CBDA is a derivative of CBGA and the precursor to the well known cannabinoid CBD. Over the last decade scientists have found that CBDA has a very similar chemical structure to that of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and thus has shown promise in treating pain due to inflammation by inhibiting COX-2 receptors in the brain that register pain. CBDA has also been shown to help regulate the over release of serotonin that causes severe nausea and vomiting in patients receiving chemotherapy, and while more thorough research is needed these results are very promising.

Cannabinoids are synthesized by Cannabigerolic Acid. CBG is the decarboxylated form of this acid that appears at low levels in most cannabis plants. Because its properties are beneficial to multiple parts of the endocannabinoid system, CBG has a wide range of therapeutic uses. It is non-psychotropic and can provide analgesic and antidepressant qualities.

CBGA is often referred to as the, “Father or Mother of all Cannabinoids”. This is because CBGA is situated at the very top of the cascading reaction that creates THCA, CBDA and CBCA which, through decarboxylation, are turned into the three major cannabinoids THC, CBD and CBC. Currently there is little research being conducted on the medical benefits of CBGA, although it has shown extremely promising results when looking at the interaction between CBGA and colon cancer cells. When CBGA was applied directly to colon cancer cells not only did it destroy the cancer cells, but it also stopped the proliferation of new cancer cells. More research is certainly needed, but these preliminary results are extremely encouraging.

CBN is a cannabinoid that is created during the breakdown of THC by UV light and exposure to oxygen. This breakdown usually begins during the drying and curing process. CBN is most commonly found in older or improperly stored cannabis samples. This compound is mildly psychoactive and is best known for its sedative effects. Strains and products with high concentrations of CBN can be a great choice for users looking to utilize cannabis products to ease restlessness and promote healthy sleep.

THCA is a cannabis compound with a laundry list of potential mental and physical health benefits. THCA is the non-psychoactive precursor to THC, the most famous cannabinoid of all. While THC is responsible for the psychoactive “high” that so many of us enjoy, THCA has shown great promise as an anti-inflammatory, neuroprotectant and anti-emetic for appetite loss and treatment of nausea. THCA is found in its highest levels in living or freshly harvested cannabis samples. For this reason some users choose to juice fresh cannabis leaves and flowers to get as much THCA as possible.

THCV sets itself apart from its cousin THC with its distinct lack of psychoactive effects. THCV also acts as an allosteric modulator for Delta-9-THC thus reducing its psychoactivity. It has been found to be helpful as an appetite suppressant, neuroprotectant and glycemic control in type 2 diabetics.