All About Cannabinoid Rich Profiles – THC-O, Delta-8, Delta-9 and more!

When you think about hemp or cannabis there are typically two major cannabinoids that come to mind. THC, and CBD. But in actuality, hemp and cannabis plants are capable of producing up to 144 known cannabinoids. These varying types of cannabinoids all have their own unique effects and will vary from strain to strain, product to product. So, to use hemp to the fullest – it’s best to know all about cannabinoid profiles, and specific cannabinoid effects. Let’s get into this in-depth guide, to learn more.

The Benefits of Cannabinoid Rich Profiles

Even if you’re just learning more about hemp and cannabis it’s likely you’ve already heard the term ‘entourage effect’. This phenomenon references the symbiotic relationship between cannabinoids and terpenes, amplifying one another’s effects. So, before we get into the list of cannabinoids you should know more about first let’s refresh ourselves on why cannabinoid rich profiles can be so beneficial.

As research and consumption increase we become more aware that THC, and CBD aren’t the only compounds responsible for hemp and cannabis’ unique effects. Like we mentioned, the plants contain at least 144 cannabinoids plus a variety of terpenes that not only add to aroma, but may produce their own individual effects too. Over time, the ‘entourage effect’ is the term that’s been given to the idea or belief that together, the synergy of cannabinoids and terpenes amplify one anothers’ effects.

Now, many cannabis studies are researching the entourage effect theory in regards to specific conditions. So far researchers have been able to come to the following conclusions –

• In 2010 a study published that cancer patients reported less pain when administered a THC and CBD together vs THC extract alone.
• A 2018 study showed CBD isolate alone was less effective at reducing seizures in epilepsy patients, in comparison to extracts with other cannabinoids and terpenes.

Even though the entourage effect needs more research to be definitively proven, anecdotal evidence from real-time use is quickly increasing. To conduct your own type of research let’s cover varying types of cannabinoids next. That way, you’ll know which to seek out for your own personal desires based on each individual cannabinoid effect.

Cannabinoids You Need to Know

When consuming hemp flower, or full-spectrum and broad-spectrum hemp extracts made from whole-plant material you’re treated to the full range of the plant’s cannabinoid profile. Here’s a list of cannabinoids to get to know, and what we know so far on their specific effects or mechanisms. 

• THC-O: THC-O is a relatively new cannabinoid to go mainstream but has been around for quite some time. THC-O acetate is a synthetic compound derived from hemp that research is proving to be approximately 3x stronger than THC. It’s been nicknamed the “the psychedelic cannabinoid” as it’s capable of producing semi-hallucinatory effects.

• Delta 8: On the flip side, delta-8 THC is often referred to as ‘diet weed’ or ‘marijuana lite’. The chemical structure only slightly differs from delta-9 THC which means it produces similar effects yet it’s far less intense or potent. Its effects are still in the process of being researched but consumers report feelings of euphoria, uplifted moods and relief of symptoms from pain, nausea and low appetite.

• Delta 10: Delta 10 is a minor cannabinoid found in hemp and cannabis plants that’s like delta 8 in regards to producing similar yet less potent effects than delta 9. It’s also not as commonly available for sale due to the fact that it’s found in lesser quantities and is harder to extract and isolate. As for cannabinoid effects, delta 10 is proving to be more energizing. Which makes sense since it’s found in higher concentrations in sativa strains that are preferable for daytime use. In comparison, delta 8 tends to be more sedating.

• CBD: CBD AKA cannabidiol is by far one of the more well-known types of cannabinoids. In fact, its efficacy for treating epileptic seizures has now been FDA approved in the prescription form of Epidiolex. Beyond reducing seizures research is showing that CBD has the potential to reduce inflammation, in addition to relieving symptoms of pain, anxiety and insomnia.
• CBG: CBG AKA cannabigerol is an up-and-coming minor cannabinoid that is proving to have a plethora of beneficial effects. Even though the cannabinoid is only found in concentrations of around 1% in most cannabis strains (vs THC and CBD which can easily reach 15-30%+). Regardless of quantity, CBG research is amping up in an attempt to prove its therapeutic benefits. In early anecdotal evidence and real-time use reports, CBG’s cannabinoid effects include the potential to reduce intraocular pressure found in glaucoma, relieve inflammation found in inflammatory bowel disease, act as an antibacterial agent, inhibit muscle contractions, protects neurons from nerve cell degeneration and may even fight cancer.

How to Find Hemp Rich in Cannabinoids

Quality is key when it comes to finding hemp products that are robust in cannabinoid rich profiles. Why? Because it takes unique genetics, advanced processes and innovative lighting set-ups and knowledge to nurture hemp flower that’s dynamic in cannabinoid content. In addition to extracting and processing unique cannabinoids like THC-O, delta-8 and delta-10.

Not to mention, the methods of drying and curing can affect cannabinoid levels too. In the end, you’ll want to ensure your hemp is grown to the highest quality, and comes along with test results to prove the cannabinoid profile its label may claim.

In a world where CBD or hemp can be purchased practically anywhere, it pays to ‘think small’ when purchasing products rich in cannabinoids. Think of it in the perspective of commercially produced brands vs small business hand-crafted batches. Many hemp products are now grown for mass-production in quantity vs. quality. But of course there are a handful of craft like companies still committed to practices that produce high-end, cannabinoid rich hemp to harvest.

Like, Longleaf Provisions Company found in the heart of Winston-Salem, NC. A town that’s tackled tobacco and is taking on hemp in the same regard to high standards, and top quality. So, take this information as a sign to elevate your hemp game with rich cannabinoid profiles. Check out our collection of top-shelf hemp flower and products online, schedule a consultation at our storefront, or pop-in to shop.