There are many different cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. Most of us know about THC and CBD, which have enjoyed popularity and research on their effects. Other minor cannabinoids have remained a bit more underground, with only the cannabis aficionados espousing the major benefits of these previously little-known gems.
Let’s unpack what cannabinoids are and delve into which cannabinoids are gaining popularity in Michigan right now.
What are Cannabinoids?
By now, you’ve probably heard about the two most commonly referenced “major” cannabinoids: THC and CBD. These compounds have been getting a lot of attention lately for the differences in their impact on the cannabis experience and how cannabis works with our bodies.
Just what are cannabinoids, exactly? These chemical compounds found naturally in the buds of cannabis, also known as phytocannabinoids, are believed to be primarily responsible for producing both the psychoactive and therapeutic effects you feel when you ingest cannabis. THC and CBD just scratch the surface. So far, more than 100 different cannabinoids have been identified in the cannabis plant.
Cannabinoids work by interacting with cell receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), either by binding to them directly (which is what happens when THC enters our body, for example) or by influencing them in indirect ways (enter CBD). Since they play such a huge role in the way that cannabis exhibits its many wonderful effects, it’s worth getting to know more cannabinoids that exist in cannabis and how they may be influencing your cannabis experience.
Which Cannabinoids are Popular in Michigan?
When it comes to cannabinoids, Michigan residents are most familiar with THC and CBD, so those still lead the pack. However, the minor cannabinoids CBN and CBG are catching on, and for good reason. Here are the four most popular cannabinoids in Michigan, in order of their popularity.
THC
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the most abundant cannabinoid in cannabis, with some strains containing more than 30% THC. THC is predominantly known for its uplifting and euphoric (read: psychoactive) effects, as well as its therapeutic potential. THC is by far the most popular cannabinoid in Michigan. THC’s intoxicating and euphoric effects have made it a favorite among recreational consumers, while its additional potential therapeutic benefits appeal to medical patients.
CBD
CBD (cannabidiol) is the second most abundant cannabinoid in cannabis. While THC is known primarily for its psychoactive effects, CBD is known primarily for its potential therapeutic benefits, having been linked to anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and anti-inflammatory effects, among many others.
CBN
CBN (cannabinol) is a minor cannabinoid that exists in very small amounts in cannabis. That’s because CBN is actually a byproduct of the breakdown of THC as it ages. The older the cannabis, the more CBN it’s likely to have. CBN may have potential as an antibiotic and has been touted, anecdotally, by many advocates as an excellent sleep aid, though evidence is mixed in this regard.
CBG
CBG (cannabigerol) is a cannabinoid that usually only exists in trace amounts in certain strains of cannabis. As a result, you won’t get much CBG from consuming cannabis flower. Instead, you’ll want to seek out a manufactured product that contains CBG extract to get higher concentrations of CBG in one sitting. CBG has been linked to several possible benefits including in the management of IBD, as an antibiotic, and as a neuroprotectant.
CBN vs CBG vs CBD – Why is CBD More Popular in Michigan?
When it comes to the popularity of CBN vs CBG vs CBD in Michigan, there’s a clear mainstream hierarchy, with CBD being the most popular of these cannabinoids.
CBD has received much more coverage for its potential benefits, so people are much more familiar with its therapeutic potential. Also, CBD can be harvested from hemp—in addition to cannabis—and sold nationwide, making it more broadly available. By our estimates, CBG and CBN are far behind CBD in popularity, likely due to how few people really know about them and their promising effects. Still, as new research and word-of-mouth has spread, they are gaining ground.
The disparity in the volume of research performed to-date in terms of CBN vs CBG vs CBD certainly favors CBD. As a result, more people trust CBD than these two other cannabinoids when it comes to therapeutic value. However, research on minor cannabinoids is expanding and we certainly think it’s worth trying products higher in CBG and CBN to see what benefit they might bring to your experience—particularly since CBG and CBN cannabinoids are already present in many products on dispensary shelves.
Find Your Favorite Cannabinoids at Pleasantrees
As one of the premier cannabis dispensaries in MI, we pride ourselves on having a diverse menu that meets the varied needs of our Michigan residents, including products that we make ourselves. Whether you’re looking for THC, CBD, CBN, or CBG, our Michigan recreational dispensary has got you covered.
Come by one of our dispensaries in Hamtrmck, East Lansing, Lincoln Park, Houghton Lake, or Mt Clemens today. Alternatively, check out our online menu for any of these locations right now to browse a variety of products containing a variety of cannabinoids. Use the location’s online menu to place an order for in-store pickup or for our marijuana delivery Michigan service.