The Lesser Known Cannabinoids - CBG & CBN
With the ever-increasing popularity of CBD, it's hard to find a person who doesn't know about it and what it can potentially do for your health. CBD and THC are the two most well-known extracts from the cannabis plant, but did you know there are other cannabinoids? CBG and CBN are just two of over 60 potentially undiscovered cannabinoids locked within the cannabis plant.
While CBD extracts are great, more people are exploring the benefits of full-spectrum products. Let's look at why full spectrum can be hugely beneficial, and learn about some of the other, lesser-known cannabinoids you'll find in full-spectrum products.
What is "full-spectrum"?
Typically CBD is presented as an extract from the cannabis Sativa hemp plant. This is one of the most potent ways to get the benefits of CBD without the psychoactive effects of THC, as CBD extracts, like isolate, are extremely pure. Not only is CBD extracted without THC, however, it also excludes all of the terpenes that give the cannabis plant its flavor, and all of the other cannabinoids.
Full-spectrum products include everything, from the terpenes to the plant lipids, cannabinoids, and extremely trace amounts of THC, usually less than .03%. Some research seems to indicate that hemp extracts are simply more potent when taken entirely together - full-spectrum products give you exactly that.
What cannabinoids are typically found in full-spectrum?
Naturally, full-spectrum includes all of the parts of the plant, from the terpenes to the cannabinoids like CBD that we're used to. There are some others, however, that have had some studies indicating their potential benefits.
What is CBN - Cannabinol
This particular cannabinoid is rich in older plants because it is a byproduct of THC breaking down as it ages. The presence of this cannabinoid doesn't indicate high levels of THC, however, so you needn't worry about any psychoactive implications.
What is CBG - Cannabigerol
CBG is present in very small amounts in most cannabis plants - around 1%. Because of this, it hasn't been as widely studied as THC, CBN, and CBD, but some growers are changing that by breeding plants selectively to increase their CBG content. While some studies show promising results for using CBG, it must be more broadly cultivated and available for research, and that's where the selective breeding comes into play.
What do the studies say?
There are more studies on CBN than CBG because it's more common. Since all you need to do is age THC-rich plants to get CBN, it's simply easier to research. There is some promising research on these cannabinoids, including:
- Some studies indicate that CBN, by affecting the ECS receptors in the eyes, can reduce intraocular pressure, potentially being an effective treatment for glaucoma
- A few studies suggest that many of the cannabinoids, including CBN and CBG, are antibacterial, which could be great news for people who are allergic to antibiotics
- Various studies have shown promising results for the treatment of anxiety, PTSD, and depression with various cannabinoids, including CBN and CBG
While it must be noted that the indications from studies are not definitive proof, this and other research does create a hopeful future for cannabinoid extracts.
Exploring the benefits of full-spectrum products
We offer many full spectrum CBD products, from topical creams and balms to ingested oils and vapes. If you're interested in learning more about Fully Activated's line of high purity products, reach out today at - we're happy to help!