As we continue to explore the ever-expanding world of the cannabis industry since legalization—cannabis brands, producers, and retailers are uncovering new insights about cannabis and its properties. Recently, we’ve gained a deeper understanding of the effects of THC and CBD, the two most widely recognized cannabinoids in the industry. Think of them as entry-level cannabinoids. While THC and CBD might be the most well-known, it’s worth noting that there are hundreds of other cannabinoids, each interacting uniquely with the endocannabinoid system. These diverse compounds offer users a range of experiences. Some prefer CBN for sleep aid, others find relief from menstrual pain with CBG, and many enjoy CBC for a boost of creativity or inspiration.
At Highland Cannabis in Kitchener, our mission is to educate our guests about cannabis. And as such, we’ve had the opportunity to chat with the team over at Spinach®, the sub-group owned by the Cronos Group, to share the knowledge of what rare cannabinoids are, and the wonderful products being produced by the Spinach® team.
Read on as we shed light on this lesser-known aspect of cannabis and its potential benefits for our well-being.
So, What are the Three Types of Rare Cannabinoids?
Let’s start by demystifying rare cannabinoids. Within the cannabis plant, there exists a diverse class of compounds known as cannabinoids. These cannabinoids can be categorized into two groups: the more commonly known ones like THC and CBD, and the lesser-known rare cannabinoids such as CBG, CBC, CBN, and THC-V. Rare cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds that occur in small quantities within the cannabis plant. To understand the impact of rare cannabinoids, let’s take a closer look at some examples:
What are Cannabigerol (CBG) Cannabinoids?
It is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that is believed to interact with various receptors in the body, potentially offering benefits such as anti-inflammatory effects, pain relief, and even neuroprotective properties. Research into CBG is still ongoing, but its unique qualities make it an intriguing compound in the cannabis world.
What are Cannabichromene (CBC) Cannabinoids?
Unlike THC, and much like CBD, CBC does not have psychoactive effects. It is known for its potential anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to interact with pain receptors. CBC has also shown promise in supporting brain health by stimulating the production of new brain cells, a process known as neurogenesis. Further exploration of CBC’s potential benefits is an exciting area of research in the cannabis field.
What are Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) Cannabinoids?
While THC is commonly associated with the euphoric “high” typically associated with cannabis use, THCv has been found to have different effects. It is believed to act as an appetite suppressant and may even have potential in weight management. THCv is known for its more energizing and uplifting properties compared to THC, making it an intriguing option for those seeking a unique cannabis experience.
How Terpenes Play a Role in Rare Cannabinoids
Terpenes also play a crucial role in the overall effect and flavour of different cannabis strains. We’ve talked about the importance of terpenes before, but for a recap: Terpenes are natural compounds found in plants, including cannabis, that give them their unique smells and flavours. When it comes to cannabis, terpenes not only provide aroma but also interact with cannabinoids, including rare cannabinoids.
Terpenes can influence how rare cannabinoids work in our bodies. They can affect how our bodies absorb and use these cannabinoids, as well as the overall effects they produce. Think of terpenes as the sidekicks that work together with rare cannabinoids to create specific effects.
For example, certain terpenes can enhance the pain-relieving properties of rare cannabinoids, reduce inflammation, promote relaxation, or have other targeted effects. It’s the combination of these terpenes and rare cannabinoids that gives cannabis its diverse and customized effects.
The combination of terpenes and rare cannabinoids offers a more complete and tailored effect when using cannabis products.
Rare Cannabinoids: Products for Health and Wellness
Let’s take it back to Spinach®, a brand that specializes in unlocking the potential of rare cannabinoids. With a strong dedication to high-quality cannabis products, Spinach® focuses on harnessing the therapeutic properties of rare cannabinoids, going beyond the basic THC and CBD offerings.
One of their standout offerings is Spinach® FEELZ™, a line of products that highlights rare cannabinoids such as CBC, CBG, CBN, and soon-to-be-introduced THCv. Available in gummy, vape, and infused pre-roll formats, FEELZ™ invites users to explore these unique compounds and experience their potential benefits. Keep an eye out for their THCv products at our dispensary in Kitchener, Highland— we’ll be sure to keep it stocked for our guests to try for themselves!
If Rare Cannabinoids are so Rare, How Do You Produce Them?
Rare cannabinoids, which can be referred to as minor cannabinoids, are found in trace amounts. There are usually three ways to produce rare cannabinoids:
- Natural Cultivation:
Growing rare cannabinoids naturally is difficult because they are present in very small amounts in cannabis plants. It takes a lot of plants to get a little bit of these cannabinoids, which makes the extraction process inefficient, expensive, and harmful to the environment.
- Chemical Cultivation:
Chemical synthesis, on the other hand, is a method where scientists create rare cannabinoids artificially. However, this process often results in cannabinoids that are not exactly the same as the ones found in nature. These synthetic cannabinoids may have harmful components and can cause unwanted side effects.
- Biosynthesis:
This process mimics natural biological processes, and is a promising approach for producing rare cannabinoids. By using special yeast, scientists can efficiently create identical cannabinoids to the ones naturally occurring in cannabis. This method is sustainable, produces high-quality cannabinoids, and offers a better alternative to natural cultivation and chemical synthesis.
The team at Spinach® uses biosynthesis to produce rare cannabinoids. They employ new technologies, such as fermentation and biosynthesis, which might sound unfamiliar in the cannabis industry. However, they liken their approach to the processes used in making kombucha, kimchi, or beer. It’s all about utilizing similar techniques to bring you these exceptional cannabinoids.
With Spinach® ‘s commitment to quality and its innovative approach to rare cannabinoids, they offer a unique and engaging journey into the world of cannabis, inviting you to explore the untapped potential that these compounds have to offer.
Rare Cannabinoid Products To Try at Highland Cannabis
For those new to the world of rare cannabinoids, guidance is key, and with guidance from our friends at Spinach®, they say their FEELZ™ products have “the perfect blend of terpenes, THC, CBD, and rare cannabinoids designed to deliver dialed-in experiences—the right high for the right moment.”
Spinach® FEELZ™ products aim to offer their users something truly distinctive, enhancing and elevating their overall experience. They encourage users to approach these products with an open mind and to share the experience with friends. So why not give Spinach® FEELZ™ a try and discover a new level of cannabis enjoyment alongside your loved ones? Here’s what we recommend:
CBC Pre-Rolls
Try out the Spinach® FEELZ ™ Mango Kiwi Haze CBC (Day Trip) Infused Pre-Roll in a Sativa-dominant blend. This pack includes three pre-rolls for your enjoyment.
CBN Vape
The Spinach® FEELZ™ Blackberry Kush CBN Cartridge is available at Highland Cannabis. This Indica-dominant vape cartridge offers a unique blend of 7:1 THC and CBN, providing a well-rounded experience. The vape is infused with the delightful flavours of Linalool, Terpinolene, and Beta-Caryophyllene terpenes, delivering a sweet and berry-forward taste sensation.
CBG Gummies
The FEELZ™ Pineapple Starfruit 2:1 THC: CBG Gummies are hybrid soft chews that are a flavour-packed delight, combining the power of THC and elusive CBG with tropical flavours. Each pack contains two sour-then-sweet soft chews, with a total of 10mg THC and 5mg CBG.
FEELZ™ it out with Highland Cannabis
The world beyond THC and CBD is full of untapped potential for our well-being. We invite you to visit our cannabis shop in Kitchener, Highland, where you can equip yourself with all the goods we shared above. Embrace the FEELZ™ of rare cannabinoids and unlock a new dimension of cannabis experiences.
Sources:
- Cannabinoid Receptors and the Endocannabinoid System: Signaling and Function in the Central Nervous System
- Link: PubMed Central
- “The Medicinal Potential of Cannabigerol (CBG): A Review” – Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research Journal
- Link: PubMed
- “Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV): a commentary on potential therapeutic benefit for the management of obesity and diabetes” – Journal of Cannabis Research
- Link: PubMed Central
- “Terpenes/Terpenoids in Cannabis: Are they Important”
- Link: PubMed Central
- Cronos Group Releases Cannabinoid Life Cycle Study Highlighting its Sustainable Fermentation Practices
- Link: GlobeNewswire
- Three Methods to Produce Rare Cannabinoids: Cultivation, Chemical Synthesis, and Biosynthesis
- Link: BioFuelDigest