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Millions of people have become aware of CBD's role in the benefits of cannabis. However, lesser-known phytocannabinoids also play a part in supporting wellness. For example, cannabichromene (CBC) is a non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid that may support a balanced mood and a healthy immune system. Let's discuss how CBC works, its potential benefits, and where to get CBC oil!
What Is CBC?
While the mainstream media is just picking up on CBC, this phytocannabinoid was first discovered in 1966. It is one of the primary phytocannabinoids found in cannabis, after THC and CBD. CBC is abundant in hemp leaves and flowers.
Like CBD and THC, CBC is derived from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). CBGA interacts with enzymes to create cannabichromenic acid (CBCA). When CBCA passes through the enzyme CBC synthase, it begins becoming CBC. This process can be expedited when heat is applied to hemp flowers.
How CBC Is Made
Activating CBC can be done through decarboxylation. The ideal temperature to decarboxylate CBC is 221° F.
Its boiling point is 428° F. This is high compared to other phytocannabinoids. So, CBC may withstand baking at high temperatures to create edibles.
However, many other phytocannabinoids will degrade past 315-365° F. Therefore, CBC won't be able to encourage the entourage effect. That's when CBC acts in synergy with other phytocannabinoids to improve the overall benefits of cannabis.
In fact, CBC is integral to a robust entourage effect. Let's discuss how CBC works so that we can get into the benefits of this phytocannabinoid.
How Does CBC Work?
All phytocannabinoids influence our body's internal communication network known as the endocannabinoid system. The goal of the endocannabinoid system is to promote balance (homeostasis).
Scientists have realized that each phytocannabinoid has a unique interaction with the endocannabinoid system. In turn, they each have a slightly different role in promoting homeostasis.
Most phytocannabinoids interact with CB1 or CB2 receptors. These receptors influence communication through the endocannabinoid system.
CB1 receptors are generally located in the brain and central nervous system. THC has a penchant for CB1 receptors. This phytocannabinoid binds to CB1 to promote a high.
CB2 receptors are located through the immune system, digestive tract, and around some vital organs. Unlike THC, CBD tends to stimulate the outside of these receptors. This is the reason CBD is non-intoxicating and supports wellness.
CBC shows little affinity for CB1 receptors and some to CB2. Like CBD, CBC typically stimulates the outside of CB2 receptors rather than binding to them.
While receptors are the main means of communication for phytocannabinoids, they're not CBC's primary affinity. Instead, CBC interacts with other receptors that impact the endocannabinoid system, such as transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) and transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1). Therefore, CBC can potentially unlock new experiences for cannabis users.
Benefits of CBC
CBC is a well-researched phytocannabinoid that still needs more studies to present medical claims. However, the potential benefits of CBC seem promising. Here are some ways CBC could support a healthy and active lifestyle.
Joint and Muscle Support
As mentioned, CBC indirectly influences the endocannabinoid system by interacting with TRPV1 receptors. These are the same receptors stimulated by capsaicin, the mineral that promotes heat in hot peppers.
Activating TRPV1, for instance, is why many people support stiff joints and muscles with heating creams. The heat prompts fresh blood to the site, which promotes healing and comfort. You can also support healthy bones and joints daily with Joy Organics' CBD Topicals.
Skin Health
Speaking of nourishing topicals, CBC can also help maintain healthy skin. The skin is abundant with both CB1 and CB2 receptors. They are present in oil glands, hair follicles, pigments, and more!
CBC positively influences lipid productions in our sebaceous glands, where our body produces oil. Therefore, it may help soothe overactive glands to prevent oily skin.
Additionally, CBC stimulates CB2 receptors. This reaction could promote a calming effect for skin cells. Since phytocannabinoids seek homeostasis, CBC could be useful for maintaining balance in your daily skincare regimen.
Brain Health
As we mentioned, CBC doesn't typically interact with CB1 receptors, and CB1 receptors are usually located in the brain. However, that doesn't mean CBC still can't influence the brain.
CBC supports healthy neural stem progenitor cells (NSPCs). NSPCs are unique because your body can transform them into various essential brain cells. These findings are promising for maintaining healthy brain communication—including cognitive function, memory, and mood.
How to Shop for CBC Oil
CBC oil is gaining momentum in the cannabis industry. It's important to note that CBC works better in the presence of other phytocannabinoids.
CBC could be the primary phytocannabinoid in the blend. However, you'll enhance the benefits if the label denotes a broad spectrum or full spectrum formula product.
You can also get a serving of CBC from some CBD oil brands. Joy Organics' USDA-Certified Organic CBD Tinctures contain traceable levels of CBC. Simply verify the content of CBC and other phytocannabinoids by reading the lab results.
What Is the Best CBC Oil?
If you want a CBC-rich oil, there are a few quality brands that you can trust. 3chi CBC Oil Tincture is a broad spectrum blend that also contains CBD, CBN, CBG, and CBDv. They have three concentrations available so you can tailor your routine to best meet your needs.
This formula also has a proprietary blend of terpenes, vitamin E, and other beneficial compounds. All of these ingredients work together to enhance the entourage effect.
NuLeaf Naturals' CBC Softgels is a full spectrum CBC blend crafted with organic hemp seed oil. This cannabis-based fat helps with CBC absorption. Remember, CBC influences how our bodies metabolize lipids!
NuLeaf Natural also has a CBC Oil Tincture. This blend is a simpler formula than 3chi. It is formulated with organic hemp seed oil and a CBC-rich full spectrum hemp extract.
Is CBC Oil Right for You?
CBC oil is non-habit-forming and shouldn't cause a high. There are no known serious side effects of CBC. However, you should always consult a physician before making any changes to your lifestyle.
Hannah Smith is Joy Organics Director of Communications. She is driven by her passion for providing clear and accessible wellness and CBD education. In 2015, she received her BA in Media, Culture and the Arts from The King’s College in New York City and before Joy Organics, worked as writer and photographer in the Middle East and North Africa. Her work has been featured on Forbes, Vice, Vox, Denver Post, and the Coloradoan.
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