Fact Checked by Doctor NameAs research on cannabis ramps up, scientists are discovering the unique properties and benefits of lesser-known cannabinoids like CBC.
Here’s an overview of this intriguing compound.
What is CBC?
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Cannabichromene, or CBC, is one of over 100 naturally occurring cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant.
Like the more abundant THC and CBD, it is produced in the plant’s trichomes.
On average, CBC typically makes up around 0.1 to 1% of the total cannabinoid content in cannabis strains.
CBC has different effects than THC and CBD but is molecularly comparable.
Along with THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, and THCV, it is one of the “big six” cannabinoids.
Recently, interest in minor cannabinoids has increased, leading to further research into CBC.
What is CBC Used For?
Studies indicate CBC has a variety of potential uses, both on its own and in conjunction with other cannabinoids:
- Pain relief – CBC appears to interact with receptors involved in pain modulation. Early studies found CBC’s ability to relieve inflammatory and neuropathic pain comparable to common analgesics.
- Antidepressant – Along with anti-inflammatory effects, tests on rodents found CBC produced antidepressant effects. CBC also showed potential in treating anxiety disorders.
- Antimicrobial – CBC displays potent antibacterial properties. Research shows activity against several antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains like MRSA.
- Acne treatment – Combined with other cannabinoids like CBD and THC, CBC may effectively treat acne due to its anti-inflammatory and lipostatic properties.
- Neuroprotection – CBC exhibits antioxidant activity, which may help protect neurons from toxicity and degeneration.
- Enhanced entourage effect – CBC may modulate receptors in a way that complements other cannabinoids.
How Do You Use CBC?
There are several ways to seek out the benefits of CBC:
- Use cannabis strains naturally high in CBC, typically around 2-3% or more. Strains include Charlotte’s Web, Early Resin Berry, Spirit in the Sky, and Purple Urkle.
- Look for CBC-rich cannabis oils, extracts, and isolates to use in vaping, tinctures, topicals, and edibles.
- Seek out CBC products in dispensaries or talk to your budtender. As research ramps up, more CBC products are hitting the market.
- Buy CBD products with added CBC to take advantage of the entourage effect.
As with any cannabis product, start with low doses of CBC and watch for any side effects. Talk to your doctor before using CBC for any medical conditions.
More clinical trials are still needed, but CBC shows promising therapeutic potential.
