Cannabichromene: What is CBC?

In 2018, CBD snagged the headlines after the legalization of hemp, the low-THC cannabis. It was with good reason, CBD is plentiful and provides lots of health benefits. 

Yet, cannabis and hemp have more than 120 other lesser-known alternative cannabinoids, including cannabichromene (CBC). 

CBC shows promise in potential treatments for anxiety and depression, inflammation, and cancer. It's a cannabinoid worth learning more about.

What Is CBC?

CBC, or cannabichromene, is an abundant minor cannabinoid found in all cannabis and hemp plants. In 1966, following the identification of THC in cannabis, CBC was first confused with CBD. The structure of CBC was then properly identified by Gaoni and Mechoulam.¹

CBC is mainly produced and stored in tiny structures called sessile trichomes found on the surfaces of young cannabis leaves. These trichomes are different from the ones in which CBD and THC are stored, called stalked trichomes. It’s abundant in freshly harvested dried cannabis and is the second most prevalent cannabinoid in certain marijuana strains cultivated in the USA. 

Similar to CBD, CBC is non-intoxicating. Through the entourage effect, CBC supports brain health, pain relief, mood, and skin health. 

Studies have shown that CBC reduces inflammation, lessens pain, and improves mood in rodents. When smoking CBC, monkeys and human test subjects didn’t experience any high. 

At a cellular level, CBC slows the reabsorption of some endocannabinoids that regulate pain and mood, allowing them to work longer in the system. It also slows down an enzyme called monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), which breaks down brain fats that affect mood and pain perception.²

CBC occurs naturally in cannabis and hemp plants but must be extracted with solvents like CO₂ to separate the compound from the plant. 

CBC is also present in unrelated plants in the rhododendron family, as well as liverworts and fungi.³

The human body reacts to cannabinoids through its endocannabinoid system (ECS), which includes the CB1 and CB2 receptors. CBC activates a cell channel called TRPA1, which plays a role in sensing pain and inflammation. When CBC activates TRPA1 and CB2 receptors, strong anti-inflammatory signals reach the cells. CBC also stimulates an antiepileptic response, making it an effective tool against seizures. 

Unlike CBD or THC, oral dosing of CBC oil maximizes absorption. Taking it by mouth may help it work faster and more efficiently in your system.⁴

Effects and Benefits of Cannabichromene

Although CBC alone doesn’t make you feel high like THC, it may work with other cannabinoids to improve their action. CBC looks promising as a treatment for several conditions and illnesses. Its potential effectiveness stems from how CBC interacts and affects our body’s chemistry.

Naturally occurring plant cannabinoids like CBC, CBN, THC, and CBG interact with receptors in our bodies to increase dopamine levels, a chemical that makes us feel good. CBD releases serotonin, another mood-elevating chemical. Natural FAAH inhibitors slow the breakdown of anandamide, a natural substance that increases dopamine. 

CBC may be part of a nutraceutical approach to treating ADHD with natural substances from plants. This method uses CBC and CBG to increase dopamine levels and CBD to release serotonin. This combination may help manage symptoms of ADHD by influencing how the body uses these chemicals.⁵

Inflammation is the root cause of many illnesses and conditions. CBC may support brain and body health by relieving pain, anxiety, and inflammation. The cannabinoid has also shown significant antiviral and anti-tumor properties.

CBC directs the development of specific brain cells (NSPC) from changing into a type that can contribute to brain inflammation (astrocytes). CBC may protect against neuro-inflammation, Alzheimer’s disease, and conditions where liver damage causes brain inflammation.

Cancers, including breast and colon, respond favorably to the increase of AEA, an endocannabinoid neurotransmitter produced by the body. CBC increases AEA, limiting breast cancer cell growth and killing colon cancer cells.¹

Research has shown that CBC can help control the movement of inflamed intestines without affecting normal movement in healthy conditions.²

Acne occurs when blocked pores become inflamed. Alongside CBDV and THCV, CBC may be one of the best cannabinoid candidates for reducing acne by controlling oil and inflammation.³

Users active on cannabis forums mention that CBD improves the impact of other cannabinoids, making them work better and last longer, perhaps as part of the entourage effect. 

Comments from patients with various conditions, including neuropathy, lupus, and chronic pain, praised CBC for its pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties. For mental well-being, CBC increases feelings of calmness while reducing anxiety. Some patients report feeling both mind and body relaxation.

Risks of CBC

The market for CBC, like other hemp-based products such as CBD, is largely unregulated. Without oversight, products lack standardization in manufacturing processes and product testing. Consumers should be cautious as this can lead to inconsistencies in product quality and potential safety concerns.

Semi-synthetic processes extract CBC compounds from the plant using CO₂ extraction, solvents, or a combination of these. If not properly managed, these processes can introduce impurities or residual solvents into the final product, posing health risks to consumers.

To minimize your risk, purchase CBC products from reputable sources. Look for products with valid third-party testing and a certificate of analysis to confirm their potency and purity. Good manufacturing practice (GMP) seal-certified products also adhere to rigorous manufacturing safety standards.

CBC vs. Other Popular Cannabinoids

When comparing cannabichromene (CBC) to other popular cannabinoids, several key aspects, such as effects, potency, natural vs. synthetic status, research depth, and product availability, stand out.

CBC vs Delta-9 THC

THC, also known by its chemical name delta-9 THC, is well-known for its euphoric "high" effects. CBC, on the other hand, is non-intoxicating. THC activates CB1 and CB2 receptors, but CBC acts primarily at the CB2 receptor, associated with anti-inflammatory properties.¹

CBC vs Delta-8 THC

Delta-8 THC is similar to delta-9 but with less high effects and a slightly different chemical structure. It binds to the CB1 receptor less effectively than delta-9 THC but still has notable intoxicating effects, which CBC lacks. According to early research studies, nausea and vomiting are two symptoms that Delta-8 may be beneficial in relieving.⁶

CBC vs Delta-10 THC

Delta-10 THC is another THC variant with less research and availability compared to delta-9 and delta-8. Like these other THCs, delta-10 is intoxicating, although it is typically milder. Research is scarce, but users report an uplifting, energetic effect. CBC, being non-intoxicating, does not affect the mind in the same way. delta-10, much like CBC, can be harder to find due to its rarity in cannabis plants and the complexity of its extraction and stabilization.

CBC vs CBD (Cannabidiol)

CBD is known for its wide range of therapeutic effects without the psychoactive impact of THC. Both CBD and CBC are non-intoxicating, but they influence the body differently.⁷ CBC may potentially have preferential absorption over CBD when administered together, suggesting unique interactions in the body that may enhance its effects in the presence of other cannabinoids.⁸

CBC vs CBG (Cannabigerol)

CBG is a minor cannabinoid like CBC, and both are non-intoxicating. CBG is the "mother of all cannabinoids" because other cannabinoids are derived from CBG’s acidic form. In terms of receptor activity, CBG has a higher affinity for CB1 receptors compared to CBC.⁹ Both cannabinoids are known for potential therapeutic effects such as anti-inflammatory properties, but CBG is slightly better studied and understood in terms of its interaction with the body's cannabinoid system.¹

CBC vs. Other Cannabinoids

Compare	Effects	Potency	Natural vs Synthetic	Research Depth	Ease of Finding Products
CBC	Non-intoxicating, anti-inflammatory, may enhance absorption	Lower	Natural	Minimal	Harder to find
Delta-9 THC	Intoxicating	Higher	Natural	Extensive	Easy to find
Delta-8 THC	Intoxicating, less potent than Delta-9	Lower	Synthetic (from CBD)	Moderate	Moderately easy
Delta-10 THC	Delta-10 THC: Intoxicating, milder than Delta-9 and Delta-8	Delta-10 THC: Lower	Delta-10 THC: Synthetic (rare in plants)	Delta-10 THC: Minimal	Delta-10 THC: Hard to find
CBD	Non-intoxicating, broad therapeutic uses	Higher	Natural	Extensive	Easy to find
CBG	Non-intoxicating, potential broad benefits	Lower	Natural	Moderate	Moderately hard to find

CBC Products

Cannabichromene (CBC) is in many cannabis products, from gummies to vapes, but products that contain CBC as a stand-alone cannabinoid are limited. Here are some of the more popular and widely available types of CBC products:

CBC Tinctures

CBC tinctures are the best way to get the full effects of this cannabinoid. These liquid extracts are often mixed with a carrier oil like coconut or hemp oil to enhance absorption. Tinctures, placed under the tongue, allow rapid absorption and quick entry into the bloodstream. NuLeaf Naturals offers a full-spectrum CBC oil and CBC. Among reviews, verified buyers cite relief from ADHD, joint pain, and inflammation.

CBC Capsules

For precise dosages without the taste of tinctures, CBC capsules are an excellent choice. These capsules contain a specific amount of CBC oil, often combined with other cannabinoids like CBD, making them convenient for daily use. They are discreet and easy to use, and their effects last longer due to slow digestion and absorption. Extract Labs combines CBD with 10mg CBC per soft gel capsule to lessen stress and tension.

CBC Edibles

While specific CBC-only edibles are rare, some manufacturers include CBC in broader cannabinoid blends within their edibles. Edibles like gummies and chocolates may contain CBC along with CBD, CBG, and other cannabinoids, which can cater to users looking for a full-spectrum effect. Wyld CBD gummies mix CBD with CBC to improve absorption. The onset of CBC effects is slower because of the digestive path, but the relief lasts longer.

CBC Flower

Growers breed for THC or CBD content, but CBC is present in some strains and young plants. Some strains, including Maui Dream and Charlotte’s Web, contain a small amount of CBC.

References

1. Walsh KB, McKinney AE, Holmes AE. Minor Cannabinoids: Biosynthesis, Molecular Pharmacology and Potential Therapeutic Uses. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2021;12. doi:10.3389/fphar.2021.777804 ↩︎
2. Izzo AA, Capasso R, Aviello G, et al. Inhibitory effect of cannabichromene, a major non-psychotropic cannabinoid extracted from Cannabis sativa, on inflammation-induced hypermotility in mice. Br J Pharmacol. 2012;166(4):1444-1460. doi:10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.01879.x ↩︎
3. Pollastro F, Caprioglio D, Del Prete D, et al. Cannabichromene. Natural Product Communications. 2018;13(9). doi:10.1177/1934578X1801300922 ↩︎
4. Calcaterra A, Cianfoni G, Tortora C, et al. Natural Cannabichromene (CBC) Shows Distinct Scalemicity Grades and Enantiomeric Dominance in Cannabis sativa Strains. Journal of Natural Products. 2023;86(4):909-914. doi:https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jnatprod.2c01139 ↩︎
5. Dawson DA, Persad CP. Targeting the Endocannabinoid System in the Treatment of ADHD. Genetics & Molecular Medicine. 2021;3(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.33425/2689-1077.1006 ↩︎
6. Tagen M, Klumpers LE. Review of delta‐8‐tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ ⁸ ‐THC): Comparative pharmacology with Δ ⁹ ‐THC. British Journal of Pharmacology. 2022;179(15). doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/bph.15865 ↩︎
7. Martin-Santos R, Crippa JA, Batalla A, et al. Acute Effects of a Single, Oral dose of d9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) Administration in Healthy Volunteers. Current Pharmaceutical Design. 18(32):4966-4979. https://www.eurekaselect.com/article/45750 ↩︎
8. Peters EN, MacNair L, Mosesova I, et al. Pharmacokinetics of cannabichromene in a medical cannabis product also containing cannabidiol and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol: a pilot study. European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology. 2022;78(2):259-265. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s00228-021-03232-8 ↩︎
9. Jastrząb A, Jarocka-Karpowicz I, Skrzydlewska E. The Origin and Biomedical Relevance of Cannabigerol. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2022;23(14):7929. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23147929 ↩︎

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.