Cannabis compounds, explained

Delta9

Delta-9 is one molecule among dozens, and it is the only one most labels mention. What each cannabinoid actually is, what it does, and why two products with identical THC numbers can feel nothing alike.

The cannabinoid reference

Δ9

Delta-9 THC

The main intoxicant

What people mean by "THC". Responsible for the high, and the compound potency figures are measuring.

Δ8

Delta-8 THC

Milder cousin

Same molecule, one double bond moved. Noticeably weaker and usually made from CBD rather than extracted.

CBD

Cannabidiol

Non-intoxicating

Does not produce a high. Widely used for anxiety and pain, and appears to blunt the edge of THC.

CBG

Cannabigerol

The precursor

Every other cannabinoid starts as CBG, which is why mature plants hold so little of it. Non-intoxicating.

CBN

Cannabinol

What THC becomes

Formed as THC degrades with age, light and heat. Mildly sedating — the reason old flower feels sleepy rather than strong.

THCA

THC acid

Raw, inactive

What is actually in fresh cannabis. Only becomes THC when heated, which is why total THC is never THC plus THCA.

THCV

Tetrahydrocannabivarin

Short-chain

Present in small amounts. Reported as sharper and shorter than THC, and appetite-suppressing rather than stimulating.

CBC

Cannabichromene

Minor, non-intoxicating

One of the four most common cannabinoids by weight, yet rarely listed. Studied mainly for anti-inflammatory effect.

Effects described here are what is commonly reported and what the available research suggests — cannabinoid science is young, and much of it is preliminary. Nothing here is medical advice.

Where to buy

Serene Farms Flower, edibles and a broad everyday catalogue. Distillate Direct Concentrates where the cannabinoid content is highest. Ganja Express Wide range including CBD and balanced products.

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How we write

Cannabinoid research is early and much of what is published is preliminary or based on animal studies — we say so where it matters. Where a shop we link to is one we have a relationship with, that is disclosed. Educational only, not medical advice.