Numbers don’t always tell the full story. A strain of cannabis with over 36% THC might feel like a mild sea breeze, while another with a potency of only 21% could kick like a mule. There’s more to cannabis than potency in terms of THC or CBD percentages. While THC and CBD are major cannabinoids, cannabis comprises dozens of minor cannabinoids that each play a role in how it affects your body. Let’s break that down in this guide, where we’ll cover all minor cannabinoids and other things to keep in mind while choosing your bud!

What Are Minor Cannabinoids?

Every cannabis plant is made up of compounds called cannabinoids, with THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol) being the most commonly found cannabinoids. However, there are several other cannabinoids that are present in smaller amounts in the cannabis plant. These are called minor cannabinoids, with some examples including CBD, CBN, CBG, THCV, and more. Why aren’t there many detailed studies that can help us understand the roles these minor cannabinoids play? Federal rules don’t facilitate research into cannabis on a wide scale. Also, minor cannabinoids occur in only small quantities, and researchers discovered them not too long ago. But from all the research that does exist, here’s what we do know about minor cannabinoids. Most minor cannabinoids don’t come with a high, which gives way to many therapeutic use cases for cannabis. Let’s take a look at some of the prominent ones that have been studied.

Cannabinol (CBN)

Cannabinol (CBN) is one of the most commonly found minor cannabinoids. CBN is a mild sedative that promotes sleep, making it a popular choice in products that promote rest and recovery.

Cannabigerol (CBG)

CBG is known for its effects on improving focus, mood, and its potential anti-inflammatory benefits. CBG might also be a useful tool in helping treat glaucoma.

Cannabichromene (CBC)

Cannabichromene is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid with analgesic (pain relief) and anti-inflammatory potential. Early studies suggest CBC also helps moderate pain perception and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)

THCV is known for its energizing profile, along with its ability to reduce appetite rather than stimulate it. Researchers are studying its role in metabolism, focus, and even blood sugar regulation.

How Minor Cannabinoids Work with THC

Minor cannabinoids work together to enhance the therapeutic and physiological effects of cannabis. They produce a greater therapeutic effect that’s not possible by a single compound alone, known as the entourage effect. In theory, this lets us pick and choose which cannabinoids can interact with one another to our liking. Since THC is the dominant cannabinoid, here are some examples of how minor cannabinoids interact with THC.

CBD + THC

Combining CBD with THC creates a more balanced effect profile, as CBD helps moderate THC’s intensity. It reduces anxiety and overstimulation while maintaining the euphoria and body high that one experiences with THC.

CBN + THC

Combining CBN with THC is a popularly used formulation for nighttime gummies and edibles, as it offers sleep benefits and relaxation. It helps the body ease into deep sleep without feeling groggy and tired when waking up, which is common with THC-heavy gummies.

CBG + THC

CBG, when combined with THC, reportedly helps improve one’s mood, cognitive clarity, and focus. It can help people gain improved emotional stability and intellectual ability.

How to Shop for Minor Cannabinoids

As awareness of minor cannabinoids grows, most brands, dispensaries, and even state laws now highlight them in product information. Minor cannabinoids are found in flower, pre-rolls, tinctures, capsules, edibles, and concentrates. And they’re typically listed in product labels with ratios and lab tests. Paying attention to this information helps you understand the potency, expected effects, and proper dosing. Feeling confused? The budtenders at our Times Square dispensary can help you choose which strains and cannabinoids would suit your needs. It’s not rocket science, but it does require scientific knowledge to find the right product.

Buy Cannabis in New York City

Minor cannabinoids, while minor, offer a major way to shape and personalize your cannabis experience. Ranging from the calming effects of CBN to the buzz of THCV, these compounds work together to create unique effects. As research grows, the industry is learning more about how minor cannabinoids can enhance our sleep, creativity, focus, and more. In the pursuit of what works for you best, the key is to start low, adjust when needed, and try different products that work best for your lifestyle. Ready to discover your ideal cannabinoid profile? Shop our curated selection of THC + minor cannabinoid products at Indoor Treez, located at 584 8th Avenue in Times Square.