CBC, or cannabichromene, is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, alongside better known cannabinoids like CBD and THC. Like CBD and THC, it is considered one of the “big six” cannabinoids prominent in current medical research. Unlike THC, CBC is not intoxicating. CBC is also known for its ability to increase levels of anandamide, an important natural endocannabinoid in the body. Research suggests it may be helpful for conditions like cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, pain, inflammation, depression, and acne.
“This dispensary sells CBC isolate for dabbing.”
“How much CBC is in this weed strain?”
What is CBC?
CBC, or cannabichromene, is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, alongside better known cannabinoids like CBD and THC. Like CBD and THC, it is considered one of the “big six” cannabinoids prominent in current medical research.
Unlike THC, CBC is not intoxicating, as it fails to bind well to CB1 cannabinoid receptors in the brain. However, it does bind to other receptors like TRPV1 and TRPA1, both of which are linked to pain perception. CBC is also known for its ability to increase levels of anandamide, an important natural endocannabinoid in the body, when it activates these receptors.
What is CBC used for?
Due to its interaction with the body’s natural endocannabinoid system and ability to increase anandamide levels, CBC may be helpful in the fight against cancer. In human breast cancer studies, anandamide exhibited anti-tumor efficacy. In fact, research indicates CBC is one of the most potent cannabinoids for anti-tumor capabilities.
There is also evidence from rat studies that CBC can block pain and inflammation from collagen-induced arthritis.
Another study on mice suggested CBC may be a neuroprotectant for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. In this study, CBC exhibited a positive effect on neural stem progenitor cells (NSPCs), cells known to be essential for healthy brain function. In the presence of CBC, researchers found that NSPCs became more viable, which may counteract oxidative stress.
Other promising uses of CBC include the treatment of acne, as well as depression, when used in conjunction with CBD and THC.
How do you use CBC?
Since more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of CBC alone versus when used alongside other cannabinoids, breeding cannabis strains for CBC alone currently isn’t common in commercial cannabis. Still, some products are tested for CBC so if you are interested in using it, look for products that test higher in CBC. Strains known to be high in CBC include 3 Kings and Jorge’s Diamond’s #1 by Dutch Passion.