Broad Spectrum Bounty: Delving into Cannabinoids and their Acid Forms
By Billee Sharp
When we say full spectrum extraction that is an accurate description; all the cannabinoids in the plant are extracted. To date, one hundred and thirteen cannabinoids have been identified and the process of discovering their properties and potential benefits is underway.
THC and CBD are by far the best known cannabinoids and THC, the only psychotropic cannabinoid has recovered from its outlaw status and now, with its many uses for pain relief, anti-nausea, appetite stimulation, migraine, to list a few, have all been medically recognized.
CBD has become widely available in recent years and is most commonly used to treat inflammation and to manage anxiety. Additionally, it is indicated for therapeutic value in many more conditions.
As the world of cannabinoids is entering new frontiers, it becomes obvious that the properties of cannabinoids often overlap. A clear example of this is that the data for CBD and CBN both show neuroprotective and calming qualities that both aid sleepfulness. Another indication that full spectrum extracts prove to be so effective as the cannabinoids working synergistically have more therapeutic value.
The cannabinoids currently in the spotlight and getting research attention include CBG and CBGa. The “a” appended to a cannabinoid stands for acid, the acid forms of cannabinoids are the precursors to the non-acid cannabinoids. The acid form represents the cannabinoids as they first occur in the plant, raw and untreated. In this unprocessed form the acid cannabinoids are more potent and powerful than the cannabinoids that they become through maturity or decarboxylation (treatment with heat).
Current research into the medical value of the acid forms is yielding positive results. CBGa has been studied in both cardiovascular conditions and metabolic disorders with promising positive results. It is proving to be highly effective at low dosages with the advantage of rapid onset for the fast relief of symptoms.
CBGa and CBG have a long list of health benefits many of which are similar to those of CBD. CBGa is studied for it’s role in supporting heart health and plays a part in how the body metabolizes fat and glucose which could potentially treat metabolic disorders. Studies on cancerous tumors show CBGa inhibits cancer cell growth by disrupting the cancer cell cycle.
The properties of CBGa and CBG clearly dovetail with CBDa and CBD which illustrates again that full spectrum extraction delivers an entourage of cannabinoids to the Endocannabinoid System. CBG is noted for anti-inflammatory use, anti-tumor, neuroprotective, antiseptic and anti-bacterial, appetite stimulant, glaucoma, migraine and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
CBN has become hugely popular as a sleep aid. CBN occurs when THC matures and its chemical structure changes to become CBN. The psychotropic component dwindles to a very small percentage but may account for CBN’s soporific qualities.
Pamela Maher’s CBN study at the Salk Institute in La Jolla, focussed on oxytosis and ferroptosis in the brain and the effect of CBN on these degenerative conditions. CBN protected the mitochondria in brain cells from oxidative deterioration. Where damaged mitochondria appear curled up, the CBN maintained mitochondria’s integrity. Oxidative damage to brain cells is considered a leading cause of dementia and Alzheimer's Disease.
CBN’s popular as a super sedative, and for neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, pain relief, bone health and healing. Again we see overlaps in functionality, with both CBG and CBD and both their acid forms.
Additional reading:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0891584922000016
