Cannabis is becoming more mainstream as more people experience the benefits the plant has to offer. We know that cannabis can help alleviate pain, reduce anxiety, increase focus and creativity, and promote relaxation. These are just a handful of the incredible benefits users experience. Cannabis and cannabinoid research is showing a whole host of benefits and finding new potential ones every day. Here’s what some of the research shows.
Beyond THC and CBD
THC and CBD are the most abundant cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. They’re also the most well-known. Even if you’ve never used cannabis before, you probably already know that THC is the compound responsible for the high users feel, while CBD doesn’t have this effect at all.
While popular, THC and CBD are far from the only cannabinoids in the plant. Cannabis has more than 120 known cannabinoids, and scientists are finding that many of these “minor” compounds have some benefits of their own. One such cannabinoid is CBN. Cannabinol isn’t prevalent in fresh buds. It’s a byproduct of THC degradation, which occurs when you expose the plant to heat and light. It also develops as the buds age and become drier. While psychoactive, it’s not as potent as THC. Research shows that it may also be a powerful sleep aid, which means it could be beneficial for those with insomnia.
Other minor cannabinoids getting more attention include:
- CBG
- CBC
- THCa
The Most Potent Painkillers in Cannabis
One of the main benefits of cannabis (and the reason why so many people use it) is that it helps to alleviate pain, such as chronic pain and pain resulting from injuries. THC and CBD have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, but research is finding that the most potent pain relievers in cannabis might actually be the flavonoids.
Flavonoids are present in all fruits and vegetables and are known to have antioxidant properties. Two, in particular, cannflavins A and B, have gained a lot of attention, with research showing that they have the greatest pain-relieving potential. Scientists have found that they are 30 times stronger than aspirin. These findings could alter the understanding of cannabis as a treatment for pain.
THC Focused Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research
We know that many outside factors quickly influence the brain development of babies in the womb, including cannabis use. Many women turn to the plant for relief from morning sickness and anxiety despite the warning labels on products. Some research shows that THC may affect the development of the brain, leading to cognitive challenges and attention deficits. Some research is finding that there may be a link between maternal choline levels and the effects of THC on developing babies. According to studies, those with the highest choline levels have babies with the lowest severity. While this isn’t to say cannabis is safe for use during pregnancy, the findings are interesting and could lead to some new discoveries down the line.
Cannabis research isn’t slowing down any time soon, and scientists have made some interesting discoveries in the process. It’s exciting to see what might come next!
