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In a world brimming with possibilities, it’s only natural to feel curious about the wonders that lie within the realm of cannabinoids. Here at Illuminent, we understand the need for clarity and knowledge when it comes to these miraculous compounds. As we embark on this enlightening journey, let’s unravel the mysteries surrounding cannabinoids, making hemp simple and approachable for everyone.
Before we dive into the world of cannabinoids, let’s clear up some confusion surrounding hemp, marijuana, and cannabis. All these names refer to the same plant species, Cannabis Sativa L. The primary difference lies in their THC content—the compound responsible for the “high” sensation. Hemp contains less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC, while marijuana can contain significantly higher levels, varying from 5-30%. However, both plants share similar properties in their cannabinoids, which hold the key to their remarkable potential.
The 2018 Farm Bill federally legalized industrial hemp, but laws can still vary depending on the state you live in. As the industry has grown, scientists, hemp cultivators, and CBD company owners have found ways to breed the best parts of the marijuana and hemp plants together to produce various health benefit potent plants, but still, provide you as the consumer with a product that contains less than the federal legal limit of .3% Delta-9 THC. Illuminent will not ship products to a state it is ineligible to ship to. The reason you are seeing more psychoactive hemp products hit the shelves is because only one version of THC was ever deemed federally illegal to begin with and that’s the Delta-9 form of THC.
There is unfortunately a lot of misinformation running around on the internet regarding whether or not you can consume hemp products without testing positive on a drug screen for work. The right answer is – if the product you are using contains THC, it’s likely and common to show a positive test result. Even with non-psychoactive hemp products containing less than the federally legal limit of Delta-9 THC, it is still possible. So if drug testing is a concern for you, we suggest that you refrain from any full spectrum CBD dominant hemp products as well as any psychoactive ones.
Here’s what to look for when choosing a CBD product to determine its legitimacy as well as if it will fit the legality and drug testing requirements you may have:
Cannabinoids are the main compounds found inside of the cannabis plant that have been researched showing promise of many health benefits. There are over 100 cannabinoids that have been identified to date with THC and CBD being the most commonly talked about. Some cannabinoids are psychoactive, meaning they will get you high, and some are non-psychoactive. meaning that they will not. However, all of them can be beneficial to the body as we each have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) equipped with receptors designed to work with cannabinoids.
Cannabinoids working alone are isolated in structure. This means that if you consume a CBD oil with only CBD in it, the CBD molecule was narrowed down to be by its lonesome and extracted from the plant to be put into the product and therefore you will receive the benefits of just the one cannabinoid.
Cannabinoids working together, meaning multiple are present in the product you are using, creates a synergy known as the entourage effect. This means that all of the individual benefits of each cannabinoid work together as a team to create even more potential health benefits for you!
Cannabidiol (CBD) : CBD is one of the most well-known cannabinoids and is typically found in high concentrations in hemp plants, but is also found in cannabis plants with high concentrations of THC as well. Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive, meaning it doesn’t cause a “high.” It is commonly used for a variety of health concerns because it connects with both CB1 and CB2 receptors within the Endocannabinoid System (ECS).
Cannabigerol (CBG): CBG is known as the ‘mother cannabinoid’ because it’s the precursor to all the others. It starts out as CBGa, the acidic form of CBG. When cannabis plants are young, CBGa converts into higher amounts of CBG. When the plants grow all the way up, CBGa converts to higher concentrations of CBD and THC. Mature cannabis plants typically have lower concentrations of CBG. We believe that CBG is the matriarch of the cannabis plant retaining the therapeutic qualities of each cannabinoid to follow in its genetic evolution.
Cannabidivarin (CBDv): CBDv is a lesser-known cannabinoid that is structurally similar to CBD. Although research into CBDv is still in its early stages, preliminary studies have shown it to potentially possess various therapeutic properties in aiding mood and cognitive boosts.
Cannabinol (CBN): CBN is a minor cannabinoid that results from the degradation of THC. As THC ages, it gradually turns into CBN. THC’s progression starts as THCa. When heated, this cannabinoid turns into various forms of psychoactive THC and then settles as CBN at the end of its life cycle. CBN is often associated with sedative effects.
Cannabitriol (CBT): CBT is another less-studied cannabinoid, but early research indicates it may offer potential benefits, particularly when combined with other cannabinoids.
Cannabichromene (CBC): CBC is another non-intoxicating cannabinoid and is one of the six most abundant cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. Research is limited on this one too, but expansions are coming on what the science says. It’s another one that helps carry the other cannabinoids when mixed into a formula.
Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCv): THCv is a unique mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that produces different effects based on dosage. When intaking THCv in lower doses, the cannabinoid is non-psychoactive and provides energy, focus, and clarity. Higher strengths of THCv produce a mild yet balanced, non-sedating, “clear-headed” experience that may result in an energetic feeling.
Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCa): THCa is a cannabinoid present in raw cannabis, serving as the precursor to delta-9 THC—the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects associated with marijuana. In its raw form, THCa is non-psychoactive. However, when exposed to heat through smoking, vaping, or ingestion, THCa undergoes a process called decarboxylation, transforming into delta-9 THC. It’s at this point that the psychoactive properties are activated, leading to the characteristic “high” experienced by users.
Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (D9-THC): D9-THC is the primary psychoactive component in cannabis. It’s responsible for the euphoric “high” associated with marijuana use. THC is found in both hemp and marijuana plants, but its concentration varies depending on which plant it comes from. THC levels tend to be higher in strains bred specifically for their psychoactive properties (like those used recreationally), while industrial hemp plants have low concentrations of THC due to breeding them specifically for their other uses like low thc consumable products, textiles, or paper production.
Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol (D8-THC): D8-THC is a minor cannabinoid that has a similar structure to D9-THC but with reportedly less potent psychoactive effects. It is often described as offering a more relaxed and lucid experience. However, do not let it fool you as D8 can be extremely effective in producing psychoactive effects.
Hexahydrocannabinols (HHC): HHC a mildly intoxicating cannabinoid derived from hemp. This is another cannabinoid that needs further scientific research, but it is one that seems to be the middle of the road when it comes to comparison between psychoactive D8 and non-psychoactive CBD. We often call it the “social buzz” as it takes the edge off when going out, but does not take away from an outing experience.
Understanding the world of cannabinoids can be complex, with many overlapping and sometimes confusing terms. However, with the right knowledge and guidance, you can navigate this world confidently and reap the benefits of these remarkable compounds.
Cannabinoids are the key components in marijuana and hemp that interact with our bodies to produce various effects. From the more well-known compounds like CBD and THC to lesser-known ones such as CBN, CBG, CBC, CBDv, and even HHC, each cannabinoid plays a unique role in influencing our bodies and overall wellness.
Remember, each person’s endocannabinoid system is unique and can respond differently to these cannabinoids. That’s why it’s important to consider factors such as your own body’s needs and potential drug testing concerns when selecting a CBD product. And always look for third-party lab results to verify the product’s contents and quality.
So next time you hear the term ‘cannabinoid,’ not only will you know what it means, but you’ll also have a deeper understanding of the variety of these compounds, their potential benefits, and how to make informed choices when it comes to incorporating them into your wellness routine.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or ailment. Illuminent assumes no responsibility for the improper use of these products. We recommend consulting with a qualified medical doctor or physician when preparing a treatment plan for any and all diseases or ailments. Illuminent does not make any health claims about our products and recommends consulting with a qualified medical doctor or physician prior to consuming our products or preparing a treatment plan. It is especially important for those who are pregnant, nursing, chronically ill, elderly or under the age of 18 to discuss the use of these products with a physician prior to consuming them.
Illuminent Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally-occurring constituent of the industrial hemp plant. Illuminent does not sell or distribute any products that are in violation of the United States Controlled Substance Act (US.CSA). Illuminent does sell and distribute industrial hemp-based products.
Illuminent products meet or exceed all federal guidelines for industrial hemp and are independently verified to contain 0.3% delta-9 THC prior to packaging.
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Illuminent products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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