With countries worldwide slowly legalizing cannabis, research is finally growing and we’re constantly finding out more about the 120+ cannabinoids in the marijuana plant, namely CBDV, otherwise known as Cannabidivarin. 

People are looking beyond conventional THC or CBD and seeking out new cannabinoids like this one, and in this article, we will explain why CBDV is worth looking into. The laws have limited public access and therapeutic research on non-psychoactive cannabinoids. Fortunately, we’re discovering more and more cannabinoids that are non-psychoactive and still have the healing properties of cannabis.

So, what is CBDV?

Cannabidivarin (CBDV) is a Varin cannabinoid first reported in a benzene extract from a Thai cannabis variety referred to as “Meao” in 1977, and identified for the first time in 1969 Vollner et al. CBDV is a homolog of CBD and is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid. As you can see below, The slight difference here is the propyl chain that CBDV carries. 

Like CBD, cannabidivarin has 7 double bond isomers and 30 stereoisomers. There is a side-chain shortened by two methylene bridges. The biggest difference between CBD and CBDV is their concentrations in the cannabis plant. You can find trace amounts of CBDV in high-quality full-spectrum and broad-spectrum extracts that help to produce the entourage effect.

Varin cannabinoids (technically called varinolic cannabinoids) are a subfamily of cannabinoids that feature three carbons on their alkyl side chains. The most well-known examples are THCV, CBDV, CBGV, and CBCV. There are also acid forms of THCVA, CBDVA, CBGVA, and CBCVA.

CBDV exists in very small quantities. Recently, several African landrace strains (which are genetically pure and unimpacted by experimentation) of Cannabis indica were found to have CBDV and the related THCV in concentrations closer to 4%. There are also plant breeders creating high CBDV and THCV strains of hemp and marijuana — but the current record still sits below 7% CBDV. 

What are the medicinal effects?

Epilepsy

Due to the rise in popularity of CBDV, researchers are trying to discover its medical benefits. In 2014, GW Pharmaceuticals finished a Phase 1 clinical trial of its CBDV test product (known as GWP42006). The clinical trial explored the use of CBDV as an anti-epileptic drug. The company continues to research CBDV heavily. You won’t feel a psychoactive ‘high’ from CBDV. Instead, you can expect it similar effects to CBD. The lack of a ‘high’ means we can use CBDV similarly, which is still being researched.

GW were set to enter Phase III trials in late 2019 but had to terminate the study because of the pandemic. They’re currently recruiting for a new trial, and the CEO Justin Gover made the following statement;

“CBDV represents an additional product pipeline opportunity as a next-generation epilepsy therapy.”

This study follows the completion of a Phase 1 trial in 66 healthy subjects in 2014. In this trial, CBDV was well tolerated even at the highest tested dose and no significant side effects were observed. Most importantly, following this trial, There were no serious or severe adverse events, nor any withdrawals due to adverse events.

Rett Syndrome

As you may know, Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by severe behavioral and physiological symptoms with no cure available to date. A study was done on mice with CBDV being administered for 14 days. The study restored compromised general health status of the mice, the sociability, and the brain weight in RTT. While more studies are required, this shows great promise for the medical use of CBDV.

Autism

Some of the most interesting recent research into CBDV has been around the subject of autism. This condition, which affects more children and adults every year, is still being researched to find effective medications. The use of CBDV for autism has rapidly gained popularity over the last two years.

The study suggests that CBDV targets subcortical excitatory glutamate systems both in autistic and neurotypical adults. This study compared the effects of CBDV in neurodiverse patients and neurotypical patients. They noted a higher degree of difference in ASD patients with elevated glutamate. Very little benefit was reported on those with normal glutamate levels.

Some studies have even shown that people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have below-average anandamide levels in the brain, one of the body’s endocannabinoids. 

Pain

In this study, patients underwent two successive treatment phases (4 weeks each) and were treated with CBDV. While the study wasn’t necessarily conclusive, it did explore the potential utility of CBDV for neuropathic pain. 

While CBDV research is increasing, so far there are no guarantees that cures or applications have been or will be found. The existing CBDV studies and research papers indicate grounds for medical optimism that previously may not have existed. With the growing interest in the industry, there’s endless potential. Fortunately, there should not be severe restrictions on CBDV, considering its lack of psycho-activity. 

CBDV and the endocannabinoid system:

CBDV interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) the same way as CBD. However, it’s thought to have about 25% of CBD potency. CBDV does not stimulate the ECS as CBD and THC do; it has a modulating action instead. According to the British Pharmacological Society;

“CBDV and all the acids inhibited DAGLα.”

DAGLα is an enzyme responsible for the synthesis of the endocannabinoid 2-AG.

Is CBDV Legal? 

CBDV is legal in the United States, as long as it is produced from Hemp rather than marijuana. This is because CBDV derived from marijuana is illegal on a federal level and is considered a schedule 1 drug by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). Some states have legalized marijuana for medicinal or recreational use. The states that have legalized marijuana have also legalized its derivatives, including CBDV. 

CBDV derived from hemp containing no more than 0.3 percent THC is considered legal on a federal level due to the 2018 Farm Bill. This Bill gave states the power to further regulate hemp products, which some states have by restricting any traces of THC. Although hemp-derived CBDV is difficult to find, it’s legal in all states as long as it abides by the state THC regulations. 

What is the difference between CBDV and CBD?

As previously mentioned, the molecular structures between CBD and CBDV are different, which impacts their chemical responses. Furthermore, CBDV can be used to develop THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) when it’s exposed to an acidic environment. CBD doesn’t have this same ability to transform into THC. When dealing with CBDV vs CBD, both cannabinoids share huge similarities that could be a massive hit in the medical industry because of the therapeutic effects offered. Above all, CBD and CBDV both interact with the endocannabinoid system, but CBDV binds with the cannabinoid receptors and CBD simply interacts or blocks the receptors.

Based on all the information provided, it’s clear why Cannabidivarin might be the next significant cannabinoid the world will witness, and we can only hope that research increases to increase the use of CBDV globally.

With countries worldwide slowly legalizing cannabis, research is finally growing and we’re constantly finding out more about the 120+ cannabinoids in the marijuana plant, namely CBDV, otherwise known as Cannabidivarin. 

People are looking beyond conventional THC or CBD and seeking out new cannabinoids like this one, and in this article, we will explain why CBDV is worth looking into. The laws have limited public access and therapeutic research on non-psychoactive cannabinoids. Fortunately, we’re discovering more and more cannabinoids that are non-psychoactive and still have the healing properties of cannabis.

So, what is CBDV?

Cannabidivarin (CBDV) is a Varin cannabinoid first reported in a benzene extract from a Thai cannabis variety referred to as “Meao” in 1977, and identified for the first time in 1969 Vollner et al. CBDV is a homolog of CBD and is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid. As you can see below, The slight difference here is the propyl chain that CBDV carries. 

Like CBD, cannabidivarin has 7 double bond isomers and 30 stereoisomers. There is a side-chain shortened by two methylene bridges. The biggest difference between CBD and CBDV is their concentrations in the cannabis plant. You can find trace amounts of CBDV in high-quality full-spectrum and broad-spectrum extracts that help to produce the entourage effect.

Varin cannabinoids (technically called varinolic cannabinoids) are a subfamily of cannabinoids that feature three carbons on their alkyl side chains. The most well-known examples are THCV, CBDV, CBGV, and CBCV. There are also acid forms of THCVA, CBDVA, CBGVA, and CBCVA.

CBDV exists in very small quantities. Recently, several African landrace strains (which are genetically pure and unimpacted by experimentation) of Cannabis indica were found to have CBDV and the related THCV in concentrations closer to 4%. There are also plant breeders creating high CBDV and THCV strains of hemp and marijuana — but the current record still sits below 7% CBDV. 

What are the medicinal effects?

Epilepsy

Due to the rise in popularity of CBDV, researchers are trying to discover its medical benefits. In 2014, GW Pharmaceuticals finished a Phase 1 clinical trial of its CBDV test product (known as GWP42006). The clinical trial explored the use of CBDV as an anti-epileptic drug. The company continues to research CBDV heavily. You won’t feel a psychoactive ‘high’ from CBDV. Instead, you can expect it similar effects to CBD. The lack of a ‘high’ means we can use CBDV similarly, which is still being researched.

GW were set to enter Phase III trials in late 2019 but had to terminate the study because of the pandemic. They’re currently recruiting for a new trial, and the CEO Justin Gover made the following statement;

“CBDV represents an additional product pipeline opportunity as a next-generation epilepsy therapy.”

This study follows the completion of a Phase 1 trial in 66 healthy subjects in 2014. In this trial, CBDV was well tolerated even at the highest tested dose and no significant side effects were observed. Most importantly, following this trial, There were no serious or severe adverse events, nor any withdrawals due to adverse events.

Rett Syndrome

As you may know, Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by severe behavioral and physiological symptoms with no cure available to date. A study was done on mice with CBDV being administered for 14 days. The study restored compromised general health status of the mice, the sociability, and the brain weight in RTT. While more studies are required, this shows great promise for the medical use of CBDV.

Autism

Some of the most interesting recent research into CBDV has been around the subject of autism. This condition, which affects more children and adults every year, is still being researched to find effective medications. The use of CBDV for autism has rapidly gained popularity over the last two years.

The study suggests that CBDV targets subcortical excitatory glutamate systems both in autistic and neurotypical adults. This study compared the effects of CBDV in neurodiverse patients and neurotypical patients. They noted a higher degree of difference in ASD patients with elevated glutamate. Very little benefit was reported on those with normal glutamate levels.

Some studies have even shown that people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have below-average anandamide levels in the brain, one of the body’s endocannabinoids. 

Pain

In this study, patients underwent two successive treatment phases (4 weeks each) and were treated with CBDV. While the study wasn’t necessarily conclusive, it did explore the potential utility of CBDV for neuropathic pain. 

While CBDV research is increasing, so far there are no guarantees that cures or applications have been or will be found. The existing CBDV studies and research papers indicate grounds for medical optimism that previously may not have existed. With the growing interest in the industry, there’s endless potential. Fortunately, there should not be severe restrictions on CBDV, considering its lack of psycho-activity. 

CBDV and the endocannabinoid system:

CBDV interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) the same way as CBD. However, it’s thought to have about 25% of CBD potency. CBDV does not stimulate the ECS as CBD and THC do; it has a modulating action instead. According to the British Pharmacological Society;

“CBDV and all the acids inhibited DAGLα.”

DAGLα is an enzyme responsible for the synthesis of the endocannabinoid 2-AG.

Is CBDV Legal? 

CBDV is legal in the United States, as long as it is produced from Hemp rather than marijuana. This is because CBDV derived from marijuana is illegal on a federal level and is considered a schedule 1 drug by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). Some states have legalized marijuana for medicinal or recreational use. The states that have legalized marijuana have also legalized its derivatives, including CBDV. 

CBDV derived from hemp containing no more than 0.3 percent THC is considered legal on a federal level due to the 2018 Farm Bill. This Bill gave states the power to further regulate hemp products, which some states have by restricting any traces of THC. Although hemp-derived CBDV is difficult to find, it’s legal in all states as long as it abides by the state THC regulations. 

What is the difference between CBDV and CBD?

As previously mentioned, the molecular structures between CBD and CBDV are different, which impacts their chemical responses. Furthermore, CBDV can be used to develop THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) when it’s exposed to an acidic environment. CBD doesn’t have this same ability to transform into THC. When dealing with CBDV vs CBD, both cannabinoids share huge similarities that could be a massive hit in the medical industry because of the therapeutic effects offered. Above all, CBD and CBDV both interact with the endocannabinoid system, but CBDV binds with the cannabinoid receptors and CBD simply interacts or blocks the receptors.

Based on all the information provided, it’s clear why Cannabidivarin might be the next significant cannabinoid the world will witness, and we can only hope that research increases to increase the use of CBDV globally.

As you may have learned from our last blog, terpenes are the most overlooked yet arguably the most important aspect of cannabis. They’re a little bit like cannabinoids—THC, CBD, and others—in that they have specific and medically useful interactions with our bodies.

If you aren’t familiar with terpenes; unlike cannabinoids, terpenes are found in many plants; they’re the chemicals that give a plant its aroma and flavor. Different levels of terpenes in different strains of cannabis give it a more earthy, fruity, or skunky smell and taste. In addition to stimulating our senses, many of these terpenes have medicinal effects.

In the last several years, scientists started to speculate about the synergic and/or entourage effects of the other cannabis compounds. Today, in the first row are terpenes/terpenoids, but we’re also focused on talking about flavonoids, flavonoid glycosides, and polyphenols. There are 120 terpenes found in cannabis, but for the sake of time, this article will focus on the 5 most dominant terpenes found in cannabis.

So, what are the top 5 terpenes?

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One of the most common terpenes found in cannabis is myrcene (also known as alpha-myrcene or beta-myrcene). β-Myrcene is the most common and a particularly potent terpene and is a component of the hydrocarbon fraction of many essential oils. It occurs naturally in over 200 plants and is present in the emissions of many trees in different parts of the world. Exposure to β-myrcene from natural food sources is estimated to be 16,500 times more than from its synthetic use as a flavor substance.

On average, myrcene represents over 20% of the terpene profile in modern commercial strains, although individual samples vary widely in their terpene content.

Scents and Aromas

Myrcene has a spicy, earthy, musky scent that gives cannabis strains a mildly sweet flavor profile. β-Myrcene is a pleasant-smelling, olefinic, acyclic unsubstituted monoterpene that occurs naturally in many plant species, especially in the essential oils of plants such as hops, cannabis, lemongrass, verbena, and bay, as well as in citrus fruits and citrus juices.

Effects of Myrcene

Antioxidant Activity:

In recent decades, there has been growing interest in the use of naturally occurring antioxidants in food preservation. Antioxidant agents are accountable for preventing aging and degenerative diseases such as atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and neurological illnesses. They also have an important role in inhibiting lipid oxidation within food products.

Anti-inflammatory Activity:

Myrcene has shown anti-inflammatory and anticatabolic effects on human chondrocytes. Cartilage degradation and osteoarthritis progression was slowed down. The anti-inflammatory activity of β-myrcene may not only be credited to its antioxidant potential, but also with its interaction with signal pathway cascades involving cytokines and transcription factors.

Central Nervous System Effects and Neurobehavioral Activity:

In a study, Myrcene in cannabis demonstrated measurable effects on the autonomic nervous system in healthy human subjects. Inhalation of cannabis essential oil for 5 min improved nerve activity and was shown to relieve stress and anxiety, and the subjects generally felt more relaxed, energetic, calm, and elevated mood, five min post inhalation.

Black Tie Hemp Strains high in Myrcene:

• Blue Dream
• BubbleGum Special Reserve
• Sour Space Candy
• Suver Haze

Strain names commonly classified as indica, sativa, or hybrid can be found with high levels of myrcene, including popular sativa-dominant hybrids like Sour Space Candy and Blue Dream.

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Farnesene, also known as Trans-β-farnesene, is a sesquiterpene considered soothing for the mood with calming and sedative effects.  Farnesene is an umbrella term for six different sesquiterpenes which are all chemically similar. There are two types of farnesene: alpha (a) and beta (b), both of which are naturally-occurring in a variety of different plants.

Farnesene is an analog of farnesol and is found in various natural sources, including hops, ginger, turmeric, ylang-ylang, and German chamomile. Another intriguing effect of farnesene is that it acts in many plants as a natural insect repellent, functioning as a pheromone that interacts with various insects. Some studies have demonstrated that aphids release farnesene before the danger of death or when dying to warn their companions of the near threat.

Scents and Aromas

The terpene offers a number of notes, including sweet, woody, berry, fruity, and reminiscent of apples. In fact, that is what the smell reminds of - green apple. Whenever you feel these tones when smoking your fine cannabis, that would be Farnesene.

Effects of Farnesene

Antimicrobial Properties

In some studies, farnesene, in conjunction with other terpenes, has shown antimicrobial activity against some serious types of bacteria, such as Staphylococcus subtilis. Even though the research is limited in this area, using the terpene for this advantage in the human body is no doubt fascinating.

Anti-Cariogenic Properties

Certain types of bacteria in the mouth are directly responsible for causing the tooth enamel to break down and deteriorate. Because of the antimicrobial farnesene effects, terpene may help fight tooth decay. The terpene may be active against Lactobacillus acidophilus, one of the common culprits behind tooth decay.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Farnesene has been shown to have prominent anti-inflammatory properties. So much so, that the terpene has been used in the past in place of things like ibuprofen to ease everyday discomforts. The anti-inflammatory actions of the terpene may also be important for future studies in its ability to act against allergic responses.

Black Tie Hemp Strains high in Farnesene:

• Grandaddy Purple
• Apple Strudel

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If you’re a grower who appreciates cannabis with a great terpene profile, you may well have heard of beta-Caryophyllene. It is also known as ‘b caryophyllene’, β-caryophyllene or simply caryophyllene. Ever wondered what the difference is between beta caryophyllene and caryophyllene? There is no difference, they are just different names for the same terpene. It was one of the first cannabis-derived compounds other than THC, CBD, and CBN shown to bind directly to endocannabinoid receptors.

It was one of the first cannabis-derived compounds with a fundamentally different structure from the classical cannabinoids that interacts with the endocannabinoid system in humans. In many ways, beta-caryophyllene is an important reminder that terpenes and cannabinoids are not separate and that the two work in conjunction with one another.

Scents and Aromas

β-Caryophyllene is the primary sesquiterpene contributing to the spiciness of black pepper; it is also a major constituent of cloves, hops, rosemary, copaiba, and cannabis. It’s responsible for the slight bite of pungency associated with smelling cracked pepper.

Effects of Caryophyllene

Sleep

In combination with other terpenes, caryophyllene has shown promise as a sedative. A 2012 study published in the journal Pharmaceutical Biology found that mice treated with essential oil containing caryophyllene experienced increased sleep time as well as decreased locomotion and body temperature.

Beta-Caryophyllene Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Beta-caryophyllene can reduce inflammation in the brain and chemicals that cause oxidative stress associated with inflammation. These properties can aid the brain from swelling during a stroke and improve its outcomes. Besides, it has been shown to reduce gut inflammation.

Beta-Caryophyllene Antibacterial & Antimicrobial Properties

Studies suggest that beta-caryophyllene helps fight bacterial dental plaque build-up and is a potential alternative to prescribed medications like chlorhexidine. Also, it reduces microorganisms like Streptococcus pneumonia, Haemophilus influenzae, and E. coli.

Black Tie Hemp Strains high in B-Caryophyllene

• Chem Dawg
• Diamond Kush
• Pink Runtz
• Tahoe OG

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This sesquiterpenoid differs from other terpenes because of its unique structure. Guaiol, sometimes referred to as “champacol,” is most abundantly found in oily timber and resin of the tropical guaiacum plant. Moreover, the cypress tree is also known to be rich in this sesquiterpenoid and other conifers. Guaiol differs from many other terpenes—which are oil-based—because of its unique structure as a liquid.

It is a terpene that conveys an aroma of pine that features fragrant undertones of wood and rose. Like other terpenes, this medicinal molecule is produced by many plants other than cannabis, including cypress pine and guaiacum (an evergreen tree of the Caribbean and tropical America).

Scents and Aromas

Guaiol is responsible for the scents of many plants like nutmeg, tea tree, conifers, apples, cumin, and lilacs. It presents a refreshing piney and woody aroma with some undertones of rose in it. For this reason, guaiol is added to a large variety of foods and household items as an aromatic agent.

Effects of Guaiol

Antibacterial Activity:

A 2017 study entitled “The Essential Oil from the Fruits of the Brazilian Spice Xylopia Sericea A. St.-Hil. Presents Expressive In-vitro Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activity” and published in The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology found guaiol to be effective in treating bacterial infections. The research revealed that this terpene may be useful as an antimicrobial ingredient in food preservation.

Cancer Potential:

A 2016 study entitled “Guaiol Regulates RAD51 Stability via Autophagy to Induce Cell Apoptosis in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer” that was published in the journal Oncotarget found that guaiol is an effective agent against cancer cells, resulting in their apoptosis, which is a form of genetically pre-programmed cellular death in which cancer cells basically kill themselves off.

Black Tie Hemp Strains high in Guaiol:

• Orange Cookies
• Grandaddy Purple
• BubbleGum S.R

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Terpinolene is one of the many terpenes in the terpinene and pinene family. While they all share the same molecular formula, weight, and construction,  the placement of the double carbon bond differentiates them. This defines their unique synergistic qualities for therapeutic benefits when combined with CBD products.

Besides showing up in many cannabis varieties, terpinolene is also found in turnips and turpentine. For a long while, research scientists believed terpinolene to act as a sedative. This was due to experiments that determined mice inoculated with terpinolene showed a great reduction in muscle motility contributing to sedation.

Terpinolene by any other name is still terpinolene. Because of its wide use, terpinolene is called by many names depending on the industry and application. Below are a few other names used for terpinolene which you may have encountered in many household products:

• δ-Terpinene (delta-Terpinene)
• 586-62-9 [RN]
• (±)-α-Terpinyl acetate

Scents and Aromas

Terpinolene, though, carries an array of smells you might find in cannabis: It’s piney, floral, herbaceous, and even a little citrusy. Like most other terpenes, terpinolene is produced by various other plant species, including apple, conifer, cumin, lilac, mint, nutmeg, parsnip, and tea tree.

Their extractions from plants are the most important components of the essential oils used in herbal medicine, nutritional supplements, and cosmetics. Terpinolene is used as an aroma agent in soaps and perfumes and as a component of some insect repellents.

Effects of Terpinolene

Sedative

A 2013 study showed sedative effects after nasal absorption into the body(Shimoadachi-cho, 2013). Additionally, In a previous study, the Journal of Natural Medicines tested the sedative effects of terpinolene-dense essential oils on mice. After they isolated terpinolene as one of its active ingredients, they then attempted to determine the structural reason why this terpene has sedative effects. Their research found “Comparison of terpinolene analog activities showed that a double bond in the side-chain or pi bonds in the six-membered ring play important roles in the sedative effect.”

Antimicrobial Activity

One study of a terpinolene-dense plant native to Iran states; “The antimicrobial activity of the essential oil was tested against three different bacteria by disc diffusion method and showed maximum inhibitory activity against Gram-positive bacteria, especially Bacillus subtilis.”

Antioxidant Activity

The International Journal of Phytotherapy and Phytopharmacology published a study where the preparation of LDL from human blood plasma enriched in terpinolene was isolated. The lipids of LDL were protected, and the proteins also didn’t experience oxidation, “This inhibition is due to a retarded oxidation of intrinsic carotenoids of LDL, and not, as in the case of some flavonoids, attributable to a protection of intrinsic alpha-tocopherol.”

Black Tie Hemp Strains High In Terpinolene

• Lemon Tree
• PineApple OG
• Chem Dawg
• Sour Space Candy

From the list of terpenes described, you should see the importance of terpenes in cannabis. They are not merely there for the scents and aromas, but they also have individual medicinal benefits worth considering. Cannabis is so much more than just a strain. Read more about how terpenes are gaining importance here.

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Sometimes the most minor of molecules are the ones with the greatest impact. Such appears to be the case with CBG—the “first” cannabinoid that develops in cannabis. This seemingly insignificant cannabinoid is actually responsible for the creation of CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids catching the attention of scientists and consumers the world over.

Usually found in concentrations of <1% in most hemp plants, it’s no wonder this compound hasn’t received as much attention as others. However, that is quickly changing as more information is being unveiled about this once-overshadowed cannabinoid.

Below, we’ll take a closer look at CBG and the role it plays in the production of other cannabinoids. We’ll also explore its unique effects on the body, and how it differs from other hemp-derived cannabinoids.

What is CBG?

CBG, or cannabigerol, is a phytocannabinoid. Unlike endocannabinoids, which are produced by the body, phytocannabinoids are sourced from plants like cannabis. CBG is what's known as a non-intoxicating cannabinoid—it doesn’t get you high.

CBG: a not-so-minor cannabinoid

By the time cannabis is harvested, dried, and processed, it usually contains only trace amounts of CBG (below 1%). Hence, it is generally labelled a “minor” cannabinoid.

However, CBG—or rather, its acidic form, CBGA—is actually the first cannabinoid acid to develop in the cannabis plant. As such, it is sometimes referred to as the “stem cell” of cannabis. It is found in its highest concentrations in flowering cannabis plants. The acidic form is simply CBG with an extra carboxyl group—the “A”.

As plants continue to grow, enzymes convert CBGA into either THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), CBDA (cannabidiolic acid), or CBCA (cannabichromenic acid).

Following harvest, plants are usually dried and processed. The heat or UV light used in these scenarios breaks down these acidic cannabinoids into their non-acidic counterparts, such as THC, CBD, and CBC. This phenomenon is known as decarboxylation—the removal of a carboxyl group.

Decarboxylation also produces many other cannabinoids (at least 100), all of which originally stem from CBGA.

Most of the cannabis strains on today’s market are bred to be high in THC and/or CBD; and the more THC or CBD present in a plant sample, the less CBG. Hence, strains usually contain only small amounts of CBG.

However, some breeders are experimenting with crossbreeding, genetic manipulation, and even unique harvesting patterns to create strains that contain higher levels of this cannabinoid.

Bedrocan BV Medical Cannabis in the Netherlands, for example, has began harvesting some of its plants earlier to create a final product with higher levels of CBG.

What are the effects of CBG?

As we mentioned earlier, CBG is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid. Therefore, it does not interact with the endocannabinoid system in a way that interrupts mental faculties. However, just like any other cannabinoid, CBG does interact with the endocannabinoid system in a variety of ways.

CBG has been shown to increase appetite in two rat-based studies conducted by researchers at the University of Reading (UK) in 2016 and 2017.

Some studies also suggest that CBG may inhibit the growth of some tumours, while others show it may have neuroprotective effects. A 2014 study published in the PLoS One medical journal also claims that some CBG-derived products could suppress the body’s immune response.

Dr Bonni Goldstein, a medical doctor specialising in medicinal cannabis, claims that CBG can inhibit GABA neurotransmission in the brain, as well as affect pain, inflammation, and more.

“When GABA [uptake] is inhibited, you actually have muscle relaxation and you have anti-anxiety effects, so it [CBG] appears to promote similar effects that CBD Oil has. It also appears to have antidepressant and some modest antifungal properties” said Goldstein in a video for WeedMaps.

In 2013, researchers from the Department of Pharmacy at the University of Naples Federico II (Italy) tested the effects of CBG on an experimental model of experimental Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). The researchers found that CBG has potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties (Inflammatory Bowel Disease).

Unfortunately, because CBG has been overshadowed by cannabinoids THC and CBD, not a lot of research has gone into fully understanding this cannabinoid and its effects. However, that is slowly changing as people begin to realise the potential and importance of this compound.

CBG vs CBD. What is the difference?

Despite originating from CBG Oils, CBD Oil is completely distinct from CBG in both chemical structure and concentration within cannabis plants.

Because it is only found in trace amounts in dried plant material, it is only recently that manufacturers have begun to focus more attention on optimising CBG levels in products like CBD oils, supplements, and salves. It’s clear that CBG is an essential cannabinoid, but it’s yet unclear exactly how to use it to our benefit.

CBG (cannabigerol) and CBD (cannabidiol) are two of the many chemical compounds present in cannabis which can be used as medication. While they share similarities, there are important differences between them.

The main difference between CBG vs CBD is how the chemicals interact with our brain's cannabinoid receptors.

The cannabis plant contains at least 85 cannabinoids. These are chemical compounds which have an effect on the body by bonding with cannabinoid receptors in the brain. The most widely recognized and well studied of these chemicals is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is famous for being the main psychoactive component of cannabis, producing the high that gives the plant its medical and recreational effects.

However, there are many other less famous cannabinoids which also produce a range of effects on the brain. Two compounds which we will be focusing on in this article are cannabidiol (both CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG). While both CBD and CBG can be isolated from the cannabis plant, the main difference between them lies in how they interact with cannabinoid receptors.

As a result of this difference in action on cannabinoid receptors, CBD and CBG produce different effects when isolated from each other and when combined together in a full spectrum cannabis extract or both CBD product.

CBG vs CBD: What is the difference in effects?

The primary difference between CBD and CBG comes from their unique interaction with cannabinoid receptors. Cannabinoid receptors are found all over the body and brain, and modulate pain, inflammation, stress responses, mood etc. The way these chemical compounds interact with our cells is what gives them both their therapeutic and psychoactive effects.

Cannabinoid receptors are made up of many subunits. To date, scientists have identified two subtypes that play the largest role in our experience of cannabinoids: CB1 and CB2.

CB1 is mostly found in the brain, but also present in some other parts of the body. It has been linked to memory formation, reward seeking behavior, motor coordination, pain sensation, and more. CB2 is primarily found in the immune system where it regulates inflammation.

CBG vs CBD: What Is The Difference In How They Interact With Cannabinoid Receptors?

A 2010 study published by a group of scientists from Italy took a detailed look at the structure-activity relationships of CBG, CBD and THC.

The study found that both CBD and CBG interact strongly multiple cannabinoid receptors including the serotonin 5HT1a receptor. However, they differ in how they interact with cannabinoid receptors, mainly with respect to their effects on the endocannabinoid system (the biological system responsible for processing cannabinoids).

For example, CBD has no effect at all on the CB1 receptor, while CBG does. This is because CBD lacks affinity for CB1 due to an extra carbon atom in its molecular structure.

There was also found to be more CBG binding sites than CB2 binding sites throughout many parts of the brain and body, indicating that it's able to affect many different processes via its interaction with cannabinoid receptors.

CBG vs CBD: What Are The Benefits Of Each?

There are many differences between the effects CBG vs CBD produce, which also affects their therapeutic benefits. However, both CBG and CBD have potential uses as medication.

Cannabidiol (CBD)

This cannabinoid is famous for its non-intoxicating nature. It's this quality which has made CBD useful in treating children and people who can't tolerate the 'high' associated with THC and other cannabis compounds.

Also, CBD has been found to be an effective anticonvulsant, effectively treating seizures and epilepsy. This has been demonstrated in both animal and human studies.

Another study found that CBD reduced psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia, such as delusions and hallucinations which are often difficult to treat. These promising results show that CBD could be a useful medication for people with psychosis resulting from conditions such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Cannabigerol (CBG)

While CBG has been found to be non-psychoactive it does appear to improve the effects of THC. This is because, like CBD, it can modulate and reduce the negative side effects such as anxiety and paranoia that THC causes in some people.

As a result of this 'boosting' effect on THC, CBG appears to increase the pain relieving qualities of THC. This could make CBG useful in strains of cannabis used for medical benefits and purposes.

About Smoking Hemp - All You Need to Know

There is no denying that CBD is thriving and this market is expected to continue its growth over the next few years. Currently, this market is worth over $4 billion. Whether you are looking at the recreational use of it or want to experience the health benefits of CBD, you might have found yourself asking: can you smoke CBD rich hemp flower? And if you do, what do you stand to gain from it?

You’ve come to the right place as we will break down everything you need to know about smoking hemp.

What is CBD Hemp Flower and how can you use it?

CBD is a compound found in cannabis that has many medicinal benefits. CBD Hemp Flower is cannabis that contains CBD but does not have any THC. This means it will not get you high although CBD can reduce or increase your body's response to THC which can cause people to feel more tired after using CBD with high levels of THC.

CBD Hemp Flower is a great alternative for people who do not want to feel the psychoactive effects of CBD but would like its medicinal benefits. CBD comes from hemp that has been bred to have high CBD levels while having low THC content. CBD can be used in many forms such as CBD Hemp Flower, CBD Oil, CBD Pills, CBD Gummies, CBD Vape Juice, CBD Tinctures, and CBD Concentrates.

What is CBD Hemp Flower?

CBD Hemp Flower is a type of cannabis that has CBD content but does not have any THC making it legal throughout most states and countries without requiring a medical marijuana prescription. This means you can also enjoy the many benefits of CBD Flower without feeling the psychoactive effects of CBD. CBD Hemp Flower is great for those who want to use CBD but do not want the feeling of being high. CBD can be used in many different forms such as Hemp Flower, CBD Oil, CBD Pills, CBD Gummies, CBD Vape Juice, CBD Tinctures and CBD Concentrates.

How to use CBD Flower? Smoke Hemp Flower

Hemp Flower can be used in many different forms. CBD Hemp Flower is most often smoked but there are CBD Hemp Flower you eat or Hemp Flower that can be vaped. CBD Oil, CBD Pills, CBD Gummies, CBD Vape Juice, CBD Tinctures, and CBD Concentrates are all common ways to use CBD. CBD Hemp Flower is often vaped for a quick onset and CBD Oil, CBD Pills, CBD Gummies and CBD Vape Juice can be taken anywhere for easy ingestion. CBD Tinctures and CBD Concentrates take longer to work than inhaling CBD but last much longer than CBD in other forms making them ideal for night time use.

Benefits of Smoking Hemp Flower

Smoking CBD flower offers the same benefits as other CBD products, as well as other methods of consuming it.  Smokable hemp flower is growing in popularity due to the method of absorbing the beneficial properties of the hemp plant and flowers. This growing popularity is also fueled by the fact that premium hemp products are now made easily accessible in various parts of the world. The act of inhaling cannabidiol creates a more instant effect to your body and mind, due to the bioavailability of the substance (as compared to those administered intravenously). Therefore, you can get a more enhanced effect from smoking hemp versus ingesting the substance orally.

How will you benefit from smoking hemp?

It’s simple. The effect is faster and more intense. In most cases, you will feel a fleeting buzz (but without the high) and relaxing sensation within 10 minutes of smoking hemp (and it will typically last for an hour). This fast-acting benefit is one of the reasons why it is a great remedy for anyone who might suffer from anxiety attacks or any other acute health conditions. The compound quickly enters your bloodstream to treat the body almost instantly.

The beneficial properties of CBD that you can extract when you smoke CBD Flower have been scientifically proven to alleviate symptoms for seizures, anxiety attacks, inflammation, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain.

Finally, the process of smoking hemp buds creates a very relaxing experience to the human body. Many of those who have tried it claim that smoking made them feel more clear-headed without the intoxicating effect.

Why Smoke Hemp over Weed?

Upon answering the question, “can you smoke hemp flowers?” there often follows another question. Is smoking weed different? Or does it create the same effect as smoking hemp flower?

The short answer is that these are two different forms of cannabis plant. They have different uses and should therefore be chosen accordingly. In fact, it is important to differentiate the effects of hemp to that of marijuana, which is a confusion that is recently deconstructed after many decades of misinformation.

Hemp is not the same as weed (marijuana) in terms of the cultivation, application, and function. Marijuana, on the other hand, is used for medicinal and recreational purposes. In the US, many states have legalized the recreational use of weed but a few states still consider it federally illegal. Hemp has more uses than weed does. For example, hemp is commonly used in various dietary supplements, skin products, accessories, and even clothing. Buying hemp flower products is also legal online.

Smoking hemp or weed largely differs in their effect due to the THC content for each plant. With hemp, it has a low THC content of less than 0.3%. But with weed or marijuana, the THC content is high ranging from 5 to 35%. Hemp does not create a psychoactive effect when smoked whereas weed does have that effect on the user. For these reasons, smoking weed is limited to medicinal and recreational use whereas hemp has for more applications.

Is CBD Found in Hemp?

Yes. Cannabidiol or CBD is a compound that can be derived from hemp.

CBD that is derived from hemp is taken from the Hemp flower of the plant. Thus, the compound is sourced from industrial hemp plants. It is slightly different in appearance from marijuana plants because the former is scarce in foliage and is much skinnier.

Another critical point of difference with marijuana-derived CBD is that the cannabis resin of the hemp plants is found in the bud from the flowers. This part of the plant contains small amounts of CBD, though, so a larger quantity is needed to extract adequate amounts at a time.

If you are smoking hemp for medicinal purposes, there is no difference whether you are getting your CBD from hemp or weed. However, there is significant evidence that even with the low THC content in hemp, it is substantial enough to produce therapeutic effects on specific medical conditions.

Can It Get You High or Addicted?

Since there are no psychoactive effects to smoking hemp, getting high is not an adverse effect of smoking. The amount of THC in the bud is what’s responsible for making you high, or addicted. But be wary though – there are some hemp flower that contain less or more than 0.3% THC – therefore, the effects will vary accordingly once you smoke it.

One thing is for sure, though. If you buy from a trusted merchant and legal supplier of CBD buds, then you won’t have to worry about THC content that exceeds the legal limits.

As far as getting addicted is concerned, there is a slim possibility that smoking hemp will cause addiction. Stopping the smoking habit is also less likely to cause any withdrawal symptoms. In fact, cannabis has been used to treat addiction symptoms that relate to various substances. Thus, you can rest assured that it won’t cause any addicting effects and is totally safe to consume.

Smoking Vs Vaping: What’s the Difference?

Smoking hemp flower is typically done by rolling it into  a standard joint. This is popular with the cannabis culture because of the convenience and affordability. Some would even roll the hemp onto hemp paper to get an extra dose of hemp treat.

Vaping hemp is also growing in popularity. The main reason for choosing to use a vaporizer is for health reasons – in order to filter out potentially harmful impurities. Thus, vaping is recommended for those with lung issues since it can produce a less concentrated flavor experience.

Can you smoke hemp flower? The answer is, yes – you can. If you prefer to enjoy a more natural and richer experience with the hemp plant, smoking is the way to go.

FAQ

Can You Smoke Hemp?

Absolutely! This is by far the most popular form of consumption for those who enjoy utilizing Hemp. Not only does it offer a wide range of potential health benefits, but it can also be fun and customizable to your preferred experience.

What Happens When You Smoke Hemp?

When you smoke Hemp, the constituents of the plant are absorbed into your bloodstream via inhalation of the lungs. This includes cannabinoids and terpenes, which synergize, and provide the consumer the experience of the encouraging effect. These, individually, have their own healing properties, and when combined together, allow for a myriad of potential health benefits.

What are the Benefits of Smoking Hemp Flower?

The benefits of smoking Hemp Flower are many. This includes, but is not limited to: fast-acting results with the ability for the cannabinoids to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream via the lungs, affordability along with availability, no intense high effects, high bioavailability, therapeutic benefits, benefits of the entourage effect, and it’s even an effective nicotine alternative!

How Long Does Smoking Hemp Last?

The duration of any relaxation or euphoria experienced when smoking Hemp depends mainly on the individual consuming it. This in combination with how much is consumed, the strain and quality smoked, and any activity done after smoking. Generally speaking, expect any effects to be present for at least an hour. Some may experience shorter or longer effects.

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With Covid-19 impacting us for the last two years, the world is rapidly searching for ways that we can effectively manage the virus, despite the variants that constantly pop up. Finally, it seems that research is progressing and it’s the cannabis industry at the forefront of the latest research advancements by researchers affiliated with Oregon State University. These researchers conducted a study that suggests that cannabis compounds prevent Infection by the Covid-19 Virus.

The COVID-19 pandemic includes at least 272 million cases worldwide, 5.3 million deaths, and over 600 000 new cases daily. While the rollout of vaccines is underway, the rapid spread of COVID-19 underscores the need for new treatments.

Background Information:

In January 2021, this study looked into the possibility that cannabis may offer some help for patients with COVID-19. The study looks at one of the primary biological events that occur in patients with severe acute respiratory distress cases from COVID-19, something called a “cytokine storm.”

C.Sativa, a type of cannabis, was found in a cytokine storm study to reduce multiple cytokines and pathways related to inflammation and fibrosis. Two of the cytokines that C.Sativa reduced were TNFa and IL-6, which are thought to be the main targets when trying to block a COVID-19 cytokine storm and acute respiratory distress syndrome.

In another study done in September of 2020 on mice, they found the following;

“Several reports demonstrated that cannabidiol (CBD), a phytocannabinoid produced by the cannabis plant, can block IL-6 in several models of inflammatory diseases.”

What do the studies say in 2022?

A report on the research, “Cannabinoids Block Cellular Entry of SARS-CoV-2 and the Emerging Variants,” was published online on January 10th, 2022 by the Journal of Natural Products.

COVID-19 is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Researchers have found that the viral spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 to the human cell surface receptor angiotensin converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) is a critical step during the infection of human cells. The researchers looked into the following possibility:

“Therefore, cell entry inhibitors could be used to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection as well as to shorten the course of COVID-19 infections by preventing virus particles from infecting human cells.”

Researchers discovered that cannabinoids increase the cell’s response to several key proteins produced by the coronavirus genome, which is an effect that had not been discovered prior to the study. Researchers also looked at how the proteins from the genome operated in human kidney cells and healthy control cells, both with and without cannabinoids.

Cannabis and its effectiveness against new variants:

The spike protein is the same part of the virus targeted by Covid-19 vaccines and antibody therapies. In addition to the spike protein, SARS-CoV-2 has three more structural proteins as well as 16 nonstructural proteins and several compounds van Breemen characterized as “accessory” proteins, all of which are potential targets for drugs developed to prevent Covid-19.

The two compounds commonly found in hemp - called cannabigerolic acid, or CBGA, and cannabidiolic acid, or CBDA - were identified during a chemical screening effort as having potential to combat coronavirus. In the study led by Richard van Breemen, a researcher with Oregon State’s Global Hemp Innovation Center, they found that cannabinoids bound to spike proteins found on the virus and blocked a step the pathogen uses to infect people, stating that;

“Cannabigerolic acid and cannabidiolic acid prevented infection of human epithelial cells”

This means that cell entry inhibitors, like the acids from hemp, could be used to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection and also to shorten infections by preventing virus particles from infecting human cells. They bind to the spike proteins so those proteins can’t bind to the ACE2 enzyme, which is abundant on the outer membrane of endothelial cells in the lungs and other organs.

The study then goes on to state that the most important piece of evidence found was that CBGA and CBDA were equally as effective against the alpha and beta variants. The abstract ends off on a highly positive note, expressing that cannabinoids do in fact have the potential to prevent and likely treat infection by SARS-CoV-2.

What other benefits could cannabis pose for Covid-19?

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1. Anxiety
   The number of people reporting high levels of anxiety has sharply elevated during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The factors most strongly associated with high anxiety during the pandemic include loneliness, marital status, sex, disability, whether someone feels safe at home or not and work being affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
   
   There is understandable concern about the impact of the pandemic on people’s well-being. Fortunately, though, compounds within cannabis have shown impressive anxiety-reducing qualities, particularly CBD, which has been shown in studies to increase serotonin activity and lower cortisol levels.

Is Cannabis safe to consume for Covid-19 patients?

While most people consume cannabis by smoking it, it is not the only way to consume it. Companies like ourselves offer multiple variations of consumption like edibles, tinctures and more that have very low THC, yet still offer the same benefits.

After the last two years of uncertainty, illness and chaos due to the pandemic, it’s relieving to see that cannabis has shown a lot of potential in fighting against COVID-19 and could potentially offer new solutions to tackle the pandemic.

Where can you get CBDA and CBGA products from?

The team here at Black Tie CBD is relieved and grateful that we’re a part of an industry that is helping to better global health in such an impactful way. As a company, we've seen the value in CBDA products and we've just released our brand new CBDA isolate so you can keep safe too.

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