it into intoxicating THC, so a “raw” product can change if it is warmed or stored badly. Human safety data is limited. Speak to your prescriber before using raw or high-THCA products. Questions THCA: Common Questions Why does raw cannabis not get you high? Because fresh cannabis contains THCA, not THC. THCA carries an extra acid group that stops it fitting the CB1 receptor. Only when you heat it (smoking, vaping or cooking) does it lose that group and become intoxicating THC. Is THCA the same as THC? No, but they are closely related. THCA is the raw, acidic form. Heat removes a carbon dioxide molecule and turns THCA into THC – a process called decarboxylation. PreviousCBDV NextCBDA Back to full Cannabinoids Guide Important: This page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Cannabinoid research is still developing, and many studies have been done in cells or animals rather than people. Always speak to your prescriber before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References Nadal, X. et al. (2017) ‘Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid is a potent PPAR-gamma agonist with neuroprotective activity’, British Journal of Pharmacology, 174(23), pp. 4263-4276. doi: 10.1111/bph.14019. Moreno-Sanz, G. (2016) ‘Can you pass the acid test? Critical review and novel therapeutic perspectives of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid A’, Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 1(1), pp. 124-130. doi: 10.1089/can.2016.0008. Izzo, A.A., Borrelli, F., Capasso, R., Di Marzo, V. and Mechoulam, R. (2009) ‘Non-psychotropic plant cannabinoids: new therapeutic opportunities from an ancient herb’, Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, 30(10), pp. 515-527. doi: 10.1016/j.tips.2009.07.006. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025) PubChem Compound Database. Bethesda: U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (Accessed: 29 July 2026).

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THCV: What It Is, Effects and Safety | PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Cannabinoids Guide THCV THCV THCV, tetrahydrocannabivarin pronounced: tet-ruh-hy-droh-kuh-NAB-ih-vair-in THC’s slimmer cousin – it can dial the CB1 receptor down or up depending on the dose. Neutral cannabinoidFormula: C19H26O2Intoxicating: Dose-based TypeNeutral FormulaC19H26O2 IntoxicatingDose-based Key focusAppetite Tetrahydrocannabivarin · 286.4 g/mol The molecule Chemical structure This is the accurate skeletal structure of THCV, drawn from PubChem data. Each corner and line-end is a carbon atom, and the red O marks oxygen. Its formula is C19H26O2 and it weighs 286.4 g/mol. Appetite controlFocusBlood-sugarEnergy About What is THCV? Tetrahydrocannabivarin, or THCV, is a slimmer cousin of THC. It has a shorter carbon “tail”, three carbons instead of five, and that small change gives it some surprising behaviour. THCV is found in higher amounts in certain plants, particularly some varieties from Africa and Asia. At the low doses usually found in products, it is not intoxicating. In the body How THCV Works THCV is unusual because its effect flips with dose. At low doses it blocks the CB1 receptor, the opposite of what THC does, which is why it is being studied to curb appetite. At high doses it can switch CB1 on instead, more like THC. It also acts as a partial activator of CB2. This double action has made THCV interesting for weight management, and for blood-sugar control in type 2 diabetes, where early trials look promising but are still small. Receptor snapshot Where THCV Acts The endocannabinoid system has two main receptors. Here is how strongly THCV acts on each. CB1Brain & nervous systemDampens / blocks At low doses it BLOCKS CB1 – the opposite of THC – which may curb appetite. At high doses it can switch CB1 on instead. CB2Immune system & bodyPartial Acts as a partial activator of CB2. In the plant How THCV is Made THCV comes from its acid, THCVA, which sits on a separate “propyl” branch of the family tree. This branch starts from CBGVA, the shorter-tailed version of the mother acid CBGA. As with the others, heat turns THCVA into THCV. Comes fromTHCVA→ add heat →THCV Good to know Safety and Side Effects THCV appears well tolerated in early studies, with few side effects at the doses tested. Because it can behave like THC at high doses, very strong products could in theory be intoxicating. Research in people is still limited, so speak to your prescriber before using THCV, especially if you manage diabetes or take medicines that affect appetite or blood sugar. Questions THCV: Common Questions Is THCV an appetite suppressant? At low doses THCV blocks the CB1 receptor, the opposite of THC, which is why it is being studied for appetite control and weight management. At high doses this can flip and it may activate CB1 instead. What makes THCV different from THC? THCV has a shorter carbon “tail” (three carbons instead of five). This small change flips how it behaves at the CB1 receptor at low doses. PreviousCBC NextCBDV Back to full Cannabinoids Guide Important: This page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Cannabinoid research is still developing, and many studies have been done in cells or animals rather than people. Always speak to your prescriber before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References Pertwee, R.G. (2008) ‘The diverse CB1 and CB2 receptor pharmacology of three plant cannabinoids: delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabivarin’, British Journal of Pharmacology, 153(2), pp. 199-215. doi: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0707442. Izzo, A.A., Borrelli, F., Capasso, R., Di Marzo, V. and Mechoulam, R. (2009) ‘Non-psychotropic plant cannabinoids: new therapeutic opportunities from an ancient herb’, Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, 30(10), pp. 515-527. doi: 10.1016/j.tips.2009.07.006. Morales, P., Hurst, D.P. and Reggio, P.H. (2017) ‘Molecular targets of the phytocannabinoids: a complex picture’, Progress in the Chemistry of Organic Natural Products, 103, pp. 103-131. doi: 10.1007/978-3-319-45541-9_4. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025) PubChem Compound Database. Bethesda: U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (Accessed: 29 July 2026).

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Delta-8-THC: What It Is, Effects and Safety | PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Cannabinoids Guide 8-THC Delta-8-THC delta-8-THC, delta eight pronounced: DEL-tuh ate tet-ruh-hy-droh-kuh-NAB-ih-nol A close cousin of THC with the double bond in a different place – usually milder. Neutral cannabinoidFormula: C21H30O2Intoxicating: Yes TypeNeutral FormulaC21H30O2 IntoxicatingYes Key focusMilder high Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol · 314.5 g/mol The molecule Chemical structure This is the accurate skeletal structure of Delta-8-THC, drawn from PubChem data. Each corner and line-end is a carbon atom, and the red O marks oxygen. Its formula is C21H30O2 and it weighs 314.5 g/mol. Milder highAnti-sicknessPain reliefAppetite About What is Delta-8-THC? Delta-8-THC is a close relative of ordinary delta-9-THC. The two molecules are almost identical; the only difference is where one double bond sits in the ring. That tiny change is enough to make delta-8 behave a little differently. It occurs naturally in cannabis only in very small amounts. Most delta-8 sold abroad is made in a lab from CBD, which is a very different thing from a plant extract. In the body How 8-THC Works Delta-8 switches on the same CB1 receptor as delta-9-THC, so it is intoxicating, but it holds on a little less tightly. Many people describe its effects as milder and clearer-headed, with less anxiety, though this varies from person to person. It is also more chemically stable than delta-9-THC, meaning it breaks down more slowly. Research on delta-8 in people is limited compared with delta-9-THC. Receptor snapshot Where 8-THC Acts The endocannabinoid system has two main receptors. Here is how strongly Delta-8-THC acts on each. CB1Brain & nervous systemPartial Switches on CB1 like Delta-9-THC, but holds on a little less tightly, so the effects are usually milder. CB2Immune system & bodyPartial Also binds CB2. In the plant How 8-THC is Made In the plant, only a trace of delta-8 forms, partly as delta-9-THC slowly degrades. Because there is so little of it naturally, commercial delta-8 is usually made in a lab by converting CBD. This is why product quality and purity matter so much. Comes fromDelta-9-THC→ add heat →Delta-8-THC Good to know Safety and Side Effects Delta-8 can cause the same kinds of effects as THC, including a fast heartbeat, dry mouth and drowsiness, and it affects driving. A bigger concern is quality: lab-made delta-8 products, especially unregulated ones, can contain leftover chemicals and unknown by-products. In the UK, delta-8-THC is a controlled substance, the same as delta-9-THC. Only use cannabinoids from a regulated, prescribed source. Questions Delta-8-THC: Common Questions Is delta-8-THC the same as normal THC? Almost. Delta-8 and delta-9-THC differ only by where one double bond sits in the ring. That small change makes delta-8 bind the CB1 receptor a little less tightly, so its effects are usually milder. Is delta-8-THC legal in the UK? Delta-8-THC is a controlled substance in the UK, the same as delta-9-THC. Much of what is sold abroad as “delta-8” is made in a lab, not from the plant. PreviousCBN NextCBC Back to full Cannabinoids Guide Important: This page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Cannabinoid research is still developing, and many studies have been done in cells or animals rather than people. Always speak to your prescriber before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References Kruger, D.J. and Kruger, J.S. (2022) ‘Consumer experiences with delta-8-THC: medical use, pharmaceutical substitution, and comparisons with delta-9-THC’, Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 7(6), pp. 866-876. doi: 10.1089/can.2021.0124. ElSohly, M.A. and Gul, W. (2014) ‘Constituents of Cannabis sativa’, in Pertwee, R. (ed.) Handbook of Cannabis. Oxford: Oxford University Press, pp. 3-22. Pertwee, R.G. (2008) ‘The diverse CB1 and CB2 receptor pharmacology of three plant cannabinoids: delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabivarin’, British Journal of Pharmacology, 153(2), pp. 199-215. doi: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0707442. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025) PubChem Compound Database. Bethesda: U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (Accessed: 29 July 2026).

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CBGA: What It Is, Effects and Safety | PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Cannabinoids Guide CBGA CBGA CBGA, “the mother acid” pronounced: kan-uh-bih-jer-OL-ik AS-id The true “mother” – the acid the plant turns into every other cannabinoid. Acidic (raw) cannabinoidFormula: C22H32O4Intoxicating: No TypeAcidic (raw) FormulaC22H32O4 IntoxicatingNo Key focusPrecursor Cannabigerolic acid · 360.5 g/mol The molecule Chemical structure This is the accurate skeletal structure of CBGA, drawn from PubChem data. Each corner and line-end is a carbon atom, and the red O marks oxygen. Its formula is C22H32O4 and it weighs 360.5 g/mol. PrecursorMetabolicAnti-inflammatoryRaw / unheated About What is CBGA? Cannabigerolic acid, or CBGA, is where the whole cannabinoid story begins. It is the very first cannabinoid the cannabis plant makes, and it is often called the “mother cannabinoid” because everything else is built from it. On its own, CBGA is not intoxicating. It is a raw acid, and most of it is quickly turned into other cannabinoid acids as the plant grows. In the body How CBGA Works CBGA does not act strongly on the CB1 or CB2 receptors directly. Its main role is as a building block. Inside the plant, three different enzymes take CBGA and turn it into THCA, CBDA or CBCA, which then become THC, CBD and CBC when heated. Because it is a starting material rather than a finished product, CBGA has been studied less as a medicine, though early research is beginning to look at it for metabolism and inflammation. Receptor snapshot Where CBGA Acts The endocannabinoid system has two main receptors. Here is how strongly CBGA acts on each. CB1Brain & nervous systemNone Does not act on CB1 directly. CB2Immune system & bodyNone Does not act on CB2 directly. Beyond CB1 and CB2: The starting molecule. The plant’s enzymes turn CBGA into THCA, CBDA and CBCA. Early research looks at PPAR receptors and metabolism. In the plant How CBGA is Made CBGA is built when the plant joins a molecule called olivetolic acid with a terpene building block, geranyl pyrophosphate, using an enzyme called CBGA synthase. From there, CBGA is the crossroads of the whole family. If it is simply heated, it becomes CBG. If the plant’s enzymes act on it first, it becomes the acids that lead to THC, CBD and CBC. PathwayCBGAadd heat →CBG Good to know Safety and Side Effects There is very little human safety data on CBGA, because it is usually converted into other cannabinoids rather than used on its own. It is not intoxicating. Treat any CBGA product as experimental and speak to your prescriber before trying it. Questions CBGA: Common Questions What is CBGA? CBGA (cannabigerolic acid) is the first cannabinoid the cannabis plant makes. It is often called the “mother cannabinoid” because the plant’s enzymes turn it into the acids that become THC, CBD and CBC. Does CBGA turn into CBG? Yes. When CBGA is heated it loses its acid group (a process called decarboxylation) and becomes CBG. PreviousCBDA NextDelta-9-THC Back to full Cannabinoids Guide Important: This page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Cannabinoid research is still developing, and many studies have been done in cells or animals rather than people. Always speak to your prescriber before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References Nachnani, R., Raup-Konsavage, W.M. and Vrana, K.E. (2021) ‘The pharmacological case for cannabigerol’, Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, 376(2), pp. 204-212. doi: 10.1124/jpet.120.000340. Morales, P., Hurst, D.P. and Reggio, P.H. (2017) ‘Molecular targets of the phytocannabinoids: a complex picture’, Progress in the Chemistry of Organic Natural Products, 103, pp. 103-131. doi: 10.1007/978-3-319-45541-9_4. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025) PubChem Compound Database. Bethesda: U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (Accessed: 29 July 2026). Izzo, A.A., Borrelli, F., Capasso, R., Di Marzo, V. and Mechoulam, R. (2009) ‘Non-psychotropic plant cannabinoids: new therapeutic opportunities from an ancient herb’, Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, 30(10), pp. 515-527. doi: 10.1016/j.tips.2009.07.006.

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CBDV: What It Is, Effects and Safety | PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Cannabinoids Guide CBDV CBDV CBDV, cannabidivarin pronounced: kan-uh-bih-dih-VAIR-in CBD’s slimmer cousin – non-intoxicating and studied for seizures. Neutral cannabinoidFormula: C19H26O2Intoxicating: No TypeNeutral FormulaC19H26O2 IntoxicatingNo Key focusSeizures Cannabidivarin · 286.4 g/mol The molecule Chemical structure This is the accurate skeletal structure of CBDV, drawn from PubChem data. Each corner and line-end is a carbon atom, and the red O marks oxygen. Its formula is C19H26O2 and it weighs 286.4 g/mol. Anti-seizureCalmingAnti-sicknessAnti-inflammatory About What is CBDV? Cannabidivarin, or CBDV, is the slimmer cousin of CBD, with a shorter carbon tail. Like CBD, it does not make you high. It is usually a minor part of the plant, though some varieties, especially certain landrace plants from Asia, contain more of it. In the body How CBDV Works CBDV has very little direct action at the CB1 and CB2 receptors. Instead it works mainly through the body’s TRP channels, which are involved in pain, inflammation and the control of nerve excitability. Its most studied use is as an anticonvulsant. Animal research has shown it can reduce seizures, and it has also been explored for behaviours linked with autism. Human research is still at an early stage. Receptor snapshot Where CBDV Acts The endocannabinoid system has two main receptors. Here is how strongly CBDV acts on each. CB1Brain & nervous systemNone Very little direct action at CB1, so no high. CB2Immune system & bodyWeak / indirect Weak action at CB2. Beyond CB1 and CB2: Acts on TRP channels. Being studied for epilepsy and for behaviours linked with autism. In the plant How CBDV is Made CBDV is made from its acid, CBDVA, on the same “propyl” branch of the family tree as THCV, starting from the shorter-tailed mother acid CBGVA. Heat turns CBDVA into CBDV. Comes fromCBDVA→ add heat →CBDV Good to know Safety and Side Effects CBDV has been well tolerated in the clinical trials done so far, with mild side effects such as stomach upset. As an experimental compound, its long-term safety is still being studied. It is not a licensed medicine on its own, so only use it under the guidance of a prescriber. Questions CBDV: Common Questions What is CBDV used for? CBDV is being researched mainly as an anticonvulsant, for epilepsy, and for behaviours associated with autism. It is still experimental and not a licensed medicine on its own. Does CBDV get you high? No. Like CBD, CBDV is non-intoxicating and does not activate the CB1 receptor. PreviousTHCV NextTHCA Back to full Cannabinoids Guide Important: This page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Cannabinoid research is still developing, and many studies have been done in cells or animals rather than people. Always speak to your prescriber before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References Hill, A.J. et al. (2012) ‘Cannabidivarin is anticonvulsant in mouse and rat’, British Journal of Pharmacology, 167(8), pp. 1629-1642. doi: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.02207.x. Izzo, A.A., Borrelli, F., Capasso, R., Di Marzo, V. and Mechoulam, R. (2009) ‘Non-psychotropic plant cannabinoids: new therapeutic opportunities from an ancient herb’, Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, 30(10), pp. 515-527. doi: 10.1016/j.tips.2009.07.006. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025) PubChem Compound Database. Bethesda: U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (Accessed: 29 July 2026). Morales, P., Hurst, D.P. and Reggio, P.H. (2017) ‘Molecular targets of the phytocannabinoids: a complex picture’, Progress in the Chemistry of Organic Natural Products, 103, pp. 103-131. doi: 10.1007/978-3-319-45541-9_4.

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CBDA: What It Is, Effects and Safety | PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Cannabinoids Guide CBDA CBDA CBDA, CBD-acid pronounced: kan-uh-bih-dy-OL-ik AS-id The raw, unheated form of CBD. Studied for nausea and inflammation. Acidic (raw) cannabinoidFormula: C22H30O4Intoxicating: No TypeAcidic (raw) FormulaC22H30O4 IntoxicatingNo Key focusNausea Cannabidiolic acid · 358.5 g/mol The molecule Chemical structure This is the accurate skeletal structure of CBDA, drawn from PubChem data. Each corner and line-end is a carbon atom, and the red O marks oxygen. Its formula is C22H30O4 and it weighs 358.5 g/mol. Anti-sicknessAnti-inflammatoryCalmingRaw / unheated About What is CBDA? Cannabidiolic acid, or CBDA, is the raw form of CBD found in the fresh plant. Like CBD, it does not make you high. It was one of the first cannabinoids ever isolated, back in the 1950s. CBDA carries an extra acid group compared with CBD, which changes how it behaves in the body. In the body How CBDA Works CBDA has a couple of interesting actions. It blocks an enzyme called COX-2, which is the same target as some anti-inflammatory painkillers, and it strongly activates the serotonin 5-HT1A receptor, which is closely involved in feeling sick. Because of this, the strongest early research on CBDA is for nausea and vomiting, where animal studies suggest it may be even more powerful than CBD itself. It is also being explored for inflammation and anxiety. Receptor snapshot Where CBDA Acts The endocannabinoid system has two main receptors. Here is how strongly CBDA acts on each. CB1Brain & nervous systemNone Does not fit CB1, so no high. CB2Immune system & bodyNone Little action at CB2. Beyond CB1 and CB2: Blocks COX-2 (like some anti-inflammatory medicines) and acts strongly on 5-HT1A serotonin receptors, which are linked to nausea. In the plant How CBDA is Made CBDA is made from the mother acid CBGA by an enzyme called CBDA synthase. It is the main cannabinoid in fresh CBD-rich plants before heating. Heat removes a carbon dioxide group and turns CBDA into CBD. This happens slowly even at room temperature, which is why fresh plants are richer in the acid. PathwayCBDAadd heat →CBD Good to know Safety and Side Effects CBDA appears well tolerated in the limited research available. As it is not intoxicating, it does not carry the “high”-related risks of THC. Its long-term safety in people is not yet well established. CBDA is less stable than CBD and slowly turns into it with heat and time. Tell your prescriber before using a raw or high-CBDA product. Questions CBDA: Common Questions What is CBDA good for? Early research suggests CBDA may help with nausea and inflammation, partly by acting on serotonin (5-HT1A) receptors. It is still experimental and not a licensed medicine. How is CBDA different from CBD? CBDA is the raw, acidic form found in the living plant. Heat removes its acid group and turns it into CBD, the form most people are familiar with. PreviousTHCA NextCBGA Back to full Cannabinoids Guide Important: This page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Cannabinoid research is still developing, and many studies have been done in cells or animals rather than people. Always speak to your prescriber before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References Bolognini, D. et al. (2013) ‘Cannabidiolic acid prevents vomiting in Suncus murinus and nausea-induced behaviour in rats by enhancing 5-HT1A receptor activation’, British Journal of Pharmacology, 168(6), pp. 1456-1470. doi: 10.1111/bph.12043. Izzo, A.A., Borrelli, F., Capasso, R., Di Marzo, V. and Mechoulam, R. (2009) ‘Non-psychotropic plant cannabinoids: new therapeutic opportunities from an ancient herb’, Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, 30(10), pp. 515-527. doi: 10.1016/j.tips.2009.07.006. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025) PubChem Compound Database. Bethesda: U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (Accessed: 29 July 2026). Morales, P., Hurst, D.P. and Reggio, P.H. (2017) ‘Molecular targets of the phytocannabinoids: a complex picture’, Progress in the Chemistry of Organic Natural Products, 103, pp. 103-131. doi: 10.1007/978-3-319-45541-9_4.

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CBC: What It Is, Effects and Safety | PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Cannabinoids Guide CBC CBC cannabichromene pronounced: kan-uh-bih-KROH-meen A quiet, non-intoxicating cannabinoid studied for pain and mood. Neutral cannabinoidFormula: C21H30O2Intoxicating: No TypeNeutral FormulaC21H30O2 IntoxicatingNo Key focusPain & mood Cannabichromene · 314.5 g/mol The molecule Chemical structure This is the accurate skeletal structure of CBC, drawn from PubChem data. Each corner and line-end is a carbon atom, and the red O marks oxygen. Its formula is C21H30O2 and it weighs 314.5 g/mol. Pain reliefMoodAnti-inflammatoryAnti-bacterial About What is CBC? Cannabichromene, or CBC, is one of the four most common cannabinoids in cannabis, alongside THC, CBD and CBG, yet most people have never heard of it. It does not make you high. Like the others, CBC starts as an acid, CBCA, made from the mother cannabinoid CBGA, and it appears once the plant is heated. In the body How CBC Works CBC barely touches the CB1 receptor, which is why it is not intoxicating. It does switch on the CB2 receptor, and it strongly activates the body’s TRP channels, which sense pain and heat. This may be how it helps with discomfort. Laboratory research has looked at CBC for pain, mood and inflammation, and even at how it might support brain cells. Like many minor cannabinoids, it is thought to work best as part of a team, the “entourage effect”, rather than alone. Receptor snapshot Where CBC Acts The endocannabinoid system has two main receptors. Here is how strongly CBC acts on each. CB1Brain & nervous systemNone Barely touches CB1, so it is not intoxicating. CB2Immune system & bodyPartial Does activate CB2, which is linked to inflammation. Beyond CB1 and CB2: Strongly activates TRPA1 and TRPV pain and heat-sensing channels, which may be how it helps with pain. In the plant How CBC is Made CBC is made from CBCA, which the plant produces from CBGA using an enzyme called CBCA synthase. Heating turns CBCA into CBC. Over time, and with strong light, CBC can slowly change again into another cannabinoid called CBL. Comes fromCBCA→ add heat →CBC Good to know Safety and Side Effects CBC appears to be well tolerated, with little sign of serious side effects in the limited research so far. Because human studies are scarce, its long-term safety is not fully known. As always, tell your prescriber before adding a new cannabinoid to your routine. Questions CBC: Common Questions Is CBC intoxicating? No. CBC hardly binds the CB1 receptor, so it will not make you high. It is being studied for pain, mood and inflammation. What does CBC do? CBC seems to work mainly through the body’s TRP pain and heat channels, and by activating CB2 receptors. Researchers think it works best together with THC and CBD, as part of the “entourage effect”. PreviousDelta-8-THC NextTHCV Back to full Cannabinoids Guide Important: This page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Cannabinoid research is still developing, and many studies have been done in cells or animals rather than people. Always speak to your prescriber before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References DeLong, G.T., Wolf, C.E., Poklis, A. and Lichtman, A.H. (2010) ‘Pharmacological evaluation of the natural constituent of Cannabis sativa, cannabichromene and its modulation by delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol’, Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 112(1-2), pp. 126-133. doi: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2010.05.019. Izzo, A.A., Borrelli, F., Capasso, R., Di Marzo, V. and Mechoulam, R. (2009) ‘Non-psychotropic plant cannabinoids: new therapeutic opportunities from an ancient herb’, Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, 30(10), pp. 515-527. doi: 10.1016/j.tips.2009.07.006. Morales, P., Hurst, D.P. and Reggio, P.H. (2017) ‘Molecular targets of the phytocannabinoids: a complex picture’, Progress in the Chemistry of Organic Natural Products, 103, pp. 103-131. doi: 10.1007/978-3-319-45541-9_4. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025) PubChem Compound Database. Bethesda: U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (Accessed: 29 July 2026).

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CBG: What It Is, Effects and Safety | PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Cannabinoids Guide CBG CBG cannabigerol, “the mother cannabinoid” pronounced: kan-uh-bih-JER-ol The “mother cannabinoid” – the plant makes everything else from its acid form. Neutral cannabinoidFormula: C21H32O2Intoxicating: No TypeNeutral FormulaC21H32O2 IntoxicatingNo Key focusFocus & gut Cannabigerol · 316.5 g/mol The molecule Chemical structure This is the accurate skeletal structure of CBG, drawn from PubChem data. Each corner and line-end is a carbon atom, and the red O marks oxygen. Its formula is C21H32O2 and it weighs 316.5 g/mol. FocusAnti-bacterialGut supportAnti-inflammatory About What is CBG? Cannabigerol, or CBG, is often called the “mother cannabinoid”. That is because its acid form, CBGA, is the raw material the plant uses to build almost every other cannabinoid. Most plants turn nearly all of their CBGA into other things, so mature flower usually contains only a little CBG. To get more CBG, growers harvest some plants early, or breed special CBG-rich varieties. Like CBD, CBG does not make you high. In the body How CBG Works CBG binds both the CB1 and CB2 receptors, but only weakly, which is why it is not intoxicating. It also acts on other targets, including alpha-2 adrenoceptors, which are involved in alertness, and serotonin receptors. Early research, still mostly in the lab and in animals, is looking at CBG for inflammatory bowel disease, for protecting nerve cells, for mood, and as an antibacterial. Human studies are still limited, so its benefits are not yet proven. Receptor snapshot Where CBG Acts The endocannabinoid system has two main receptors. Here is how strongly CBG acts on each. CB1Brain & nervous systemPartial Binds CB1 weakly, so it is not intoxicating. CB2Immune system & bodyPartial Binds CB2 weakly too. Beyond CB1 and CB2: Also acts on alpha-2 adrenoceptors and blocks 5-HT1A serotonin receptors. In the plant How CBG is Made CBG comes from CBGA, the first cannabinoid acid the plant makes, by joining a molecule called olivetolic acid with a terpene building block. Any CBGA the plant does not turn into THCA, CBDA or CBCA can be heated to become CBG. This is why CBG sits at the very start of the cannabinoid family tree. Comes fromCBGA→ add heat →CBG Good to know Safety and Side Effects CBG appears to be well tolerated in the small amount of research done so far, with few reported side effects. Because studies in people are limited, its long-term safety is not fully known. As with any cannabinoid, tell your prescriber before adding CBG, especially if you take other medicines. Questions CBG: Common Questions Why is CBG called the mother cannabinoid? Because its acid form, CBGA, is the raw material the cannabis plant uses to build the other cannabinoids. Enzymes turn CBGA into THCA, CBDA and CBCA, which then become THC, CBD and CBC. Is CBG intoxicating? No. CBG binds the CB1 receptor only weakly, so it does not cause a high. PreviousCBD NextCBN Back to full Cannabinoids Guide Important: This page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Cannabinoid research is still developing, and many studies have been done in cells or animals rather than people. Always speak to your prescriber before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References Nachnani, R., Raup-Konsavage, W.M. and Vrana, K.E. (2021) ‘The pharmacological case for cannabigerol’, Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, 376(2), pp. 204-212. doi: 10.1124/jpet.120.000340. Izzo, A.A., Borrelli, F., Capasso, R., Di Marzo, V. and Mechoulam, R. (2009) ‘Non-psychotropic plant cannabinoids: new therapeutic opportunities from an ancient herb’, Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, 30(10), pp. 515-527. doi: 10.1016/j.tips.2009.07.006. Morales, P., Hurst, D.P. and Reggio, P.H. (2017) ‘Molecular targets of the phytocannabinoids: a complex picture’, Progress in the Chemistry of Organic Natural Products, 103, pp. 103-131. doi: 10.1007/978-3-319-45541-9_4. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025) PubChem Compound Database. Bethesda: U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (Accessed: 29 July 2026).

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CBN: What It Is, Effects and Safety | PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Cannabinoids Guide CBN CBN cannabinol pronounced: kan-uh-bih-NOL The ageing cannabinoid – forms as THC gets old, often linked with sleep. Neutral cannabinoidFormula: C21H26O2Intoxicating: Mild TypeNeutral FormulaC21H26O2 IntoxicatingMild Key focusSleep Cannabinol · 310.4 g/mol The molecule Chemical structure This is the accurate skeletal structure of CBN, drawn from PubChem data. Each corner and line-end is a carbon atom, and the red O marks oxygen. Its formula is C21H26O2 and it weighs 310.4 g/mol. SleepMildly relaxingPain reliefAnti-inflammatory About What is CBN? Cannabinol, or CBN, is the cannabinoid of old cannabis. The plant does not really set out to make it. Instead, it forms slowly when THC is left exposed to air, heat and light. Older, or poorly stored, cannabis tends to have more CBN. CBN is only very mildly intoxicating, far weaker than THC. It is best known for its reputation as a sleep aid, although the science behind that is thinner than the marketing suggests. In the body How CBN Works CBN is a weak activator of the CB1 receptor, roughly one-tenth as strong as THC, which is why it barely makes you high. It binds the CB2 receptor a little more strongly, linking it to the immune system. Its popular link with sleep may come partly from the other sedating compounds found in aged cannabis, rather than from CBN alone. Good-quality human studies on CBN for sleep are still needed. Receptor snapshot Where CBN Acts The endocannabinoid system has two main receptors. Here is how strongly CBN acts on each. CB1Brain & nervous systemWeak / indirect Weak CB1 activity – about one-tenth as strong as THC, so only very mildly intoxicating. CB2Immune system & bodyPartial Binds CB2 a little more strongly than CB1. In the plant How CBN is Made Unlike most cannabinoids, CBN does not come straight from CBGA. It is a breakdown product: THC slowly turns into CBN as it oxidises over time. This is why fresh cannabis has very little CBN, and why the amount rises the longer a product is stored. Comes fromDelta-9-THC→ over time →CBN Good to know Safety and Side Effects There is not much safety research on CBN by itself. Because it is mildly intoxicating, it could in theory add to the effects of THC. Few side effects have been reported, but this reflects how little it has been studied rather than proof that it is risk-free. Speak to your prescriber before using a CBN product for sleep, especially alongside other sleep medicines. Questions CBN: Common Questions Does CBN help you sleep? CBN is often sold as a sleep aid, but the research is limited. Some of its reputation may come from other compounds in aged cannabis rather than CBN itself. Speak to your prescriber before using it for sleep. Where does CBN come from? CBN is not made directly by the plant. It forms slowly when THC is exposed to air, heat and light over time, which is why older cannabis tends to have more of it. PreviousCBG NextDelta-8-THC Back to full Cannabinoids Guide Important: This page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Cannabinoid research is still developing, and many studies have been done in cells or animals rather than people. Always speak to your prescriber before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References ElSohly, M.A. and Gul, W. (2014) ‘Constituents of Cannabis sativa’, in Pertwee, R. (ed.) Handbook of Cannabis. Oxford: Oxford University Press, pp. 3-22. Morales, P., Hurst, D.P. and Reggio, P.H. (2017) ‘Molecular targets of the phytocannabinoids: a complex picture’, Progress in the Chemistry of Organic Natural Products, 103, pp. 103-131. doi: 10.1007/978-3-319-45541-9_4. Russo, E.B. (2011) ‘Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects’, British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), pp. 1344-1364. doi: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025) PubChem Compound Database. Bethesda: U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (Accessed: 29 July 2026).

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Delta-9-THC: What It Is, Effects and Safety | PatientsCann UK Skip to main content Back to Cannabinoids Guide THC Delta-9-THC delta-9-THC, dronabinol pronounced: DEL-tuh nine tet-ruh-hy-droh-kuh-NAB-ih-nol The main active cannabinoid – the one that makes you feel “high”. Neutral cannabinoidFormula: C21H30O2Intoxicating: Yes TypeNeutral FormulaC21H30O2 IntoxicatingYes Key focusPain & nausea Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol · 314.5 g/mol The molecule Chemical structure This is the accurate skeletal structure of Delta-9-THC, drawn from PubChem data. Each corner and line-end is a carbon atom, and the red O marks oxygen. Its formula is C21H30O2 and it weighs 314.5 g/mol. Pain reliefAppetiteAnti-sicknessEuphoria About What is Delta-9-THC? Delta-9-THC is the most famous cannabinoid, and the one that makes cannabis feel intoxicating. It was first identified by scientists Raphael Mechoulam and Yechiel Gaoni in 1964. When people talk about how “strong” a cannabis product is, they usually mean how much THC it contains. The fresh plant does not actually hold much THC. It makes an acid called THCA instead. THC only appears once the plant is dried, then heated, vaped or smoked. This is why the THC number on a lab report tells you how much becomes available after heating. In the body How THC Works THC works by fitting into the CB1 receptor, which sits mostly in the brain and nervous system. Switching CB1 on changes how nerve cells pass messages. This is what causes the “high”, and it is also how THC eases pain, calms nausea and brings on hunger. THC acts on CB2 receptors too, which are linked to the immune system. UK specialists may consider a THC-containing medicine for problems such as long-term pain, muscle spasms in multiple sclerosis, and sickness from chemotherapy, when licensed treatments have not helped. The right amount is very personal, so prescribers usually start low and go slow. Receptor snapshot Where THC Acts The endocannabinoid system has two main receptors. Here is how strongly Delta-9-THC acts on each. CB1Brain & nervous systemStrong Switches on CB1 in the brain and nerves. This is what causes the “high”, and also eases pain, nausea and appetite loss. CB2Immune system & bodyPartial Also activates CB2 on immune cells, which is linked to inflammation. In the plant How THC is Made THC begins life as THCA, its raw acid form, which the plant builds from the “mother” cannabinoid CBGA. THCA on its own is not intoxicating. Heat removes a small piece of the THCA molecule (a carbon dioxide group) and turns it into THC. This step is called decarboxylation. Later, as cannabis ages and meets air and light, THC slowly changes again into CBN. Comes fromTHCA→ add heat →Delta-9-THC Good to know Safety and Side Effects THC can cause a fast heartbeat, dry mouth, red eyes, dizziness, and feelings of anxiety or paranoia, especially at higher doses or in people who are new to it. It affects your ability to drive and use machinery. It is not recommended in pregnancy, and heavy long-term use can lead to dependence in some people. If you ever take too much and feel unwell, find a calm space, sip water, and wait it out; the feeling passes. Always follow your prescriber’s dose and never mix your medicine with alcohol or other drugs without advice. Questions Delta-9-THC: Common Questions Will THC get me high? Yes. Delta-9-THC is the cannabinoid responsible for the “high” feeling. This happens because it switches on CB1 receptors in the brain. The amount you feel depends on the dose, the product and your own tolerance. Is THC legal in the UK? THC is a controlled drug, but since November 2018 specialist doctors can legally prescribe cannabis medicines that contain THC. You cannot buy high-THC products legally without a prescription. PreviousCBGA NextCBD Back to full Cannabinoids Guide Important: This page is for education only. It is not medical advice. Cannabinoid research is still developing, and many studies have been done in cells or animals rather than people. Always speak to your prescriber before changing your treatment. PatientsCann UK does not recommend any specific cannabis product. References Gaoni, Y. and Mechoulam, R. (1964) ‘Isolation, structure, and partial synthesis of an active constituent of hashish’, Journal of the American Chemical Society, 86(8), pp. 1646-1647. doi: 10.1021/ja01062a046. Pertwee, R.G. (2008) ‘The diverse CB1 and CB2 receptor pharmacology of three plant cannabinoids: delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabivarin’, British Journal of Pharmacology, 153(2), pp. 199-215. doi: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0707442. Russo, E.B. (2011) ‘Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects’, British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), pp. 1344-1364. doi: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2025) PubChem Compound Database. Bethesda: U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (Accessed: 29 July 2026).

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